Reference numberLH005328DescriptionFishing boats in pens at the Fishing Boat Harbour. South Jetty, in South Bay was the site for fishermen to moor their boats and sell their catch in the 19th century. The creation of the Esplanade Park in 1905/06 and the development of South Beach in the 1920s contributed to the difficulties experienced by fishermen in landing their boats and theirfish and there was agitation for a safe harbour and a centre for selling the fish. Construction of the Fishing Boat Harbour commenced in 1946 with the building of stone breakwaters to provide safe anchorage for up to 400 vessels. A Fremantle Fishermens' Co-Operative Society was formed in 1947. The Co-Op built new premises on the site of the old fish market. Since then, a land based berth c167 metres long, a series of catwalks, mooring pens and jetties have been built. The harbour covers 40 acres and is restricted to commercial fishing boats. Foreshore sites are leased to fishing companies and shipwrights and, particularly since the Americas' Cupdefence in the 1980s, there are many restaurants in the area.Date2007PhotographerBauer, AlisonPhotograph FormatPhotographDigital ItemYes
RestrictionsContact the Fremantle History CentreConditions of useYou may print copy or download images for private research. This image may be reproduced for non-commercial purposes with acknowledgement e.g. [Image courtesy of City of Fremantle History Centre - Reference number]. To obtain copies for commercial purposes or of a higher resolution contact the Fremantle History Centre via email lhc@fremantle.wa.gov.auLocationPhotographic Collection
Click on the image to add a tag or press ESC to cancel
Boats in Fishing Boat Harbour (2007). City of Fremantle Local History Centre, accessed 01/05/2026, https://history.fremantle.wa.gov.au/nodes/view/20013