The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) has welcomed the youngest graduate of an Aboriginal Fisheries training program, Tarnee Morey (pictured) who is set to take to the water as a fully-fledged Fisheries Officer.
Publicising her appointment, PIRSA said the 21-year-old Arrernte woman, Ms Morey was the fifth trainee to graduate from the Aboriginal Fisheries Officer Career Pathway Program and was now working with the compliance team at Yorketown.
Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, David Basham said Ms Morey’s graduation was positive news for the State’s Aboriginal Traditional Fishing management.
“Many South Australian Aboriginal communities have a strong connection to Country and a long history of fishing in both marine and inland waters that is central to their culture and tradition,” Mr Basham said.
“Earlier this year we signed a historic Traditional Fishing Agreement with the Narungga Nation, the first of its kind in Australia,” he said.
“It sets out a pathway for co-management of aquatic resources in Yorke Peninsula waters traditionally fished by the Narungga, by combining Aboriginal knowledge with leading fisheries management,” he said.
“The Aboriginal Fisheries Officer Career Pathway Program builds on that task by fostering careers in a profession with deep links to traditional culture.”
Ms Morey said she was proud to complete the Program as it was a great opportunity to not only learn about fishery management in general but to further embrace cultural fishing practice.
“I joined the Program because I was lucky enough to grow up on a beautiful, pristine coastline and understand the importance and impact of sustainable fishing on these environments,” Ms Morey said.
“I wanted to be a part of the fight for sustainability as well as having the opportunity to truly understand the importance of fishing practices within Aboriginal communities,” she said.
Further details about Aboriginal Traditional Fishing management can be accessed at this PS News link and the Aboriginal Fisheries Officer Career Pathway Program at this link.
