Western Australia Tourism & Accommodation Guide

Fremantle - Gateway to the West Coast

Situated at the mouth of the Swan River at the Northern end of the FUN COAST, the port city of Fremantle retains much of the character and charm of the past, combined with the vibrant mix of cultures that makes up the population of this harbourside city.

Ever since the Australia 2 syndicate wrested the Americas Cup from the New York Yacht Club in 1983 (the Americans had previously been unbeaten for 132 years), the once sleepy port of "Freo" has been growing into a major tourism and recreation centre. In later years Jon Sanders epic three times circumnavigation of the world started and finished at Fremantle. David Dicks became the youngest sailor to make a full circumnavigation of the world, and Fremantle was his home port.

The City:
Declared a city in 1929, Fremantle (now with a population of more than 25,000 people) remains a working port city with both the Fremantle Harbour and Fishermen's Harbour offering a unique range of commercial and tourism activities. Maritime and historical themes are found throughout the city and the seafood is delicious.

The People:
The people of Fremantle are a diverse and multicultural mix. The cultures, lifestyles, food and languages they brought with them to this country all contribute to the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the city. Students, business people, tourists and residents mingle in the wide array of sidewalk cafes on Fremantle's famous " Cappuccino Strip".

The Arts:
The city abounds with galleries and other venues featuring contempory art, craft and other activities which contribute to the diverse cultural identity of Fremantle.

Accommodation:
Fremantle provides a perfect base for a wider ranging exploration of Perth by rail, bus or car or daily business runs to the Perth CBD. There is a wide range of accommodation to choose from backpackers to 4 star hotels. A uniquely Fremantle experience is the enjoyment of village life while staying in fine heritage properties close to the city centre.

Festivals and Events:
Fremantle is a festival city so watch out for the Fremantle Festival in November, The Sardine Festival in January
and the Blessing of the Fleet in October.

The Markets:
State Premier Sir John Forest laid the foundation stone for the markets on Saturday 6 November 1897, since that time the markets have developed into a vibrant centre of activity with a unique identity. Over 150 stalls are housed in a grand old Victorian building of remarkable character. Visit the markets

The West End of Fremantle has been little disturbed and is a prime example Victorian architecture in a port city. The local community plays an important role in retaining and refurbishing these heritage buildings, many of which are classified by the National Trust.

The History:
Fremantle's name honours Sir Carles Howe Fremantle who, as the 28 year old Captain of "HMS Challenger", took possession of the Western Coast of Australia for Britain in 1829. Settlers from Britain followed in the "Parmelia" and established the "Swan River Colony".

Aboriginal people had lived in this land for many thousands of years before these events. Much of their past and present heritage and culture is recorded in Museums in Fremantle and Perth.

Convict labour was used for many civil works in the colony, and in 1897 the first steamer entered the new Fremantle Harbour. The goldrush years were responsible for quick growth in Fremantle, the influx of goods and gold seekers brought many a new business to the port, which today is a thriving and prosperous community.

Round House
The Round House is the oldest remaining building in Western Australia. It was built as a gaol and was the first permanent building in the colony. Built between 1830 and 1831, it had eight cells and a gaolers residence which all opened up into a central courtyard.
Bay whaling was carried out from Bathers beach below the Round House. As part of the whaling operations a tunnel was constructed under the Round House to provide whalers with access to the town from the jetty and bathers beach.

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Activities and Tours
Country Escapes in WA
Fremantle Markets
Fremantle Ships

The old Lunatic Asylum- now the Fremantle Arts Centre.
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The Endeavour Replica in Fishing Boat Harbour.
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Gateway to Fremantle Prison. More information

Roundhouse, original convict prison

Accomodation
Fremantle