If you’re looking for a fun tourist attraction in Fremantle that the whole family can enjoy, the WA Maritime Museum is a terrific option. Visitors from far and wide come down to Victoria Quay and immerse themselves in the maritime history and heritage on display at the museum. Between the international exhibitions and community programs available, tourists and locals alike can enjoy enriching cultural experiences related to the WA coast.
The history of the WA Maritime Museum
The Western Australian Maritime Museum was established in December 2002 as a branch of the Western Australian Museum. In contrast to the Western Australian Museum, this branch is specifically focused on WA’s maritime history. Since then, it has become a staple of Fremantle and a key attraction for tourists and locals alike.
What events are on at the WA Maritime Museum?
The WA Maritime Museum has a constant rotation of events, including special exhibits, workshops, and performances. Visit the website and check out the latest exciting events that you can go see right now.
Special exhibitions
Special exhibitions are subject-specific showcases that highlight certain subjects for a limited time. These cover topics ranging from the life of female migrants to the animals of the arctic. These are an excellent option when a niche topic tickles your fancy.
Activities and workshops
Activities and workshops provide a more interactive option that gives visitors a chance to do some hands-on learning at the museum. From craft days for families to boat building sessions, there’s always something fun to experience.
Performances and talks
If you’re looking to sit back and watch, you can also enjoy some talks and performances. These may come in the form of musical groups jamming out or speakers sharing their stories or expertise on certain topics.
Virtual exhibitions
Virtual exhibitions give people the opportunity to learn and explore exhibits from the comfort of their own homes. It’s a great option for when you don’t have time to make your way over to the museum.
Tours
For a particularly immersive experience, you should check out one of the available tours. Tours can cover everything from exploring water crafts like submarines to tactical experiences for the vision impaired.
What exhibitions are at the WA Maritime Museum?
The WA Maritime Museum has a range of permanent exhibitions that visitors are able to explore at their leisure. They focus on a variety of different themes and areas, offering a little something for anyone that visits.
Naval Defence
The Naval Defence exhibition gives insight into naval warfare in Australia throughout the 20th century. Visitors get to examine a range of seacrafts used for military operations as well as naval weaponry that’s been used throughout the ages. They’ll also be given insight into the history of the Australian navy, with key events being highlighted and personal stories being put on display.
Hooked on Fishing
This exhibition highlights the fishing history of Western Australia, ranging from the ancient fishing history of the Nyoongar people to the modern fishing industry. It lets you peruse all kinds of fishing equipment, historical photographs, and memorabilia that tell the stories of Fremantle and the European migrants that created communities there. It also educates visitors about how fishing technology has evolved and the way sustainability has become a focus in recent years.
Welcome Walls
The Welcome Walls were made to celebrate the history of migrants in Western Australia. They acknowledge all the people who arrived in WA by sea and made their home in Western Australia. The Walls consist of more than 400 panels which include details about the various people who immigrated to Australia during that time period. Between 2004 and 2010, Western Australians submitted names of their ancestors to be included in this monument. This is part of the WA Maritime Museum’s focus on migration stories.
WA Down Under Gallery
The WA Down Under Gallery is designed to celebrate the diverse and unique sea life that lives off the Western Australian coast. When you visit you get the chance to explore beneath the surface of the water to see some incredible habitats and the fascinating creatures that live within them. With a focus on the waters of the Swan River/Derbal Yerrigan and the southern coast, this exhibit allows you to learn about the various benefits of our waterways on a social ,economic, environmental and cultural level.
Educational programs at the WA Maritime Museum
The WA Maritime Museum has a lot of great resources for children, giving them the opportunity to learn about everything related to Western Australia’s maritime history.
Immigration Stories
The Immigration Stories program teaches children t about various people who migrated to Australia years ago. There is a primary school and secondary school version of this program available, to accommodate different learning levels.
Welcome to Walyalup
The Welcome to Walyalup program allows children to get immersed in Whadjuk Nyoongar culture. They’ll get to hear real stories, interact with real objects, and learn about the cultural significance of Fremantle and Western Australia in Whadjuk Nyoongar culture.
WA Down Under
This version of the WA Down Under gallery is designed specifically to help children learn about the wildlife that lives on the WA coast. This helps to add both context and depth of history to human activity in the water.
Visit the WA Maritime Museum during your stay at Pier 21
The WA Maritime Museum is just one of the great Fremantle attractions that you can check out while you’re staying at Pier 21. Located in the heart of Fremantle, it’s a great place to stay whether you’re there for a short time or a long time. Check out some of our great accommodation packages and plan your stay today.
