Memorial to prawning birthplace

By Samantha Elley

A $10,000 donation from the Sydney Fish Markets has made it possible for a monument to be raised in recognition of the early fshing industry and community of Evans Head.

“The fshermen approached me in 2017 (as) they wanted to have a reunion at Evans Head because this is where the birth of the school prawn industry began,” said Evans Head Living Museum vice president, Lillian Colless.

late 1940s, the prawning boats were bringing in up to 6,000 lbs or 2,700kgs of prawns per day in the 1950s-60s, according to Lillian.

second fshermen’s reunion is underway and it will include a very special event.

“Our second reunion will be held on the 24th and 25th February 2024,” said Lillian.

“The opening will be the unveiling of the monument at 11am on the verge of the grass in front of the old co-op site on the north side of the river just past the RSL Memorial Garden.”

$40 per person.

Sunday lunch will be held at the Fishermen’s Co-Op at 12 pm with a blessing of the feet.

The Evans Head Living Museum will be open for most of the weekend, with all new fshing displays.

The monument is currently being built in stone by Monumental Masons in Lismore.