The Secrets of Fremantle’s Historic West End with Captain Dave

Hi, I’m Captain Dave. I am a proud and passionate Western Australian and I have lived and worked in the historic port city of Fremantle all my life. I am a Master Mariner and working Marine Pilot in the Port of Fremantle and have a lifelong interest in history. I recently completed a Masters degree in History at the Fremantle based University of Notre Dame Australia. I am also a fanatic follower of the local Australian Football team, the Fremantle Dockers. So, it is fair to say ‘I’m a Freo boy’ through and through! Fremantle, situated at the mouth of the Swan River and downstream from the beautiful state capital of Perth, is a truly remarkable place. For thousands of years, Fremantle (Walyalup) has been an important meeting point for the original first nations custodians of the area, the Whadjuk Nyoongar people of the southwest. It is also the location where the first European colonial settlers landed in 1829. Today, the city has developed into a wonderfully diverse and cosmopolitan place influenced by waves of migration from many different countries and cultures. For almost 200 years, Fremantle’s unique character has been forged by its role as Western Australia’s primary port. It is a true port city in every sense. The heritage listed West End is regarded as one of the best-preserved gold rush era port cities in the world. But of course, cities are not just about old buildings and museums (of which Fremantle has plenty to explore!), they are also about the people who live there. The history of Fremantle is full of interesting people and events that have contributed to its unique character. I have developed a number of walking tours to showcase the different aspects of Fremantle’s special character. However, I can customise tours to specific interests and needs, so please let me know and we can develop an itinerary to suit. I would love you to join me as I share with you my passion for my wonderful home town of Freo! - As Fremantle is a typical ‘old town’, it is suited to walking tours. As such tour participants must be able to walk a minimum of 2 km unaided. - Although I offer walking tours, transport to and from accommodation can be provided if organised prior. - Some of Fremantle’s well-known sites are only open on certain days, such as the Fremantle Markets. However, these will be made clear on booking.