Solution needed to keep access to all – NT Seafood Council

10 August Media Release NT Seafood Council

The Northern Territory Seafood Council is disheartened to see video footage posted on social media of a potentially illegal activity regarding the setting of professional Barramundi nets across an entire creek or river system.

‘NT Seafood Council does not support the situation of an entire waterway being blocked by fishing gear that prevents other users access to that water as being excluded from a water way is unfair and there is room for all user groups,’ said Northern Territory Seafood Council, Chief Executive Officer, Ms Katherine Winchester.

‘It is disappointing to hear that such practices have occurred in the Barramundi Fishery as it is not a practice that is respectful to other users and we recognise there is a gap in the current system that needs addressing,’ Ms Winchester went on to say ‘Now that this issue has been brought to our attention NT Seafood Council will liaise with the Barramundi Licensee Committee, Amateur Fishermen’s Association of the Northern Territory, NT Guided Fishing Industry Association and the Northern Land Council.

Together we have the capacity to identify a practical solution and immediate actions that can be acted on to address this,’ Ms  Winchester said.

We have also made contact with the Minister for Primary Industry and Resources to advise them that we will work with the other stakeholders to provide advice on a solution.

Media Contact: Donna English 08 8981 5194