Tiger prawn season launches with record low fleet of 27 trawlers
Only 27 trawlers are operating in northern Australia’s tiger prawn fishery, the fewest ever, after the collapse of A Raptis and Sons.
The Northern Prawn Fishery’s tiger prawn season began with an unprecedentedly small fleet of 27 trawlers, about 50% fewer than the previous year. The downturn follows the administration of seafood giant A Raptis and Sons, leaving thirteen of its vessels moored at Karumba with no prospective purchaser. Administrators FTI Consulting reported only non-binding offers and have begun selling assets individually.
Operators cite soaring fuel prices—over $2 per litre—and recent equipment limits as additional reasons for staying ashore. Michael O'Brien of Australia Bay Seafoods warned that the diminished fleet could jeopardise export contracts, even though surveys suggest a healthy prawn run. Veteran skipper Bill West noted the quiet seas, recalling a solo banana-prawn season and hoping for a good tiger-prawn haul before the November close.
Why it matters
Fewer fishing boats risk lower exports and higher prices for prawns, affecting both the regional economy and consumers.
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