Women Fishing - Dromana & District Historical Society

 

 

The fishing industry in Dromana and the surrounding districts has deep roots, stretching back to the early days of European settlement. Behind the boats, nets, and catches, women played an indispensable role in shaping the region’s maritime economy. While their work was often overlooked or undervalued in historical accounts, their contributions were essential to the survival and success of local fishing families.

In the early 20th century, the Dromana area became known for its productive fishing industry, where families relied on the sea for both sustenance and income. Women in these communities were heavily involved in every stage of the fishing process, from preparing the bait and mending nets to cleaning and packing the catch for sale. They worked alongside their husbands, fathers, and brothers, often in harsh conditions, to ensure that the day’s catch was preserved, packaged, and transported to market.

One poignant story from Dromana involves the wives and daughters of local fishermen, who often worked together in tight-knit teams. These women were responsible for sorting and gutting fish, a delicate and labour-intensive process that required skill and precision. Some women even took on roles as fish vendors, selling their fresh catches at local markets or to the growing number of visitors who came to the Peninsula for holidays. In addition to their work on the boats and in the markets, many women helped sustain the community through their involvement in local cooperative ventures, organising support systems for families dependent on fishing for their livelihoods.

Despite the significant role these women played, their contributions often went unrecognised in the broader historical narrative. The work was seen as part of the domestic sphere, despite its critical importance to the region’s economy. However, the Herstory project seeks to reclaim and elevate these overlooked stories, connecting them to the ongoing fight for gender equality. By highlighting the essential roles of women in Dromana’s fishing industry, Herstory not only celebrates their resilience and ingenuity but also underscores the broader social and economic forces at play in the region’s history.

 

   

Image: Women Fishing Credit: Dromana and District Historical Society