A diver spearing kaiar (tropical rock lobster) in the Torres Strait. Photo: Tony Gordon.
The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) marked World Fisheries Day late last month by highlighting its commitment to supporting the region’s Traditional Inhabitant Boat (TIB) fishers through a project aimed at addressing challenges facing the industry.
For centuries, Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal people of the region have relied on their deep knowledge of the sea and traditional fishing practices to feed their families and maintain a healthy ocean with sustainable fish stocks.
Today, TIB fishers continue to uphold these principles in their commercial operations by balancing cultural heritage with sustainable practices.
The industry faces growing challenges on multiple fronts, including ageing fishing assets, supply chain disruptions and safety concerns, leading TSRA to launch phase one of the Wapil 2 project, which is an initiative designed to strengthen the economic viability of TIB fishers while respecting cultural priorities and practices.
Outgoing TSRA chairperson Pedro Stephen said the project strongly aligned with this year’s World Fisheries Day theme.
“World Fisheries Day’s focus on sustainability and innovation is at the heart of the TSRA Wapil 2 project,” he said.
“We’re offering grants to help TIB commercial fishers replace aging equipment, like outboard motors and trailers, and provide essential items like safety kits and training opportunities.”
Full-time commercial TIB fishers are encouraged to submit an expression of interest to TSRA’s fisheries program to access Wapil 2 phase one grants and training resources.
