The first four recruits to participate in the State Government’s inaugural Aboriginal Fisheries Officer Career Pathways Program graduated this week, to officially become Fisheries Officers.
Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Tim Whetstone said the group’s successful completion of the program is positive progress in the management of Aboriginal Traditional Fishing in South Australia.
“Congratulations to Cobi Lovett, Bronson Laughton, Delahay Miller and Joshua Smith. These four young people have taken a great step in shaping their future and their communities,” said Minister Whetstone.
“Their graduation is a great example of the State Government’s commitment to providing more opportunities for Aboriginal people to directly engage in the management of South Australia’s aquatic resources.
“After completing two years’ on the job training these Aboriginal men and women from the Limestone Coast, the Far West Coast, Eyre Peninsula and Yorke Peninsula will go on to work in partnership with their communities as Fisheries Officers.
“Throughout the program the group has facilitated fisheries and compliance efforts across the state and assisted with strengthening relationships with Aboriginal communities.
“Since the program started, it has expanded to include trainees from across the state, meaning greater representation of South Australian Aboriginal communities.”
The Fisheries Management Act 2007 specifically recognises Aboriginal Traditional Fishing as part of our sustainable fisheries management framework.
Many South Australian Aboriginal communities have a strong connection to country and a long history of fishing in both marine and inland waters that is central to their culture and tradition.
The State Government recognises the need to progress how we manage South Australia’s fisheries to include Aboriginal knowledge and involvement of the Elders and their communities.
