Nominations for the vacant Council Board directorships closed on Tuesday 5 August 2025 at 4:00 PM. Two vacancies in each of the Northern and Southern Zones were open for nomination.

We are pleased to advise that four valid nominations were received for the four available positions.

As the number of nominations matches the number of vacancies, no election voting is required and the four Directors-designate will be officially confirmed at the Annual General Meeting on 9 September 2025.

We extend our sincere thanks to Directors-designate who renominated: Justin Pirrottina (Northern Zone); Jared Groom (Northern Zone); Mat Thompson (Southern Zone) and offer our congratulations to Director-designate Michael Thompson (Southern Zone). Michael is a third generation Fisherman who has had hands on experience with the industry for 20 years, and represents a family legacy that has shaped the industry for more than 60 years.  Michael has been a member of the Fishing Operations Committee (FOC) for the past 3 years, and has learned to value the balance of both sustainability and profitability. Michael acknowledged that being part of FOC has taught and encouraged him to keep educating himself and to give back to the challenges we face.

Michael believes that a prosperous future for the Western Rock Lobster Industry depends on strong governance rooted with both tradition and innovation. He would like to help by using his practical knowledge and experience to help develop strategies that protect our stocks, support fisher livelihoods and preserve the legacy of crayfishing for generations to come.

We also wish to express our deep appreciation to Director Stephen Minutillo for his unwavering support, professionalism, and passionate commitment to the WRL Board, the industry, and our membership. Stephen has chosen not to seek renomination in this election, and we thank him sincerely for his outstanding service.

From Matt Taylor
CEO