WAFIC seeking members’ urgent input for impact assessment, recovery arrangements following Cyclone Seroja

The Western Australia fishing industry has avoided serious injuries or damage even after Cyclone Seroja swept through the area last weekend, WA Fishing Industry Council (WAFIC) CEO Darryl Hockey said in a letter addressed to members on Wednesday, April 14.

Mr Hockey, however, added that the council remains cautious given that communications are limited, hence the lack of regular updates on the status of WAFIC members’ fishing fleets and land-based infrastructure.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is currently assessing the impacts of Cyclone Seroja on WA’s commercial fisheries and aquaculture in order to contribute to recovery arrangements and inform the impact statement for the State Recovery Coordinator. WAFIC members are therefore encouraged to submit urgent information about the impacts to any affected commercial fisheries in the following areas:

• Economic impacts
• Structural/equipment loss
• Delays to resume normal operations
• Stock loss (if applicable) or subsequent impacts on fishing

There may be other impacts which are outside the above listed areas that should also be provided, added Mr Hockey.

As this information is required ASAP, DPIRD fisheries managers and WAFIC may also contact relevant licence holders and sector bodies directly.

Members may send their feedback and comments [email protected] as soon as possible. For additional information, WAFIC may be contacted directly via (08) 9432 7777.