Perth’s illegal tobacco trade shifts to delivery following store closures

Can’t believe I was out sick for a day or two and I missed some huge goblin shark news! As a shark-obsessed child (still the case today), goblin sharks were the ones I used to draw all the time with their wacky distended mouths and whatnot.

Onwards/upwards though, and having — somewhat — recovered from whatever the heck has been going around lately (get your flu shots gang), I’m excited to share another feature from Jamie, this time looking at the evolution of Perth’s illegal tobacco trade.

And further along you’ll also get a short- and long-term weather update; the program announcement for beachside fest JazzConnect’s return; and the latest Perth’s food news, including a sad update for fans of Shirley’s in Freo.

^{Troy Mutton, Editor-In-Chief, Perth is OK!}

There’s been scrambling all over the country to nullify the illegal tobacco trade.

Here in WA, they’re using the stick. After strong pressure, the state government passed new laws in early May, giving authorities power to close stores caught selling illicit tobacco for up to 90 days, while also increasing penalties.

It’s early days, but the results are already being spruiked.

“Since the new laws dropped, it’s been a bit of a whirlwind… but we’ve closed nearly 50 stores,” Shane Giblett, Director of Tobacco and Vape Regulation, said last week. “We seized 5.4 million cigarette sticks, 51,000 vapes and over a tonne of loose-leaf tobacco.”

Impressive numbers. It’s all part of Operation Claudere, a joint effort between the WA Department of Health, WA Police and the Australian Border Force. Authorities admit public tip-offs have been a vital part instrument in the targeted raids.

But where there’s a will, there’s a way. Word is that many illegal tobacco traders are moving away from the shop fronts and into delivery…

Oof, it just doesn’t get easier telling you about the latest venue closing their doors. This one is particularly sad, with friendly Freo bistro Shirley’s announcing they’ll be wrapping things up next month.

“Since opening Manuka in 2015 and Shirley’s in 2024, Fremantle has welcomed us with open arms. We’re grateful to all our loyal diners and our wonderful team members who helped bring both venues to life. Hospitality is built on people and the relationships we’ve formed will remain the most rewarding part of this experience. While this decision hasn’t been an easy one, we’re proud of what we created.”

“Our final service will be on Saturday 18th July. Until then, we’d love to welcome you back one last time. Join Kenny and the team over the coming weeks for a meal, a drink, and a chance to celebrate Shirley’s with us.”

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