During the morning of 29 March 2013, a surveillance operation was conducted by Marine Police within the Tinderbox Reserve.  As a result of the operation, four males aged in their 20’s were observed diving for abalone.

Police allege they were in possession of a total of 24 blacklip abalone, 12 of which were undersize.

3 of the males were not the holder of a recreational abalone dive licence.

Police seized 4 sets of dive equipment.

If convicted of the offences the males would jointly incur fines of approximately $7000.

In recent months there have been numerous complaints of fishing within marine reserves and recreational fishermen are reminded to check the Recreational Fishing Guide and signage at Boat Ramps and Reserves for information about restrictions on fishing, licensing, size and bag limits.

Anyone with information about illegal fishing is encouraged to call the 24 hour Fishwatch Hotline on 0427655557.