Greater Local Access to much-loved WA seafood

Geraldton MLA Ian Blayney has welcomed Fisheries Minister Joe Francis announcement of a special trial to help give more Western Australians access to our world renowned western rock lobster.

“Most of our commercial catch is exported to China at a premium price,” said Mr Blayney.

“This means that Western Australians also pay a premium at restaurants throughout WA.

“The trial, which begins today, will allow commercial rock lobster fishers to catch and tag up to an extra 50 lobsters for sale to the local market.

“This will provide about eight tonnes or 12,550 additional lobsters being made available for the general public,” said Mr Blayney.

“There has been concern for some time about the limited availability of lobsters for coastal communities and local seafood retailers, including restaurants.

“This trial will help to address the lobster shortage for local consumers.

“It will also be closely monitored but the Government is confident that it will not impact on the sustainability of the western rock lobster as it has worked closely with the Western Rock Lobster Council, which represents commercial rock lobster fishers, to develop this trial.

Western Australia has some of the best managed sustainable rock lobster fisheries in the nation. This trial will maintain their integrity but allow them to be enjoyed more readily and more affordable prices by locals.

“This issue was raised by locals at a meeting with the Premier that I organised earlier this year. The Premier promised to look at it and I’m very pleased to see this model being trialled,” said Mr Blayney.