Abalone farm clean-up nearly completed

Significant progress has been made over the past few days in cleaning up damage from a storm near Elliston on July 11 and the work is now three-quarters complete.

Weather conditions improved sufficiently for employees of Australian Bight Abalone, PIRSA and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to accelerate the recovery of debris.

Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Michael O’Brien said there was no evidence that debris had caused death or injury to any wildlife.
“I am advised that only one dead seal has been found in the vicinity of the debris,” Mr O’Brien said.

“The seal was located at Sheringa Beach and it is unknown whether its death is linked to the storm damage.”

Mr O’Brien said the majority of the nets and debris had washed up onto rocks.

“It’s planned to clear any remaining debris as soon as the ringtops have been completely removed,” he said.

“Representatives from DENR and PIRSA Aquaculture have studied the coastline from a spotter plane.

“They only found minor debris outside the impact zones on Waldegrave Island (buoys and markers), with no unsuspected debris being located South of Waldegrave Island during the flight.”

Mr O’Brien said he had been briefed on the approvals process for the abalone farm operation.

“I am satisfied the company has complied with all the conditions that were imposed as part of its licence,” he said.

“The storm was an unfortunate event – a natural disaster.

“The risk of a natural disaster striking a farm is very much a reality of the industry, just as it is on land.”

Mr O’Brien said the company was responsible for clearing the debris, including any costs that may be incurred.

He said the clean-up must be completed to the government’s satisfaction in accordance with the licence.