WAFIC calling for Mid West fishers to speak about how planned Pilot Energy survey could impact operations

The WA Fishing Industry Council is calling for local fishers to have their say on a 3D marine seismic survey planned to take place in the Mid West.

Pilot Energy has put forward an environmental plan to undertake the Eureka 3D marine seismic survey next year to collect data about the underlying rock types as research for oil and gas exploration.

According to the plan, Pilot holds a 21.25 per cent interest in the Cliff Head Oil field and Cliff Head Infrastructure at the North Perth Basin, about 7km south of Dongara.

Plans indicated the survey would involve a single seismic survey vessel towing a seismic source array, using compressed air to emit sound pulses reflecting off the seabed and rock formations.

WAFIC expressed concerns with the survey, saying seismic blasts could result in a reduction of catch both during and after the survey, due to behavioural change for the animals.

Feedback for the project was previously sought in February and March last year, which found some people were opposed to either Cliff Head being used for carbon capture, or in general were opposed to seismic activity.

According to the document, Pilot Energy had outlined potential impacts and risks, the majority of which were given low residual risk rankings.

However, fishing groups, including the Western Rock Lobster Council, had previously expressed concerns with the project.

WAFIC said it was advocating for consultation with Pilot Energy to ensure the perspective of the fishing industry was heard and sought feedback from impacted fishers.

The organisation asked anyone wishing to provide feedback to send it via email to olivia.mickle@wafic.org.au, where WAFIC will compile the responses to Pilot Energy.