Full East Coast snapper study
Understanding the science of snapper stocks from QLD through NSW to VIC and beyondA new two-year snapper research project is underway to provide a solid scientific foundation for the future management of snapper along the east coast of Australia.
Project leader Dr Alex Campbell said the aim is to develop a unified approach to assessing snapper stock status along Australia's east coast.
"Assessment of snapper stock in different jurisdictions has historically been conducted separately across states," Dr Campbell said.
"This project aims to ensure all relevant data sets and advice are channelled through a single multi-jurisdictional process.
"Fishery management may continue to be conducted separately in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria, however, the project aims to establish a set of protocols to provide consistency in how snapper are managed across states."
The project also includes a fishery genetics component to confirm the geographical extent of the stock and will consider genetic samples from nine locations (including one west of Wilson's Promontory and one from northern Tasmania).
Dr Campbell said the project is currently seeking expressions of interest for the project steering committee.
"It is important to have stakeholder representatives involved in the project and we are seeking committee members to play a role in interpreting the science and communicating with the wider fishing community," he said.
Individuals with knowledge or experience within the snapper fishery are encouraged to apply by submitting an application outlining their relevant experience and how they meet the criteria. The full EOI statement can be downloaded from the project webpage here. Expressions of interest for the Steering Committee close 31 January 2016.
The project, "Informing inter-jurisdictional snapper management in eastern Australia," is funded by the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation and the state Governments of Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.
For more information on the project contact Dr Campbell at alex.campbell@daf.qld.gov.au or visit www.frdc.com.au.
Photo credit: Opening shot by Reel Time Charters.
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