haddon advised he is employed by csiro and is not undertaking specific research projects in relation...

Sub-Antarctic Resource

Assessment Group(SARAG)

FINAL MINUTESSARAG 55

16-17 MAY 2017

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SUB- ANTARCTIC RESOURCE ASSESSMENT GROUP (SARAG)

CHAIR: Prof John Buckeridge

Date: 16-17 May 2017

Venue: Australian Antarctic Division, Channel Highway, Kingston

AttendanceMembersProf John Buckeridge, ChairDr Malcolm Haddon, CSIRODr Rich Hillary, CSIRODr Philippe Ziegler, AADDr Dirk Welsford, AADMr Martin Exel, Industry Member Mr Malcolm McNeil, Industry MemberMs Jo Fisher, AFMAMs Sarah Kirkcaldie, Executive Officer, AFMA

*first day only #research agenda items only^agenda item 10-12 only

ObserversDr Heather Patterson, ABARES Mr Rhys Arangio, IndustryDr Jemery Day, CSIRO*Mr Peter Neville, SouthMAC ChairMr Trent Timmiss, AFMADr Paul Burch, AAD#

Mr Dale Maschette, AAD#

Mr Peter Yates, AAD#

Dr Tony Smith^

Introduction

Agenda item 1 - Preliminaries

The fifty fifth meeting of the Sub-Antarctic Resource Assessment Group (SARAG 55) was opened at 9:00 am on 16 May 2017 by the Chair, Professor John Buckeridge.

1.1 Declaration of interests

Professor Buckeridge asked members and observers to declare their professions and any conflict of interests that they may have on specific agenda items.

Professor Buckeridge declared he has no pecuniary interest in the sub-Antarctic fisheries.

Dr Haddon advised he is employed by CSIRO and is not undertaking specific research projects in relation to Sub-Antarctic fisheries, although he does provide advice to other researchers in relation to stock assessments, particularly for the Macquarie Island Toothfish Fishery (MITF). Dr Haddon is also a member on the Northern Prawn Fishery Resource Assessment Group, the Great Australian Bight Resource Assessment Group (GABRAG) and the scientific member on Sub-Antarctic Management Advisory Committee (SouthMAC). Dr Haddon advised that he has no pecuniary interests in the sub-Antarctic fisheries.

SARAG Chair, Prof John Buckeridge, c/o Sarah Kirkcaldie, Executive officer, PO Box 7051, Canberra BC, ACT 2610Tel: (02) 6225 5304 Fax: (02) 6225 5439 Email: [email protected]

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Dr Hillary advised that he is employed by CSIRO and is the Principal Investigator of the MITF stock assessment. He also advised that he is a member of AFMA’s Southern Bluefin Tuna Management Advisory Committee (SBTMAC) and Tropical Tuna RAG. Dr Hillary advised that he has no pecuniary interests in the sub-Antarctic fisheries.

Mr McNeill advised he is the Managing Director of Australian Longline P/L which holds various fishing rights in, and operates vessels in the sub-Antarctic fisheries and New and Exploratory fisheries under the jurisdiction of CCAMLR. Mr McNeill further advised he is a member on SouthMAC, Board member of the Coalition of Legal Toothfish Operators (COLTO) and member of the Executive Committee of Tasmanian Polar Network. Mr McNeill was not aware of any investigation or prosecution action by AFMA against his Company or of any legal action taken by his Company against AFMA.

Mr Exel advised that he is the General Manager, Environment and Policy, Austral Fisheries Pty Ltd. Austral Fisheries P/L owns Statutory Fishing Rights (SFRs) in the Australian sub-Antarctic fisheries and waters under the jurisdiction of Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR). Mr Exel also declared that he is a Director of the Institute of Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS), Member and public officer of the Commonwealth Fisheries Association (CFA), member of the South East Trawl Fishing Industry Association (SETFIA), Deputy Chair of the Great Australian Bight Industry Association, Member of Coral Sea Fishers Association and Board member of COLTO. Mr Exel further advised that he is a member of the “National Benefit Assessment Panel” for the Marine National Facility (the RV Investigator). He was not aware of any investigation or prosecution action by AFMA against his Company or of any legal action taken by his Company against AFMA.

Dr Welsford advised that he is employed by the Australian Antarctic Division (AAD) and no research grants contribute towards his salary. Dr Welsford advised that AAD get core funding but also seek grants from Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) and AFMA. However, members noted that Dr Welsford salary was not connected to the FRDC grants. Dr Welsford further advised he is the Scientific Committee representative to CCAMLR, Chair of the Working Group for Fish Stock Assessments (WG-FSA) and a member on the Torres Strait Scientific Advisory Committee.

Dr Ziegler advised that he is employed by AAD and is the Fishery scientist responsible for HIMIF work including the HIMI stock assessments. Dr Ziegler has no pecuniary interest in the sub-Antarctic and his salary is not connected to any research grants noting that he is a co-investigator on a FRDC project and future FRDC projects.

Ms Fisher advised she is employed by the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) as the Manager for sub-Antarctic fisheries at AFMA. Ms Fisher advised she has no pecuniary interests in the sub-Antarctic fisheries.

Ms Kirkcaldie advised she is employed by AFMA as a Senior Management Officer and advised that she is also the Executive Officer for Sub-Antarctic Management Advisory Committee (SouthMAC) and the Southern Bluefin Tuna MAC (SBTMAC). Ms Kirkcaldie advised that she has no pecuniary interests in the sub-Antarctic fisheries.

Mr Timmiss advised he is employed by AFMA as the Senior Manager of the Tuna and Antarctic fisheries and advised that he is a member on SBTMAC and Tropical Tuna MAC. Mr Timmiss advised that he has no pecuniary interests in the sub-Antarctic fisheries.


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Dr Patterson advised she is an employee of the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources and is the Editor of the Australian Bureau of Agricultural Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) Fishery Status Reports. Dr Patterson noted that she had no pecuniary interest in the sub-Antarctic fisheries.

Mr Arangio advised that he is an observer to SARAG. Mr Arangio is employed by Austral Fisheries P/L that owns Statutory Fishing Rights (SFRs) in the Australian sub-Antarctic fisheries and waters under the jurisdiction of Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR). Mr Arangio further advised he is the secretary of COLTO. He was not aware of any investigation or prosecution action by AFMA against his Company or of any legal action taken by his Company against AFMA.

Dr Day advised he is an observer to SARAG and a CSIRO employee and was undertaking work on the MITF stock assessment. Dr Day advised that he has no pecuniary interests in the sub-Antarctic fisheries.

Mr Neville advised that he is the Chair of the SouthMAC, Chair of the Northern Territory Barramundi Fishery, Chair FRDC’s recreational fishing sub-program and Principal of P.J Neville and Associates. Mr Neville advised that he has no pecuniary interest in the sub-Antarctic fisheries.

Mr Exel, Mr McNeill and Mr Arangio declared their interest under agenda items 6-27 and left the room. The group then discussed whether the Industry members and observer needed to leave the room for any agenda items; it was agreed that as their input was essential to the agenda items that they should remain in the meeting room for all discussions noting that no recommendations/decisions being made.

1.2 Apologies and observers

Members noted that Dr Patterson would be arriving slightly late to SARAG and that Dr Paul Burch, Mr Dale Maschette and Mr Peter Yates will be joining the meeting for agenda item 12 only.

1.3 Agenda

Members noted that an update on Marine Stewardship Council will be provided under agenda item 25. Members will also discuss the recently released draft Commonwealth fisheries Harvest Strategy, Commonwealth Fisheries Bycatch Policy and National Plan of Action for seabirds under other business.

SARAG adopted the agenda with amendments (Attachment 1)

Agenda item 2 – Adoption of minutes from SARAG 54 and November teleconference

The draft minutes from SARAG 54 were circulated for comment on 29 September 2016. No comments were received and the final minutes from SARAG 54 were adopted as a true and accurate record of the discussions.


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The draft minutes from the November teleconference were circulated on 15 December 2016. Comments were received from Dr Philippe Ziegler. These comments were incorporated and the final minutes from the November teleconference were adopted as a true and accurate record of the discussions.

Members noted that the minutes from SARAG 55 would be circulated as soon as possible and that members would be given two weeks to provide comments. The minutes will then be finalized and sent to the AFMA Commission.

Agenda item 3 – Actions arising from SARAG 54

SARAG discussed the status of action arising items from SARAG 54.

Actions arising from SARAG 54Item Action arising Status

1 Senate submission - Industry to provide their submission to senate enquiry to members

Members were provided with the link to the industry submission to the Senate Enquiry

into the Southern Ocean.

2 Toothfish model - CSIRO and AAD to discuss and develop a scoping paper of the cost/benefits of developing a new Toothfish stock assessment model.

Members noted that a paper will be

provided at the SARAG meeting in early 2018 (Action

arising 1)

3 MITF stock assessment - CSIRO and AFMA to discuss timing of MITF stock assessment and circulate outcomes of discussion to members.

Members noted that the timeline for

the MITF stock assessment will be

discussed under agenda item 6.

4 MITF benthic impact - AAD to re-submit project to journal and if it is not accepted the final report will be presented at SARAG 55 provide a summary of findings of the benthic impacts at MITF.

Members noted that this item would

be discussed under agenda item

7.

5 HIMI - AAD agreed to circulate a document that briefly summarises what has been looked at to explain why the Toothfish catch rates could be low in 2016, any outcomes and what is going to be looked at in the future.

SARAG noted that the summary was

circulated on 9 March 2017 and

would be discussed under


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agenda item 10.

6 Australian/French scientific workshop - AAD attempting to organise a joint workshop between Australia and France. It was agreed that AAD and Industry would discuss options for funding the workshop and AAD would attempt to discuss with the French in the margins at CCAMLR 2016.

SARAG noted that this item would be discussed under agenda item 23.

7 HIMI RSTS - Industry agreed to undertake another RSTS in Evitas

SARAG thanked Industry for

undertaking the additional RSTS

that was completed in September

2016.

8 ERA/ERM - Demersal Trawl - AAD agreed to provide CSIRO with the most recent assessment for skates and rays.

Members noted the most recent skates/ray

assessment would be discussed

under agenda item 14.

9 ERA/ERM - Midwater Trawl - AFMA and AAD to agree which data sources were the most accurate for catch and effort data, observer data and Threatened, Endangered and Protected (TEP) species interactions and report back to CSIRO.

AFMA provided CSIRO with the most accurate

catch and effort data for TEP

species.

10 3 trawler limit - AFMA management to consider members views regarding the removal of the 3 trawler limit and report back to the next meeting.

Members noted that the 3 trawler

limit will be discussed at the

SouthMAC meeting on 18 May

2017.

11 Offal discharge trial - industry to provide a more detailed proposal out of session for consideration.

SARAG noted that Industry decided not to pursue the trial this season

given the 3 seabird limit was reached

for 2 vessels in the 2015/16 season.

12 Macrourid identification - training to be provided at observer workshop and AFMA will inform industry if fish samples will be required.

Members noted that Industry

provided samples for the observer

workshop that was held in December


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2016. SARAG thanked industry for providing the

samples.

13 Retrieval of lost fishing gear outside of longline season - AFMA and AAD to consider the request from industry and report back to industry.

Members noted that the Statutory

Fishing Right conditions were

amended to allow retrieval of lost

gear outside the longline season.

Industry noted that over 100kms of

lost longline gear was retrieved in

the 2015/16 season.

Agenda item 4 – Correspondence

SARAG noted the following correspondence which had been received out-of-session since the last meeting in September 2016:

An email dated 5 September 2016 from Sarah Kirkcaldie seeking input on the draft Ecological Risk Management Guide;

An email dated 14 September 2016 from Sarah Kirkcaldie regarding AFMA collecting more information about gear and quota Statutory Fishing Right prices;

An email dated 22 September 2016 from Sarah Kirkcaldie providing supplementary information about the Australian Continuous Improvement Group (ACIG) review, its main recommendations and how the Guide addresses them.

An email dated 29 September 2016 from Sarah Kirkcaldie seeking comments on the draft SARAG 54 minutes

An email dated 13 October 2016 from Sarah Kirkcaldie regarding the teleconference to be held on 3 November 2016;

An email dated 15 December 2016 from Sarah Kirkcaldie seeking comments on the draft teleconference minutes;

An email dated 9 February 2017 from Sarah Kirkcaldie seeking support for an FRDC Expression of Interest for a project on stock connectivity of Antarctic Toothfish;

An email dated 9 March 2017 from Sarah Kirkcaldie attaching the draft AFMA Bycatch Strategy which is an operational fisheries management paper to guide AFMA’s response to bycatch issues across Commonwealth fisheries;


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An email dated 31 March 2017 from Sarah Kirkcaldie seeking preliminary comments on an FRDC Expression of Interest Application (Stock Connectivity of Antarctic Toothfish); and

An email dated 7 April 2017 from Jo Fisher seeking SARAG comments on the draft HIMI Ecological Risk Assessments for the demersal trawl, midwater trawl and longline fisheries.

Agenda item 5 - Fishing operations update

Mr McNeill, Mr Arangio and Mr Exel provided SARAG with verbal updates on fishing operations in the HIMIF, MITF and CCAMLR New and Exploratory fisheries.

Mr Arangio advised that the Atlas Cove started icefish fishing at the beginning of the 2016/17 season and was getting good catches. The vessel then returned to port to unload and headed back down in late December/January where the catches were not as good. The Company decided to return to port and stayed there until returning to do the Random Stratified Trawl Survey (RSTS) when the vessel caught the remainder of the Mackerel Icefish total allowable catch. The vessel recorded the highest catch of Mackerel Icefish during the RSTS and the third highest catch of Patagonian Toothfish. Mr Arangio stated that the Corinthian Bay and Isla Eden started longline fishing at the start of April and the Atlas Cove started on 20th April after the RSTS was completed. SARAG noted that the catches were slow with about 150g/hook which is similar to the catches mid last year.

Members noted that the Isla Eden and Atlas Cove had seen a few whales this season and they were finding it hard to lose them. Mr Arangio noted the Corinthian Bay was fishing near the other two vessels but wasn’t having any issues with whales. Mr McNeill noted that their vessel at HIMIF had seen their first whales the night before but he didn’t have any further details. The Isla Eden and Atlas Cove were reporting that whales were around them about 70% of the time and they were taking fish off the line. Industry also noted that lice was bad this season with sometimes 60-70% of the fish on-line infected by lice. SARAG noted that industry have not changed soak times since the lice have been bad but noted that lice have also been taking bait away which is causing problems. Note: Infection occurs after fish are hooked. The lice being bottom-dwelling scavengers.

Austral Fisheries Pty Ltd further noted that although the RSTS had been positive the current Patagonian Toothfish catch rates were worse than this time last year. Industry are not sure if the whales are having an impact on catch rates but will know soon as the whales will move away. AAD noted that Paul Tixier is currently doing some research on the impact of whales and will be able to quantify the impact shortly.

Industry noted that they were deploying CTDs once per week on lines, recording profiles of salinity, temperature and depth. Austral also have SMRU units (from IMAS) that were used on every shot of the RSTS and the Isla Eden is now using these every week. IMAS has also already agreed to allow them to be used for another trip.

Mr McNeill noted that Australia Longline P/L’s current catch rates at HIMIF were similar to Austral Fisheries P/L and well below target. He noted that the weather had been a big factor this season with consistently worse weather than previous seasons. The weather conditions are making it hard for the vessels to pull lines with no day under 40 knots. The Australian Longline Pty Ltd skipper had also observed that there had been a big change in tidal current in last few days and Austral stated that their catch rates went up in last 24 hours. This


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change was seen on the camera and resulted in a lot of lost gear. Mr McNeill noted that their vessel had caught a bird for the first time in a number of years. The white chinned petrel was foul hooked on wing and the vessel immediately moved further south to avoid seabirds.

Mr McNeill stated that Australian Longline Pty Ltd had one vessel (Antarctic Discovery) operating in the MITF and they had also recorded very poor catch rates. The weather and lice had also been a problem at MITF.

Mr McNeill noted that during the 2016-17 season, commencing on 1 December 2016, Australia participated in CCAMLR Exploratory Fisheries in Subareas 88.1, 88.2 and 58.4.1. In Subarea 88.1 the ice retreated early and opened up an underwater seamount which resulted in the quota being caught quickly. All the vessels fishing 88.1 then moved across to 88.2 and the TAC was caught quickly there and the area was also closed. For mechanical reasons the second Australian vessel was not able to participate in CCAMLR Exploratory Fisheries in the 2016-17 season. Instead FV Antarctic Discovery also participated in CCAMLR Exploratory Fishery in Subarea 58.4.1. Industry explained that the catch rates were average but the bycatch limits for macrourids were nearly reached and the vessel made a decision to return to port due to low fuel level.

AFMA noted that no Australian tags had been caught in Patagonian toothfish fisheries within New Zealand’s EEZ recently but were unsure if there had been recent fishing activity.

Macquarie Island Toothfish Fishery

Agenda item 6 – Toothfish stock assessment timeline

In February 2016, SARAG and SouthMAC discussed the timing of the next MITF stock assessment and agreed that the next stock assessment should be completed by 1 June 2017, using data up to the end of fishing in 2016. This 2017 assessment would deliver TAC scenarios for the 2018/19 and 2019/20 fishing seasons. CSIRO submitted the project “Stock assessment and Management Strategy Evaluation for Macquarie Island toothfish fishery 2017-18” to the AFMA Research Committee (ARC) for funding. It was endorsed by the ARC in June 2016 with the interim analyses of the data to be done in the non-assessment year (due to be completed on 1 March 2018).

SARAG noted the following timetable:

Mid 2017 – CSIRO finalises the MITF stock assessment;

August/September 2017 – SARAG considers the MITF stock assessment;

November 2017 – SouthMAC meets via tele-conference to consider the MITF TAC recommendations from SARAG’s August/September 2017 meeting;

November 2017 – AFMA Commission sets TAC for the 2018/19 and 2019/20 fishing years;

1 March 2018 – CSIRO delivers data analysis (ie. the requisite analyses of the data to decide as to whether the current TAC is to be maintained or otherwise) and assessment futures (ie.


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options relating to potentially moving the assessment from the Stock Synthesis platform to a longer term, and more suitable, alternative.);

March 2018 – CSIRO expected to submit an Expression of Interest to the AFMA Research Committee, in order to secure funding for a stock assessment that will deliver TAC scenarios for the 2020/21 and 2021/22 fishing years;

AAD noted that the data for the stock assessment had been sent to CSIRO on 15 May 2017. SARAG noted that AAD had aged HIMIF Patagonian Toothfish first and have now done MITF. SARAG thanked AAD for getting the ageing done so quickly (350 otoliths) and noted that a fish had recently been aged at 63 years old, which is the maximum age recorded for this species.

AAD raised concerns that the HIMIF and MITF were now on the same two year cycle and that may cause a lag in the delivery of data from AAD to CSIRO although they would provide it as quickly as possible. SARAG discussed possible efficiencies in AAD providing the data to CSIRO, including providing data as soon as fishing trips were completed and the data had been quality checked. AFMA noted that the revised cycle timetable was to make the decision point early so industry can plan. Industry noted that whilst the TAC is currently reasonably consistent from year to year, a shorter timeframe is adequate but if a radical change was to happen they would need at least 3 months to plan for the change.

CSIRO informed SARAG that the assessment will not be completed by 1 June, as was committed to in the contract, but members will receive the assessment with plenty of time for consideration by August/September SARAG meeting. Concerns were raised regarding the financial implication of delaying delivering the stock assessment past 30 June and AFMA and CSIRO agreed to discuss this issue (Action arising 2).

Agenda item 7 – Benthic impacts project

At SARAG 54 the AAD member noted that the results of research being conducted on the interaction between demersal fishing gears and the macro-benthos around Macquarie Island had been submitted to a peer reviewed journal. The research indicated that the Macquarie Island Marine Reserve protects about 40% of taxa and that the benthic impacts from fishing at MITF are similar to that at HIMIF. Industry members noted at SARAG 54 that the project needed to be finalized for Marine Stewardship Council certification.

At SARAG 55, AAD presented the latest version of the paper ‘Interactions between demersal fishing gears and macro-benthos around Macquarie Island’. Members noted the peer review process had raised numerous comments and the paper would need to be re-submitted. AAD informed members that the comments would be incorporated shortly and the paper would be re-submitted for publication and recirculate to SARAG.

Members raised concerns regarding a comment in the paper that the modelling suggests that the current boundaries of the marine park may not conserve a sufficient proportion of the biomass of Stylasteridae and other vulnerable echinoderms from future disturbance. AAD noted that the survey is based on the best available data but it is sparse data and this causes problem. AAD agreed that the word ‘sufficient’ should be removed.


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Members noted that AAD will do revisions on the paper and then recirculate to SARAG. Industry noted that the recirculation of the paper will meet MSC requirements.

Agenda item 8 – Tagging rate

Dr Hillary presented the paper titled ‘Tag rates and monitoring data to potentially inform breakout rules for non-assessment years for the Macquarie Island Toothfish Fishery’.The paper addresses the likely effect of changes in the tagging rate per tonne of fish caught,with respect to the precision of abundance estimates in the assessment model.

SARAG noted that moderate changes in the tagging rate would have commensurately moderate effects on the expected precision of abundance estimates in the model - with precision increasing/decreasing with increasing/decreasing tagging rates. There would also be expected to be a similarly moderate average increase/decrease in the predicted TAC given the current harvest control rule explicitly acts on uncertainty in current and future projected abundance.

Members noted that if the tag rate was reduced to 1 tag/tonne this would start causing problems for assessment but if reduced to 1.5 tags/tonne there would be very little difference. Members further noted a reduction in the tagging rate may impact on the ability of future use of tags in estimating population parameters such as natural mortality.

Industry indicated a willingness to keep the tag rate at 2 tags/tonne as there was little benefit to dropping to 1.5 but they are reluctant to go up to 3 tags/tonne. Industry estimated that it would cost about $50,000 in fish returned to the water to stay at 2 tags/tonne rather than dropping to 1.5 tags/tonne.

SARAG agreed that the tag rate at Macquarie Island Toothfish Fishery should stay at 2 tags/tonne.

Agenda item 9 – Breakout rules

At SARAG 54, AFMA management expressed concern that the MITF was moving very rapidly from a yearly assessment that uses data from the previous fishing season, to a situation where the most recent data used in the assessment is two and then three years away from the fishing year. To alleviate any concerns regarding the change in the way the stock assessment is run SARAG agreed to consider the use of breakout rules in the MITF as a precaution.

Members noted that the paper present by Dr Hillary under agenda item 8 also proposed some possible monitoring series that can be generated and discussed in the RAG in non-assessment years, and could be used to develop breakout rules. Members noted that if breakout rules are used there will have to be a RAG level discussion and agreement given it will likely be both qualitative and somewhat subjective.


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SARAG members expressed concerns regarding introducing breakout rules and in particular members stated that if the assessment is stable enough to set two year TACs why does the Fishery need breakout rules.

SARAG agreed that instead of prescribed breakout rules, CSIRO would prepare a data summary in each non-assessment year and would include the following information:

tag recapture

length frequency

catch by area.

Members noted that the first data summary will be presented at SARAG meeting in early 2018

Heard Island and McDonalds Islands Toothfish FisherySARAG welcomed Tony Smith to the meeting for agenda items 10-12.

Agenda item 10 – Analysis of 2015/16 Toothfish catch rates

Members noted that the catch rates during the 2015/16 HIMI season were substantially lower than previous seasons, across all boats from May to October, and only 82% of the total TAC was caught. The low catch rate was discussed at the SARAG meeting in September 2016 (SARAG 54) and it was noted that catch rates had fluctuated in the past but low catch rates had never persisted for such a long duration. SARAG discussed the short medium and long-term research needs of the Fishery to investigate what happened and acknowledged that there are 3 possible scenarios for the lower catch rates:

the fish are on the fishing grounds but not taking the bait;

the fish have moved off fishing grounds; and/or

the stock has been depleted.

At SARAG 54 AAD agreed to compile a document that briefly summarises the issue. A document was circulated by AAD for comment to all members on 9 March 2017.

AAD provided a verbal update at the meeting noting that there was no conclusive element that appears to have caused the decline in rates. Although, the analysis suggested it was unlikely that it was due to stock decline or localised depletion as the decline was wide spread. AAD stated that changes in catchability was the most likely cause of decline. SARAG noted that catch rates are not used in the HIMIF stock assessment so the reduced catch rate has no impact on the 2017 stock assessment.

Industry thanked AAD for doing the analysis and noted that even though it is not a direct input in to the stock assessment it can be used by industry for planning future activities and trying to establish what caused the decline. In particular, industry was interested in:

Availability of data and links with France – industry want to see what happened to the French fishery at the same time, and immediately before the decline, as they are to the north of HIMI;


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Tagging results to see if there are any clear indicators of stock issues in the data (although members understood it will take a year to see any impact); and

Hyper-stability of catch rates in terms of fish moving to take baits and not showing up well in the modelling exercise as being fished to lower levels than expected, as a result.

Members noted that skippers believe that Patagonian Toothfish are not recovering after more effort was put in for the larger TAC in the 2014/15 season. Industry noted that 12 % of the area fished last year is new area, so could argue against hyper-stability, but maybe fish were never there.

Members noted that independent data on abundance and CPUE tells you something on hyper-stability through the RSTS - although the issue is that RSTS is trawl versus longlining.

AAD agreed to seek information regarding catch rate from the French Kerguelen Island Fishbut noted that the French may not allow the information to be shared.

SARAG agreed that AAD will update the graphs after the 2016/17 season is completed and this will be used to inform members on whether to do another stock assessment in 2018, noting that 2018 is a non-assessment year in the CCAMLR stock assessment cycle (Action arising 3).

SARAG agreed that AAD and Industry would convene a task group to discuss any further research that might be available as well as what work needs to be done to determine what may be causing the catch rates to decline (Action arising 4)

Agenda item 11 – Independent review of HIMI toothfish stock assessment

The AFMA member explained that following the October 2016 meeting of the AFMA Commission, where discussions included the HIMI Fishery and the importance of independent scientific advice, AFMA has engaged consultant Dr Tony Smith to review the HIMI Toothfish assessment. Following the Commission meeting, Terms of Reference were developed by AFMA and AAD (Attachment 2). SARAG noted that Dr Smith’s final report is expected to be completed by 31 May 2017. Industry members requested that there is a teleconference held in June to discuss the final report and provide advice on how best to address any recommendations from the report.

It was agreed to hold a SARAG teleconference on Wednesday 14 June 2017 at 10am (Action arising 5). Members noted that submissions to the working group on Fish stock assessments are due by 18 September 2017.

Agenda item 12 – Toothfish Stock assessments

AAD presented four papers to SARAG:


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1. Spatio-temporal dynamics in maturation and spawning of Patagonian Toothfish;

2. Estimation of tag loss rates for tagged fish in the Patagonian Toothfish fisheries at the Heard Island and McDonald Islands and the Kerguelen Island;

3. Estimation and correction of migration related bias in a tag-based assessment; and

4. An integrated stock assessment for the Heard Island and the McDonald Islands Patagonian Toothfish fishery in Division 58.5.2.

Estimation of maturity

Members noted that this study estimated age at maturity for Patagonian Toothfish based on gonads and otoliths collected between years 2004-2015, and using histological analyses and calibration of macroscopic staging criteria.

Estimated maturity has changed over the years but the effect is largely due to spatial distribution of sampling effort. AAD suggested that for the 2017 stock assessment age-at-maturity estimates should be included based on (a) longline and trawl data from years 2004-2015 and (b) consider stages greater than or equal to 2 as mature. SARAG supported these suggestions.

Estimation of tag-loss rates

AAD explained that for integrated fisheries stock assessment that are based on tag-recapture data to provide an index of abundance, estimation of tag loss or shedding rates need to be included to avoid overestimation of stock biomass by the model. Members noted that there were large differences in tag-loss rate between gear type, fishery, years and observers in the HIMIF. AAD reported that no tag data from trawl is being used in the stock assessment and agreed to investigate if they could be used (Action arising 6).

Movement bias in tag-based assessments

AAD noted that following points were raised in the paper:

HIMI assessment assumes a closed population (no movement in or out);

Assessed the impacts of different levels of movement on a tag-based CASAL assessment with a simulation model;

Increasing the tag-shedding parameter in the assessment corrected the over-estimation in biomass due to movement;

AAD used a modification of Hillborn (1990) to estimate movement between the EEZs from longline tags 2007-2015;


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Tag-recaptures indicate some Toothfish movement between the Australian and French EEZs (<1.5% per annum);

Applied the estimated movement to the HIMI assessment.

Industry questioned why almost half of the 50 fish that were tagged at HIMI and recaptured in the French fishery between 2007-2014 were released in 2007 and 2008. Industry also believed that the current estimation of tag mortality (0.1) used in the assessment model is too low. AAD agreed to run the sensitivity test by removing 2007 and 2008 data and test 15% tag based mortality for one year.

AAD also noted changes to table titles suggested by industry.

HIMI stock assessment

AAD presented an updated assessment for the Patagonian Toothfish fishery at HIMI with data until the end of the 2015/16 season. Compared to the 2015 assessment this assessment takes into account:

new fishery observations up to the end of 2016 including new ageing data from the RSTS and commercial fishery from 2015-2016;

updated growth parameters;

updated maturity parameters;

update tag loss estimates;

a bias correction for fish emigrating out of Division 58.5.2;

survey biomass index and catch proportions instead of survey numbers-at-age; and

iterative data weighting using the ‘Francis” method.

SARAG discussed the estimated survey catchability coefficient ‘q’ noting that it was fixed at 1 in the stock assessment until 2014 and then changed to 0.3 and is now estimated. For this year it was estimated to be 0.94 but Industry believe that this value is too high and it is probably between 0.50-0.6.

SARAG noted that the effects of the spatial expansion of the fishery has not been resolved yet. Industry expressed a concern that over 18,000 tags are not being used in the assessment. Industry requested that an enhanced tagging program be designed to ensure that all future tagging data can be maximized in the assessment process (Action arising 7). AAD noted that the tagging data is also used to estimate natural mortality and for the growth estimates, so it is not completely lost. Members also noted that moving to a spatial assessment will allow for the use of more of this data. AAD explained that the tags at the moment give an index of abundance (release and capture) however, pop up and archival tags give environmental data and how far fish are swimming and what happens in between.


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SARAG noted that the estimated year class strength indicated a strong recruitment peak in 2001, with low recruitment in the year before and after. AAD agreed to examine this result more closely by e.g. evaluating likelihood profiles.

SARAG noted that under the current CCAMLR decision rules the catch limit would be 3,305 tonnes for the 2017/18 season. The catch limit would decrease by about 350 tonnes if future spawning biomass was not allowed to drop below 50% of the median pre-exploitation level..

SARAG noted that AAD ran a number of scenarios to evaluate the sensitivity of the model to some parameters and assumptions.. The scenarios included:

All longline tag-release and recaptures from 2008 onwards resulted in spawning biomass estimates that were close to those from model 7 which included only longline tagging data from 2012 onwards;

Assuming an alternative value for natural mortality; The re-estimated maturity function which assumed that all fish would be immature at

stage 2 but would mature within 2 years.

Agenda item 13 – Breakout rules

SARAG agreed that, at the end of fishing 2017, AAD should prepare another data analysis similar to the one discussed under agenda item 10. AAD stated that once data has been quality checked an updated stock assessment (without the normal diagnostics and documentation) could be provided to SARAG. .

SARAG noted that AAD will complete the data analysis by February with a SARAG meeting planned for early to mid-March.

Agenda item 14 – Skate and ray assessment

AAD noted that the paper titled ‘Distribution and abundance of skates (Bathyraja spp.) on the Kerguelen plateau through the lens of the toothfish fisheries’ went to WG-FSA in 2016 and has now been published (http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S016578361630234X).

Members noted that some observers have questioned the different handling practices of skates and rays between boats. SARAG supported development of a standard set of procedures for handling skates and rays.

SARAG noted that more harm is done if there is an attempt to remove the hook from the skates/rays as the mouth is very soft. Members noted that there has been a steady bycatch of skates this year but there is limited analysis able to be done from tags. There was agreement that it is preferable to get the skate or ray back in water even if it still has the hook in its mouth as the hook will rust out.

Dr Welsford reported that this issue was discussed at CCAMLR and there is data available on survivability. Members noted that skates survive better in trawl fisheries than longline.

It was agreed that AAD would examine skate/ray life status from observer data against vessels to see if there are any patterns (Action arising 8) and this may assist in developing


http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S016578361630234X

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skate and ray handling procedures for skippers and observers. Members noted that handling procedures for skate and rays caught in CCAMLR New and Exploratory Fisheries is currently described in CCAMLR Conservation Measure 33-03.

Agenda item 15 – Review of season extension periods

Members noted that in 2015, CCAMLR endorsed trial extensions of the pre-season and post-season extension periods. At this time SouthMAC and SARAG agreed that the long-term goal is to manage the fishery with three fishing periods: pre-season, core season and post-season, conditional on the results of trial season extensions, effects of expansion of the fishery with an increased TAC, and agreement within CCAMLR.

The AFMA member gave a summary of the current HIMI longline season extension period trial conditions and results. Members noted that 2 birds had been killed in the trial pre-extension period (1-14 April) in 2016 and 1 in 2017, 3 birds had been killed in the post extension period (1-14 November) in 2016 and 2 birds in the trial post-season extension period (15-30 November) in 2016. The fishing vessels Atlas Cove and Isla Eden both caught 3 seabirds in the 2016 extension periods and had to immediately cease longline fishing.

Members noted that in the trial pre-season extension period (1-14 April 2016 and 1-14 April 2017) less than 500,000 hooks have been set in daylight. Therefor the trial is not yet complete.

Industry explained that the reason for the low number of hooks set during daylight in the trial pre-season extension period is that one company has made an internal decision not to set during daylight hours in an attempt to avoid birds, however, the other company believes based on previous experience that the mitigation measures are sufficient and that there is no greater risk fishing in daylight hours compared to night setting.

Industry highlighted that the trial was working well and the rules were abided by with both vessels ceasing longlining immediately when they caught 3 seabirds. Industry recommended that the trial continue until all conditions are met.

SARAG agreed that a recommendation should go to the CCAMLR consultative forum that the trial, as a whole, be extended until 500,000 hooks have been set in the period 1-14 April.

Agenda item 16 – CCAMLR Fisheries science work plan

SARAG noted the updated 2016/17 science workplan that supports Australia’s participation in CCAMLR fisheries. The AAD member gave a verbal update on the workplan noting that it includes all analysis on the Patagonian Toothfish and Mackerel icefish at HIMIF as well as work being conducted with the French and New and Exploratory research.

Industry requested an update on the progress of the review in to the estimation of natural mortality (M). AAD noted that Dr Jim Dell with the help of Dr Simon Wotherspoon had been working on the issue since late last year and that CSIRO had been engaged as well. AAD explained that it was always challenging estimating M and no other CCAMLR member had presented an estimate of M. The approach taken was to revisit and then update the Candy


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method. Members noted that Candy had assumed the trawl grounds were a closed population even though fish do move out.

Members noted that M was the same for trawl and longline and concern was raised that this might not be informative. Industry indicated that they wanted to make sure the tagging program was useful and providing all the information required to help the analysis.

AAD agreed to provide the analysis of M to members as soon as it is completed.

Agenda item 17 – Expected papers to CCAMLR 2017

AAD provided a verbal update on the papers that Australia is planning on submitting to the 2017 CCAMLR meetings including:

Working Group on Statistics, Assessments and Modelling (WG-SAM-17): Evaluate potential bias in tag-based assessments for spatially-structured stocks with

simulations.

Working Group on Fish Stock Assessment (WG-FSA-17): Report on Random Stratified Trawl Survey (RSTS) HIMI Toothfish tag loss estimation (this maybe an appendix to the assessment) HIMI Toothfish maturity re-estimation HIMI Toothfish stock assessment HIMI Mackerel icefish stock assessment Seabird interactions in season extension 58.4.1 & 58.4.2: Research report including ageing, stock structure, habitat model,

bycatch, preliminary analysis of video footage and CTD data 58.4.1 & 58.4.2: Research proposal (changes only, e.g. initial catch allocations); Generic fish sampling protocol Preliminary results of request to observers to take images as they ID a species Request to members for the collection of genetic material from Antarctic Toothfish

Industry expressed concerns regarding the paper titled ‘Southern elephant seals (Mirounga leonine Linn.) depredate toothfish longlines in the midnight zone’. Concerns included that the paper provides comments on management issues and Industry would prefer it didn’t go to CCAMLR. AAD will provide the paper to the executive officer who will circulate the paper to members for information (Actions arising 9).

Agenda item 18 – ERA/ERM process

At the SARAG meeting in September 2016 members noted that the role of AFMA RAGs in the Ecological Risk Assessment (ERA) process will be to:

• provide review of individual fishery ERA re-assessments


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• provide scientific/technical advice to assist in development of management options to mitigate risk for species.

• provide review and scientific advice on the development of FMS.• identify data and research gaps and priorities.

At the same meeting SARAG considered draft ERA reports for the following three methods in the HIMI Fishery:

- demersal longline- demersal trawl- midwater trawl

AFMA recirculated the three draft reports to members on 7 April 2017, asking for comments by 24 April 2017. SARAG noted that CSIRO is currently considering comments received, and expects to provide the three final reports to AFMA in mid-May. Once available, AFMA will circulate the reports to SARAG for information (Action arising 10).

Members noted that for demersal trawl the ‘bycatch/byproduct’ ecological component had been for a Level 2 analysis as Grey rockcod scored a ‘moderate’ rating in the SICA analysis. However, CSIRO had re-visited the rating based on work down by Dale Machette and Andrew Constable. CSIRO is now proposing to downgrade from moderate to minor as effort is very low. SARAG agreed that the Grey rockcod should be scored as a minor consequence, and a level 2 analysis would not be triggered for byproduct and bycatch species.

SARAG noted that a level 2 analysis of communities had been triggered for all 3 methods. SARAG also noted that demersal trawl ‘communities’ are difficult to assess, however 40% of trawl fishing grounds between 100-500m are in the marine reserve and in addition trawl effort is extremely low.

SARAG also noted that AAD’s benthic impact report (Welsford et al, 2014) uses the word ‘assemblies’ rather than ‘community’.

Members recommended contacting Dr Jess Melbourne – Thomas from AAD to present to SARAG her work with the Atlantis model and food-webs as there is overlap between Dr Melbourne-Thomas’s work and the ERA Level 2 community analysis.

CCAMLR New and Exploratory fisheries

Agenda item 19 – Fishing in the 2017/18 season

Australian Longline Pty Ltd agreed that Austral Fisheries Pty Ltd members and observers could stay in the room whilst SARAG discussed CCAMLR New and Exploratory fishing in the 2017/18 season.


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SARAG noted that AFMA released the AFMA-AAD Guide to CCAMLR New and Exploratory Fisheries on 2 February 2017. In line with the requirements of the Guide, AFMA received an Expression of Interest and application from one company. The CCAMLR Inter-Departmental Committee and Consultative Forum met on 27 April 2017 and supported the application.

CCAMLR member country Exploratory Fisheries Notifications are required to be submitted to the CCAMLR Secretariat by 1 June 2017. Mr McNeill noted that Australian Longline Pty Ltd applied for four CCAMLR statistical areas 88.1, 88.2, 58.4.1 and 58.4.2 and planned to use two vessels to fish these areas.

Members discussed the collaborative research program undertaken in the CCAMLR Statistical area 58.4. Members noted that within research blocks catch is allocated to different countries in an initial negotiation. If a country doesn’t go fishing then the catch is redistributed to other nations who initially notified. Australia only fished in one area last year and its initial catch allocation was then re-allocated to Korea and France. SARAG noted that countries must inform CCAMLR by 1 January if they are intending to fish and then if they haven’t started to fish in a research block by the end of February, its allocation is automatically redistributed.

Industry expressed concerns in regard to the level of bycatch in the 2016/17 season which caused the early closure of one research block. AAD informed SARAG that they were planning on doing ananalysis to determine where high bycatch is most likely and maybe suggest a change in fishing strategy. SARAG noted that the bycatch limit had changed from a total bycatch limit of 50 tonnes anda % of total catch limit to only a % of total catch limit. Industry explained that the problem in 2016/17 may have been where fishing happened and the gear used and noted that the bycatch limit would not have been triggered in previous year (as it was a total bycatch limit).

SARAG noted that the new catch limits for 2017/18 will be allocated in area 58.4 will not be known until after the CCAMLR meetings in Octobers 2017. Sea ice will also impact on fishing strategy and determine where the company will fish.

Industry raised concerns regarding the introduction of the Ross Sea Marine Protected Area and the implications for future fishing in the CCAMLR New and Exploratory fisheries.

Agenda item 20 – FRDC Expression of Interest – genetics project

Members noted that on 30 March 2017, AFMA circulated a request from AAD to seek SARAG’s input to an FRDC Expression of Interest (EOI) for a project ‘Stock Connectivity of Antarctic Toothfish (Dissostichus mawsoni)’, noting that the project is part of Australia’s research requirements in the exploratory toothfish fishery in East Antarctica. Several comments were received from SARAG members. AAD addressed the comments received, and submitted the EOI to FRDC on 15 March 2017.

On 4 April 2017, the Commonwealth Research Advisory Committee (ComRAC) considered all EOIs received by FRDC and provisionally approved the proposal, however funding still requires FRDC approval. SARAG was informed that the FRDC recently requested the researchers produce a full proposal. AAD agreed to provide the full proposal to SARAG for information (Action arising 11). CSIRO indicated support of the project noting that they would like to work collaboratively with AAD on this project.


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SARAG noted that it is a 1-year pilot project that aims to evaluate the genetic structure of Antarctic toothfish in Antarctic waters and potential to estimate biomass in East Antarctica using a close kin mark-recapture method.

Some industry members expressed concern about how FRDC would fund the project, and suggested that FRDC’s public good fund may be most appropriate. Concerns were also expressed at AAD researchers being taken away from core HIMIF and MITF research.

Members noted that no FRDC research levy is collected on new and exploratory fisheries.

Industry questioned the implications to sample collection if Australia did not fish in East Antarctica. AAD explained this would impact on the feasibility of the study, although samples will also be provided by other fishing nations.

SARAG noted that AAD would put in a full proposal to FRDC in the next month and it was suggested that the project be presented as ‘for public good’.

Agenda item 21 – Research priorities for Antarctic ToothfishMembers noted that a significant amount of research is being undertaken by other CCAMLR members. New Zealand is a major player and has undertaken a lot of research in the Ross Sea, and Korea, Spain and to a lesser degree France conduct research in East Antarctica.

SARAG recommend the following be considered as research priorities for Antarctic Toothfish in the CCAMLR New and Exploratory fisheries:

Estimating abundance (including close kin research); and

Post release mortality of tagged fish.

Members noted that tag based mortality appeared higher in the CCAMLR New and Exploratory fisheries and researchers are questioning whether handling or the environmental factors such as freezing water may be cause higher mortality than expected.

SARAG noted that a PhD student from the Australian National University had requested some samples of sponges from industry, who directed her to where this information has already been collected and available at AAD.

Research

Agenda item 22 – Recent research

Members noted that this agenda item is an opportunity to discuss any planned research, any research currently happening and any recently completed research. SARAG noted the update on sub-Antarctic fisheries research projects that are not included in the AAD Science Workplan.

Whale depredation project

Mr Arangio informed SARAG that a workshop was held in Hobart in February to discuss the Australian Research Council (ARC) project on whale depredation being led by Dr Paul Tixier.


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The aim of the project is to develop a model that looks at whale depredation patterns and to quantify impact on catch rates.

The workshop was attended by AAD, IMAS, Industry (Toothfish and Blue Eye) and Deakin University representatives including Dr Tixier. The project covers the toothfish fisheries of HIMI, French zone and wider COLTO fisheries, as well as the Tasmanian Blue Eye Trevalla fishery.

The purpose of the workshop was to discuss what should happen in the first year of the four years of project. The workshop discussed the different hardware that would be used on boats to collect data including:

Hydrophone. Members noted that hydrophones will be used on each vessel in HIMIF to record acoustic signature. Industry is hoping it will explain why the fishing vessel Atlas Cove and Isla Eden typically get whale depredation and other vessels don’t;

Acoustic mooring. AAD has loaned a permanent acoustic mooring that will be based for next 6 months in HIMIF to listen to whales whilst industry are fishing or not;

Accelerometer. The accelerometer on hooks will be able to detect when fish bites the hook and then determine if the fish has been taken off the hook by a whale. Members noted that the accelerometer would need to be cheap (<$1) and the AAD is currently looking at the feasibility of using them; and

Photo identification. Industry has purchased a new camera and it is currently on the Isla Eden to take photos.

SARAG noted that the project was initially going to include whale tagging but it has been agreed that this is not practical.

Members noted that Dr Tixier was recently in Hobart to gather more information and was provided with all current data on whale interactions and catch rates at HIMIF. AAD reported that the current depredation is predicted to be around 1-5% when whales are present. Industry reported that the whales appear to remove the fish whole as they are generally not finding torn up fish on the line. The project will also look at bycatch ratios as whales do not depredate grenadiers.

AAD’s Australian Antarctic Science Strategic Plan

AAD provided copies of the Australian Antarctic Science Strategic Plan 2011-12 to 2020-21. Copies of the final Australian Antarctic Strategy and 20 years Action Plan were also provided for members.

Members noted that AAD are seeking comment on the Australian Antarctic Science Strategic Plan. AFMA will circulate the call for comment to SARAG.

SARAG discussed the evaluation of theme 3 - Southern Ocean Ecosystems: Environmental Change and Conservation of the Strategic Plan. The aim of the theme is to conduct the scientific research necessary for understanding the impact of global change on Southern Ocean ecosystems, the effective conservation of Antarctic and Southern Ocean wildlife and the sustainable, ecosystem-based management of Southern Ocean fisheries.


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AFMA website as a repository for research papers

The AFMA member reminded members that SARAG had agreed that it would be useful to use the AFMA website as a repository for research papers that are publicly available. Members agreed to provide any papers that can be made publicly available and that would be useful to have access to, noting that not all members have access to the CCAMLR website where a lot of these papers are available (Action arising 12).

AFMA’s Antarctic Fisheries 5 Year Strategic Research Plan

SARAG discussed the Sub-Antarctic strategic research plan and agreed the following research should be included:

Development of random stratified longline survey (RSLS);

Methodology to assess communities – ERA;

Tag release program – refined spatial assessment; and

M strategy development – program to determine M in the future.

Agenda item 23 – Joint Australia-France industry research action plan

Members noted that in April 2015 Australian and French officials agreed, in-principle, to form a group to develop an Australia-French research plan. The group would contain scientists and officials from both countries. Terms of references (ToR) were discussed and drafted at CCAMLR 2015 and at SARAG 53 members noted that Australia was waiting on feedback from the French government on the ToR. AAD informed members that the ToR have now been agreed at the AAD and the French Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle level. AAD agreed to circulate the agreement to SARAG members (Action arising 13).

AAD informed members that Australia’s relationship with the French Scientist was well maintained but there was a need for a better relationship with the French Industry.

Agenda item 24 – Kerguelen Plateau Symposium

Members noted that at the SARAG teleconference in November 2016, AAD advised that Australia and France are in the process of negotiating a bilateral agreement to form a Scientific Advisory Group that would provide formal advice to the governments on the fishery and ecosystem of the Kerguelen Plateau. Members noted that as part of this agreement that a Kerguelen Plateau symposium had been set for the 13-15 November 2017.

AAD advised that a website had been developed for the symposium (http://heardisland.antarctica.gov.au/research/kerguelen-plateau-symposium). Members noted that half a day at the symposium will be spent discussing climate change. AAD informed members that a call for abstracts for the Second Symposium on Kerguelen Plateau Marine Ecosystems and Fisheries had been sent out. SARAG noted that the symposium is also considering a poster day to encourage young researchers. It was suggested that a


http://heardisland.antarctica.gov.au/research/kerguelen-plateau-symposium

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paper on Illegal, unregulated and unreported (IUU) activity including a history of compliance and lessons learnt would be informative (Action arising 14).

AAD encouraged all SARAG members to attend the symposium which will be held in Hobart.

Environment

Marine Stewardship Council (MSC)

Members noted that in 2012, the HIMI and MIT fisheries received Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification. The certification applies for five years, and expires on 28 November 2017. As such industry and MSC are progressing the re-certification of the fisheries. Industry noted that the majority of conditions on the draft re-certification had been meet including improving linkages between Australian and French. Industry thanked Drs Welsford and Ziegler for all their work. SARAG noted that it was a credit to industry, AFMA and AAD that our sub-Antarctic fisheries receive MSC certification smoothly.

Agenda item 25 – Porbeagle sharks

SARAG noted that porbeagles had been caught at MITF and therefore there was a requirement to take account of porbeagle stock in the assessment for the Southern Ocean. MSC has therefore classified Porbeagle sharks as a ‘main bycatch species’ due to their vulnerability even though they represent less than 1% of total catch in the fishery.

Members noted that in March 2013, Porbeagle Shark, was one of five shark species listed on Annex II of CITES which came into effect in September 2014. Porbeagle Shark is a protected migratory species under the Part 13 provisions of the EPBC Act.

Industry reported that the draft MSC re-certification includes the following condition, milestone and action plan around Porbeagle sharks:

Condition

By the second surveillance audit the client shall provide evidence that all main bycatch species, including Porbeagle shark, are highly likely to be within biologically based limits. There is no evidence at present to determine that Porbeagle shark meets this criterion.

Milestones

By the first surveillance audit the client will provide update on when the stock assessment is likely to be finalised after contacting researchers.By the second surveillance audit the client provide the finalised porbeagle stock assessment and any advice from AFMA on recommended management actions if required to CAB.

Client action plan

1. SARAG will include update on Porbeagle stock assessment on agenda for regular meetings to keep industry informed of any progress.

2. By the second surveillance audit the client will provide the finalised assessment to CAB.

3. SouthMAC to consider and advice AFMA on recommended management actions if required.

4. By the second surveillance audit the client will provide copy of that advice to CAB.


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SARAG noted that an updated assessment is being done on Southern Ocean stocks and it will be completed in next 6 months and will be sent to members as soon as it is published.

Agenda item 26 – Environmental interactions and gear loss

SARAG noted that there have been twelve wildlife interactions resulting in deaths in the HIMI Fishery since the last SARAG meeting in September 2016.

30/10/2016 – A Southern elephant Seal was caught on a hook on the vessel Isla Eden;

2/11/2016 – An unidentified seal was caught on the mouth by a single hook on the vessel Corinthian Bay;

7/11/2016 – A Southern Elephant Seal was hauled tangled with the mainline on the vessel Isla Eden;

11/11/2016 – A White Chinned Petrel was hauled hooked on the line on the vessel Corinthian Bay;

11/11/2016 – A White Chinned Petrel was hauled hooked on the line on the vessel Corinthian Bay;

19/11/2016 – A Southern Elephant Seal was hauled tangled with the mainline on the vessel Corinthian Bay;

22/11/2016 – A White Chinned Petrel was hauled hooked on the line on the vessel Isla Eden;

22/11/2016 – A White Chinned Petrel was hauled hooked on the line on the vessel Isla Eden;

24/11/2016 – A Southern Elephant Seal was hauled hooked in the mouth and also tangled with the mainline on the vessel Corinthian Bay;

7/4/2017 - A White Chinned Petrel was foul hooked in the wing on setting on the vessel Antarctic Chieftain;

20/4/2017 - A Southern Elephant Seal was hauled tangled with the mainline on the vessel Isla Eden;

29/04/2017 - A Grey Petrel was hooked whilst setting the line on the vessel Isla Eden.

AFMA reported that in the 2015/16 HIMI Fishery fishing season 14,690,716 hooks were set with eight seabirds killed as a result of interaction with fishing gear, and two birds found dead as a result of hitting the vessel superstructure. Eight Southern Elephant seals, two Crabeater seals and an unidentified seal also died as a result of becoming entangled in the backbone of or hooked by the fishing line.

To date in the MITF in the 2017/18 season 390,658 hooks have been set with no wildlife interactions with fishing gear that resulted in a death. One bird was found dead as a result of hitting the vessel superstructure.


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Members further noted that there has been a slight decrease in the amount of gear lost in the HIMIF and a significant increase in the amount of gear recovered. Members noted that the Antarctic Chieftain recently pulled up some gillnet which was not attached to anything and clean. AFMA informed members that the AFMA observer will provide AFMA compliance with the piece of net for investigation. SARAG noted that the MIT fishery has lost more integrated weighted line and hooks so far in the season compared to last season. Members requested that in future gear loss and recovery be presented in the same table with an overall nett result reported (Action arising 15).

Members noted that the United States has established import provisions that require harvesting nations to meet US standards for fisheries management with regard to interactions with marine mammals. As part of this, the US sought information on each export fishery’s recorded interactions with marine mammals and management measures to mitigate marine mammal interactions. AFMA submitted a one page document for each Fishery to the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources (DAWR). DAWR will be coordinating a submission to the US National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) and this information will be used by the NMFS to determine whether an export fishery is ‘exempt’ from the US Marine Mammal Rule.

OtherAgenda item 27 – Other businessBycatch Policy, Harvest Strategy Policy and draft National Plan of Action for seabirds

SARAG noted that the DAWR is currently undertaking public consultation on the revised Commonwealth Fisheries Bycatch Policy, the Commonwealth Fisheries Harvest Strategy Policy and the draft National Plan of Action for Seabirds (NPOA). RAGs have been invited to provide comments to AFMA assist in developing a consistent position on key issues.

Fisheries Bycatch Policy

Members noted that there is a revised definition of bycatch to provide greater clarity on the distinction between bycatch and commercial species. The bycatch definition has been proposed to be changed from the broad scope of ‘all non-targeted catch’ to ‘species that physically interact with fishing vessels and/or fishing gear and which are not usually kept by commercial fishers’ and Bycatch also includes species protected under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

The objective of the policy has been revised to reflect a move towards ecologically sustainable development, a precautionary approach to bycatch management and reduced risks to long-term sustainability. Members noted that ABARES is developing guidelines that will provide detailed practical guidance for the development and implementation of ecological risk management (ERM) and strategic plans across the diverse range of Commonwealth fisheries. They will also provide important contextual information to assist interpretation of the policy and support ERM/strategic plan development and implementation.


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Members noted that there is not a lot of bycatch in sub-Antarctic fisheries as everything is retained. Members noted that under the new policy all bycatch must be above a biological target reference point.

Harvest Strategy Policy

Members noted that the proposed changes to the Harvest Strategy Policy won’t affect this group as CCAMLR considered a regional fisheries management organisation even though it does have different functions.

National Plan of Action for Seabirds

SARAG noted that for the NPOA there will be no additional requirements other than those already required under the Threat Abatement Plan for Commonwealth fisheries.

SARAG noted that individual member comments should be provided to AFMA by 31 May 2017 to enable AFMA to compile all the responses and consolidate key points made for a submission to the DAWR. AFMA stated that members were welcome to make their own submission straight to DAWR.

Agenda item 28 – Next meeting

SARAG tentatively agreed to hold a SARAG teleconference on Wednesday 14 June 2017 at 10am to discuss the independent review of HIMI Toothfish stock assessment.

SARAG agreed that the next face-to-face meeting would be held on Wednesday 6 September 2017 in Hobart with an industry consultation held on Tuesday 5 September 2017.

The meeting closed at 12.30 pm on Wednesday 17 May 2017.


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Attachment 1

Sub-Antarctic Resource Assessment Group (SARAG) Meeting 55AgendaTuesday 16 May 20179:00 am – 5:00 pmWednesday 17 May 20179:00am – 1:00pmMawson Conference Room 3Australian Antarctic Division – Channel Highway, Kingston

Introduction1. Preliminaries

1.1 Declaration of interests Chair For Discussion

1.2 Apologies AFMA For Information

1.3 Adoption of Agenda Chair For Decision

2. Minutes from SARAG 54 and November teleconference AFMA For Information

3. Action Arising AFMA For Discussion

4. Correspondence AFMA For Discussion

5. Fishing operations update (HIMI, MITF, Exploratory) All For Information

Macquarie Island Toothfish Fishery6. Toothfish stock assessment timeline CSIRO For Information

7. Benthic impacts project AAD For Information

8. Tagging rate CSIRO For Discussion

9. Breakout rules CSIRO For Discussion

Heard Island and McDonald Islands Fishery10. Analysis of 2015/16 season catch rate AAD For Discussion

11. Independent review of HIMI toothfish stock assessment AFMA For Information


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12. Toothfish stock assessment 2017

a) Estimation of maturity AAD For Discussion

b) Bias and approaches to correct bias AAD For Discussion

c) HIMI Stock assessment AAD For Discussion

13. Breakout rules CSIRO & AAD For Discussion

14. Skate and ray assessment AAD For Information

15. Review of season extension periods AFMA & AAD For Discussion

16. CCAMLR Fisheries science work plan AAD For Information

17. Expected papers to CCAMLR 2017 AAD For Discussion

18. ERA/ERM process AFMA For Information

CCAMLR New and Exploratory fisheries19. Fishing in the 2017/18 season Industry For Information

20. FRDC Expression of Interest - genetics project AAD For Information

21. Research priorities for Antarctic Toothfish AAD For Discussion

Research22. Recent research AFMA/AAD For Discussion

23. Joint Australia-France industry research action plan AAD For Discussion

24. Kerguelen Plateau Symposium AAD For Discussion

Environment25. Marine Stewardship Council Industry For Information

a) Porbeagle sharks Industry For Information

26. Environmental interactions and gear loss AFMA For Information

Other27. Other Business Chair For Discussion

a) Bycatch Policy, Harvest Strategy Policy and draft AFMA For Discussion

National Plan of Action for seabirds

28. Next Meeting Chair For Discussion


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Attachment 2

Terms of Reference Independent Review HIMI Fishery’s Patagonian Toothfish Assessment 2017 1. Review the most recent quantitative stock assessment for the HIMI Patagonian Toothfish Fishery, specifically: a. identify areas of improvement to better ensure the objectives of the harvest strategy for the fishery will be met.

b. examine the key assumptions and data inputs into the stock assessment and recommend whether any modification should be made to those assumptions or inputs.

c. review the current weighting of RSTS : tagging data in the assessment.

2. Consider how any climate change effects on the fishery could be incorporated into the assessment.

3. Provide a measure of priority and urgency for any recommended changes to the stock assessment.

4. By 31 May 2017, provide advice on 1 – 3 above in the form of a written report to AFMA.


haddon advised he is employed by csiro and is not undertaking specific research projects in relation...

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