Versatile new patrol vessel for Mid-West

• $934,000 PV Lesueur joins Department of Fisheries patrol fleet

• Patrol vessel designed for shallow water work and at-sea inspections 

Fisheries Minister Joe Francis today visited Jurien Bay to inspect and officially launch the newest vessel in the Department of Fisheries' patrol fleet.

Mr Francis said the 12 metre diesel-powered patrol vessel (PV) Lesueur would increase patrol capability in the Mid-West by monitoring fishing activity along the coast between Lancelin and Dongara.

"With its waterjet propulsion, PV Lesueur will be able to work in the shallower areas of the Jurien Bay Marine Park, reef inshore areas along the Mid-West coast and also at the Abrolhos Islands, if required," he said.

"The Jurien Bay Marine Park is sheltered by islands and reefs that make the surrounding ocean perfect for water activities, and suitable vessels are needed to enable Fisheries and Marine Officers to carry out compliance work. 

"While the region is popular with recreational fishers, commercial activity includes rock lobster fishing and wetliners catching sharks and demersal species, such as pink snapper and dhufish.  There is also a developing octopus fishery and deep sea crab operations."

The $934,000 PV Lesueur is capable of operating up to 100 nautical miles offshore, providing wider flexibility for at-sea operations.

"Like the majority of the department's patrol vessels, PV Lesueur is fitted with a soft collar to allow it to come alongside commercial and recreational vessels at sea," the Minister said.

"This means inspections can not only be conducted at sea, but also in a range of weather conditions, while reducing the likelihood of property damage or injury to people."

Fact File

• PV Lesueur replaces the Abrolhos Piper which operated in the region for 19 years

• New patrol vessel named in honour of maritime figure and artist Charles Lesueur

• PV Lesueur was built at Henderson shipyard

• Fisheries has 15 patrol vessels ranging in length from 8.5m to 23m

• Keep up-to-date on fishing rules at http://www.fish.wa.gov.au  

Minister's office - 6552 6500