Map of Memories

A river with boats passes under a low bridge at sunset, with houses and greenery on both banks and silhouetted trees in the foreground.

Walyalup/Fremantle prides itself on its rich heritage

It is a place steeped in the histories of the many cultures that have lived on these shores – from the Noongar dreaming to the vibrant multi-cultural present.

The Fremantle Map of Memories is an interactive online project that collects personal stories and experiences from people connected to Fremantle. It’s a way to share moments big and small that capture the spirit of this historic port city.

This project was developed by the City of Fremantle as part of the Heritage Festival, with help from local historians, photographers, and community contributors.

Visit the Map of Memories

A satellite view of a coastal city showing a harbor, urban areas, green parks, and several blue markers indicating specific locations throughout the city.You can explore the map by clicking on the pinpoints to read individual stories.

Zoom in, scroll around, and select a purple pin. Each pin represents a unique memory contributed by someone with a connection to Fremantle.

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Anyone with a connection to a place featured on the map is welcome to share their story!  Whether it’s a personal memory, historic moment, or cultural reflection.

You can share any memory that reflects life in Fremantle. This could be a significant historical event, a personal milestone, or a small, special moment that captures the spirit of the city.

It’s easy:

  1. Click the “Add a Memory” button.

  2. Place a pin on the map at the location of your memory.

  3. Add a short description of your story.

  4. Upload a photograph or image if you like — either from the time or taken later.

  5. Submit your story.

All submissions are reviewed by the City before they appear on the map to ensure content is safe, respectful, and appropriate.

Your memory will appear as a pin on the interactive map, letting visitors read your story and see any photos you share.

You’ll be asked: “Do you give permission for your survey responses to be published online as part of the Fremantle Map of Memories project?”

By selecting “Yes”, you approve your story and images to be shared publicly online. The City may edit or remove content deemed inappropriate. Your contribution becomes part of Fremantle’s living community history.

The City of Fremantle thanks the following contributors:

  • Editing and project support: Will Axten – Genrefonix

  • Footage: VAM Media, Marc Russo Photography

  • Images: Fremantle City Library History Centre

Four vintage biplanes fly in formation over a coastal city at sunset, with the sun casting a warm glow over the scene and a harbor visible below.
In Dec 1990 I had left the Air Force for a civilian life in Perth. At the Royal Aero Club of WA I began flying the Tiger Moth. This is my competition winning photo of the Formation over Fremantle Boat Harbour at sunrise. For a unique ANZAC Dawn Service at 1000ft in the Centenary ANZAC Flight 2015. – Paul
A black-and-white aerial photograph of Fremantle port, showing the coastline, harbor, docks, buildings, and surrounding areas. The caption mentions 1943 smoke machine trials to obscure the port from enemy planes.
During the early days of World War II, Fremantle was home to 170 US, British and Dutch submarines. In 1943 trials were conducted using smoke machines along the north and south moles to obscure Fremantle port from enemy planes. But the ‘Fremantle Doctor’ had other ideas -Mike, South Fremantle
A black-and-white photo of a vintage car parade driving on a suburban street; the lead convertible carries a large trophy, followed by several classic cars and people in formal attire.
October 1983 | Everyone was excited to see "The Cup" being paraded around Perth, celebrating the famous win, having watched the whole thing unfold on TV for many months. North Fremantle residents hurried to Stirling Highway to see it pass by. It stopped outside Fremantle Town Hall for a ceremony and then head back to Perth Esplanade. Bill – North Fremantle
A colorful sculpture of a person partially submerged in the sea is decorated with flowers around its neck, leg, and base. The sky is clear and blue above the calm water.
Since 1999, at dawn each 10 March, we’ve swum out through the cool morning sea to the horse and rider of C. Y. O'Connor at C. Y. O'Connor Beach — a family ritual born of loss, memory and the space in between. Mike Lefroy – great grand son of CY O'Connor. Photo by Patrick Baker
Black-and-white photo of a long wooden bridge crowded with people, crossing a river toward a small town. In the foreground, three people sit on a hill, overlooking the scene. Boats are visible on the water below.
When at University I used to work at Fast Eddy's 24hr Cafe in Fremantle. I'd always finish around 2am in the morning and would look forward to the ride over the 'Old Bridge', with the cool night air and port sounds. I would think about how the Bridge has been a significant part of so many people's lives over the years. | Will – Melville
A person is mid-air, jumping off a rocky cliff into a large body of blue water, while two swimmers float below near the cliff. Trees and shoreline are visible in the background.
In December 1998 a young Luke McPharlin (Dockers #18) was developing his ‘hang time’ off Blackwall Reach, little knowing it would lead to a stellar AFL career with the Fremantle Football Club including Mark of the Year in 2005 and All Australian selection in 2012. Mike -South Fremantle
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Gold and black badge reading “Fremantle, WA Gold Australia’s Top Tourism Town Awards 2025 Winner,” with a gold map pin and white star on the left side.

The City of Fremantle acknowledges the Whadjuk people as the Traditional Owners of the Fremantle/Walyalup area and we recognise their cultural and heritage beliefs are still important today.

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