Our days in Fremantle 26-29/08/11

Our first day we visit the inner Fremantle where much of the colonial architecture remains and is virtually unchanged since the mid-19th Century. It has retained the charm of yesteryear & it is very evident when we visit the Fremantle Markets (established in 1867).
Day 2 begins at the Shipwreck Galleries which are housed in the restored convict built Commissariat building. It is recognised as the foremost maritime archeology museum in the Southern Hemisphere. This gave us amazing insight into the early shipbuilding, the wealth and influence of the East-India Trading company, the treasures and relics of the many ships wrecked along the treacherous Western Australian coast. We learned of the difficulties of exploration, retrieval and restoration of these wrecks and relics. Some of these include original timbers from the Dutch VOC ship the Batavia, wrecked in 1629. We had learned a little of these wrecks as we came down the WA coast but it was here that we consolidated this knowledge. We enjoyed fish & chips at Freo's Fishing Boat Harbour @ Joes Fish Shack.
Our walk continues passed the Round House, the oldest remaining public building in WA and was the Swan River Colony's first jail but with the arrival of convicts in 1850 became inadequate and Fremantle Prison was built. 
We catch a glimpse of the Collins class sub which is moored in Port beside the E-Shed markets.
Day 3 takes us to the Western Australian Maritime Museum which exhibits significant historic objects & boats that highlight WA's sporting & adventure heritage including the winged keel of Australia II that won Australia's first America's Cup. The exhibitions tell the stories of human endeavour and courage. It is here that we take a tour of the fascinating decommissioned submarine HMAS Ovens. We had an informative tour aboard and learned of the demanding environment in which these sailors lived and worked in such close confines. We continue to explore the maritime museum and find that we are among the last people to leave before the doors are locked for the night. We head back to our camp and plan our next day of doing time at the infamous Freo Prison.