Posted by on July 03, 2004 at 00:19:34:
In Reply to: Ukiah Daily Journal article + another abalone case posted by on July 02, 2004 at 19:47:37:
Four on abalone poaching charges
03jul04
FOUR people face charges of abalone poaching after fisheries officers seized more than 76kg of the prized seafood with a commercial value of about $10,000.
Sixteen Fisheries Officers from the Department of Primary Industries began watching the poachers at about 2.30pm (AEST) yesterday off Point Cooke, south west of Melbourne.
The officers seized 1174 abalone weighing more than 76kg when they intercepted the three men and a woman, all in their 30s or 40s from Delahey.
Two cars, two boats and assorted diving equipment were also seized in the raid.
The four people were interviewed by police and will be charged on summons.
Acting Regional Fisheries Manager Scott Falconer said trafficking in commercial quantities of "priority" fish like abalone and rock lobster now attracted jail terms of up to 10 years and fines of up to $250,000.
"In addition offenders could be ordered to pay $100 for each illegally taken fish," Mr Falconer said.
Mr Falconer said Fisheries Victoria took illegal fishing very seriously and the tough new penalties would provide a strong deterrent.