Tourism Council WA has welcomed the enhanced rock lobster marine tourism arrangements announced by the State Government today, following the successful trial which commenced in 2019.
Tourism Council WA CEO Evan Hall said the new permanent arrangements would bring certainty for marine tour operators to invest in promoting this unique experience to Western Australians and around the world.
“Marine tourism is the most sustainable use of rock lobsters, with the highest value from the smallest catch,” Mr Hall said.
“Tourism Council WA estimates that an out-of-state visitor enjoying a lobster lunch on a catch-and-cook tour spends more than $5100 in WA, yielding the highest return in economic value and jobs for this valuable resource.
“These marine tours attract visitors into Perth and Rottnest Island, and out to great regional destinations such as Geraldton, the Abrolhos Islands, Two Rocks, Dongara, Kalbarri and Mandurah to experience the world-famous rock lobster.”
Mr Hall said lobster catch-and-cook tours were a drawcard for international and interstate visitors with the iconic rock lobster a unique food experience for Western Australia.
“Lobster catch-and-cook tours are popular with both tourists and locals alike. These marine tours provide Western Australians who don’t have a boat or lobster pot access to this quintessential WA experience,” he said.
