Freo’s iconic Naval Store to host Long Table Dinner in support of people experiencing homelessness

A beloved annual event is moving location this year but the message stays the same when the Fremantle Long Table Dinner sets sail for the Naval Store, raising funds to support people experiencing homelessness.

Taking place on Saturday 16 November and with a special Marine Steampunk theme, the night will bring the community together for some fine dining, entertainment and of course, fundraising.

The event is a partnership between St Patrick’s Community Support Centre (St Pat’s) and The National Hotel, and the location shift and smaller capacity (400 guests) came about after guests sought a more intimate experience in 2024. St Pat’s says the event has raised over $800,000 since its inception in 2016, with those funds allowing it to continue providing accommodation, meals, healthcare and more to people doing it tough in our community.

Attendees are encouraged to don steampunk-inspired attire – think Victorian naval captains, mechanical mermaids and deep-sea adventurers – or come as themselves!

“Every year, people come together to help St Pat’s raise the funds we need to continue caring for a growing number of vulnerable people,” said St Pat’s Chief Executive Officer Michael Piu. “But it’s also about showcasing young artists, local businesses and the diverse, inclusive community we’re proud to call home.”

The National Hotel’s owner, Karl Bullers, agreed: “What began as a collaboration between The National Hotel and St Pat’s, as a way to recognise the talent and verve of local businesses while also giving back, has flourished into an event which our whole community can be proud of.”

Guests will enjoy a three-course meal prepared by The National Hotel, celebrating local produce and looking delicious if we don’t say so ourselves:

• Entrée: Shared platters featuring marinated olives, sundried tomatoes, pickled red peppers, grilled zucchini, rosemary balsamic roasted mushrooms, artichoke hearts, continental meats, cheese, pumpkin hummus with fresh breads
• Main: Slow-braised beef in tomato basil ragu sauce with smashed potato, seasonal vegetables, and
  parmesan herb pangrattato OR Barramundi marinated with thyme and garlic, served with crushed
  potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and caper salsa
• Vegetarian option: Pumpkin and spinach stuffed field mushroom with crushed potatoes and vegan aioli
• Dessert: Local and imported cheese selection with water crackers, dried fruits, seasonal grapes, and handcrafted petit fours

Guests will also be well-watered with WA wines, beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages, while entertainment includes Famous Sharron as MC along with live performances from Rocks & Rhubarb, Quiet Country, fire performance troupe Dangerous Delights and a grand finale from Brass Party.

There will be a silent auction and a live auction on the night, with generous contributions from a variety of local business that include travel packages and holiday homes.

Tickets are on sale now – get more info and grab yours via fremantlelongtable.com.au/tickets.

Image Credit: Supplied