Western rock lobster fisher Anthony Manganaro, who operates out of the Two Rocks marina, was pleased to give federal Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell the chance to put a face to his name on Sunday.

The establishment of marine parks and increasing regulations despite the WA western rock lobster fishery maintaining its ecological sustainability since it was accredited by the Marine Stewardship Council in 2000 were just two issues mentioned at an event organised by Labor candidate for Butler Lorna Clarke.

A former Two Rocks resident Mr Manganaro along with his father Sam met Mr Farrell at Oceans 27 Café in Alkimos.

A third-generation lobster fisher Mr Manganaro also takes part in the state government back-of-boat sales initiative, which means he can make direct sales of lobster to businesses or people.

Mr Farrell told Yanchep News Online the Albanese Government, while working towards more direct flights from Chinese cities to Perth for live rock lobster exports, was also trying to encourage Chinese tourists back to Australia.

With approval already in place for bulk tourists from China to come back to Australia he was keen to encourage individuals who had already visited Australia and wanted to come back for a different experience.

He said tours such as the lobster pot pulling tour operating out of Two Rocks marina, were a great idea.

Seafari Marine owner Steve Mitchell runs the Two Rocks tour providing tourists and residents (without a personal licence) with an opportunity to take live lobster catch off a boat and back to their home to cook.

Although no longer a resident Mr Mitchell first came to Yanchep and Two Rocks in the late 60s and 70s with his father, who was a cray fisherman.

Commenting on the Albanese Government’s announcement that an agreement had been reached with China for the full resumption of Australian live rock lobster exports by the end of the year Mr Mitchell said it was good to hear the Chinese still held WA’s western rock lobster in high regard even though during the ban they had found other product.

The federal government said the resumption of Australian live rock lobster exports would save the jobs of 3000 Australians employed in the industry, 2000 of which were in Western Australia.

This article appeared on Yanchep News Online on 13 October 2024.