What is the Trawl Network (Fishing Innovation) – Community of Practice?

The Trawl Network  is an online Community of Practice built with and for commercial trawl fishers and supported by the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) on behalf of the Australian Government.

Mission

“Working together with fishers and others to create resilient and future-proofed trawl fisheries, based on sustainable development.”

What’s it for Me?

The Trawl Network connects fishers, researchers, managers, and environmental stakeholders to:
✅ Share innovations and best practices.
✅ Collaborate on improving sustainability and resilience.
✅ Enhance working conditions and attract new talent.
✅ Raise awareness of industry challenges and fisher knowledge.

Engagement Principles

• Independent, apolitical, and safe (moderated).
• Respectful of diverse views.
• Focused on evidence-based, solution-driven, and sustainable innovation.
• Committed to balancing economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental protection.

Why Join?

• Fishers: Connect, share ideas, and strengthen your business and network.
• Researchers: Collaborate with fishers on real-world innovations.
• Fisheries managers: Understand industry innovations and explore regulatory solutions.
• Environmental advocates: Engage on reducing impacts and advancing shared sustainability goals.

Want to get involved?

• How to Navigate (induction video below)
• Visit the Trawl Network and join the conversation through the Ask The Community and  Wharf Talk (Channel 16)
• Share with your shipmates