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Women's fight for fishing safety honored
27 May
Summary
- Four women honored for improving fishing industry safety.
- Their campaign followed the 1968 sinking of three trawlers.
- A sculpture celebrated Lillian Bilocca's 97th birthday.
A poignant ceremony recently honored four women who spearheaded vital safety improvements in the fishing industry. Four memorial benches were covered in flowers to pay tribute to Lillian Bilocca, Yvonne Blenkinsop, Mary Denness, and Christine Smallbone.
The inaugural event celebrated their courageous campaign, which began after 58 fishermen lost their lives when three trawlers sank in 1968. The women's petition garnered 10,000 signatures in three days, leading to a meeting with the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries.
Their advocacy established the Fisherman's Charter, demanding essential upgrades like radio operators on every ship and better safety equipment. These actions significantly enhanced safety in what was once a perilous profession.
Additionally, a sculpture of Lillian Bilocca marked her 97th birthday. Despite facing significant opposition and personal threats, the women persevered, driven by a commitment to protecting lives at sea. Organizers are raising funds for a permanent statue to ensure their legacy is remembered.
