Launch of Geraldton Fishermen's Co-operative's 50th birthday celebrations

21/1/00
Premier Richard Court has described the Geraldton Fishermen's Co-operative as a Western Australian success story that has played a major role in the development of new markets for the State's rock lobster industry.
Mr Court, speaking at the launch of the co-operative's 50th birthday celebrations, said the organisation had a relatively low profile outside of Geraldton and the fishing industry - yet it was one of the State's significant export earners.
"From humble beginnings the Geraldton Fishermen's Co-operative has emerged as the largest rock lobster processor in WA; it employs over 200 people and frequently achieves export earnings in excess of $100 million a year," the Premier said.
"It is also regularly rated in BRW Magazine's top 500 private companies by export earnings."
Mr Court said the ongoing success of the co-operative was a tribute to its 'pioneers'.
"Members of the co-operative have played, and continue to play, a leading role in the State's fishing industry," he said.
"Through membership of the Rock Lobster Industry Advisory Committee, the co-operative has played a major role in the development of policies that have assured the ongoing sustainability of the Western Rock Lobster fishery.
"The members and management of the Geraldton Fishermen's Co-operative have always understood that the livelihood of its fishermen depends on a well-managed fishery, and they have supported measures that have protected breeding stock and guaranteed a future catch."
Mr Court said that, like all successful companies, the co-operative had also placed a particular focus on developing new technology - particularly in the development of live holding techniques.
"After 50 years, the co-operative continues to display the qualities of its founding members - vision, commitment and determination," he said.
"There is little doubt that it will continue to prosper and meet the challenges that lie ahead."
Media contact: Casey Cahill 9222 9475