WA Fishers Lost At Sea Memorial Association

19/07/2026

** SALT IN THEIR VEINS BOOK LAUNCH EVENT DETAILS **

Fremantle History Society - AGM 2026
Tuesday 28th July, at the Fremantle History Centre from 4.30 pm – 6.00 pm. Walyalup Civic Centre, 151 High Street, Fremantle 6160

Dr. James Paratore has spent three years researching and compiling the history of Sicilian fishing families and their contribution to Fremantle and the development of the Western Australian fishing industry.

The resulting publication: ‘Salt in their veins: From Capo d’Orlando to Fremantle’ tells the story of these families through their lived experiences, the hardships, their resilience, and the deep bonds forged between people and the sea.
The Fremantle History Society is delighted to have the opportunity to launch James’ book at this year’s Annual General Meeting.

Fremantle History Society members and members of the public are invited. Contributions to supper as always, most welcome.
Registration and refreshments from 4.30pm.

AGM starts 4.45pm. Book launch after the AGM, around 5.25pm – 6.00pm.

To book : https://events.humanitix.com/fremantle-history-society-annual-general-meeting-2026

Copies of the book will be available for sale on the night - $25.00 includes GST. Payment by card or cash accepted.

10/07/2026

25/05/2026

19/05/2026

Died At Sea.. Lest We Forget

06/04/2026

A major chapter in Australia’s seafood industry is coming to an end, with A. Raptis & Sons Group set to shut down after decades in operation — putting more than 200 jobs at risk.

Based in Brisbane, the family-founded business has been a cornerstone of the nation’s fishing industry since the 1960s, with roots dating back to the 1930s when Greek migrant Arthur Raptis Snr first entered the trade.

Despite last-minute efforts to find a buyer or secure new investment, administrators confirmed no viable offers were received — forcing the company into a gradual wind-down over the coming months.

The closure will hit communities hard across Queensland, especially in key fishing hubs like Karumba, where the company has long supported local jobs and supply chains. From trawler crews to processing workers and transport operators, the ripple effects are expected to be significant.

The timing couldn’t be worse — the announcement comes just before the Easter rush, one of the busiest and most important periods for seafood demand in Australia.

For many, A. Raptis & Sons Group wasn’t just a business — it was a legacy in Australia’s prawn trawling industry, operating 19 vessels and supplying wild-caught seafood nationwide.

The collapse also highlights growing pressures on the fishing sector, including rising fuel costs, increasing expenses, and market uncertainty.

Administrators say they will continue working with employees regarding entitlements, while exploring the sale of company assets.

A tough blow for workers, families, and an industry already under strain.

06/04/2026

31/03/2026

Salt In Their Veins - From Capo D’Orlando To Fremantle

*** Book Launch Pending ***

I am proud to share this project with you all, and one that is close to my heart. “Salt in Their Veins” tells the story of the Sicilian fishing families who shaped the Fremantle fishing community across generations, focusing on various Orlandini fishing families, weaving together heritage, hardship, and the deep cultural bonds forged between people and the sea. It is a tribute to a way of life that connects us to this place we call home, told through the lived experiences of the families who carried their traditions across the world. It’s a story that will resonate with all migrant families, not just those from the sun-soaked shores of Sicily.

An Italian version was presented to the Capo d’Orlando Comune in 2025 as part of their 100th Birthday Celebration, on the shores of San Gregorio where this story all started 140 years ago…

Please comment with PREORDER and quantity so I can gauge print run numbers and interest needed for the launch.

RRP Approx. $25

Further details to be advised on book launch date soon…

30/03/2026

28/03/2026

…. New heritage listing recognises the tremendous contributions the fishing industry has made to the built environment in Fremantle …

25/03/2026