Location: Perth, Fremantle

Region: Perth and Wheatbelt

Dates: 19th August – 28th August

Temperature: 5 – 22 Degrees

While we are in WA we are lucky to have a base in Perth, generously provided by my very good friend Louise. Her house, in Lynwood is very central with quick access to Perth, Fremantle and all the highways heading out of Perth and her driveway is big enough to accommodate the van and ute!

Our first few days in Perth are caught up with the usual chores after being on the road, washing, cleaning the van etc and some planning for the weeks ahead. Louise has a significant birthday coming up so there is also lots of activity around the festive event.

Louise has a Golden Retriever – Mabel, who is affectionately known as “Miss Mabel” who likes to walk, romp with the footy and play with family pal Lizzie (a Corgie) and it’s lots of fun walking with her and getting to know her very sweet personality.

Miss Mabel is also a typical dog who likes food very much so after the mysterious disappearance of a sticky bun, we quickly learnt food left on the bench may potentially get snatched 😂

One particularly nice walk took us around and through the beautiful Canning River Park catching some flowers and the beautiful Port Lincoln Parrot, a ring neck, also known as the 28 parrot.

On our first visit to Freemantle this trip, we walked from the markets (closed that day and only open on weekends currently) through the beautiful old streets, taking in the sites to the Port area, then to lunch at Little Creatures Brewery.

Another trip to Fremantle included a quick trip to the old prison.

The history of Fremantle Prison dates back to the early beginnings of Western Australia and its role in the development of this State is unparalleled.  It is the largest convict built structure in Western Australia and the most intact convict establishment in the nation. 

In 2010, Fremantle Prison became the first building in Western Australia to be included on the World Heritage list.

We did not have enough time for a a tour as we were only there for an hour but there is a lot to look at with several rooms providing photographic and video information on of the history of the jail, there is also a free gallery and cafe.

We also had a couple of family catch-ups, the first with my niece Lucy and her family, an ideal opportunity to meet my new Great, Great Nephew Dustin. Yes that’s correct and I’m aiming for Great Great Great Aunty status one day too!

On yet another trip to Fremantle we caught up with another of my niece’s, Lynda. We met for dinner at the Norfolk (highly recommend the share platters) and had a great night!

The big event of course was Louise’s party. We had much fun planning outfits and a bit of pampering in preparation for the big event which was held at The Last Local hotel with 40 guests.