Dozens of ‘mermaids’ descend on popular beach
About 100 mermaids and mermen descended onto one of Perth’s most popular beaches, in an annual event celebrating Australia’s hidden “mermaid community”.
Dressing in shells, tails and scales, Perth’s merfolk and local families celebrated the Great Mermaid Migration at Coogee Beach on Saturday.
The event’s creative director Renee Wingfield began the event six or seven years ago, and it’s become a staple of Coogee Live, a summer festival that takes place every year at the coastal suburb.
“Every year, we would have an onslaught of people just wanting to let out their mermaid dreams,” she said.
“Our job is to spread joy and engage professional artists.”
Ms Wingfield said the event allowed mermaid enthusiasts to come together, with the subculture gathering steam thanks to the 2023 live action remake of the Disney classic The Little Mermaid.
While mermaids are the event’s major drawcard, she’s also seen some “fantastic squid” costumes too.
The event however is strictly kept to the beach, and no swimming is allowed for safety reasons.
“We are so unique. I think we can really have something special here. Who are we but water people?” she said.
