Author Identifier (ORCID)
Abstract
Executive summary: This project employs a mixed methods approach to evaluate the significance of Cockburn Sound for recreational fishers, examine the potential effects of the proposed port development on recreational fishing experiences, and understand fishers' preferences for initiatives to improve recreational fishing in Cockburn Sound. Initial qualitative interviews with six local recreational fishing stakeholders were conducted to establish an early understanding of the primary issues and contextual factors with respect to opportunities and impacts of the proposed Westport development. These were followed by on-site surveys at boat ramps and shore access points across Cockburn Sound and the surrounding region. In total 342 recreational fishers were surveyed, comprising 266 boat-based fishers, and 76 shore-based fishers.
Keywords
recreational fishing, Cockburn Sound, Westport development, port development impacts, recreational fishers, fishing experiences, stakeholder interviews
Non-Traditional Research Output
Report for External Body
Document Type
Non-Traditional Research Output
Date of Publication
9-2025
Contributor's Note
The Western Australian Marine Science Institution advises that the information contained in this publication comprises general statements based on scientific research. The reader is advised and needs to be aware that such information may be incomplete or unable to be used in any specific situation. This information should therefore not solely be relied on when making commercial or other decisions. WAMSI and its partner organisations take no responsibility for the outcome of decisions based on information contained in this, or related, publications.
Type of File
Publisher
Western Australian Marine Science Institution
School
School of Business and Law
RAS ID
88758
Funding Information
The $13.5 million WAMSI Westport Marine Science Program was funded by the Western Australian Government, Department of Transport. WAMSI partners provided significant in-kind funding to the program to increase the value to >$22 million.
Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
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