Blessing of the Nelson Fishing Fleet Saturday 29 October

The eleventh annual Blessing of Nelson’s Fishing Fleet is scheduled for this Saturday, a shift from the usual timing in July. However, the intent is the same, to link the people of Nelson with fishing industry and pay tribute to those who have lost their lives at sea.

Seafarers Memorial Trust spokesman Mike Smith says the blessing couldn’t be held in July because the city council was working on improvements around the Sunderland Pier on Wakefield Quay where it takes place.

There will be the usual fireworks on Friday night (October 28), with viewing from the waterfront and the port hills. Flares and fireworks will be set off from 8pm, a later time than usual because of the later time of year.

On Saturday at 1pm Bishop Richard Ellena, Reverend Jeff Cotton and Father Michael ODea will take the blessing service, with fishing boats lined up in front of the Seafarers’ Memorial on Wakefield Quay.

Music will be provided by the Nelson Male Voice Choir, Nelson Christian Academy Choir, lone piper Perry Smith and the Nelson City Brass Band. Pigeons will be released at the end of the service.

“This annual event is now in its eleventh year and is a very special commemoration by the Seafarers Memorial Trust for those who have lost their lives at sea as well as a blessing for the Nelson fishing fleet,” Mr Smith said. “We are expecting the good turnout we usually have, it’s a service is cemented into the Nelson calendar and one that shows the important contribution the fishing and seafood industry make to our community.”

With the help of the Rotary Club of Nelson, the trust will be offering scallop and fish picnic lunches and there will be an auction of the Catch of the Day.

Other highlights include a man overboard drill involving the Summit Rescue Helicopter; and there will be loud and colourful day-time mescalita fireworks at the conclusion of the event.

The Blessing of the Fleet is a free community event, however the public will be asked to make a donation to the Seafarers’ Memorial Trust to be used in community projects.

If Saturday is wet the Blessing of the Fleet will be held on Sunday 29 October. Postponement will be broadcast on Radio Nelson stations (ie Newstalk, Classic Hits etc.)

ENDS

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