Recfishwest CEO Dr Andrew Rowland and Australian Border Force Commander Ranjeev Maharaj .
URGENT UPDATE: The Australian Border Force (ABF) has just announced a critical partnership with Recfishwest to combat illegal foreign fishing in Western Australia’s northern waters. This initiative utilizes a new reporting feature in the popular Recfishwest fishing app, empowering anglers to report suspicious activities directly to authorities.
With this new function, users can seamlessly access the Department of Home Affairs’ Border Watch Online Report form, making it easier than ever to alert officials about potential illegal fishing from Onslow to the Northern Territory border. Commander Ranjeev Maharaj emphasized the importance of community involvement: “Illegal foreign fishing is not tolerated in Australian waters, and local fishers play a vital role in safeguarding our marine environment.”
The ABF’s enforcement strategy includes aerial, land, and sea surveillance to deter illegal fishing operations. Commander Maharaj stated, “Every report of suspicious activity to Border Watch is taken seriously. Fishers know their environment best, and their vigilance can significantly assist our enforcement efforts.”
Recfishwest CEO Andrew Rowland highlighted the commitment of West Australian fishers to protect their waters. “By partnering with the ABF, we provide fishers with a straightforward way to report illegal activities while out on the water,” he explained. The app, which has been downloaded over 300,000 times, positions the fishing community as a crucial ally in this fight.
Rowland reassured users that reports can be made anonymously, further encouraging participation in this essential initiative. He stated, “Our community is well-placed to act as the eyes and ears of the ABF, supporting efforts to protect marine stocks for future generations.”
To report suspicious activity, users can visit Border Watch at borderwatch.gov.au. This initiative not only strengthens enforcement efforts but also fosters a sense of shared responsibility among fishers in Western Australia.
As illegal fishing remains a pressing issue, the ABF and Recfishwest’s collaboration signals a proactive approach to marine conservation. This partnership is expected to significantly impact the sustainability of Australia’s fisheries, ensuring that they remain healthy for future generations.
Stay informed about this urgent development and join the fight against illegal fishing. Share this article to spread the word about protecting our vital marine ecosystems.
