Swan River Gallery

Embark on a journey along the Swan River and witness how it has changed over time since the arrival of Europeans.

From the humble sailing and rowing boats that ferried passengers and cargo between Fremantle, Perth, Guildford, and Mandurah, to the introduction of steamboats in the 1850s, the Swan River has undergone many changes over the years, adapting to the needs of a growing Western Australia.

Discover a treasure trove of old news clippings, photographs, boat models, bridge designs, maps and memorabilia that vividly depict Western Australia’s enduring relationship with the Swan River. Experience a piece of maritime history firsthand, when you step aboard Valdura, a restored ‘Val’ boat from the 1900s.

DON’T MISS: SS Lady Forrest, Western Australia’s first steam-powered pilot boat that arrived from England in 1903 and operated as Fremantle Port’s pilot boat for 57 years.