Emotions ran high as the Mandurah Licensed Fisherman’s Association (MLFA) recieved their Marine Stewardship Council MSC) certification, which highlights Mandurah’s sustainable fishing practices to the global community.
Under the new certification, Mandurah’s famed blue swimmer crabs have received an international stamp of sustainability and quality.
After almost seven years of work, MLFA president and third-generation Mandurah fisherman Damien Bell almost broke down on stage as he described what the certification meant for the local fishing and crabbing industry.
“We’ve known for years and years that we’re sustainable, our sustainable management has always been the priority,” Mr Bell said.
“But the question has always been, ‘How do we prove it?’ Well today we prove it. Today we are sustainable.”
MSC Pacific regional director Patrick Caleo said the certification would ensure Mandurah’s commercial fishing industry is recognised for the work done in ensuring sustainability from season to season.
“The MSC was originally developed in the ‘90s by people who wanted to protect the world’s oceans for us and our future generations,” Mr Caleo said.
“The MSC certification is designed to reward fisheries who stand by this, and it is recognised throughout the world.
“Both the commercial and recreational fishers of Mandurah are showing the world how sustainable fishing should be done, and you should be proud of that.”
Recfishwest CEO Andrew Rowland said the accreditation was a win for Mandurah’s recreational fishing and tourism industry, as much as it was for commercial fishing.
“From Recfishwest’s perspective, this is not about promoting Mandurah’s sustainability, it’s about protecting Mandurah’s sustainability, and protecting the fishery we have here on the doorstep of Mandurah which is so highly valued by the whole community,” he said.
“With this we can ensure we understand the stocking rates of fish in the estuary, that we have a good habitat and water quality.
“The certification will really increase the sense of stewardship for not only the fishers who are out there every day, but really everyone in the community.”
