Historic port town a cultural hub

The choice of Fremantle harbour as a venue for the WA Business News 40under40 Awards gala event reflects the port’s long and vital role in the commercial world of Western Australia.

Established in 1829 as a port for the fledgling Swan River Colony, Fremantle was the major city in the state for much of its early history – firstly to export many of WA’s agricultural commodities and, later, as a disembarkation point for those chasing gold and other riches in the interior.

Even with much of WA’s industry now focused in the North-West, Fremantle remains in the big league among the state’s export ports.

It holds second place in tonnage terms with around 14 million tonnes, a fraction of Port Hedland, which concentrates almost wholly on iron ore.

Bulk cargo, consisting of the port’s principal export commodities of grain, alumina and refined petroleum, contributed 77.1 per cent (or 19.7mt) of total port trade in 2004-05.

Overall, Fremantle’s port handled 25.5mt last financial year.

Of course, much of this leaves from Cockburn Sound, whereas the inner harbour at the mouth of the Swan River is focused much more on container traffic, a growing number of passenger liners and the regular visits by the US Navy.

The port has undergone many changes over the years. Most recently has been the expansion of the northern side of the harbour, with Rous Head, which plays host to numerous export and shipping companies as well as some domestic Rottnest ferry services.

Current changes will result in a new rail infrastructure to help smooth the flow of land-based container traffic and the resulting move of heavy trucks out of the historic town.

Fremantle is also home to a considerable fishing fleet – rock lobster being the key catch – with some of the state’s biggest private companies operating major export operations out of premises that mingle with the trendy fishing boat harbour eateries.

The town itself has a rich history as the first port of call in Australia for many migrants and visitors and today has a wide mixture of cultures and nationalities.

This has helped carve a special identity for Fremantle, through its cafes, bars and restaurants, offering a culture that sits well with its maritime links but which also attracts specialist businesses seeking something different from other parts of metropolitan Perth.

Also, the distinctive nature of a port city and the availability of warehouses made vacant by the modernisation of the port attracted artists and arts organisations seeking low-cost accommodation.

As WA’s economy changed, Fremantle increasingly became a poor cousin to the gleaming towers of Perth and their focus on the mining sector. However, a slow decline was arrested in the mid-1980s when the port city became the host of the America’s Cup – providing a multi-million dollar boost to the town’s infrastructure and the restoration of its heritage buildings.

Fremantle is now a major tourist attraction, attracting large numbers of residents and visitors on a daily basis. The city offers a unique blend of a lively multicultural yet relaxed lifestyle and is a seven-day city.

Within easy walking and cycling distance, visitors can experience contemporary circus, fine crafts,

Fremantle provides a unique opportunity for visitors to experience and enjoy a range of cultural activities in a relaxed atmosphere. A browse through the markets or leisurely stop at one of the numerous cafes and restaurants will complement your exploration of the arts, making a visit to Fremantle a rich and rewarding experience.

It is, therefore, no wonder that some of Perth’s newest housing developments have occurred on the doorstep of this town, which presents residents the comforts of cultural life within close proximity to both Perth’s corporate headquarters and the industrial might of Kwinana.