Paparella Family (Cosimo)

In the year 1937, a young man of eighteen, Cosimo made the long journey to Australia onboard the Viminale, in search for a better life. He arrived in Australia, a country full of promises on the 5th December and joined his brothers Giuseppe, Mauro Domenico and Leonardo.

The young men soon made Australia their home and settled into their life on the sea. They made their livelihood the best way they knew how and Cosimo began his work as a fisherman at the age of nineteen.

Like many fellow migrants, Cosimo worked hard in the hope of securing a better future for himself and his family. His work on the sea became his passion, and he developed a great love for the sea.

When the Second World War broke out, Cosimo along with his brothers Mauro Domenico and Leonardo, was interned at a camp in Harvey and Loveday for four years. During his time at the camp Cosimo was made cook, an experience that left him with many stories and memories which he would one day recall to his loved ones.

After his release on the 1st October 1944, Cosimo along with his brothers returned to their lives and their fishing boat, the Sea Queen.

At the age of 29, Cosimo fell in love with a beautiful young woman by the name of Anna Breglia. The young couple was married on the 31st October 1948 and shortly after started a family. Together they had 7 wonderful children, who meant the world to both Cosimo and Anna.

Cosimo and Anna were active members of the community and on two separate occasions the Sea Queen had the privilege of carrying the Madonna dei Martiri on board for the Blessing of the Fleet.

On 29th November 1954, Cosimo attained a new fishing vessel which was named the Rex. The Rex served him well over the years and 12 years later Cosimo built his last cray fishing boat which he renamed the Rex. In the year 1974, Cosimo’s most prized possession was chosen to carry the Madonna, for its first time.

Cosimo Paparella was a well-respected man in the fishing community. He was a skilled fisherman and was always honoured to participate in events such as the Blessing of the Fleet. He considered these occasions an opportunity to celebrate the life of a fisherman with the rest of the community,

Unfortunately, ill health brought an end to his life on the sea, but his love and passion for the water remained with him always. He will always be remembered by family and friends as a wonderful gentleman, a loving father and husband and a skilled fisherman.