Stella Maris Fremantle—an agency of the Catholic Archdiocese of Perth—is pleased to announce the launch of its brand-new website, a dedicated online space created to serve seafarers arriving at Fremantle Port or seeking support wherever they may be, whether on land or at sea.
With its fresh design and enhanced features, the website is a practical expression of the agency’s care for the people of the sea—supporting their physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing, no matter how far from home they may find themselves.
You Are Not Alone
At the heart of this development is a renewed articulation of the agency’s focus: to let every seafarer know that they are not alone.
“Every time a seafarer steps aboard a vessel, they embark on a journey marked by distance, danger, and often deep loneliness,” said Claude Coutinho, Coordinator of Stella Maris Fremantle.
“This new website is part of our commitment to journey with them—offering a sense of connection and community, grounded in the compassion of Christ.”
As part of the world’s largest ship-visiting network and the official maritime charity of the Catholic Church, Stella Maris Fremantle opens its doors—and now its digital home—to all seafarers and fishers, of all faiths and none.
Volunteers, chaplains, and partners offer welcome, conversation, transport, access to local worship, and a space to rest and reconnect.
And through the new website, these same supports are now easier than ever to access.
Highlights of the New Website
Among the many features of the site are:
- 🌍 Language Accessibility
The website includes multiple language options, making it easier for seafarers from around the world to access information. “During the testing phase, we showed the website to a Chinese seafarer who was genuinely moved to find the content in his own language. It was a touching moment,” Claude shared. - 📚 Resources for Seafarers
From mental health tools to spiritual reflections, the site hosts a growing collection of materials tailored to seafarers’ needs—supporting them in body, mind, and spirit. View here. - ⛪ Mass Times and Places of Worship
A comprehensive directory of local Catholic churches and other places of worship in Fremantle provides seafarers-of all faiths and none-with options for prayer, stillness, and fellowship during their brief stays. View here - 🗺️ Fremantle Visitor Guide
A practical map and guide to local services and sites helps seafarers make the most of their time ashore. View here - 🌐 Stella Maris Global Network
With more than 15 centres across Australia and many more worldwide, the website also serves as a hub for connecting seafarers with other Stella Maris locations—offering a sense of home wherever the sea may take them. View here - 📖 News and Stories
The site features a dedicated news section, sharing stories from seafarers, local volunteers, and the wider Stella Maris global community. View here
The website proudly bears the Stella Maris global brandmark—a logo steeped in Catholic symbolism.
Translated as “Star of the Sea,” Stella Maris is one of the Church’s traditional titles for Our Lady, who has long been honoured as the protector of seafarers.
A Message of Gratitude and Welcome
“Thank you to Claude, Deacon Patrick Moore, and the many passionate Stella Maris Fremantle volunteers for their dedication in building this vital online resource,” said Debra Sayce, Head of Mission Enhancement and Outreach – Archdiocesan Agencies.
“We invite all seafarers to explore the new website and reach out if there’s anything they need. And we encourage our wider Catholic community to share the site with seafaring family and friends. It is a gift of welcome and accompaniment.”
The new website also features a personal message of blessing from Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB, offering a warm embrace to all seafarers—of all faiths and none—who journey through the Port of Fremantle.
As Claude Coutinho concluded, “At Stella Maris Fremantle, our message to all seafarers is simple: you are not forgotten. Wherever you go, we walk with you.”
Visit the website today: https://stellamaris.perthcatholic.org.au/