Sea Organ Memorial proposed for Fremantle
A group of fishers and volunteers with a passion to highlight the bravery of, and sacrifices made by, WA’s commercial fishing fleet have been working with State and local government agencies and other stakeholders to develop a concept that would see a Sea Organ memorial located in Fremantle on Bathers Beach.
The WA Fishers Lost at Sea Memorial Association (FlatSea) originally imagined a more traditional memorial, but has instead adopted a Sea Organ concept, similar to that in the Croatian city of Zadar. The Sea Organ uses the motion from wind and waves to generate a wafting musical melody, while also providing a contemporary seaside memorial where families of lost fishers can gather to remember loved ones lost.
The Zadar Sea Organ is now one of the world’s largest musical instruments and is a triumph of art and engineering. You can view the Zadar sea organ here.
FlatSea organisers believe a ‘sea organ’ would be a perfect tribute to the souls whom have been lost at sea while pulling pots, lines and nets along the WA coast. A beautiful, naturally powered musical instrument filling the beachside air with notes from the ocean while providing a place to be close with those lost.
The association is now in discussions with authorities and families about a location within Bathers Beach Bay along the southern rock groyne.
Once the location is agreed then a feasibility study will be carried out to determine engineering and access details.
Finally, construction, which will require funding, is expected to come through a mix of government support and community donations from across the nation.
You can find out more, or get involved here.