in 2014, the NSWFRAB identified as a R,D&E priority, research into anti-theft of mud crab (and other estuarine) pots. The FRDC Board determined that the research priority would require a National Workshop to ascertain whether research into this issue was feasible. The NSWFRAB requested that the PFA provide a quote for the facilitation and organisation of the National Workshop.
The PFA requested that the University of Technology, Sydney (UTS) provide a costing for the facilitation of an anti-crime based workshop titled ”the National Workshop for the Anti-theft of Estuarine Pots” to be hosted at the Sydney Fish Markets. The UTS were chosen to facilitate as they are able to demonstrate a unique ‘multi-driver’ or ‘holistic’ approach whilst bringing the benefit of engaging diverse actors to facilitate an innovative and evidence-based, collaborative workshop environment.
Initial discussions have indicated that the issue stems from:
1. Unlicensed fishers stealing for commercial sale “shamateurs”
2. Opportunistic amateur fishers – due to the visability of the pot
3. Fellow commercial fishers
It was also identified that this was an issue faced by both commercial and amateur fishers who utilise estuarine pots (as an example of the across sector impact please see a recent article in NSW local paper http://www.portstephensexaminer.com.au/story/3566048/something-fishy-harbour-crab-theft/?cs=776)
The NSW FRAB believes that there will be a Flow of Benefit to QLD and NT as it is understood that these areas are also facing similar issues with the theft of commercial and recreational estuarine pots.
Final report
The theft of and from estuarine pots is a serious issue facing both the NSW commercial fishing and recreational fishing communities. Mud crabs are highly prized and fetch high prices in seafood markets. This high price drives a thriving black market for mud crabs which is contributed to by both recreational and commercial fishers. A discussion of possible solution directions is necessary with the rising incidences, and new and innovative measures will be required to prevent or discourage theft of mud crabs from estuarine
pots in the future. The Workshop was used to examine what pathways exist and possible mitigative measures to reduce the likelihood of the theft.
The Workshop identified 17 recommendations that focused on Justice, community awareness, stewardship, trust and innovation. The recommendations are still conceptual and require further development, but give a clear sense of the priority areas and issues identified.The Workshop agreed that the recommendations be presented a potential research directions and provide “solid starting points”.
