LAKES COAST VISITOR GUIDE | PAGE 11 SAN REMO Be sure to stop here before you cross the bridge Before you head over the bridge to Phillip Island, be sure to stop in San Remo – a surprising seaside village that has plenty to see and do, from pubs and pelicans, to picnics and piers. Home to one of the largest shark-fishing fleets in Victoria, San Remo’s jetties are fun for a stroll or for a spot of fishing, while the main street has a variety of shops and galleries, cafés and takeaway stores. Fisherman’s Co-op This picturesque coastal village is home to the San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op, a ‘must-stop’ seafood destination for anyone making their way to or from Phillip Island. Here you can indulge in fresh fish and chips at its renowned seafood restaurant, overlooking the San Remo jetty and Phillip Island bridge. Eating your crispy, golden fish and chips ‘al fresco’ here is a real experience, as you overlook the beautiful turquoise waters in which the seafood was caught. Community cornerstone General Manager of the San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op, Wolfgang Platzer, said the Co-op was established in 1948 with the mission to support Victorian commercial fishermen. “The Co-op is a community cornerstone that champions sustainable fishing and fair trade, and it’s a beacon of ethical practices and community spirit,” Wolfgang explained. “We reinvest our profits into supporting local commercial fishermen and the San Remo community in various ways, ensuring that the benefits of the Co-op’s success are felt throughout San Remo, making it a true pillar of the local community. Our member fishermen benefit from a range of services, including jetty support, ice production, access to fishing equipment, and they also get a say in the organisation’s future.” Sustainable fishing Wolfgang said the Co-op team takes great pride in serving only sustainably-sourced seafood. “Every bite you take supports sustainable, small-scale fishing operations, and promotes environmental stewardship,” he said. “The Co-op pays its fishermen up to 40 per cent above the industry standard, enabling them to engage in responsible fishing practices without compromising their livelihoods. This fair compensation model ensures that the seafood you enjoy is fresh and ethically sourced. “By supporting the Co-op, you contribute to a fair supply chain that prioritises the wellbeing of the fishermen and the marine ecosystem.” Daily pelican feeding Every day at noon, the Co-op hosts a pelican feeding session that has become a beloved tradition for locals and tourists alike, offering a unique opportunity to watch these majestic birds up close as they gather at the jetty for a midday snack. Wolfgang described the daily event as an “educational tourist attraction that captivates visitors of all ages, and adds a touch of natural wonder to your visit”. “It also reflects our commitment to fostering a harmonious relationship with local wildlife and environment,” he said. Find out more The San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op is open every day from 10.30am8pm. To find out more, go to srfco.com.au or call (03) 5678 5206. The jetties, foreshore and Fisherman’s Co-op at San Remo, as seen from the bridge to Phillip Island. PB28503
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