Torres Strait Mayor Condemns Government Neglect as Illegal Fishing Vessels Flood Region
Torres Strait Island Regional Council Mayor Phillemon Mosby has issued a scathing critique of the federal government's border protection efforts, labelling Australia's northern frontier an 'afterthought' amid an unprecedented influx of suspected illegal fishing vessels from Indonesia. The surge in maritime incursions has sparked serious concerns about national security and biosecurity vulnerabilities that could potentially threaten mainland Australia.
Australia Day Celebrations Feel 'Ironic' Amid Security Crisis
Mayor Mosby revealed that celebrating Australia Day this week felt particularly 'ironic' while foreign vessels continue to penetrate Torres Strait waters with alarming frequency. 'It's hard to ignore the irony of national celebration while our people are left exposed and too often forgotten,' Mosby stated. 'The Torres Strait should not be an afterthought for governments — we deserve the same consideration, protection and respect as anywhere else in Australia.'
The mayor expressed deep frustration that local communities feel compelled to serve as the 'first line of defense' against illegal maritime activity. 'Our communities should not be left to feel like they are the first line of defense...we need stronger protection measures that prevent illegal activity from entering Torres Strait waters in the first place — not explanations after the fact,' he emphasised.
Unprecedented Vessel Influx Sparks Regional Alarm
Since mid-January, numerous foreign fishing vessels suspected to have originated from Indonesia have been spotted across outer and southern stretches of the Torres Strait. The situation reached a critical point recently when four vessels were intercepted near Turnagain Island on Saturday, where authorities discovered:
- 38 shark fins
- Assorted fishing equipment
- Evidence of systematic illegal fishing operations
Australian Border Force officers seized and escorted two vessels outside Australia's Exclusive Economic Zone while destroying the remaining two boats. However, residents report that vessels have been growing increasingly brazen for at least two years, with many suspecting the lucrative black jewfish swim bladder trade — selling for up to a thousand dollars per kilogram as traditional medicine — is fuelling the surge.
Complex Maritime Environment Challenges Border Protection
An Australian Border Force spokesperson acknowledged the Torres Strait presents unique challenges for maritime patrols, describing it as a 'complex' area covering 48,000 square kilometres with more than 270 islands and reefs. 'The Australian Border Force, through Maritime Border Command, is committed to protecting our vulnerable marine resources and delicate ecosystems through the targeting of illegal foreign fishing in Australian waters,' the spokesperson stated.
The ABF emphasised Australia implements a multi-faceted response including:
- Enforcement actions at sea
- Targeted operations
- Coordinated patrols with Indonesia
Community Fear and Calls for Immediate Action
Mayor Mosby revealed that Torres Strait residents are living with genuine fear as the incursions continue. 'The Torres Strait is sovereign Australian territory. Our people deserve to feel safe, heard, and protected,' he asserted. 'These are not just waters on a map — this is our sea Country, our livelihood, our culture, and our responsibility to protect for future generations.'
The mayor detailed specific concerns within the community:
- Fear for the safety of local hunters and fishers
- Anxiety among families about regional security
- Concerns about what other illegal activities might be occurring
In response to the crisis, the Torres Island Regional Council has demanded urgent answers regarding:
- The sudden influx of vessels
- Why vessels have been left on Torres Strait Islands
- What further deterrents will be implemented
Government Engagement and Proposed Solutions
Australian Border Force, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Queensland Police Service have been invited to attend a council meeting this Wednesday to address the issue directly. Mayor Mosby has called for several immediate actions:
- An urgent visit from the Home Affairs Minister
- A comprehensive review of current law enforcement capabilities
- Deployment of local officers to support lawful detention and arrests where possible
The Department of Home Affairs has been contacted for comment as the Torres Strait community awaits concrete solutions to what they describe as a growing border security crisis that threatens both their safety and way of life.
