Fremantle A Day out
Fremantle A Day Out, Discover Fremantle
With so many things to do in Fremantle, you will be spoilt for choice. We are here for a week then go to Margaret River and return for another week. We have friends in the area so will need to plan things to fit in with others. The first day I checked that the water went down the plug hole the other way. It did, so then we had a walk around town. We picked up 2 x Optus SIM cards at $20.00 each. They were valid for a month, unlimited calls, Texts and 15 GB data for use in Australia from Coles the Supermarket.
While there we did a little grocery shopping as we were staying in a self-catering apartment. Jam, Marmalade, cling film etc. The groceries that we could cart around without the need of a fridge during our trip. In the evening we went to the Wharf/Fishing boat area. We had fish and chips at Cicerello’s Fremantle. Food out was planned for the first day. We did not know when the repercussions of our 17 – hour flight would kick in and floor us. As it turned out, we streamlined into our new upside-down world and the body clocks functioned well.
Trips out and about in Fremantle
We had quite a large list of things to do in Fremantle. First on our agenda was to pay our respects at the Fremantle War Memorial for Armistice Day. We got there around 10.30 am and stayed for the prayers and reef laying. After this we went for a walk. Our plan was to walk to Rainbow Sea Container down near Swan River, then walk over to the Fremantle Arts Centre .
Sunday was Music at Fremantle Arts Centre a free weekly live music program. Rob Snarski was playing. He has played in several Australian bands including Chad’s Tree, The Blackeyed Susans and The Triffids since the 1980s. Performing solo, Rob returned to FAC with a guitar case full of songs, new and old. The venue served food and had a wood-fired pizza oven and a bar. The stage was outside on the front lawn with plenty of space to sit and chill out on the grass.
We visited the Arts Centre a few times first to see an exhibition of paintings by several artists. Then we attended a Christmas craft makers market. They seem to have a full weekly schedule of events. Music and Arts based.
Fremantle Markets
Step inside the Fremantle Markets and enjoy the distinctive atmosphere of over a hundred years of vibrant culture and heritage. Fremantle Markets plays host to over 150 stalls. If you are renting an apartment then this is the place to buy your fresh fruit and vegetables. They also host bakeries that sell bread and cakes. Family-run cafes are plentiful selling every type of cuisine you can imagine. There are hundreds of craft makers/designers, selling things like homemade soap, ceramic, and art. You can find Fremantle Markets on South Terrace which is the main street running through Fremantle.
This is also the place where Buskers meet and entertain you. There are about 10 buskers on a Saturday and Sunday, each taking a pitch for around an hour or so. The only downside is the opening hours Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday Public Holidays 8 am till 6 pm. Not good if you need your fresh groceries on a weekday.
E Shed Markets
The E Shed is located on the waterfront with a magnificent view of Fremantle Ports. Take a stroll down to the jetty area to the left of the Train station, and you will find the E Shed Markets on your left. The Markets are open Friday Saturday Sunday. E Shed Markets is a riverside marketplace with vendors for vintage & antique goods, crafts & souvenirs, plus eateries. They hold live music events throughout the year and seasonal events like a Christmas Carnival.
It’s a nice place to look around maybe on your way back from Rottnest Island, or to get a coffee before before your trip. They have a lot of craft stalls, most seem to sell imported goods like T-shirts and hats etc. It’s kind of like the market stalls that you find on most High streets in the United Kingdom. The bar area outside has some nice seating and views of the waterfront.
WA Maritime Museum
The WA Maritime Museum is Perched on the Indian Ocean’s shore in the E shed and Rottnest Ferry area. The WA Maritime Museum is symbolic of Fremantle’s past, present and future as a coastal city and port.
The Museum houses several unique galleries that explore WA’s maritime relationship. From leisure boats and handcrafted sailing boats to commercial pearl luggers, the Museum inspires visitors to discover WA’s affinity with the ocean.
The Museum is home to the winning America’s Cup yacht, Australia II, an Oberon class submarine — HMAS Ovens, Jon Sanders’ Parry Endeavour and many other iconic vessels from WA’s maritime history. Open 7 days a week from around 9.00 am till 5.00 pm
SeaLink Rottnest Island – B Shed Fremantle Terminal
Day trips to Rottnest Island with Sealink There are several ways to visit Rottnest Island. This is an easier way if you are staying in Fremantle. Boats also run from Central Perth and other places along the coast. Tickets cost around $70.00 for a round trip, this includes the Government admission fee. Main boarding times are around 07.00, 09.00 and 11.00
Sealink Rottnest Island Ferry Terminal Information
SeaLink Rottnest Island’s ferries depart from two primary locations B Shed Victoria Quay, Fremantle and Pier 3 Barrack Street Jetty, Perth every day (excluding Christmas Day).
Rottnest Island is 19 kilometres from the port city of Fremantle, the ferry crossing takes approximately Thirty minutes. For passengers travelling from Perth, the ferry journey is approximately one and a half hours.
You will need to allow a thirty minutes minimum check-in time prior to departure in order to collect your boarding pass(es) and make appropriate luggage arrangements. If you are travelling with no checked-in luggage and have a QR code ticket you will not need to check-in at our office, and can simply head straight to boarding.
If you are checking in luggage, you will be required to check in at our ticketing office first to collect your luggage tags.
Boarding for all passengers closes ten minutes prior to departure. Both Fremantle and Perth departure terminals offer disabled and family friendly restrooms including a baby change table.
Fremantle Arts Centre
Honouring Tradition, Celebrating Creativity
At the heart of Fremantle, amidst the vibrant artistic tapestry, lies the Fremantle Arts Centre, a hub of creativity and cultural appreciation. As we step into this inspiring space, it’s essential to pause and acknowledge the profound connection it shares with the traditional lands of the Whadjuk people.
A Gracious Acknowledgment Honouring the Whadjuk People
The Fremantle Arts Centre stands as a beacon of art and culture, but it is also a custodian of respect and understanding. We wholeheartedly acknowledge and pay our respects to the Whadjuk people, the Traditional Owners of this land and the greater Walyalup area. Their ancient wisdom, spiritual connection with the land, and cultural heritage beliefs form the bedrock of our shared existence.
Bridging the Past and Present Embracing Cultural Significance
In recognising the Whadjuk people’s enduring cultural significance, we celebrate the rich tapestry of traditions that continue to shape the vibrant landscape of Fremantle. The cultural heritage of the Whadjuk people is not confined to history books; it lives and breathes in the artistry, stories, and ceremonies that echo through generations.
A Space for All Fostering Inclusivity and Creativity
As custodians of the Fremantle Arts Centre, we are committed to fostering an environment of inclusivity and mutual respect. Every stroke of paint, every melody, and every performance within these walls is a testament to the harmonious blend of cultures, where the past informs the present and inspires the future.
Join Us in Celebration Embracing Diversity through Art
We invite you to join us in this celebration of cultural diversity, creativity, and respect. Let the art created within these walls and the stories shared beneath its roof serve as a reminder of the unity that transcends time and heritage. Together, let us honour the Whadjuk people, their ancestral legacy, and the enduring spirit that makes the Fremantle Arts Centre a place of boundless inspiration and artistic expression.
Housed in a gothic heritage building in Fremantle’s east end. The Fremantle Arts Centre is the City of Fremantle’s premier arts service and one of the leading arts organisations in Australia. FAC presents contemporary visual art exhibitions and a varied program of concerts and events from local, national and international artists. With a wide range of art courses for adults and kids, an Artist in Residence program, Shop which sells the largest range of WA-designed wares, a quaint café and beautiful leafy grounds, there are always plenty of reasons to visit.
FAC’s commitment to supporting local artists is at the heart of all the centre’s programming and activities.
Opening Hours
Fremantle Arts Centre is open daily:
Grounds 8 am – 5 pm
Reception & Shop 9am – 5 pm
Galleries 10am – 5 pm
Canvas Café 8am–3pm Mon–Fri | 8 am–4 pm Sat–Sun (kitchen closes 2pm weekdays, 3 pm weekends)
Free Entry
Rainbow Sea Container
Marcus Canning’s ‘Rainbow’ was installed between the bridges at Beach Reserve overlooking the Fremantle port in 2016. At 9-metres high and19-metres long, and tipping the scales at 66 tonnes Rainbow is not your average public art piece.
The sculpture by prominent Perth artist Marcus Canning is constructed from nine recycled sea containers joined to form an arch.
Canning’s artwork now welcomes visitors to Fremantle whether they’re arriving by train, car or boat. It overlooks the Swan River as well as the container port from which it draws part of its inspiration as a universal symbol of hope and acknowledgement of Fremantle’s artistic as well as maritime heritage.
See it for yourself at Beach Reserve adjacent to Canning Highway, overlooking the Swan River and the port! It’s 1.6 kilometres from Fremantle bus and train station. There’s plenty of parking at East Street Jetty on Beach Street. It’s a short walk up the ramp behind the café or you can hire a free bike from Fremantle Visitor Centre in the town hall.
Exploring Fremantle Prison
A Journey Through Time
Welcome to Fremantle Prison, a captivating slice of Western Australia’s history and a testament to the region’s rich heritage. This imposing structure stands as a reminder of the past, echoing tales of punishment, resilience, and transformation. Join us on an intriguing journey through time as we unravel the secrets of this iconic site.
Unparalleled Legacy Witnessing History
Fremantle Prison boasts a legacy that stretches back to the early days of Western Australia. As the largest convict-built structure in the region, it holds a significant place in the nation’s history. Its evolution mirrors the growth of the state, making it a cultural treasure trove for enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
A World Heritage Gem The Prestige of Recognition
In 2010, Fremantle Prison achieved a milestone, becoming the first building in Western Australia to be included in the prestigious World Heritage list. This accolade, part of a joint nomination with ten other Australian Convict Sites, solidified its status as a global heritage icon. The prison also holds a prominent spot on the National Heritage List and the State Register of Heritage Places, further highlighting its historical importance.
Unlocking the Past: Tours That Bring History to Life
Visiting Fremantle Prison is not just a journey; it’s an immersive experience. Step inside the Gatehouse, where you’ll find a plethora of attractions awaiting your exploration. The Convict Café, Gift Shop, Prison Gallery, Convict Depot, and Museum offer glimpses into the prison’s storied past.
However, the true magic lies in the guided tours led by experienced guides. These storytellers breathe life into the prison’s folklore, taking you on a captivating adventure through its corridors. Choose from a variety of tours, each offering a unique perspective. Whether you prefer intriguing day tours, spine-chilling torchlight adventures, or the thrill of exploring the ‘extreme heritage’ tunnels, there’s an experience tailored just for you.
From Punishment to Preservation: Embracing Change
Decommissioned as a maximum-security gaol in 1991, Fremantle Prison underwent a remarkable transformation. What was once a place of incarceration has evolved into a thriving tourist attraction, welcoming curious souls from around the globe. Its preservation efforts, combined with engaging tours and exhibits, create an immersive encounter with the past.
So, embark on a journey to Fremantle Prison, where history comes to life, and the echoes of the past resonate with every step. Discover the allure of this World Heritage site, explore its nooks and crannies, and let the tales of the past enchant you. Your adventure awaits within the walls of this iconic Australian landmark.
Fremantle Round House
Where History Beckons
Nestled amidst the charming streets of Fremantle stands the iconic Fremantle Round House, a living testament to the rich tapestry of Western Australia’s history. Dating back to January 1831, a mere 18 months after the settlement’s inception, this remarkable structure holds the esteemed title of being the oldest public building in the state.
Guardian of Justice A Glimpse into the Past
Originally designed as a place to incarcerate those convicted of crimes in the burgeoning settlement, the Round House served this purpose diligently until 1886. Its stout walls witnessed the trials and tribulations of early settlers, encapsulating an era where justice was stern and swift.
Following its role as a gaol, the Round House underwent a transformation, becoming a Police Lock-up until the late 1890s. Subsequently, it provided accommodation for the Water Police and later served as a storage facility for Fremantle Ports. Each chapter of its history adds depth to its character, making it a fascinating exploration for history enthusiasts.
A Brush with Demolition Rescued and Preserved
In the 1920s, the Round House faced a dire threat – demolition. However, its significance was recognized, and it was saved from the brink of destruction. Control of this historic gem was transferred to the State Government, ensuring its preservation for generations to come. Today, visitors can marvel at its architectural grandeur and delve into the stories etched within its walls.
Embracing the Legacy A Window to the Past
Stepping into the Fremantle Round House is like stepping back in time. As you wander through its corridors, you can almost hear the echoes of the past and visualize the lives of those who once resided within its confines. The Round House stands not just as a building, but as a living chronicle of Western Australia’s evolution.
Join us on a journey to the heart of Fremantle’s heritage. Explore the nooks and crannies of the Round House, where every brick tells a story and every corner whispers secrets of days long gone. Experience the charm of this historic marvel and let the allure of the past enchant you. Fremantle Round House awaits, promising a captivating encounter with history that will leave you inspired and awestruck.
Fremantle Round House.
WA Shipwrecks Museum
Unravelling Maritime Mysteries
Prepare to embark on a captivating maritime adventure at the WA Shipwrecks Museum, a treasure trove of historical wonders and maritime archaeology. Nestled within the enchanting 1850s-era Commissariat building, this museum stands as a beacon of maritime heritage, offering a glimpse into the intriguing tales of ships lost along Western Australia’s perilous coastline.
A Haven of Relics Preserving Maritime Legacies
Step into the meticulously restored Commissariat building, where history comes to life amidst its ancient walls. The museum’s galleries house an awe-inspiring collection of relics, each with its own compelling story. From the original timbers of the ill-fated Batavia, tragically wrecked in 1629, to the exquisite de Vlamingh Dish and a myriad of artefacts from Dutch shipwrecks like Zuytdorp, Zeewijk, and Vergulde Draeck, the museum is a testament to the enduring spirit of exploration and the perils faced by seafarers of centuries past.
Southern Hemisphere’s Maritime Gem A Unique Experience
Recognised as the foremost maritime archaeology museum in the southern hemisphere, the WA Shipwrecks Museum offers a unique opportunity to delve into the mysteries of the deep. Each artefact on display tells a tale of resilience, adventure, and the relentless power of the ocean. Visitors are transported through time, immersing themselves in the stories of mariners and their ill-fated voyages, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and curious minds alike.
Where History Meets Restoration The Commissariat Building
The museum’s setting, the historic Commissariat building, adds an extra layer of charm to your visit. Painstakingly restored to its 1850s grandeur, the building itself is a work of art, providing a fitting backdrop for the maritime treasures it houses. As you wander through its halls, you’ll find yourself captivated by the seamless blend of history and restoration, creating an atmosphere that transports you to a bygone era.
An Invitation to Explore Discovering the Unseen
Join us at the WA Shipwrecks Museum, where every artefact, every timber, and every story invites you to explore the mysteries of the deep blue sea. Whether you’re a history aficionado, a maritime enthusiast, or a curious soul seeking adventure, this museum promises an unforgettable experience. Come, unravel the secrets of the sea, and embark on a journey through time at one of Western Australia’s most cherished cultural gems.
The WA Shipwrecks Museum is recognised as the foremost maritime archaeology museum in the southern hemisphere.
Dingo Flour
The Dingo Flour sign is a well-known landmark of a stylised silhouetted dingo in red on the side of an historic and heritage-listed working flour mill in North Fremantle, Perth, Western Australia. I have tried to find out a bit about the history of this mill. Every page I find contains different information. So all I can say is that its a good land mark and an iconic painting in Fremantle.
Location of Dingo Flour Mill, you will pass it of you are driving off towards to Cottesloe Beach. Take highway 12 Queen Victoria Street over the River. Then first left and follow the road around. You can park up near the apartments between port beach and Leighton Beach. Location Map for Dingo Flour
Fremantle Accommodation, Hotels Bed and Breakfasts
