This is a notice to all Torres Strait and Western Province Tropical Rock Lobster licensed operators, fisherman and the general public that the seasonal ban on the use of hookah gear for taking of tropical rock lobster in the Torres Strait and Western Province Fishery, commences on midnight 30th November 2004 to midnight 31st March 2005. this is in accordance with the current Torres Strait and Western Province Tropical Rock Lobster Fishery Management Plan.

The lobster operators are to remind their boat captains of this management arrangement. You are also reminded that harvesting, buying, exporting and possession of lobster with a tail of less than 115 mm (300g weight) is illegal. NFA will not hesitate to prosecute offenders.

NFA will place observers on all licensed lobster vessel for the purpose of compliance and research.

If you have any queries in this regard, please contact the Fisheries Advisor on telephone 309 0444, fax 320 2061, email amobiha@fisheries.gov.pg