Fremantle as Place
A coastal maritime meeting place, where the river meets the sea and the land meets the sea with memories of both pre and post glacial eras.
There are layers of natural and human history evident in the physical fabric of the place. It is both an arrival and departure place together with crossing the estuary by boat, road and rail, and a complex of marine, estuarine and riverine journeys beginning and ending.
The human histories are multicultural yet building on the geological formations, the climate and the occupation of Aboriginal cultures which embraced the land, waters and sky as integral country imbued with spiritual values in contrast to the more materialist values of imported cultures.
The historical layers collectively contribute to the identity of Fremantle as a place evolving over time.
A place of strong character which needs continuing understanding and respect as a distinctive place which will continue to evolve but not totally consumed by the pattern and influence of global urban forces often resulting in a sense of sameness.
Celebrate the diversity.
Yet may we see the return of the Walyo and symbolically the continuity of Fremantle as cultural place of ceremony, art, trade and meeting.
Surely we would love that!