FRMA Amendment Process Update
The state process for amending the FRMA is in progress. WRL made a submission to DPIRD on 18 December 2025 and are awaiting a response from DPIRD. Final Principles to guide Fisheries Policy and Legislation Reform were endorsed by all stakeholders (DPIRD, WRL, WAFIC, ACWA and RecfishWest) on 23 September 2025. A copy of these […]
Fremantle and Geraldton Annual Management Meetings
Dear members, As we approach the 2026 West Coast Rock Lobster Annual Management Meetings (AMMs) in Fremantle and Geraldton, I want to emphasise the importance of your participation. A significant focus during the afternoon sessions will be discussions around the Harvest Strategy and TACC setting process including voting. This will be Members only opportunity to participate […]
From River Mouth to Rugged Coast: The Ralph Family Legacy
REELED IN HISTORY SERIES – 2 For the Ralph family, fishing was not a tradition passed down through generations, it was a path shaped by circumstance, resilience and a deep connection to the Mid West coast. What began as a necessary change of lifestyle for health reasons has grown into a multi-generational presence in WA’s […]
Winners of the 2025 Western Rock Lobster Photo Competition
We’re excited to reveal the winners of this year’s WRL Annual Photo Competition! With dozens of entries capturing the heart of our western rock lobster fishery, our Board and WRL Staff selected 12 stunning images that truly stand out in originality, impact and artistic style. These winning photos will be proudly showcased in our 2026 […]
Important Health and Safety Topics
As usual, Brett McCallum keeps us in touch with health and safety developments affecting our industry. He recently brought the following important items to our attention. If you want to speak to Brett about these his details are also below. Review of the operational effectiveness of the Work Health and Safety Act (WA). WorkSafe are […]
DECK Program 2025
DECK 2025: Strengthening Leadership and Collaboration in the Western Rock Lobster Industry The 2025 DECK Program Conference brought together industry leaders, emerging fishers and subject-matter experts for two days of insight, collaboration and professional development at the Fremantle Sailing Club on Wednesday 5th and Thursday 6th November 2025. Designed to support leadership growth and strengthen […]
OCEAN TO PLATE – Annual Photo Competition
Open to all Western Australian residents, we are on the lookout for photos that capture the beauty of our fishery in a unique, spectacular or visually appealing manner. Photographs may include lobsters, boats, landscapes and/or people, etc. We welcome images that capture the fishing operation; fishers of all ages; culture (community-based work, community events); lobsters’ […]
Subsurface Sensors on Lobster Pots
Subsurface Sensors on Lobster Pots WRL has successfully trialled attaching subsurface depth and temperature sensors to lobster pots and will be expanding the project. Currently we have fishers operating out of Geraldton and Mandurah and are very keen to find more to cover a larger geographical area. So places like Fremantle, Lancelin, Dongara, Cervantes, Kalbarri, […]
FishOps – Smarter Fishing, Simplified
Fishing just got easier. FishOps is the all-in-one app designed exclusively for Western Rock Lobster fishers, helping you record, track and manage your catch with ease. Whether you’re at sea or onshore, FishOps keeps your fishing operations organised, secure and at your fingertips. Confidential & Secure Your data stays yours. FishOps protects your privacy by […]
Rope Coiling Competition – Fremantle Fishing Fleet Festival
Get ready to test your skills at the 2025 Rope Coiling Competition, happening as part of this year’s Fremantle Fishing Fleet Festival! 📅 Date: Sunday, 26th October 2025🕦 Time: 11:30am – 12:30pm📍 Location: Molfetta Quays Car Park, 5 Molfetta Quays, Fremantle (Out the front of the Western Rock Lobster Offices) This lively competition celebrates a time-honoured seafaring tradition by producing the neatest […]