The Torres Strait recently welcomed its most diverse fisheries advisory body, formed through a community-led process.
Thirty-five members from across the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) have been inducted into the Protected Zone Joint Authority (PZJA) Advisory Committees.
The new formation is a milestone for one of the nation's most profitable and culturally significant fisheries.
Led by local people chosen by their communities, the committee represents five nations; Kaiwalagal, Kulkalgal, Kemer Kemer Meriam, Maluyagal and Gudamalugal.
The committee's focus is on sustainability, economic growth and employment opportunities in the fishing industry.
Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) Chairperson George Nona and CEO Charlie Kaddy welcomed the group at a two-day induction in Cairns earlier this month.
Mr Nona said fisheries are the heart of Torres Strait communities.
"Fisheries are the lifeblood of our communities in the Torres Strait region," he said.
"The new committee represent unity, innovation and a generational shift with a powerful mix of experience and fresh perspectives that will shape the future of our fisheries.
"For the first time, members have been nominated through a grassroots process led by community - not government - ensuring representation by and for the people."
The group includes commercial fishers, seafood operators, marine scientists, recreational fishers and emerging leaders.
Among them are Meriam woman, Vera Havili (Ofa Mabo) - the first female representative, Gudang-Yadhaykenu man Ian Wymarra - the only representative from the NPA, and 20-year-old traditional fisher Ronald Kris.
Meriam woman Ms Havili, an experienced seafood operator, said fisheries are central to Torres Strait life.
"Fisheries is an essential part of life and economics in the region, both financially and socially," she said.
"Fisheries sits close to the heart of every Torres Strait Islander. It is for everyone.
"We all play an essential part in this field, especially as the custodians of this beautiful place we all call home."
Ms Havili said the industry faces challenges but remains grounded in culture.
"The Torres Strait fisheries are unique, with their own set of challenges, particularly in response to changing environmental conditions and market demand," she said.
"We must closely examine our fisheries to ensure the environment remains fertile, including by developing more culturally safe and sustainable practices.
"As Torres Strait Islanders, we are born with a responsibility to protect our marine environment and to ensure there is abundant seafood for generations to come."
Mr Wymarra is the only NPA representative.
He said his involvement is about giving back and ensuring benefits flow to local communities.
"It is a must for local people to get onboard so we can set up structures to keep our people caring for country," he said.
"We must ensure our people living on the islands and communities benefit the most from our waters.
"From a young age you get taught to fish and provide for family, but now we are also being properly recognised for our fisheries knowledge."
Mr Wymarra, 37, has worked as a commercial crayfisherman and Navy boatswain's mate.
"As Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginal people, fisheries is part of our cultural identity and it is important to keep that going," he said.
"There isn't much opportunity in remote communities, my goal is to change that."
Mr Nona added new committee has an important role in guiding sustainable policy.
"We cannot afford to be stagnant in the Torres Strait region," he said.
"Only our fishers have the extensive knowledge and experience of the protected zone waters to know its true potential, threats and opportunities.
"We must draw from the best of both traditional knowledge and western science to ensure our fisheries continue to not only survive but thrive for future generations."
The committees, appointed until 30 June 2028, will advise on sustainability and opportunities for aspiring fishers, women and youth.
