I spent a bit of time in Fremantle some years back and a local cafe, Gino’s, still has my personal award for the best coffee in Australia! – Kevin Parker ed.
Located just a short drive south of Perth, the enchanting city of Fremantle/Walyalup offers a vibrant mix of history, marine heritage, and eclectic culture, ‘Freo’ as it’s affectionately known by the locals, exudes a charm that’s uniquely its own.
As you wander through Fremantle, you’ll be captivated by its beautiful blend of architecture. The city’s streets have some well-preserved examples of Victorian and Georgian buildings, a testament to its history as a key port in the early colonisation of Australia. Notable among these is the iconic Fremantle Town Hall, a stunning example of Victorian Gothic architecture, which stands as an emblem of the city’s colonial past.
Fremantle Prison is now UNESCO World Heritage-listed. It was the main convict barracks and prison in Western Australia and was constructed by convict labour between 1852 and 1859. The facility is “representative of the use of penal transportation to expand Britain’s geo-political spheres of influence, to punish criminals and deter crime in Britain. The site is also associated with the abolition of transportation to Australia, and the rise of domestic penitentiaries in Britain.” (https://www.australianconvictsites.org.au)
Guided tours take you through cell blocks, solitary cells, and execution chambers, offering a stark insight into the lives of the inmates who once resided there. For the brave-hearted, torchlight tours add a thrilling dimension to the prison’s daunting history.
Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour
Fremantle’s affinity with the sea is evident in its vibrant Fishing Boat Harbour, a working harbor surrounded by boardwalks, eateries, and a buzzing atmosphere. Here, visitors can sample fresh seafood straight from the ocean. Try the traditional fish and chips, or indulge in a seafood platter while overlooking the bobbing fishing boats.
Fremantle Cultural Scene
Fremantle is renowned for its thriving arts scene, filled with galleries, unique boutiques, and lively markets. Visit the Fremantle Arts Centre, housed in a neo-Gothic style building, and explore a range of contemporary visual arts.
For souvenir hunters and lovers of all things unique, the Fremantle Markets are a must-visit. Here, over 150 stalls showcase local crafts, exotic foods, and an array of eclectic wares every weekend.
Fremantle is also home to a burgeoning microbrewery scene. The city’s love for craft beers can be savored in popular spots (December 2023) like Little Creatures Brewery and Otherside Brewing Co. Each offers its own unique take on craft beer, often complemented by delicious pub grub, live music, and a relaxed, friendly ambiance.
Adding to Fremantle’s appeal are festivals and events that happen throughout the year, like the Fremantle Street Arts Festival, which sees the city streets come alive with performers from around the world.
Check out the Visit Freemantle Website to see what’s on
Fremantle Facts
Text below courtesy City of Fremantle with thanks
All facts here refer to the City of Fremantle local government area:
Population
Current population – 31,930 (2021 census)
Previous census information:
- 23 831 (1991 census)
- 24 276 (1996 census)
- 24 713 (2001 census)
- 25 259 (2005)
- 29 471 (2011 census)
- 31 114 (2016 census)
History
- 2 May 1829: Captain C.H. Fremantle claimed the “West coast of New Holland” as British territory.
- 17 April 1848: Town Trust established.
- 1871 Town Council created.
- 1883: Fremantle became a municipality.
- 3 June 1929: Fremantle proclaimed a city.
Geographical
Total area: 19.90sq km. (CBD 5.5ha)
Latitude: 32.03′ Longitude: 115.44′
14m above sea level
Time: Western Australian Time (GMT +8
Climate : Mediterranean
Average Temperature: Summer (Jan) 18.3 – 27.7C.
Winter (Jul) 10.2 – 17.6C
Average Rainfall : 775mm
Community
Schools: Primary 13; Secondary 4
Hospitals: 1, Fremantle Hospital
Nursing Homes: 6
Tertiary Education institutions : 2, University of Notre Dame, Challenger Institute
National Australian Rules Football Team – Fremantle Football Club (Dockers)
Economy
Key local industries – port and shipping, hospital and community services, education, regional and state government services, tourism, retail and the arts.
Number of registered businesses 4,655 (2017/18)
City centre workforce 8 849 (2011)
Fremantle total workforce 33 643 (2011)
Council
Council Composition: 10 Councillors and a Mayor
Number of Employees: 670 (permanent and casual)
Number of Electors: 25,178
Suburbs within Municipality: Fremantle, Beaconsfield, White Gum Valley, Hilton, North Fremantle, South Fremantle, O’Connor, Samson.
City divided into wards: Central, Coastal, East, and North
Sister cities
Seberang Perai, Malaysia established 1978
Yokosuka, Japan established 1979
Capo d’Orlando, Italy established1983
Molfetta, Italy established 1984
Funchal, Portugal established 1996
Friendship agreements Surabaya (1996) and Padang (1996) in Indonesia and Korcula, Croatia (1999).
