The Maclean fishing co-op's impending sale is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of white spot disease on the region's seafood industry. This disease, which has plagued the Clarence River Fishermen's Co-Operative since 2023, has led to a significant loss of revenue and a challenging future for the co-op. With a five-year ban on raw prawn supply from the region, the co-op's chair, Garry Anderson, faces a difficult decision: to either sell the Maclean site or continue operations with a reduced fleet.
The co-op's struggle highlights the complex interplay between disease control measures and the livelihoods of local fishermen. The Biosecurity Control Order, implemented to prevent the spread of white spot disease, has inadvertently shut down the green school prawn industry, which accounted for 40% of the co-op's revenue. This has resulted in a substantial financial loss of $2.5 million annually, leading to the departure of half of the co-op's shareholders through buyouts.
The impact of this disease goes beyond the co-op's finances. Steve Everson, a fifth-generation fisherman, emphasizes the logistical challenges and increased travel time for suppliers, which could discourage fishermen from continuing their trade. The closure of the Maclean site further exacerbates these issues, making it more difficult for fishermen to weigh in close to their catching grounds.
The political landscape adds another layer of complexity. MP Richie Williamson of the Nationals criticizes the government's lack of support for the green prawn industry, suggesting that the co-op's struggles could have been avoided. However, the NSW government's spokesperson for the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development reassures that they are committed to supporting commercial fishers in the region, indicating a potential shift in government strategy.
As the co-op navigates this challenging period, the future of the Maclean fishing site remains uncertain. The sale could provide a much-needed cash flow to sustain the co-op during this tough period, but it also signals a potential end to the co-op's long-standing presence in Maclean. The story of the Maclean fishing co-op serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the delicate balance between disease control and the economic well-being of local industries.
