TIDAL organisers need you!

With San Remo’s TIDAL Seafood Festival a little over four months away, event planning is well and truly underway.

The committee of volunteers is busy planning all elements of the recently rebranded festival, building on the reputation of the historical Fishing Festival and Blessing of the Fleet.

“While the Blessing of the Fleet and celebrating the town’s connection to the fishing industry and the ocean are the cornerstone of the event, we are now trying to grow TIDAL into a world-class, multi-day event,” says Event Co-ordinator Craig Edmonds of Jim’s Bait & Tackle.

“With that comes a number of new and exciting activities, and to do them all well, we are going to need some help from the local community.”

Craig and the organising committee are currently focussing on the historic “Deckies Race”, an exciting part of the festival that pits teams of two against each other in mastering all the skills required of Deckies in real life.

“It’s a huge part of the festival, and a heap of fun for entrants and spectators alike,” says Paul Mannix, manager of the San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op.

“The race includes cray-pot rolling, shovelling ice, fish-bin carrying, plus a bit of running too, and is a nod to all the Deckies and the amazing work they do.

“Because of this, we are looking to grow the profile of the event this year to be a feature event in the festival program.”

The committee has secured sponsorship from the San Remo Hotel and the Westernport Hotel and is offering $1000 prizemoney for the winners this year, and as such hope to attract a record number of entrants.

“Not only is the prize money significant, it’s about the bragging rights that come with it,” says Paul.

With the Deckies Race gaining momentum, the committee is looking for a community group or local business to take on managing the event, in both the lead up to the event and on the day.

“We see this part of the festival growing into its own entity, and we’d love a local business or community group to take it on,” says Craig.

“There’s potential for some decent exposure in the broader community, some fundraising through entry fees and being part of what will hopefully become an iconic event on the San Remo calendar.”

The committee is seeking expressions of interest from community groups or local businesses to take on the management of the Deckies Race, and will provide any assistance required along the way.

“Event management experience is not required – we’ll provide as much assistance as you need,” says Paul.

“Ideally it’ll be a win-win.”

Interested groups or businesses are encouraged to contact Craig at fishing@jimsbaittackle.com.au or Paul at info@srfco.com.au