Geraldton Fishermen's Co-operative's online meetings enable members to engage regularly with their management team. A summary of the most recent meeting is provided below.

Member Update

Update from Marc Anderson

• Marc provided updates on business performance and current challenges, particularly fuel supply concerns in Western Australia stemming from the Middle East conflict. Marc shared some of the advocacy initiatives he and other agribusinesses have undertaken with the government to ensure commercial fishing has a voice should there be a need to ration fuel supplies.
•  Marc also discussed recent developments, including the EU-Australia Free Trade Agreement (read more in the article below) and ongoing work on a review of the China-Australia Free Trade Agreement to simplify clearance processes.
• Marc closed out the meeting by wishing all Members a safe and happy Easter.

Update from Michael May

• Michael shared that the original Member App developer can no longer support the app. While there is no immediate change for fishers, the app remains the core operational platform for trips, bait and communication. However, over the next few weeks, there will be no bug fixes or improvements. Michael and the team are assessing short-medium-long-term requirements, and more information will be communicated in future online meetings.
• On operations, Michael reported zero lost time injuries for the Supply Chain and Operations this season and highlighted significant improvements in truck-related issues. Michael also announced the arrival of the first new trucks, featuring improved design and safety features designed to improve product quality.
• Michael thanked the fishers for their cooperation and understanding during the cyclone preparations

Update from Bryan Keay

• Bryan provided a market update, noting that the March intake was significantly lower than the same period last year, resulting in beach prices remaining higher than expected.
• Despite the lower March catch, intake is around 2% ahead of 2025 levels season to date. New Zealand exports were down around 15%, and their quota reset on April 1.
• He shared insights from a recent trip to Vietnam and Indonesia to better understand lobster-farming operations.
• Bryan predicted that prices would likely reach their lowest point over the next week to 10 days during the Qingming Festival, after which demand should improve.

The next Member online meeting is scheduled for late May. The meeting link will be emailed to Members before the meeting.

Give to Gain—Honouring International Women’s Day at GFC.

GFC staff gathered in March to celebrate the women of our co‑operative and focus on advancing equity. The theme, “Give to Gain,” resonated strongly. Female leaders shared stories of generosity, collaboration, and uplifting others—reminding us that when women thrive, everyone benefits.

We highlighted Australia’s gender pay gap reporting and GFC’s steps to drive change. International Women’s Day reminds us that progress is collective. Thanks to Directors Nicki Anderson and Leonie Noble, and to the GFC team, for their contributions.

Updated GFC Co-operative Rules Book

Following the passage of several resolutions at last year's Annual General meeting, GFC developed an updated Co-operative Rules book to support clarity and consistency for Members.

These rule books will be distributed in the coming weeks. Members are encouraged to review the updated document once received, which brings together the latest changes to GFC's governance framework.

Parliamentary Friends Reception Showcases the National importance of Producer Co-operatives.

Executive team members, Marc Anderson and Leith Teakle, attended Parliament House last week for a bipartisan event recognising the importance of producer co‑operatives nationwide.

Hosted by the Business Council of Co‑operatives and Mutuals, the event gathered parliamentarians and leaders from major grower and fisher co‑operatives to highlight their crucial role in food security, regional economies, and exports.

The reception reinforced that co‑operatives keep value local, plan for the long term, and act in the national interest. We welcome Parliament’s recognition that strong, member‑owned businesses like GFC are vital partners in Australia’s food security and economic resilience.

Geraldton Live Lobster Facility tours were recently featured on Destination WA on Channel 9. Watch the story linked above.

Lobster Legend Program - Celebrating Excellence & Inspiring Greatness.

Each month, GFC recognises outstanding team members through the Lobster Legend Program. This peer-nominated initiative celebrates GFC employees who embody our core values (Safety, Productivity, Continuous Improvement, Quality and Respect) and go above and beyond for our co-operative.

In February, we recognised Colin Capewell from Dongara. Read their nomination reason below:

"Colin worked tirelessly a few weeks ago to coordinate catches with care, ensuring our crays arrive in the absolute best possible quality. From strategically shuffling catches to minimise time out of water, to placing early loads up the side of the truck for first‑up grading, Colin has shown incredible forward planning and commitment to excellence. Colin was in constant communication with fishers to adjust landing times and strategically proposing start times of additional graders so unloading can happen fast and efficiently. His proactive approach and problem‑solving mindset made a real difference to the Welshpool operation."

Congratulations, Colin, and thanks for your contributions! We'll bring you more Lobster Legends in future editions.

WRL Quota Recommendation for 2026/27 Season.

The WRL Board has unanimously recommended to the Minister that the Total Allowable Commercial Catch (TACC) for 2026/27 remains at 6,800 tonnes.

Following a comprehensive process, including Annual Management Meetings in Fremantle and Geraldton, where members received briefings on the 2025 stock assessment, harvest strategy, MEY modelling, WRL benchmarks, and global trade conditions, before voting.

The Council's Board recommendation was finalised on 12 March and submitted to the Minister. Members can access the full letter and reports on the WRL Council website.

Middle East Conflict Disrupting Global Trade.

The escalating Middle East conflict is disrupting global trade networks, including seafood supply chains. Disruptions to key air and sea freight corridors are affecting exporters, logistics providers, and markets in Europe and Asia.

Norwegian seafood exporters face delays and higher costs getting their product to Asia due to rerouted air cargo. Reduced capacity and increased rates have extended transit times for perishable goods. Container shipping lines are also adjusting routes to maintain Gulf market access, adding complexity and cost.

For producers and exporters, these developments show how quickly instability can impact market access, logistics, and pricing. Alternative routes and supply chain adjustments help maintain trade, but the situation highlights the need for flexibility, market diversification, and strong collaboration.

GFC continues to monitor global trade, working closely with customers and supply chain partners to support informed decisions in this rapidly changing environment.

Australia, European Union Free Trade Agreement.

The recent announcement of the Australia-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA) marks a significant step forward for Australian exporters. As outlined by Trade Minister Don Farrell, the FTA is set to enhance market access for Australian seafood producers, opening new opportunities in premium European markets.

Under the agreement, tariffs on a range of seafood products are expected to be reduced or eliminated, making Australian seafood more competitive and attractive to EU buyers. This is a vital development for exporters seeking to diversify and expand their presence in Europe.

With streamlined export processes and improved regulatory cooperation, Australian businesses anticipate increased demand and greater market stability. The FTA represents a strategic boost for the industry, fostering stronger trade ties and supporting the long-term sustainability of Australian seafood exports to Europe.

The government has not finalised the timing of the tariff removals at the time of writing. GFC will keep Members informed. GFC currently export to a number of European countries, and with the upcoming Barcelona seafood expo, the team look forward to gaining buyers' insights into this development during the exhibition.

Benefits for agriculture and fisheries | Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade

A Seat At the Table: Pearls and Plates Returns to the Abrolhos.

This April, Pearls and Plates presents a unique Abrolhos long-table lunch at Post Office Island. Hosted at the Liddon family's Abrolhos Islands pearl farm, Pearls and Plates offers an immersive dining experience that connects guests with Western Australia’s world-class seafood.

The long-table lunch features locally caught Brolos lobster. Guests will share a table, enjoying dishes that celebrate this unique part of the world in an intimate setting that encourages storytelling and highlights the journey from ocean to plate.

Enjoy a day on the island and a taste of this water’s bounty, curated by renowned WA chef, Scott Brannigan and paired with acclaimed Margaret River wines. Check the website for tickets and more information.

Journeys of Belonging At Geraldton Museum from April 1.

We’re proud to support Journeys of Belonging, an exhibition spotlighting Geraldton’s homeless community. After showing at Parliament House, it’s now at the Museum of Geraldton for nine weeks.

This portrait series, by Centacare’s Housing First Support Service and photographer Trevor Picket, shares the voices and stories of rough sleepers and newly housed locals. The free exhibition started on April 1. Free tickets are available at the link.

75 Years Strong Anniversary Book and Photography Notice.

To celebrate 75 years of our co‑operative, we are creating a commemorative book which will be given to members, highlighting the people, stories, and milestones that have shaped us.

The book will explore our history through stories and photos of members, staff, and their families at GFC functions, showcasing the strong connections within our co‑operative. All images will be selected thoughtfully and respectfully to celebrate our shared history and the people who shaped it.

If you prefer not to have your photograph included, please contact us by April 17 using the form link below, and we will respect your wishes.

Thank you for supporting us as we document and celebrate this milestone. Your Chair, Basil Lenzo, will share more details about the book's launch in the coming weeks. We look forward to sharing the finished book with you.

Variety Midwest Event Raises Over $30,000 for Children.

We’re proud to support Variety Midwest – the Children’s Charity, helping local children facing illness, disadvantage, or disability. Our ongoing partnership continues to make a meaningful difference.

Their recent fundraising event raised over $30,000, thanks to the generosity of local businesses and the community. These funds will have a lasting impact for children in need. Congratulations to the team and volunteers for this outstanding result.

LEADERBOARD