A 75-year-old man has been issued a Notice to Appear for multiple fisheries offences.
The Water Police Section was undertaking safety and compliance checks on vessels around Buffalo Creek on Sunday morning when they intercepted a dinghy returning to the boat ramp.
The vessel was subjected to a routine safety and catch inspection, during which time Water Police noted a haul of 25 mud crabs (limit 10), including nine undersized mud crabs. The boat was also carrying unmarked crab pots and did not have all the necessary safety equipment on board.
The man will appear in August to face charges of:
- Exceed possession limit of mud crabs
- Possess undersized mud crabs
- Unmarked crab pots
- Breach safety equipment (intermediate waters)
Senior Sergeant Anthony Clarke said, “Getting out on the water and catching a feed is a treasured pastime we all enjoy in the Territory. We will hold those who abuse this privilege to account.
“As for failing to carry the correct safety gear, that’s basic boating 101. If you can’t make sure your boat and your passengers are prepared, you shouldn’t be launching your vessel.”
