(Pic: Kristian Maley, 2005)

If all Fremantle means to you is the contest for the 1987 America's Cup, you need to catch up. Of course, that was a lot of fun for everyone, and a tonic for the sea-port for the city of Perth, Western Australia, BUT that was all many years ago!

The eclectic and multicultural port city of Fremantle – famed for its vibrant music and arts scene, cafes and bars, boutique breweries and historic streetscapes – is about to embark on its biggest transformation in 30 years.

Similar to Perth city - the change in liquor licensing laws and the strong Western Australian economy has meant that Fremantle has already welcomed new small bars and dining options. The Mantle, Bread in Common, Bathers Beach House, The Raw Kitchen, Bib & Tucker, The Shipping Lane and Propeller are just some of the newcomers. On the hotel front - The Hougoumont and Be. Serviced Apartments – offer visitors fresh new boutique accommodation. DoubleTree by Hilton will open a new 150 room hotel overlooking Princess May Park in Fremantle in 2017.

(Little Creatures Brewery)

Exploring Fremantle

‘Freo’ as it’s known to locals is located only 30 minutes-drive or train from Perth city.  Spend the day exploring the city’s many galleries, including contemporary and traditional Aboriginal; browse the iconic Fremantle markets; unwind at one of the many cafes and restaurants; enjoy live music at one of the historic bars or check out some of the local designer labels.

The main hub of activity can be found along South Terrace or the ’Cappuccino Strip’ as it is affectionately known, and the streets between High and Norfolk. Within Fremantle itself new food, wine and fashion hubs are sprouting. Check out South Fremantle – the southern end of South Terrace, North Fremantle – off Queen Victoria Street and Stirling Highway and the historic George Street precinct in East Fremantle.

Established in 1829 as a port for the fledgling Swan River Colony, Fremantle has a fascinating maritime and convict history. Boasting the best preserved example of a 19th century port streetscape in the world -  over 150 buildings in the port city are classified by the National Trust, including The Round House (1831), The Esplanade Hotel (1890s) and the Fremantle Prison (1850s).

Fremantle also retains its strong connection to the sea and is home to a 500-strong fishing fleet, hundreds of yachts and pleasure craft, and two significant historical replica ships HMS Endeavour and the Duyfken, which was the first Dutch vessel to chart the Australian coastline in 1666. The Maritime Museum at Victoria Quay is a must visit.

SEE & DO:

• Enjoy a coffee and soak up the atmosphere along the famous ‘Cappuccino Strip’, located on South Terrace – or explore the side streets and discover great little gems such as The Attic at 16 Bannister Street 
• Potter through the fresh produce and exotic flavours at the 100-year-old Fremantle Markets.
• Be entertained by a local busker or check out one of the city’s live music venues such as Mojo’s Bar and X-Wray.
• Enjoy fresh fish and chips straight off the boat at Fishing Boat Harbour – Cicerellos and Kailis are much loved by locals and visitors.
• Discover Fremantle’s history and present day culture on one of the city’s many self-guided walking trails.
• Step inside and do time with experienced guides on a fascinating Fremantle Prison day tour. Explore the labyrinth of tunnels 20 metres below ground by foot and by boat
• Visit the WA Maritime Museum at Victoria Quay, Fremantle Arts Centre or one of the many other museums and galleries such as the Moores Building Contemporary Art Gallery.
• Sample boutique beer at one of the great microbreweries, such as Little Creatures and the Sail & Anchor.
• Fremantle is a shopaholic’s heaven, with a huge range of eclectic retailers. Find fashion, jewellery, crafts, original artworks, homewares and quirky gifts along High and Market Streets and a few of the smaller side streets off South Terrace, such as Essex Street, which has recently welcomed fashion newcomer Bobby & Olive.
• Enjoy one of Fremantle’s many festivals throughout the year, like the Fremantle Street Arts Festival, Winter Garden festival, the Community Fringe Festival and West Coast Blues and Roots Festival.

(information from Tourism Western Australia)

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