On Tuesday 27 February 2024 Stephen Maurice Connelly, of Wynyard, and Darren Robert Jarvis, of Shorewell Park, were convicted of illegally fishing the Inglis River for whitebait, in separate incidents during 2022.

Both men pleaded guilty before Magistrate Topfer in the Burnie Magistrates Court.

Mr Connlley was convicted on all charges, sentenced to pay fines of $1086 plus $543 as a special penalty, together with court costs of $94.34. 

Mr Jarvis was convicted on all charges, sentenced to pay fines of  $1629 plus $543 as a special penalty, together with court costs of $94.34.

Illegal whitebait fishing is an ongoing serious issue. The actions of a few have the potential to affect the long term sustainability of the whitebait fishery. The Inland Fisheries Service undertakes targeted compliance operations each year in spring, during the whitebait migration, with a small number of offenders convicted most years.

We urge anyone who has information regarding illegal activities in our inland waters to contact the Inland Fisheries Service on 1300 INFISH (1300 463 474) or 0438 338 530. Or alternatively email us on infish@ifs.tas.gov.au