NT Fisheries Research and the Indigenous Development Unit are currently working on a project that aims to collect biological data and harvest viability information of under-utilised fish and invertebrate species that are abundant in coastal waters near remote NT communities. This project involves the active collaboration of fisheries staff, Indigenous rangers and remote communities. Researchers will use a holistic approach to bring together technical, scientific and local knowledge of fish, invertebrates and marine habitats to identify new opportunities for small-scale enterprises whilst increasing Indigenous participation in the seafood industry.

The development and sustainability of these enterprises will be underpinned with ongoing capacity building, science mentorship and monitoring. Therefore the ability to correctly identify, measure, weigh and sample marine resources is crucial for the success of any future management and monitoring programs of marine resources.

Most remote communities and outstations do not have reliable access to markets, resources or infrastructure and thus the ability to diversify the range of species caught and gear used is important for maintaining a fresh and consistent supply of product within and outside of the community. We are incorporating traditional techniques such as spearing and fish traps with modern methods and gear such as line and nets in order to minimise the learning curve and effort required to fish. Trials have successfully investigated the biology and harvest viability of species such as whiting and mullet. In addition to providing valuable skills that are transferable across a wide range of industries we anticipate this project will provide the dual benefit of improved nutrition and sustainable self-management and monitoring of on-country marine resources.