[ 09/09/2008 ]
A Marine and Sea Ranger training workshop organised by the Department of Regional Development, Primary Industry, Fisheries and Resources (DRDPIFR) and the NT Police Marine Fisheries Enforcement Section (MFES) has resulted in charges being laid against a mud crab fisherman.
11 Marine and Sea Ranger groups were in Maningrida as part of the three day training exercise.
“This training will further develop the skills and experience of these rangers and enhance the valuable work undertaken by rangers across the NT in protecting our coastline”, Executive Director, Fisheries, Ms Heather Brayford said.
During a practical training exercise on evidence gathering, the Rangers inspected a number of crab pots found in nearby waters.
Further investigations by MFES uncovered that the owner of the crab pots was allegedly operating without a commercial licence.
The person will be summonsed to appear in the Darwin Magistrates court at a later date.
The vessel has also been confiscated.
“This seizure is a graphic example of the valuable role the rangers play and has been a wonderful display of joint agency cooperation” Ms Brayford said.
”The Marine and Sea Rangers have benefited greatly from the training and have enjoyed working closely with NT MFES.
“Rangers act as the eyes and ears along remote parts of the Territory coastline for a number of intelligence gathering and policing agencies.
“They are looking for threats including, illegal foreign fishing vessels, drug and people smugglers, terrorism threats, exotic pest incursions and fishermen breaking regulations.
“They are also called upon for their knowledge of local waterways to assist in search and rescue operations, Ms Brayford said.
Workshop participants included: the Australian Federal Police, Customs, Northern Land Council, and the NT Seafood Council.
Marine Rangers groups sponsored by the NT government include: Mardbulk (Goulburn Is.), Gumurr Marthakal (Elcho Is), Anindilyakwa (Groote Ey.), Lianthawirryarra (Boroloola), Numbulwar, Thamarrurr (Wadeye), Djelk (Maningrida) and Tiwi.
Other Sea Rangers include: Yirralka (East Arnhem Land), Wangadjakamirr (Ramingining) and Larrakia.