The Fremantle community, the rock lobster and fishing community and the Italian and Portuguese community have come together to celebrate this tradition since 1948. The blessing will be accompanied by the Little Italy by the Sea festival at Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour, which will enable people to get their hands and tastebuds on some delicious fresh seafood. The Fremantle Sardine Festival was second-generation fisherman Jim Mendolia’s brainchild to change the public perception of the humble sardine. He was inspired to start the sardine festival after hearing of similar events in Portugal. Cam Allen from Western Rock Lobster said they would be selling fresh western rock lobster caught that day and barbecued straight off the back of the boat.