$1000 fine in Australia for having dugong net

The Cairns Post 6 Aug 10;

A MAN has been fined $1000 for illegally possessing a net designed to trap large mammals, such as dugongs.

The on-the-spot fine, issued at Yarrabah, comes after the deaths of five dugongs in Far Northern waters in two separate incidents in April.

The third $1000 fine for illegal netting offences issued in the Cairns area since July 2009 has been welcomed by traditional owners and conservationists.

A Fisheries Queensland spokesperson said the man had a large cord net specifically designed to target sharks or large mammals.

"Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol officers have seized the net involved in the incident as this type of net is illegal – because of its size and design it cannot be used by any commercial, recreational or indigenous fisher," the spokesperson said.

The maximum penalty for illegally using a net is $100,000; two prosecutions relating to netting offences in the Cairns area are pending in court.

On-the-spot fines of up to $1000 can also be issued for unlawful use of a net. Investigations into the deaths of five dugongs in April are continuing.

They were found dead in nets.

Yarrabah Mayor Percy Neal said illegal fishers should be prepared to meet the consequences.

Cairns and Far North Environment Centre co-ordinator Steve Ryan said any successful action against illegal fishing activities was good.

"Nets, both legal and illegal, can catch dugong, turtle, dolphins and other wildlife," Mr Ryan said.

Anyone with information on a suspected breach of fishing rules should phone the 24-hour Fishwatch hotline on 1800 017 116.