San Remo: The old fishing town in Bass Coast

THE 2023 Tidal Seafood Festival kicked off on Friday evening with the annual Strait to Plate Gala Dinner, followed by the displays of fresh seafood and fishing demonstrations open to the public on Saturday and Sunday. 

The traditional annual deckie race was run by Kilcunda-Bass Cricket Club, with visitors competing against one another and $1000 in prizes to be won. The sun was shining and both kids and adults were getting involved, racing on the San Remo foreshore.

The San Remo SES were in attendance with volunteers demonstrating and discussing their community work, and Paddy Platypus – the SES mascot making an appearance, as well as the Phillip Island CFA truck, that is always a hit with the little ones. 

The festival began on the first day of school holidays and students from Newhaven College were invited to participate as a busker/performer on the foreshore. 

One of the organisers Nick Say, made this opportunity available to college students, and VET Music Teacher Rob Turton went above and beyond to put together a schedule with preferred times for junior, middle, and senior school students, as well as providing equipment as requested to help them all showcase their talent. 

Eighteen students performed at the Westernport Hotel steps and along the foreshore, showcasing their passion for music, performing voice, guitar, piano, flute, and violin. 

Organiser Craig Edmonds of Jims Bait and Tackle said “the event far exceeded our expectations, numbers exceeded even those of the experienced food vendors with many of them selling out both days.

“There was plenty going on all weekend and all bands, demonstrations and speakers were well received. Did we get it totally right? Of course not, but there were 100’s of elements to the event, thousands of hours and a lot of money and considering all that, the committee and volunteers should be very proud of what they achieved.” 

Victorian Fisheries and Bass Coast Shire Council were also on display throughout the weekend, to discuss what’s on in fishing. The event is an annual occasion for the old fishing town – to reflect on the history, indulge in quality seafood and enjoy the September holidays with the whole family.  

Profits from the ticket sales were donated to the local SES and CFA for improvements and new equipment. A community event, supporting the wider community.