October 4, 2023 Fremantle, Australia

Fremantle, Western Australia is a port city on the outskirts of Perth at the mouth of the Swan River.  It is known for it's maritime history.  During WWII, it had the largest submarine base in the southern hemisphere.  The area was renovated with boardwalk restaurants and shops before they hosted the 1987 America's Cup sailing competition.  

We rented an airbnb and were able to walk to attractions in the area.  We started at the shipwreck museum, which was fascinating.  This museum is recognized as the foremost maritime archaeology museum in the southern hemisphere.

our room was on the right and towards the back

odd walkway to our door

we had never seen an instant coffee with a bag

our kitchen area

It was 2 rooms and very cozy

the bathroom was at the other end of the main room

beautiful springtime flowering tree

always think of my friend Martha the archeology enthusiast

 

 

We walked to the Gage Roads Brewery on the Swan River.  We enjoyed watching the boat traffic on the river while we had lunch.  We shared lamb tacos and a brisket pizza.  The children's play area would never have been allowed in the USA.  There was an old car that kids loved climbing on and pretending to drive.

 

At the Western Australia Maritime Museum, they had an wonderful exhibit commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Australia II winning the America's Cup in 1983.  It started with a great video including parts of the races.  Being sailors, it was fascinating to watch.  Dave remembers the event.  

 

 

Lego version of the Australia II

the actual Australia II

 

There was a great exhibit about Jon Sanders who circumnavigated the earth 5 times in the 1980's.  Once with circumnavigating 3 times without stopping.  His actual boat was on exhibit.  Kylie said he is still a member of her yacht club, the Royal Perth Yacht Club, and she has met him.  It would have been fascinating to have met him.  

Jon Sanders Parry Endeavor

 

We drove to a beach south of the city to watch the sunset on the Indian Ocean.

interesting rig ready for the outback