Gulf of Carpentaria inshore fishery working group

This working group provides operational advice on the management of the Gulf of Carpentaria inshore fishery.

• 18 January 2022

  The Gulf of Carpentaria Inshore Fishery (GOCIF) working group met for the first time on 18 January 2022 online. This was the first meeting of the newly appointed working group. The purpose of the meeting was to provide information on the Sustainable Fisheries Strategy 2017 – 2027 (The Strategy), review the current management arrangements of the GOCIF and commence discussions on the fisheries.

  The working group was provided with an overview of the Sustainable Fisheries Strategy 2017 – 2027 (SFS), and regulation changes that commenced on 1 September 2019 and 1 September 2021 that implemented changes across all sectors.

  All attending members were invited to provide a general update from their respective sectors. All members agreed that the fisheries resources of the GOCIF need to be sustainably managed and shared between all sectors, including the commercial, recreational, charter and Indigenous sectors, as well as the protection and recovery of Species of Conservation Concern (SOCC), reduction of bycatch and removal of rogue operators. The commercial sector wants effective rules and regulations to be implemented that are relevant to the fishery, noting concerns with current reporting requirements, future access to fresh fish for the nation and the mental health of industry members. The marketing member identified the need to address non-target species in future management citing recent shifts in target species, as well as market stability and the requirement to provide sustainable products for customers and major supermarkets including Coles and Woolworths. The recreational sector noted concerns with the bycatch from both the commercial and recreational sectors, reduction in pelagic species that have impacted baitfish schools and shark depredation. The conservation sector identified they want to ensure the SFS reforms are achieved in full by 2027, noting key concerns with SOCC interactions, their population recovery and validation of commercial catch. The research members acknowledged the work the commercial industry have already implemented to reduce interactions with SOCC, noting the need for improved data validation to identify and further reduce interactions. The Indigenous member noted issues with bycatch, maintaining sustainable stocks for community access and interactions with SOCC. The scientific observer discussed the natural fluctuation of environmental conditions in the GOCIF that influenced the catch of key species and the difficulties with including environmental variables in a harvest strategy.

  The working group were presented with an overview of the recent reform process that has been undertaken as part of the SFS, including the implementation of harvest strategies and associated changes to the regulations that occurred on 1 September 2021. The overview identified the future planned reform processes for the GOCIF, noting that some reform stages are subject to consultation and government approvals, and their associated timelines may change.

  Fisheries Queensland provided the working group with an update on the current status of the fisheries. The working group noted the stock status of key GOCIF species, stock assessment biomass estimates for barramundi, Spanish mackerel and king threadfin, historic decline in commercial catch and effort, current management arrangements for each sector and species co-catch in the net and line fisheries. The working group noted the limited charter and recreational data that is available, as well as the impact of key environmental variables such as rainfall and sea surface temperatures that influence the catch of target species that is difficult to quantify (e.g. king threadfin). The working group sought a detailed presentation on the collection of recreational fishing data at a future meeting.

  Fisheries Queensland presented an overview of the Wildlife Trade Operation (WTO) accreditation process, including the Department of Agriculture, Water and Environment (DAWE) assessment requirements for each application, as well as an update on the fisheries progress against the existing WTO conditions, noting the recent revocation of Part 13A of the accreditation on 21 December 2021. The working group noted a number of existing conditions for Part 13A of the accreditation had not been met, including a harvest strategy, data collection and validation (target and non-target species) and mitigation of high risk Threatened, Endangered or Protected species (TEPs) interactions. It was recommended that Fisheries Queensland not reapply of for Part 13A of the accreditation at this time but will focus on the fishery reforms to ensure compliance with existing conditions, noting the DAWE conditions are important for broader sustainability of the GOCIF. The working group noted the Part 13 approval is still in place, affording commercial fishers protection for any unintentional interactions with TEPs. There was a question around export compliance of GOCIF product given the recent revocation of Part 13A.

  Fisheries Queensland updated the working group on the relisting assessment of scalloped hammerhead shark under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act), including the results of the recent consultation with industry on proposed management changes to pursue a ‘Conservation Dependent’ listing. The working group acknowledged the preferred management options were to implement a species-specific hammerhead harvest strategy for hammerhead shark in the GOCIF and form changes to land hammerhead shark in whole form with ‘fins naturally attached’, however the conservation sector noted the lack of external consultation on the hammerhead harvest strategy. The working group acknowledged if the species is listed as threatened under the EPBC Act, the species would become no take and fisheries would need to take all reasonable steps to avoid interactions.

  The working group was provided with an overview of the stock assessment process identifying the various data sources used in the mathematical models created to accurately reflect how the fish stocks have responded to fishing and other pressures over time and estimate the total amount of fish in a given stock. The working group was presented with the stock assessment results for barramundi, Spanish mackerel and king threadfin stocks in the GOCIF. The working group discussed the genetic and biological information used to identify the stock structure of each species, as well as standardisation of catch rates and recreational data used in the assessments. The commercial sector questioned the net selectivity calculations used in the stock assessments and the working group requested further analysis of logbook data and historical research and observer information from the commercial fishery at a future meeting. The commercial sector noted they actively target a specific size of fish for market preference and do not actively target larger fish, citing observations of larger breading fish in some areas of the Gulf (e.g. king threadfin and barramundi). The working group agreed to discuss the existing monitoring program at a future meeting to identify any additional data collection or information needs for the fishery.

  The next meeting is planned to cover off the remaining information sessions online in February including presentations on the fisheries ecological risk assessments, social and economic information, recreational data and current biological monitoring program. A face-to-face meeting will then be planned to finish days two and three of the agenda in March. In general business, the working group agreed to appoint an additional member with relevant GOCIF marketing experience based on recent applications received for the working group.

• 17 February 2022

  The Gulf of Carpentaria Inshore Fishery (GOCIF) working group met for the second time on 17 February 2022 online. The purpose of the meeting was to finalise the agenda items from the first meeting, update any actions from the previous meeting and provide further updates on the fisheries ecological risk assessments, social and economic information as well as new presentations on recreational fishing data and current biological monitoring programs in the GOCIF. The planned shark research presentation was deferred until the next meeting. The working group recommended that both indigenous representative positions on the working group be filled for future meetings and it would be desirable that representatives cover the different regions within the Gulf.

  The working group were presented with an overview of the Queensland Ecological Risk Assessment (ERA) process, including the framework, methodology, risk drivers and results from the Level 2 ERA completed for the Queensland GOCIF. Members noted that ERA’s are not sustainability assessments and they are designed to reflect issues in the fishery such as risks to species and data deficiencies across all aspects of the fishery. Members noted that the risks identified in the ERA’s will be considered when developing harvest and protected species management strategies for the GOCIF. Updated ERA’s will be completed after the reform process is completed and will be refined over time to reflect changes in management and research which is likely to result in changes to species risk ratings. Members discussed the importance to consider historic research that has been undertaken in response to previous ERA’s completed in the Gulf of Carpentaria and agreed to send all relevant research to Fisheries Queensland for consideration as part of the reform process. Members discussed the current reporting requirements for the commercial industry and identified the current logbook reporting methods and validation of Threatened, Endangered and Protected species (TEP) interactions was a major issue for the GOCIF. A working group member updated the group on an electronic monitoring trial in the GOCIF to develop a cost-effective e-monitoring system for use in Queensland fisheries. The trial will commence in 2022.

  The working group was provided with a presentation on the social and economic indicators from the GOCIF, including how to use the online dashboards, the results of the 2018–2019 BDO EconSearch report as well as the estimates of recreational fishing expenditure from the statewide recreational fishing survey and the boat ramp survey program. Some working group members supported collecting the economic data for the fishery and providing the data publicly. There are concerns in the commercial fishing industry around the publication of information that may allow an individual’s fishing activity to be identified. The charter members raised concerns over data accuracy and integrity stating a perceived difficulty in providing accurate responses to the complex questions being asked and possibly providing caveats around these concerns.

  The working group were presented with an overview of the recreational fishing data recorded in the GOCIF including information from the statewide recreational fishing survey and the boat ramp survey program. Recreational participation in Queensland was estimated at 943, 000 fishers in 2018/2019 dropping to 660,000 participants in 2019/2020. Members recommended collecting additional information on shark catches and depredation and sawfish interactions in the Gulf. Some members discussed the extent of effort creep in the recreational fishery and the importance to consider this as part of future surveys and data analysis.

  The working group was presented with an overview of the biological monitoring data collected and findings for barramundi, king threadfin and Spanish mackerel harvested in the GOCIF. This presentation included what biological information is collected and how it is used for stock status and as inputs into stock assessment modelling. Information on how net selectivity and catch rate calculations were used in the barramundi and king threadfin stock assessments was also provided. Working group members noted the information presented and discussed issues around the effect of mesh size on fishing mortality across different sizes of fish and the ability to target different species using different mesh sizes. A commercial member questioned the ability of the stock assessment to define targeted effort on king threadfin. Fisheries Queensland advised that these issues will be important discussions in future meetings regarding reform options.

  In general business the research member asked about what research is being undertaken in the Queensland Gulf of Carpentaria Finfish Fishery and Fisheries Queensland advised they would take this as an action item for next meeting. The working group requested a presentation from Northern Territory Fisheries on their current reform process.

  The next meeting is planned for late March or early April (likely to be held in Karumba) and will focus on a review of the fishery’s key issues, current management arrangements, addressing concerns over the management of protected species, management action for king threadfin and to begin the initial development of a harvest strategy. The working group noted that a dedicated meeting to address protected species management issues will be held in the future.

• 29 – 30 March 2022

  The third meeting of the Gulf of Carpentaria Inshore Fishery (GOCIF) working group was held in Karumba on 29 and 30 March 2022. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the reform process under the Sustainable Fisheries Strategy (the Strategy), begin the initial development of a harvest strategy for the GOCIF, discuss the fisheries key issues and current management arrangements, and management action for king threadfin.

  Several working group members attempted to attend the meeting online, however left the meeting early and were unable to provide input due to audio and connectivity issues. The traditional owner members were also unable to provide input into the meeting. A working group member asked about the independence of the chair given they are a DAF employee. FQ advised that this approach is consistent with the majority of working groups and there are no plans to implement an independent chair for this working group.

  There was a discussion regarding the reliability of the boat ramp survey data with concerns about the sampling processes and recreational fishing data collected, and how this data is utilised in the stock assessment process. Working group members raised concerns about perceived bias in the sampling process of recreational fishers at boat ramp surveys. Fisheries Queensland summarised how the data was used and committed to follow up with a presentation for the next meeting to respond to the issues raised. The working group recommended an expansion of current charter specific fishing requirements (e.g., licencing, logbooks) to all charter operators.

  The working group were presented with a table summarising the key fishery issues that had been submitted by working group members and discussed and prioritised a list of key ecological, social and economic issues to work through when considering management reform and developing a harvest strategy for the GOCIF. Working group members were asked to discuss their top three issues. These are broadly summarised below:

  • Sustainability:
    • Broad support for the sustainable harvest of GOCIF stocks from all sectors, as well as changing fishing behaviours
    • Support for the long-term sustainability of gulf fishery resources
    • Assessing environmental impacts on species and the collection of data to account for this
    • Changing fishing behaviours influencing catches and how to interpret these changes
    • Concerns with effort standardisation as part of stock assessment process
  • Threatened, Endangered and Protected species (TEPs):
    • Improved data validation
    • Improved reporting
    • TEP handling and release training
  • Management and regulation:
    • Distrust with Fisheries Queensland
    • Lack of consultation with industry
    • Improving the collection and usage of data to improve stock assessment outcomes and management decisions.
    • Concerns around data validation options being discussed.

  A research member discussed the implementation of a best management practice for the handling and release of sawfish and other TEPs to ensure their survival. The working group supported the possible implementation of a best management practice for handling and release of TEP’s, noting further discussions around the framework and implementation of such project will be required. The working group discussed a reduction of the barramundi maximum size limit from 1200mm down to 1000mm.

  The working group discussed the current management arrangements for the commercial charter and recreational sectors in the GOCIF, to identify any changes that may be required during the fishery reforms. Members raised several issues around the current fishery rules including the definition of a set mesh net in the offshore parts of the fishery, existing netting closure, improving the definitions of a river mouth, nearshore and offshore areas, net length definitions, net attendance rules, maximum boat length, use of multiple N3 symbols and freshwater charter licence requirements. There was unanimous support from all members for the introduction of a recreational fishing licence.

  Fisheries Queensland provided an overview of harvest strategies as a framework for setting pre-determined management actions to achieve fishery objectives while allowing timely changes to improve stock sustainability and fishery economics. The working group discussed the recent implementation of the East Coast Inshore Fishery Harvest Strategy, noting a similar but unique harvest strategy relevant to the GOCIF will be developed in consultation with the working group and Sustainable Fisheries Expert Panel. Members noted that the harvest strategy is a living document that allows for refinement as new information and knowledge becomes available.

  Fisheries Queensland provided an overview of the Protected Species Management Strategy (PSMS) implemented in the East Coast Inshore Fishery, as a working example of a strategy to minimise and mitigate ecological risks arising from fishing-related activities on protected species. Members noted a similar PSMS will be developed for the GOCIF and a future working group meeting will be planned to develop this strategy. The working group recommended that relevant scientific experts be part of the future discussions around the PSMS. Members raised concerns around the need to identify and fill data gaps in TEPs information, to ensure suitable interaction levels for individual species are included in the PSMS.

  Members were asked to develop a list of triple bottom line (ecological, social and economic) objectives to guide the development of a harvest strategy for the GOCIF. The working group discussed the following draft fishery objectives for further consideration:

  • minimise and mitigate any unacceptable ecological risks arising from fishing-related activities
  • maximise economic performance of the commercial and charter sectors
  • monitor the social and economic benefits of the fishery to the community
  • consider potential impacts of localised depletion
  • maintain appropriate sectoral allocations for GOCIF resources.

  Members recommended further discussion is needed on the objective around species specific localised depletion and requested further information on possible sectoral allocation information before developing this objective further.

  The working group were asked to discuss and recommend management units which will guide the development of a harvest strategy for the GOCIF. Members noted that the Strategy has a preference to manage species at the stock level where possible, and finer scale spatial management regions would allow for more flexible management changes to be made in a specific region if required, without the need for broad scale change impacting other regions of the GOCIF. Commercial members discussed the potential for spatial management through the existing fishery symbols and gear types. Climatic variability drives fishing behaviour and any spatial restrictions that may limit the movement of fishers under the existing symbol was identified as a concern for commercial members. The working group supported a single management unit approach for the Gulf. It was discussed that there may be options for management without finer scale regionalisation if required.

  The working group were asked to discuss and develop a list of management reform options to support the development of a harvest strategy. Members noted the Strategy has a preference towards output controls where possible. The working group discussed the pros and cons of a range of input and output management options possible for the GOCIF, noting further discussions are required around the management options that are available for the fishery. The following options were discussed:

  • the working group supported the option of a buyback of licences in the GOCIF and the group agreed that further discussion on this issue would be held between government and industry members outside of the working group meeting
  • possible unitisation of nets in the N3 fishery
  • review existing closures to ensure they are fit for purpose
  • possibility of total allowable catch limits for key target species
  • review of possession and boat limits for the recreational and charter sectors
  • consideration of effort shift from the east coast into the Gulf line Spanish mackerel fishery.

  The commercial members present strongly advised that they did not support ITQ or regional management (zoning) in the N3 and N12 fisheries.

  The working group discussed management action for king threadfin in response to the recent stock assessment estimating biomass in the GOC to be 5 per cent of unfished levels in 2019. Members noted a biomass of less than 20 per cent is the national trigger for urgent action to rebuild stocks to a sustainable level and the recommendations of the stock assessment are to close the fishery for three years. The working group discussed the details of the stock assessment including data inputs into the model, effort associated with co-catch of king threadfin when targeting barramundi, net selectivity, natural mortality and mortality from fishing interactions including recreational cast netting, environmental effects on the stock and options for the collection of additional biological information such as age/length and reproductive information. Some members raised concerns about the biomass estimate for the king threadfin stock and were concerned about the contrast between the gulf and the east coast biomass estimates.

  Without an existing harvest strategy in place the working group discussed options for rebuilding the king threadfin stock. The focus is to halt any further decline in the biomass and begin the recovery of the stock prior to the next stock assessment. Members discussed a range of ideas, however requested that Fisheries Queensland formulate more specific options for the possible management of king threadfin for consideration at the next working group meeting.

  As part of general business commercial members requested the establishment of a formal data sharing agreement between industry and Fisheries Queensland. This was proposed to improve the sharing and use of data, for example, between industry and the department and to give the industry confidence in the data being collected and how it is to be used in the management of fisheries. Fisheries Queensland committed to meeting with the industry members to progress this proposal.

  Fisheries Queensland updated the working group on the current status of the Commonwealth wildlife trade operation approval for the L4 fishery due for reassessment in November 2022 and requested advice from the working group on how they wish to proceed. Commercial members advised Fisheries Queensland that the preference is to maintain the Part 13A accreditation for the fishery.

  The next working group meeting is planned for July – August 2022 to continue development of reform options, a harvest strategy and potential management action

• 19-20 July 2022

  The fourth meeting of the Gulf of Carpentaria Inshore Fishery (GOCIF) working group was held in Cairns on 19 and 20 July 2022. The main purpose of the meeting was to continue the initial development of a harvest strategy, discuss management reform options for the fishery and preliminary management action for king threadfin.

  Fisheries Queensland provided an update on the progress and timelines of the fishery reforms under the Queensland Sustainable Fisheries Strategy (the Strategy), recent legislative changes for hammerhead sharks and progress on reapplication for the gulf line fisheries WTO. The working group noted there are two conditions on the line fisheries current export approval (Part 13A) including a harvest strategy and independent data validation, that will not be achieved before the accreditation expires on 22 November 2022. Fisheries Queensland advised the working group they had received advice from DAWE suggesting the fishery is unlikely to be reaccredited before the existing conditions of approval are achieved. The department advised it will not reapply for Part 13A, and will consider reapplication in consultation with industry when the broader fishery reforms have been implemented. Commercial members requested that clarification be sought on what expectations there are with implementing independent data validation in the Gulf fisheries. Conservation members were disappointed that the recent application of fins naturally attached only applied to hammerhead sharks and not all shark species. Commercial members were satisfied with the outcome applying only to hammerhead sharks given the remote logistics of the fishery.

  Industry members advised that they have engaged consultants to progress a joint industry and DAF data management agreement and will continue to progress this document. It is anticipated that this agreement will help improve data collection in the Gulf of Carpentaria. A data collection program for all sectors (including the recreational sector) in the Gulf of Carpentaria was identified as a priority. Conservation members supported urgency on developing independent data validation as part of a data collection program in the Gulf of Carpentaria.

  Additional indigenous representation on the working group was also identified as a need by members and reiterated the need to fill these positions on the working group. The working group noted that the Carpentaria Land Council Aboriginal Corporation has a new Sea Country Indigenous Protected Area registered that covers sea country from Karumba north to the Staaten River.

  Recreational and commercial members reported a consistent wet season which has resulted in a healthy inshore fishery. Members reported good catches of barramundi and king threadfin. Commercial members also reported an excellent offshore season with a return of whitebait to offshore areas. Members identified that the impact of climatic variability in the Gulf needed to be considered carefully and factored into discussions when making management decisions.

  Recreational members reported one of the worst offshore seasons from the Weipa region, with an absence of longtail tuna, grey mackerel and reef species. Charter operators are reporting similar results offshore. Charter members requested information from Fisheries Queensland on proposed reforms for the charter sector and the need to support this sector and deliver outcomes under the Strategy.

  Commercial members requested that the current vacant commercial members position be filled before the next working group meeting.

  Ongoing work on threatened species was identified as an area of importance and collaboration with the Northern Prawn Fishery on sawfish research should be explored.
  Compliance issues in the Gulf were raised and the working group noted a significant breach identified in July 2022.

  The working group noted a presentation from Fisheries Queensland on the collection methods and use of boat ramp survey data from the Gulf of Carpentaria. Data on catch trends from 2015 to 2021 for different areas of the Gulf were presented to the group. Some members noted that earlier feedback on the boat ramp program had not been passed on to the assessment and monitoring team.

  The Northern Territory (NT) member provided an update on the current reform processes completed and underway in the NT. The group discussed the current biomass rations in the NT fishery. Commercial members requested that the Queensland data be entered into the NT assessment model for comparison. Fisheries Queensland advised that the current king threadfin assessment modelling is better suited to the Queensland data and includes age and length information to improve biomass estimates.

  The working group commended the quick industry response to providing additional samples for the biological data collection program. Fisheries monitoring presented an update on the recent biological data that had been collected from commercial king threadfin samples. Results showed good numbers of fish samples being collected and a strong 4-year-old age class in 2021. Anecdotal evidence from fishers suggests there was an increased occurrence of smaller female king threadfin in 2022 catches.

  The working group noted a list of FAQ’s that had been developed to answer questions about the recent king threadfin stock assessment and the stock assessment process generally. There were significant concerns raised by commercial members regarding the assessment outcomes, data inputs used, and assumptions made in the modelling. Commercial members were not supportive of using the outcomes of the current assessment to base management decisions on until the concerns were addressed.

  Fisheries Queensland presented an amended list of draft harvest strategy objectives that had been revised following feedback and comments from the previous working group meeting. The group noted the objectives and generally supported progressing these as draft objectives moving forward. There was a request from conservation members for the objectives to explicitly reference the protection and supporting recovery of protected species. There was discussion about amending the objective around indigenous fishing to include reference to potential charter and commercial fishing opportunities and attempting to quantify the traditional indigenous harvest of fisheries resources in the Gulf of Carpentaria.

  The working group discussed possible management units for the GOCIF, with Fisheries Queensland advising the preference is to align the management units with species stock boundaries where possible. Commercial members advised that they do not support any further zoning of the fishery outside of the existing fishery symbol arrangements. Commercial members did not support the implementation of ITQ in the N3 and N12 fisheries.

  Fisheries Queensland presented preliminary management options for king threadfin to halt any further decline and begin recovery of the stocks biomass before a harvest strategy is developed for the fishery. Commercial members presented alternative options for consideration.

  Fisheries Queensland advised that with a biomass estimate of 5%, doing nothing was not an option and the aim of any option is to begin stock recovery. Based on working group advice, king threadfin options will be explored further noting the urgency to arrive at a solution to begin recovering the stock.  The working group discussed the pros and cons of each option, noting the difficulties around the co-catch of king threadfin with barramundi and their high post-release mortality from netting interactions.

  The working group requested at least biennial stock assessment updates to track stock recovery and explore other indicators to monitor stock trends.

  Commercial members did not support either king threadfin management option presented and recommended that a government funded buyback be implemented to reduce risks to king threadfin. No take on king threadfin was rejected due to the issues around continued discard mortality and wastage when netting for other species, loss of data to inform stock recovery and risks of the loss of market access associated with any fishing closure. Option two was not supported due to the TACC choking the catch of barramundi and other species and creating more economic impact to fishers. Commercial members commented that alternate gears are not viable options due to safety risks, inefficiencies and the environmental conditions that occur in the Gulf.

  The conservation members supported the no take option across all sectors based on the stock assessment recommendations but did recognise the discarding issues and the inherent social and economic risks associated with this option without support through a fishery buyout. Option two was not supported due to the recommended TACC not achieving stock recovery within rebuilding timeframes under the SFS.

  A charter member did not support a no take of king threadfin under option one and supported a possession limit of between one and five fish noting that five fish is possibly too high.

  The working group discussed the pros and cons of the potential management reform options presented for the fishery. The option for the unitisation of nets in the N3 fishery and amalgamation of licences was discussed and commercial members committed to refine these ideas further. Fisheries Queensland recommended that catch limits may be required in addition to a net unitisation system.

  The working group requested that members of the Queensland Sustainable Fisheries Expert Panel attend future working group meetings.

  The next meeting will be in late November to discuss TEP issues, consider feedback from consultation and provide advice on the preferred management options for the fishery.

  Working Group Members Attending: Kimberly Foster, Darren Roy, Luke Albury, Shawn McAtamney, Ben Bright, Dave Donald, Shane Snow, Claudine Ward, Dave Wren, David Lane, Stirling Peverill, Alastair Freeman, Leonardo Guida, Tony Loader, Barbara Weuringer, Donna Kawan, Will Bowman, Julie Robins, Tony Hurley (online).

• 29–30 November 2022

  The fifth meeting of the Gulf of Carpentaria Inshore Fishery (GOCIF) working group was held in Cairns on 29 and 30 November 2022. The main purpose of the meeting was to continue the development of a harvest strategy, discuss fisheries monitoring and research priorities, and protected species management.

  Fisheries Queensland noted that the Report on the Joint World Heritage Centre/IUCN Reactive Monitoring Mission to the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) (Australia) was released, recommending the World Heritage Committee list the GBR as “in danger”. Fisheries Queensland noted that the World Heritage Commission would make the final decision on the listing but when this would occur was unknown.

  Fisheries Queensland provided an update on the progress of the fishery reforms under the Queensland Sustainable Fisheries Strategy (the Strategy); biological information collected for king threadfin and barramundi; planned stock assessments; Convention on International Trade of Protected Species (CITES) listing of the whaler and hammerhead sharks and guitar fish families on Appendix II of CITES; and king threadfin management options. Fisheries Queensland presented the biological information collected for king threadfin and barramundi, and commended industry for their proactive approach and continued involvement in the monitoring program and stock assessment project teams. The king threadfin stock assessment will be updated with all available data up to 2022.

  In member updates, the commercial members raised concerns with the reforms impacting industry operations, diminishing economic returns, issues with sourcing experienced crew members, business logistics, increasing burden and costs associated with meeting regulatory requirements, lack of existing infrastructure to support commercial fishing in the Gulf of Carpentaria (GOC), the mental health impacts reform is having on industry and the loss of productive mackerel grounds to mining proposals. Commercial members also advised harvest has been above average and attracting strong market prices. The science and research members provided updates on sawfish identification training for commercial fishers at the Gulf of Carpentaria Commercial Fisherman’s Association (GoCCFA) annual general meeting and sought support to collaborate with industry on sawfish research projects. The charter and recreational members advised there was currently low number of recreational fishers in the gulf regions, with most charter operators tied up for the summer months following an amazing year with increasing tourist and charter customers. The indigenous member requested all members consider and respect the indigenous community of the GOC when considering access and management options for the fishery. The conservation member reinforced the importance of the CITES decisions in relation to protected species management.

  Fisheries Queensland presented the proposed logbook changes for the net and line fisheries and provided an update on the reporting changes that have been implemented on the Queensland east coast and GOC crab fisheries. Members noted a similar reporting framework will be implemented for the GOCIF, with increased reporting obligations for species managed with total allowable catches (TACs). Commercial members noted their preference for a previous logbook (GB03) that was more user friendly and reduced the administrative burden on fishers.

  Members discussed improvements to the reporting systems that need to be considered for the GOCIF, that account for the remote nature of the fishery, limited phone reception and operational logistics. The need to simplify the current transhipment arrangements in the GOCIF was identified as an issue to address. Fisheries Queensland agreed to consider additional ways to improve the reporting framework.

  The working group discussed net unitisation scenarios for the N3 symbol. Members discussed the pros and cons associated with the various unitisation scenarios and benefits the reform option can have for both target, bycatch and protected species. Commercial members presented their preferred option for further consideration. The group discussed possible limitations with the unitisation of symbols and possible activation of latent effort. The conservation sector highlighted that the Expert Panel had recommended closure of the N3 fishery for three years with structural adjustment but supported discussions regarding unitisation after rebuilding of king threadfin stocks. Fisheries Queensland agreed to consider the discussions and bring detailed unitisation options back to the working group. Members supported structural adjustment as a mechanism to support removal of latent effort and transition to a sustainable future.

  Fisheries Queensland presented a draft list of target, secondary and bycatch species for the GOCIF and sought advice on suitable management tiers for the GOCIF harvest strategy. Members noted the species management tiers used in Queensland harvest strategies and discussed suitable management tiers and associated output controls for target, secondary and bycatch species.

  The working group discussed the setting of sustainable catch limits for target and secondary species under the harvest strategy. Members noted the setting of sustainable catch limits was one of the key actions under the Sustainable Fisheries Strategy, with the preference to use biomass estimates from stock assessments for key target species. The working group discussed an appropriate reference period that could be used to set harvest for species without biomass estimates. The conservation sector advised the CITES listings could influence future TAC’s for shark and ray species.

  Members agreed a suitable reference period for the fishery would be between 7 – 10 years and requested Fisheries Queensland further investigate the environmental variables over this timeframe. Members recommended that an updated Spanish mackerel stock assessment is used to set the future harvest limits for this species.

  Fisheries Queensland presented a draft table of performance indicators and reference points for the GOCIF harvest strategy. Members noted the relationship of performance indicators and reference points, and how these are used to monitor stock performance. The working group will consider options for performance indicators, decision rules and reference periods that are appropriate for a multi-species fishery.

  The working group discussed a draft list of decision rules for the GOCIF harvest strategy, noting the intent is to provide a transparent and consistent management approach to achieve target reference points and fishery objectives set under the harvest strategy. Members noted the hockey stick rule is the default decision rule to manage target species with stock assessment outputs and discussed additional decision rules to manage harvest from the charter/recreational sector, ecological risks identified from ecological risk assessments (ERA’s) and the application of new research and information to inform management decisions.

  The working group discussed catch shares between the commercial and recreational sectors that will be set under the GOCIF harvest strategy. Members noted the process where catch shares are used to allocate harvest between sectors and the intent to maintain set allocations to limit effort creep and harvest from either sector.

  The working group discussed protected species in the GOCIF, including the outcomes of the Level 2 ERA and the protected species management strategy (PSMS) implemented in the ECIF (as an example) to minimise and mitigate fishing interactions with protected species. Members noted a similar PSMS will be developed for the GOCIF and discussed the key issues to be considered during the fishery reforms to minimise and mitigate high risks identified in the ERA. Members discussed the importance of collaboration on future research in the fishery, to improve and value add where possible. Commercial members advised of their proactive approach to protected species issues, with the GoCCFA recently appointing an environment/resource officer to update their commercial fishing code of practice, and to assist with research collaboration and information sharing with all sectors of the fishery.

  The conservation and research members raised the importance of independent data validation (IDV) to monitor and validate fishing interactions with protected species. Members discussed that mortality limits and management measures need to be based on research and base line information. Members agreed a future workshop meeting with additional research experts, industry members, conservation and broader stakeholder groups was necessary as part of the PSMS development process.

  The working group discussed and prioritised a list of monitoring and research priorities to be included in the GOCIF harvest strategy, with the high priorities including biological monitoring programs for key target species, improved research and validation of protected species interactions, validation of commercial catch and effort, research into shark biology and depredation, improved harvest estimates for the charter and recreational sectors and the need to investigate the information needs to undertake maximum economic yield (MEY) estimates for key target species.

  In general business, commercial members raised concerns with the Glencore Aurukun Bauxite Project and the environmental impacts the development is expected to have on the inshore fishery. Commercial members were concerned with the lack of consultation undertaken and Fisheries Queensland agreed to seek further information on the social and economic impacts from the development. Commercial members raised issues with the current form requirements of black jewfish and proposed tagging trial and Fisheries Queensland agreed to investigate the legislative requirements to progress potential changes and will update members at the next meeting. The group discussed the membership of the working group and committed to maintain diversity and representation from all sectors.

  The next working group meeting is planned for early 2023 to review a draft harvest strategy and continue the discussion of management reform options including sustainable catch limits, allocation periods for Spanish mackerel and net unitisation for the N3 symbol. Additional meetings to discuss the development of a Protected Species Management Strategy will be undertaken in early 2023.

  Working Group Members Attending: Chair: Sian Breen (Fisheries Queensland); Fisheries Queensland: Luke Albury – Fisheries Manager, Tony Ham – Principal Fisheries Manager, Tony Loader (QBFP) – District Manager (FNQ); Agri-Science Queensland: Julie Robins; Commercial Members: Bruce Davey, Claudine Ward, David Wren, David Lane, Shane Snow; Charter/Recreational: Ben Bright, Simon Phillippa; Seafood Processor/Wholesaler: Tony Hurley; Shawn McAtamney (Day 2 only); Conservation: Leonardo Guida; Research/Science: Barbara Wueringer, Stirling Peverell; Observers Steve Eayrs – FRDC Extension officer (Qld), Will Bowman (online) – NT Fisheries; Jason Stapley –Resource/Environmental Officer, GoCCFA

• 5–6 September 2023

  The sixth meeting of the Gulf of Carpentaria Inshore Fishery (GOCIF) working group was held in Cairns on 5 and 6 September 2023.

  The purpose of the meeting was to discuss potential management changes in the GOCIF including potential net free zones, development of the harvest strategy, potential ITQ allocation, unitisation of the N3 symbol, sustainable catch limits and protected species management. Members noted the intention that further consultation would inform final arrangements of the harvest strategy, and that no decisions have been made.

  Fisheries Queensland provided an update on the Future Fishing Taskforce associated with the Federal and State Governments $160 million to implement commitments relating to net fishing on the east coast and to establish additional net free zones in the Gulf of Carpentaria. Members noted the funding envelope for the GOC reforms was currently unknown.

  An overview of the candidate net free zones presented to the Taskforce were reviewed, based on submissions received from various sectors and scientific expert input. Commercial members were very concerned that they had not been consulted prior to the Taskforce being presented with these candidate areas, and their lack of consultation and representation at the Taskforce. Industry did not consider consultation had occurred appropriately, effectively or fairly, and given the importance of these decisions on their future, they should be afforded more time to consider any proposals in detail. The working group were advised that the Gulf of Carpentaria net fishery reforms were on a different timeline to the east coast (i.e. to be implemented by 31 March 2024), and that there was time and the intention for further industry consultation before final decisions are made. The working group members supported the request by the commercial fishing members, that the Taskforce take on board their views before making final recommendations to Government.

  Fisheries Queensland presented the final design of net and line logbooks for the GOCIF. Members noted a number of amendments were made to collect important information for stock assessments and to better validate fishing operations. Fisheries Queensland also presented on potential reporting arrangements to validate catch if output controls in the form of Individual Transferable Quota (ITQ) or Total Allowable Commercial Catch (TACC) limits are introduced. Members discussed and noted the need for any reporting arrangements to reflect the unique operating conditions of the fishery.

  The working group provided member updates. The commercial sector noted better than average harvest of inshore species, including king threadfin and barramundi with mixed market prices. The commercial members raised concerns with the mental health impacts the current reforms are having on operators. This is compounded by diminishing economic returns with increased fuel prices and reduced market prices due to imported product and substitution of wild caught with farmed product in restaurants, noting the need for improved source labelling (e.g. wild vs. aquaculture & local vs. imported).

  The charter and recreational member advised it has been a good season to date with high catch rates and increased business. The First Nations representative provided advice around current conservation projects and advised that Native Title prescribed body corporates are showing more interest in the development of Indigenous fishing options. There was interest in undertaking further joint patrols with QBFP.

  Members of the working group noted that additional net free zones in the Gulf of Carpentaria has the potential to concentrate effort in remaining fishable areas, and may have unintended consequences or perverse outcomes for threatened endangered and protected species. Members flagged additional ideas for consideration such as a voluntary round of licence buy backs or ‘sunsetting’ effected licences in some regions to reduce the social and economic impacts from such closures.

  While the commercial members noted their opposition for ITQ management generally, they did note there is a need to ensure the current catch shares of Spanish mackerel need to be maintained between the current commercial fishing sectors (i.e. inshore and offshore net and line). The Chair suggested that this might be an issue the industry could take on to resolve and come up with solutions to address, in the absence of ITQ. This would be of particular concern if a total allowable commercial catch for Spanish mackerel was based on the most recent stock assessment, as it would represent a large reduction from current harvest levels and may end up being a choke species for the N3 and N12 fisheries. All working group members considered it critical for an updated Spanish mackerel stock assessment, noting the apparent decline in stock trends across northern Australia.

  The industry led concept of net unitisation for the N3 symbol was discussed. Working group members noted that it could potentially reduce total net length in the fishery and link to the fisheries harvest strategy to manage effort shift and protected species interactions. Some members noted that it may not achieve a reduction in real fishing effort or result in ecological or environmental gains. It was noted that without an overall reduction in real and potential fishing effort, net free zones may concentrate effort.

  The working group discussed a number of other matters that had been on the agenda for fishery reforms in the Gulf, including maximum boat size, net marking, river mouth/area definitions, N12/N13 fishery alignment, permitted line caught species, barramundi upper size limit, maximum mesh size, and fins naturally attached for shark (raised by conservation member).

  Fisheries Queensland presented information on the independent onboard monitoring project and field trial, noting that they are seeking voluntary assistance from industry. Industry members requested a presentation to their Gulf of Carpentaria Commercial Fishermen Association’s annual general meeting in October.

  There was support from all working group members from the Gulf of Carpentaria Commercial Fishermen Association’s work on updating their industry code of conduct. Fisheries Queensland and industry will continue to work collaboratively on this initiative to improve the industries social licence, showcase their stewardship, highlight their commitment to improvement and seek recognition of previous practices. Independent onboard monitoring and the code of conduct may be important contributions towards managing risks to threatened, endangered and protected species and to reduce environmental risk assessment ratings in the future.

  Working Group Members Attending: Chair: Sian Breen (Fisheries Queensland); Fisheries Queensland: Luke Albury – Fisheries Manager, Imraan Esat – A/Principal Fisheries Manager, Tony Loader (QBFP) – District Manager (FNQ); Agri-Science Queensland: Julie Robins; Commercial Members: Bruce Davey, Claudine Ward, David Lane, Shane Snow, Frank Wren (observer); Charter/Recreational: Ben Bright; Seafood Processor/Wholesaler: Shawn McAtamney; Indigenous: Simon Booth; Conservation: Leonardo Guida; Scientific: Stirling Peverell (Day 2 only);

  Apologies: David Wren, Barbara Wueringer, Alastair Freeman, Gavin New

• 12 March 2024

  The seventh meeting of the Gulf of Carpentaria Inshore Fishery (GOCIF) working group was held in Cairns on 12 March 2024.

  The purpose of this special meeting was to discuss the recent government decision to introduce gill net free zones commencing on 17 May 2024.

  Fisheries Queensland provided an update on the structural adjustment scheme associated with the Queensland Government's commitments to phase out net fishing on the east coast and to establish additional net free zones in the Gulf of Carpentaria. A brief update was provided on the Cape York special fisheries working group which represents the government's ongoing commitment to greater engagement with First Nations peoples.

  Fisheries Queensland provided an update on the new east coast NX gill net fishery and commercial members raised industry had concerns around the requirement to have on-board observers. Fisheries Queensland advised the working group that advice received from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) confirmed observers on commercial fishing vessels remain lawful, provided vessels met all their requirements under the national law which includes meeting their vessels permission (either their Certificate of Operation, Certificate of Survey or Exemption) and maintaining a Safety Management System. Some commercial members stated that further clarification was required as conflicting information had been received by a commercial fisher from AMSA.

  Fisheries Queensland noted the current Fisheries Bill proposing changes to the Fisheries Act 1994, which included a new head of power to be able to mandate independent onboard monitoring, noting that the actual implementation would be done through stakeholder consultation and developing regulations.

  Fisheries Queensland noted the king threadfin stock assessment was ongoing with independent reviewers providing valuable input as it is finalised over coming months. Members noted the need to ensure meaningful and ongoing engagement in the steering committee process. The final report is due later in 2024, with the intention of being considered at the next working group meeting.

  The working group noted the Gulf of Carpentaria Commercial Fisherman’s Association (GOCCFA) collaborated with CSIRO (Dr Richard Pillans), with support by DAF Agri-Science Queensland, to run a Threatened Endangered and Protected Species (TEPS) identification and handling workshop in late January 2024. The workshop was held in Karumba, as well as being available online. CSIRO updated and provided a TEP identification and handling guide, focusing on TEPS found in the Gulf of Carpentaria, and drawing on the considerable experience of Gulf fishers. It was also noted that commercial representatives from the fishery have volunteered to undertake trials of Independent Onboard Monitoring.

  An overview of the Gulf of Carpentaria consultation report was discussed. Commercial members raised concerns around the large number of submissions from respondents who were not necessarily based in the region. It was also acknowledged that the number of submissions doesn’t dictate the course of action nor should each submission be considered of equal weight.

  Members of the working group noted that additional net free zones in the Gulf of Carpentaria have the potential to concentrate effort in remaining fishable areas and may have unintended consequences or perverse outcomes for threatened endangered and protected species. Members raised the need for steps to be taken to prevent and/or minimise effort shift and ensure the provision of voluntary buy backs that are sufficiently attractive to achieve a reduction in fishing effort.

  Commercial members raised concerns with the speed and lack of engagement over the proposed changes and noted that a more sensible solution might have been to introduce new closures at the end of the season instead of mid-season.

  Working group members noted the Future Fishing Taskforce preference for larger gillnet free zones to smaller zones in the Gulf of Carpentaria to provide refuge for threatened species and to support compliance activities. Members discussed the 4 proposed net free areas which went out for consultation in greater detail with members from the commercial, conservation, and social areas providing significant information around suggested changes in line with the needs of their stakeholders.

  Fisheries Queensland noted the suggestions and will present the views of all members to the Expert Panel, and government for final decisions of zone boundaries, subject to further consultation with Traditional Owners. The government intends to announce these in early April.

  Members discussed the proposed structural adjustment approach that is being developed for the Gulf reforms, with Fisheries Queensland advising that payments would be done in line with the east coast structural adjustment package. This includes the determination of a reference period for catch, calculations on logbook reported data, payments for up to 3 years including CPI. Noting that the department intends to have some money available for package buyouts where impacted fishers wish to surrender licences and leave the industry.

  Commercial and Conservation members raised the is a need for licence buybacks to ensure there is no effort shift or increased pressure on remaining areas and other fisheries in the Gulf.

  Commercial members noted concerns with delays in Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) payments on the east coast and the need for payments to be made in a timely fashion. Fisheries Queensland explained the current process and all members discussed their concerns arounds payments, taxation and ensuring the payments are made as soon as possible.

  Next meeting will discuss harvest strategy, Spanish mackerel, Independent Onboard Monitoring and king threadfin stock assessment.

  Working group members attending

  • Chair: Glenn Anderson (ASQ)
  • Fisheries Queensland:
    • Sian Breen – Director
    • Jeffery Ikin – A/Principal Fisheries Manager (online)
    • Imraan Esat – Senior Fisheries Manager
    • Maddie Glacken – A/Fisheries Manager
    • Evan Barnes– A/District Officer Cairns (in place of Tony Loader)
  • Agri-Science Queensland: Julie Robins
  • Commercial Members:
    • Bruce Davey (online)
    • Claudine Ward
    • David Lane
    • Shane Snow
    • Frank Wren
    • Greg Radley
    • Mathew Vickers
  • Charter/Recreational: Jemma Probert
  • Seafood Processor/Wholesaler: Shawn McAtamney (online)
  • Indigenous: Thomas Wilson
  • Conservation: Simon Miller (online) (in place of Leonardo Guida)
  • Scientific: Barbara Wueringer (online)

  Observers

  • Ian Tibbetts – Chair of Sustainable Fisheries Scientific Expert Panel (online)
  • Olivia Whybird – Fisheries Monitoring, Fisheries Queensland

  Apologies

  • Leonardo Guida
  • Tony Loader
  • Ben Bright