DEPARTMENT OF FISHERIES ANNUAL REPORT TO THE ...

SUMMARy OF THE yEAR � HIgHLIgHTS AT-A-gLANCE 2010/11
• Research by the Department of Fisheries
during 2010/11 has shown that new rules to
protect iconic demersal scalefish species such
as dhufish, pink snapper and baldchin groper
have been successful, with the desired 50 per
cent catch reduction almost being achieved.
• Sea lion pups at the Abrolhos Islands are better
protected under new rules requiring the use of
Sea Lion Exclusion Devices (SLEDs) for western
rock lobster fishers operating in the Abrolhos’
Easter and Pelsaert groups. Mandatory SLEDs
for rock lobster pots were first introduced in
2006 to protect sea lion breeding colonies
between Lancelin and Dongara.
• Deployment of six satellite-linked drifters
between Cape Leeuwin and Cape Naturaliste
will help the Department to learn more about
the important Capes Current, which is believed
to be vital in carrying and dispersing eggs
and larvae of summer-spawning fish, such as
the popular Western Australian dhufish. The
project is funded by the Western Australian
Marine Science Institution.
• A Memorandum of Understanding signed by
Western Australia and China provides access
for the Department of Fisheries to China’s
vast experience in artificial reef technology
while China will benefit from the Department’s
expertise in the policy development,
monitoring and compliance components of
fisheries management.
Satellite-linked drifting buoys are being used to learn more about the Capes Current, which appears vital in dispersing the eggs and larvae
of the WA dhufish (pictured). Photo: Henrique Kwong
9