On Sunday, we were involved in celebrating one of oldest traditions amongst fishing communities in the world, and as a community help bless the local Sydney fishing fleet, wishing them safe travels and a prosperous year ahead.
Courtesy of the Association Bagnara Calabra, the statue of the Madonna-the Santa Maria Di Porto Salvo (literally translated as Saint Mary of Safe Ports or Safe Harbour)-is taken on a colourful procession around the site with a youthful marching band, returning to the wharf to bless the decorated local fishing fleet.
From 1 January 2021, float-free emergency position indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs) will be mandatory on certain types of domestic commercial vessels. We donated a new GME Float Free EPIRB, which was drawn from a hat for one of the vessels that participated in the parade. The lucky and most grateful winner (of a prize we hope he never needs), was Mr Paul Bagnato, the owner of the fishing vessel ARAKIWA.
