SPANISH MACKEREL DECKHAND The Who

Sea Harvest Australia (SHA) is a vertically integrated agribusiness headquartered in Fremantle, Western Australia, providing premium quality and sustainable seafood to Australian and international consumers.

The Fishing Division (SHF) is the single largest owner operator in the Shark Bay Prawn Managed Fishery and the sole owner operator in the Exmouth Prawn Managed Fishery.

Sea Harvest also catches and processes a range of other species including scallops, blue swimmer crabs and Spanish Mackerel from the WA Mackerel Managed Fisheries.

Our fleet of commercial fishing vessels is equipped to process, package and snap freeze seafood at sea, ensuring a premium quality, consistent and sustainable product.

The What

Sea Harvest Fishing is seeking applications from motivated and hardworking Deckhands to join our Spanish Mackerel vessel, Sturmvogel, commencing in mid-August 2026, with departure from Exmouth.

Operating out of Broome, Western Australia for most of the year, the Sturmvogel fishes the productive waters of the Kimberley and Pilbara coasts. This is an excellent opportunity to work in one of Australia's premier commercial fisheries, where deckhands play a vital role in harvesting premium-quality Spanish Mackerel using traditional line fishing methods.

Fishing trip durations are largely determined by catch rates and refuelling requirements, whilst off-swing arrangements are agreed between the Master and crew. The annual Spanish Mackerel season generally spans from March to November.

The Role

Reporting directly to the Vessel Master (Managing Partner), the successful applicant will work as part of a professional fishing team.

Primary responsibilities include

- Catching Spanish Mackerel from either the parent vessel or a dory using traditional line fishing methods.

- Assisting with retrieval,



handling and preservation of catch to maintain the highest product quality.

- Processing, packing and snap freezing product at sea.

- General deck duties including vessel cleaning, maintenance and housekeeping.

- Assisting with vessel loading, unloading and provisioning.

- Participating in safe vessel operations and complying with the Vessel Safety Management System (VSMS).

- Working cooperatively with the Master and fellow crew members to maintain a safe, productive and enjoyable workplace.

Skills, Experience and Attributes Required

- Previous commercial fishing experience preferred.

- Experience in Spanish Mackerel or line fishing operations will be highly regarded.

- Strong work ethic and reliability.

- Physically fit and capable of undertaking demanding manual work.

- Ability to live aboard the vessel for extended periods.

- Commitment to safety and teamwork.

- Well-developed communication skills and a positive attitude.

The Rewards The successful applicant will not be directly employed by Sea Harvest Fishing. Rather, you will enter into a Partnership Agreement with the Vessel Master, who acts as the Managing Partner.

Remuneration is based on an agreed percentage share of the vessel's catch proceeds. This performance-based model provides motivated and productive crew members with the opportunity to earn an excellent seasonal income while sharing directly in the success of the fishing operation.

Sea Harvest provides a professional and supportive operating environment together with well-maintained vessels,



career progression opportunities and access to a confidential Employee Assistance Program for share fishers and their immediate families.

Opportunities for Current Subclass 482 Visa Holders

Sea Harvest welcomes applications from experienced commercial fishing deckhands who are currently employed by other Australian fishing operators under a Subclass 482 Skills in Demand visa.

Where applicants meet our operational requirements and all Department of Home Affairs eligibility criteria, Sea Harvest may facilitate the transfer of visa sponsorship under our approved Fishing Industry Labour Agreement.

Why Join Sturmvogel?

Joining the Sturmvogel offers more than just a fishing job—it provides an opportunity to become part of a qualified, well-supported commercial fishing operation backed by one of Australia's leading seafood companies.

As a member of the Sturmvogel crew, you will benefit from:

- A professionally managed and well-maintained 19-metre commercial fishing vessel.

- An attractive share-fishing arrangement that directly rewards effort, productivity and teamwork.

- The opportunity to fish one of Western Australia's premier Spanish Mackerel fisheries.

- A quality-focused operation supplying premium domestic and international seafood markets.

- The support, stability and resources of Sea Harvest Australia, a long-established and respected seafood company.

- A strong commitment to safety, sustainability and responsible fishing practices.

- Opportunities for ongoing employment and career progression across Sea Harvest Australia's broader commercial fishing operations.

The How

Letters of application together with your resume and details of two referees should be directed to:

John Atkinson

Human Resources Manager

Sea Harvest Australia

*@sea-harvest.com.au

📌 Deckhand (Broome)
🏢 Sea Harvest Fishing Co
📍 Broome