FREMANTLE DODGED THE MOVIE STUDIOS BULLET
Aren’t we very lucky, Freo! The above would have been the movie studios on historic Victoria Quay, if the State Government had not changed their plans and build them in Malaga.
We dodged a heritage-killing bullet of serious planning incompetence. Let’s drink to that!
Roel Loopers
LACK OF TOILET SIGNS GIVING ME THE SHITS
Why is there no sign on the corner of Collie Street and the Cappuccino Strip to make people aware that there are public toilets there? Who is going to find the toilets, that are a bit hidden behind the San Churro cafe?
Why spent a million dollars on new public toilets and not make visitors to Fremantle aware of it? What is going on, City of Fremantle administration?!
Providing basic information should not require a uni degree in rocket science. It’s common sense!
Roel Loopers
FIRST NATIONS FILMS THIS WEEKEND
FOCUS: First Nation Films, its powerful and thought-provoking Truth Telling event is returning to Fremantle/Walyalup this long weekend. Held over two nights, on 24 & 25 January at the Walyalup Fremantle Arts Centre, this free and accessible event connects community through a considered program of films, conversations and music.
As well as the screening of short and feature length documentary films, there will be guest speakers. These include a special panel from Yokai and Bringing Them Home WA Inc and a keynote address by author and human rights advocate Thomas Mayo, which will be recorded for the ABC’s Big Ideas podcast.
Thomas Mayo will imagine and speak about a version of a reconciled Australia in 2050, and the steps that would need to be taken to get there.
The program has been curated by acclaimed Australian filmmaker Tom Murray.
“Reflecting honestly on our history is not just about understanding the past. It is also about fostering the knowledge required to create a better future.
“At this nationally significant event, First Nations creators and thinkers are asking audiences to consider the histories and futures that define our nation. In essence, they ask: what kind of Australia do we wish to be?” Mr Murray said.
Saturday 24 January 2026, 4-8.30pm
Oration: Thomas Mayo (4-5pm)
Short film: Babanil (2023, G, 6m)
Feature film: Wash My Soul in the River’s Flow (2021, PG, 89m)
Sunday 25 January 2026, 5-8.30pm
Short film: Babakiueria (1986, PG, 30m)
Feature film: Genocide in the Wildflower State (2024, M, 58m)
Panel discussion: Yokai and Bringing Them Home WA Inc
Babanil (G) is a short film made by Marlikka Perdrisat about her intergenerational connection to Country.
Wash My Soul in the River’s Flow (PG) is a love story in song, directed by Philippa Bateman, about music icons Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter.
Babakiueria (Barbeque Area) (PG) uses satire to imagine what it would be like if black settlers arrived in a continent inhabited by white natives, directed by Don Featherstone.
Genocide in the Wildflower State (M) delves into the violent, state-run system of racial absorption, eugenics, and social assimilation that was enacted in 20th-century Western Australia. Directed by Frank Rijavec, this film explores mature themes.
From 2-4pm on Sunday there will be a special First Nations edition of Sunday Music.
Please note, FOCUS: First Nation Films is an alcohol-free event.
Roel Loopers
WHAT IS THERE NOT TO LOVE!
SailGP posted this photo on Facebook and allowed me to publish it here on Freoview as well.
As is often the case, a photo tells a story better than a thousand words.
Roel Loopers
FREO SKATEPARK COMPETITION
Freestyle Now will be hosting a skatepark competition at the Fremantle Youth Plaza skatepark.
A skatepark competition is a place for participants to showcase their skills and to demonstrate their growing skills to their friends, family, peers and the wider community.
All disciplines will have a limit on competitors numbers so make sure you register online to guarantee your placement in the competition. Competitors can only enter one division but can enter multiple disciplines.
Scooter – Beginner, Intermediate, Open
BMX – Beginner, Intermediate, Open
ROUND 1 – SCOOTER AND BMX STREET SECTION
ROUND 2 – SCOOTER AND BMX BOWL SECTION
Each rider gets 1 x 1 minute run in each of the sections. 1st round in the street/mini section, 2nd round is in the bowl. Scores will be added together. No finals.
Be sure to register online to secure your placement – spots are limited. On day registrations only if spots are available.
Roel Loopers
SHOULD SAIL GP BE MORE INCLUSIVE?
This is Fremantle, so nothing that is going on in our wonderful city will escape some form of criticism. That has also been the case with the fantastic SailGP at Bathers Bay. People complained about the lack of access for those who did not buy, or could not afford to buy, tickets for the sailing spectacle, with some being outraged that a public beach was closed off to the public.
But public spaces in Fremantle have been closed for events, concerts, etc. for as long as I can remember. The Beer Festival, for example, takes over most of the Esplanade Reserve for three days, and long before that for the set up of the event. We have had concerts at Fremantle Oval, that took over Parry Street as well, and the Nic Cave concert in Fremantle Park on Saturday evening was also in a public space.
The State Government claims that the event would bring millions of dollars into WA, but did our Fremantle traders really benefit from it? Retailers told me that they had been busy with visitors, but not many sales. I watched thousands of people walking by an almost empty Chalkys cafe yesterday, as they were in a rush to get to the South Mole grandstands. Did many people frequent our pubs after the event? I don’t know, so publicans let me know please.
I have one issue with the event, and that is closing off areas that are not being used and required by Sail GP, such as the North Mole and the grassed area next to the Roundhouse. That was not necessary, and seems petty and mean.
When there are concerts at Fremantle Park, no one would contemplate to close off the John Curtin school hill, where people often gather to listen to concerts, so closing off North Mole was overkill.
The City of Fremantle told a local trader that the Roundhouse area was closed because of public safety and heritage protection, but that it total bollocks! The argument that the low wall is not safe is rubbish. If it is not safe it should be made safe or access to it should be denied. Hundreds of people are up there for fireworks, Biennale drone shows, weddings, etc. So why is that different for Sail GP?
Police was called on Saturday when people got irate with security officers and tried to push over the fences to the vantage point at the Roundhouse. Move on notices were given. Was that really necessary, instead of accommodating those who had no tickets?
I absolutely accept that SailGP is a huge million dollar business, but this is Fremantle, a city that prides itself on being inclusive. We are not elitist, so make some spaces available to the non-paying public the next two years. It will hardly make a dent into the profitable event, that gets a lot of corporate sponsorship, including from the WA Government. Make it fun for all!
Roel Loopers
IT’S A FREMANTLE SAIL GP WRAP!
It’s a Fremantle SailGP wrap! My good friend Glen of the Glen Cowans Photography Gallery next to the Roundhouse took the above photo of the winning team from England at the finish. Thanks, Glen!
It was a fantastic spectacle that really brought Fremantle alive. I have not often seen the West End so packed with people, and the sailing was very exciting to watch, especially from the South Mole, where the boats got very close to.
Sail GP will be back in Fremantle in 2027 and 2028, so all those who missed out on tickets this time, make sure to order them early next year.
Roel Loopers
FAR TOO MANY FREO CONVENIENCE STORES
This will please a lot of Fremantle people, who have raised concerns that our port city has some fifteen convenience stores.
The Cook Government has unveiled a range of new measures to help crack down on the illegal tobacco trade and help keep the community safe.
In recognition of the increasing complexity of illegal tobacco investigations and links to organised crime, a new approach will be put in place to boost capability both now and in preparation of enforcement of updated legislation.
Under the new measures, Superintendent Steve Post, a senior WA Police Officer with four decades of police experience who played a leading role in Operation Tide during the pandemic, will be deployed to provide leadership to the Department of Health’s tobacco compliance operations.
Additional staff will also be deployed to the Tobacco Compliance Unit to assist, more than doubling inspector capacity.
As part of the new measures, there will be an opportunity for both current officers and those who have recently left the force to join Department of Health and use their knowledge to help with tobacco compliance and supporting Operation Maverick.
It would be wrong and defamatory to apply a broad brush and claim all convenience stores engage in illegal activities, so let’s hope the Department of Health will sort it out and close those who are doing the wrong thing.
But…….15+ convenience stores in the Freo CBD, within a ten-minute walk from each other, is far too many!
Roel Loopers
DIFFERENT VIEW OF THE W.A. MARITIME MUSEUM
Can you spot the Maritime Museum? It’s reflected in the windows of the staterooms on the Viking Orion cruise ship, when it arrived in Fremantle Port yesterday morning.
Roel Loopers
GREAT FREO SAILING SPECTACLE!
The Fremantle SailGP is a truly exciting sailing spectacle, when one gets close enough to see the action, as I did shooting from the South Mole today, thanks to a media pass from the organisors.
The boats are so fast and the skills of the crew amazing. It looks like a lot of fun. If only I were young enough. 🥰
Roel Loopers
FREMANTLE GRAND SAILING PARTY
Well, the Fremantle SailGP is definitely popular. So many people around town and the South Mole packed.
To see those fast sailing boats approaching is really exciting, so I feel for those who missed out.
I am not convinced at all that black plastic on the fences, to make sure people could not watch without paying, is nothing less than corporate greed and quite mean, hence there were also a lot of very unhappy and annoyed people, who tried to get glimpses.
As for SailGP putting a video on Facebook, only showing images of Perth, and even Scarborough Beach, but not a single shot of Fremantle. That is bloody pathetic!
Roel Loopers
EARLY BIRDS AT FREO SAIL GRAND PRIX
People started arriving early to watch the Fremantle Sail GP. The races only start at 1pm, but already many people were walking down Fleet Street, to get the best spots on the grandstands on the South Mole. I took the photo above at 10.30am.
There are also buskers on street corners in the West End, who create a lovely vibe around town.
Roel Loopers
VIKING ORION ARRIVES IN FREMANTLE PORT
The Viking Orion cruiseliner arrived in Fremantle Port just after 10am today. She will leave mid evening.
The ship can accommodate 930 passengers in 465 veranda staterooms. Enjoy your stay in gorgeous Freo!
Roel Loopers
IT’S FREO SAIL GP WEEKEND!
It should be a great weekend in Fremantle with the SailGP on. The races start today and tomorrow at 1pm.
There is a real buzz around town, with so many people visiting. Many will be coming later today for the Nic Cave concert at Fremantle Park, and thousands will be in town from the Viking Orion cruise ship that will be arriving mid morning.
Local hotels will show the races on the big screens, so support them. Many retailers have created SailGP window displays. I noticed the above promo at the Old Courthouse hub, when I had a Guinness there yesterday afternoon.
Be part of the fun, Freo. It’s putting us on the world map!
Roel Loopers
CREATING NEW PIAZZA ART MURAL
I walked by the new art mural in The Piazza yesterday afternoon, that is being created, but should be completed pretty soon. Go have a look at it! It’s at the Cappuccino Strip entrance with Timezone, opposite Grill’d.
And what it looks like this Saturday morning.
Roel Loopers
RACE DAY PRACTICE AT FREO SAIL GP
It is race day practice at the Fremantle SailGP, but viewing it for people without tickets is a bit of a zoo. It is what it is, and it will be a great weekend for Fremantle, with the Nic Cave concert at Fremantle Park on Saturday evening, plus the Viking Orion cruise ship arriving at 10am tomorrow as well.
This is the Australian boat!
There are already a lot of people in Freo and one can spot the visitors with new hats on. Welcome!
Some 18 million people will be watching the races all over the world, so that is fantastic promotion for Fremantle.
And a HOT TIP! If you can, leave cars at home and use public transport instead. It helps making it a relaxed weekend. Who needs the stress of trying to find parking. 🥰
Roel Loopers
P.S. You are welcome to share my photos on social media!
WELCOME TO FENCE CITY FREMANTLE
A Freoview reader alerted me to the fact that ABC radio Perth is encouraging people to come watch the SailGP on the weekend from the Bathers Beach shore. So while we love heaps of people coming to Freo for the fantastic event, a friendly warning from me.
The entire Bathers Beach/Manjaree/Arthur Head area will be closed off to the general public and only people with tickets will be able to go there. That also applies to Friday’s practice race day!
So no viewing from the South and North moles, Mews Road, the Roundhouse, and Bathers Beach. There will also be no access to the gun deck behind the Roundhouse and to the Whalers Tunnel, so be aware of that, before you get too disappointed.
There is access to Bathers Beach House and Kidogo Arthouse, but one has to pay for that privilege.
Some street carparks will also only have restricted access, so use public transport! It is only a leisurely 12-minute-walk from the Freo train station to the Sail GP. Entry for the big grandstands is from Fleet Street and Mews Road.
I strongly support SailGP, but believe it is a shortcoming from the WA Government, who sponsors the spectacle, to not reserve the grass area next to the Roundhouse for low income earners. A raffle or so for 100 people per day would have been nice.
I accept that SailGP is a huge million-dollar business, but a Labor government should have considered those who can’t afford to buy a ticket. Can we make it inclusive, not elitist, the next two years, Premier Roger Cook?
Roel Loopers
NEW FREO CBD CAFE AND PUBLIC ART
The very popular South Fremantle Third Wheel cafe is also opening up in Collie Street, where the Duck Duck Bruce cafe used to be. I checked their Facebook page and there is no mention of it yet, but people were working there this morning and the sign is up.
The Piazza is getting another large mural, straight opposite Grill’d. It’s still a work in progress, so I will photograph it again once completed.
Roel Loopers
ALLOW THE PUBLIC TO ENJOY SAIL GP!
The Fremantle sign on the Kidogo Arthouse roof received a coat of paint, as did the colourful change rooms, that were als repaired finally.
The Fremantle Sail GP is attracting a lot of attention. The main media reported that it is a sell out, so why not show some generosity and allow the general public to also enjoy the great sailing spectacle.
With the grandstands full, there is absolutely no reason to deny the public the viewing point at Arthur Head, next to the historic Roundhouse. It is not as if this would affect the revenue for the organisers.
So come on, Sail GP and City of Fremantle, don’t fence us off!
Roel Loopers
A FEW SHOTS OF THE FREMANTLE SAIL GP
The seabreeze was not very strong, so the Fremantle SailGP boats stayed well away from Bathers Beach today, but the speeds they are reaching is amazing.
A few people on the boardwalk, plus some on the grass next to the Roundhouse, but there is definitely a buzz around town.
Roel Loopers
SAIL GRAND PRIX ARRIVES IN FREMANTLE
The Sail GP has arrived in Fremantle, with the 13 boats hitting the Indian Ocean around midday today. It is spectacular to see the extremely fast sailing boats lifted high above the water, so I am looking forward to the races, that will be on the weekend.
Public access to the Bathers Beach area is going to be very restricted, so be aware of that
Roel Loopers
NO DICKHEADS PLEASE! 🥰
I love the sign the Kingscliff Bike Shop in New South Wales put up. It is not hard at all to be respectful, polite and considerate. Give it a try!
So enjoy today and every day, because today is tomorrow’s Good Old Days.
Roel Loopers
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WHAT IS THE FUTURE OF THE CARRIAGE CAFE?
What is the future of the Carriage cafe on the Fremantle Esplanade? It used to be a popular and cute cafe, but has been a vacant eyesore for far too many years now.
There was a court case between the City of Fremantle and the building owners in October, but no one seems to know what is going on.
And, City of Fremantle, the great Wardarnji Festival was on in November last year, so please remove the promotion for it. Thank you!
Roel Loopers
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IT IS SAIL GRAND PRIX WEEK IN FREO!
Good morning, Freo. As a pretty cool and strong southerly breeze blows through my fourth-floor flat, I am preparing myself for the fantastic SailGP that will invigorate Fremantle this week. Training starts as early as tomorrow, so keep an eye on the Indian Ocean at Bathers Beach!
It is going to be 32C today with a 20% chance of rain and maybe thunder in the evening. It will be 28C on Tuesday, 31C on Wednesday, 34C on Thursday, and 29C on Friday.
At the start of the SailGP races on Saturday it will be 25C with 30% change of rain that day. BOM predicts the same temperature for Sunday, with no rain.
A warm welcome to all the visitors and competitors who are coming for the sailing event to our wonderful city!
Roel Loopers
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LOOPY’S SUNDAY MORNING WALK
My Sunday morning walk took me along the Fishing Boat Harbour, Bathers Beach, the Glen Cowans Photography Gallery next to the Roundhouse, and from there through the historic West End of Fremantle to the FOMO IGA.
I noticed a few men in high visability vests with SailGP printed on it, and that a large screen has been erected near J Shed for people to follow the races from the beach.
And there was this “artwork” of a lost kite high up in a pine tree next to Kidogo Arthouse.
Roel Loopers
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AN ART CELEBRATION OF DAWN MEADER
An exhibition of the art of the late Dawn Meader is on from today at the Fremantle Moores Building Art Space in Henry Street.
Dawn passed away far too early two years ago, so this retrospective show of her art is a celebration of the life of this wonderful human being.
The show is on until January 26. Go have a look!
Roel Loopers
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NYOONGAR NATIONS CELEBRATION ART DELAY
I am very disappointed that the significant Karl Boyak Naariny(Fire is Burning on the Rocks) public artwork by Sharon Egan and Simon Gilby, at Walyalup Koort, won’t be installed until mid next year.
Like many people, I have pleaded for a major Aboriginal artwork in Fremantle for decades, so I was delighted when the Labor Member for Fremantle Simone McGurk announced in August 2024 that the WA Government had granted the City of Fremantle $ 949,993 for the project.
It was due to be installed mid this year, but the CoF told me that due to the very important consultation with the Elders of the Nyoongar Nations, from Geraldton to Esperance, the artwork would not be completed this year. I absolutely respect that the consultation and collaboration needs to follow due process and Indigenous culture, but don’t believe it is acceptable that it is going to take two years.
As I wrote here on Freoview and my column in the Fremantle Herald at the time, the Karl Boyak Naariny artwork will arguable be the most significant public artwork in Western Australia, as it celebrates 60,000+ years of continuous Indigenous habitation of this land.
I love the idea of major rocks from the Nyoongar nations to be displayed in our city centre, showing how significant Australia’s First Nations People are, so it should be in their interest also to help this project going forward as fast as possible. Two years of consultations seem to be excessive to me, because I really want this incredible work to showcase our Indigenous history and culture as soon as possible.
Roel Loopers
EAST FREO SKATERS STREET JAM
Enjoy the Town of East Fremantle STREET JAM tomorrow, Saturday January 10!
It is on from 3-7 pm at the Skate Park Zone of the East Freo Community Park for all you skaters, bikers, etc. Have fun!
Roel Loopers
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AS USEFUL AS PERFORATED TOILET PAPER
The City of Fremantle is promoting the SailGP event with a lot of signs and bunting along the Cappuccino Strip, but why are the hundreds of flags so tiny? They have no impact since they are too small to read. That makes them as useful as perforated toilet paper, and a waste of money.
You can-and should-do better than that, CoF!
Roel Loopers
SOMETHING NEW BREWING AT LITTLE CREATURES
Little Creatures in the Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour announced in December that the opening of the new venue was delayed, but they are working hard and a new deck is already in place.
They are also putting a black fence around the former Joe’s Fish Shack, that was initially going to become an all new Little Creatures, but that did not eventuate. What the plans for Joe’s are is anybody’s guess.
LC is trading again in the big hall, but with a limited food menu. They have a large BBQ outside, so go check it out.
I have not received a new date for the opening of the renovated venue yet, so stay tuned.
Roel Loopers
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NO FREE PUBLIC VIEWING OF SAIL GP
The City of Fremantle have put a media release out, plus the above map, about the Fremantle SailGP, that will be held at Bathers Bay on the weekend of 17/18 January.
As I anticipated and feared, there is little chance for those who can’t afford to buy a ticket to watch the spectacular races. That is very disappointing!
Here the important parts of the media statement. I made some bold:
Event details
Race days: Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 January 2026
Race stadium: 11.30am-5pm
Race times: 1-2.30pm
Location: Bathers Beach (ticketed entry on Fleet Street)
Land and beach access
Public access to Bathers Beach is being maintained as long as possible, however it will be closed from midday on Thursday 15 January and is scheduled to re-open, when safe, on the morning of Monday 19 January.
Event set-up activity on the grassed areas behind Bathers Beach will commence on Monday 12 January.
South Mole has been closed since early December and is scheduled to re-open on Friday 30 January.
Water access
For watercraft, there will be an exclusion zone in place around the race zone on:
Training days – Tuesday 13 to Thursday 15 January from 11am to 3pm, and
Official practice & Race days – Friday 16 to Sunday 18 January from 11.30am to 3pm.
Water Police will be patrolling the area.
Public transport
Public transport to and from the event is included in the event ticket.
Parking
Standard parking arrangements will be in place across the city centre, however the carparks closest to Bathers Beach will be inaccessible as they are within the perimeter of the event area.
Where to watch
If you want access to the event, you must purchase a ticket. The event area at Bathers Beach will be fully fenced and there will be no free viewing areas nearby.
If you’re in Fremantle, there are many hospitality venues planning to host watch parties. Please check in with individual venues prior to see if they’ll be screening the event.
If you would like to watch the race at home, Kayo Sports, Foxtel and SBS On Demand are livestreaming the event.
Roel Loopers
FREMANTLE FOOD COURT NEWS
The Old Shanghai/Uppies food market, opposite the Fremantle Markets, is now trading as the Fremantle Food Court. They are open, but unfortunately they have gas supply issues. See message below:
At the moment, we have a limited number of stalls operating, including @dehoneygrilled – @myvietbanhmi – @oumi_japanese_fremantle2 – Wok & Sizzle Chinese – Juicy BeanN, offering selected menu items that do not require gas. Due to a temporary gas supply issue, our current trading hours are Friday to Sunday only, while we work to get this sorted as quickly as possible.
Current Trading Hours: Friday – Sunday 11am – 7:30pm.
Roel Loopers
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PORT ACCESS RESTRICTIONS DURING SAIL GP
If you are intending to join the fun in Fremantle over the weekend of 17-18 January, Fremantle Ports are prioritising pedestrians and encourage you to use public transport. Parking will be limited.
- North Mole Drive will be closed to the general public from 10pm on 14 January and reopened on 19 January.
- The main access into Victoria Quay at the Cliff Street roundabout, will be closed from 10am to 5pm on 17 & 18 January. The exit from Victoria Quay via the roundabout will be permitted
- Access to Victoria Quay will still be available from the underpass on Beach Street (opposite Officeworks).
- Current access to Fleet Street is limited. Fleet Street will be closed from Monday 12 January until late January.
- Monday 1 December 2025: Closure of South Mole and commencement of SailGP infrastructure build
- Wednesday 14 January (PM): North Mole Closed
- Friday 16 January 2026: Official practice racing
- Saturday 17 January 2026: Race day 1
- Sunday 18 January 2026: Race day 2
- Monday 19 January 2026: North Mole reopens
- Friday 30 January 2026: Reopening of South Mole to public
The City of Fremantle will today publish a map and information about access restrictions in the Bathers Beach area during SailGP, so I will publish that as soon as I receive it.
Why the North Mole has to be closed, I do not understand. It is well away from the sailing event, so disappointing Fremantle Ports do not explain why they close the mole.
Roel Loopers
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FREE 24/7 MEDICARE FOR ALL
You can now get free health information and advice anywhere in Australia, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, by calling 1800MEDICARE (1800 633 422).
If you’re feeling unwell, caring for someone, or unsure whether to seek medical help, call 1800MEDICARE and a registered nurse will:
- listen to your concerns
- assess your symptoms
- advise on next steps—whether that’s looking after yourself at home or getting help from a GP, Medicare Urgent Care Clinic, pharmacy or emergency department in your area.
Along with the phone service, 1800MEDICARE also includes a website and app.
The service is free, available to anyone, including tourists, anywhere in Australia – you don’t need a Medicare card.
If you manage a hotel, backpackers, B&B, etc.in Fremantle, make sure to advise your guests of this service!
Roel Loopers
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COME AND SEE THE FREMANTLE SAIL GP
It is quite shameful that it takes and international sailing event for the City of Fremantle to do basic maintenance. I reported on the neglected cute changerooms at Bathers Beach fifteen or so months ago, but nothing happened. But the SailGP is on in ten days and suddenly the CoF can get their act together.
The promotion in the inner city for the exciting event has also started along the Cappuccino Strip and Henderson Street mall. Freo is expecting some 30,000 people on the grandstands, and I have no doubt many will come to watch the training sessions on Thursday the 15th and Friday the 16th of January.
There is fair criticism about the Bathers Beach area being closed to the public, and that the event is too expensive for low income earners, but that also applies to concerts and events at other Fremantle beaches. Life is unfortunately not as perfect as we all are. 😍
Roel Loopers
JOIN THE KIDOGO SAIL GP FUN!
The exciting Sail Grand Prix at Fremantle’s Bathers Bay is only en days away, so book your tickets for the after sail party at Kidogo Arthouse.
Live music, food trucks, sunsets, fun, and all that for just $ 79. Bookings on the Kidogo website.
Roel Loopers
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IMPOSING FREMANTLE POLICE COMPLEX
Walking home around 7pm yesterday I noticed the late sunlight on the massive Fremantle District Police Complex building, that is under construction at South Terrace. It is quite imposing from that angle.
Roel Loopers
FREO BEHIND THE SCENES
I took a few photos in the inner city yesterday afternoon, when I was early for a meeting. There is always something different to capture in Fremantle.
The entrance to basement parking in Paddy Troy Lane.
Art appreciation? I don’t think so!
Remove. There is work going on in the Piazza, so keep an eye on it.
A door in Paddy Troy Lane.
Roel Loopers
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LET THERE BE SIGNS! HE THUNDERED
The Big G. must have thundered from the cloud-free heavens during Christmas “Let there be signs!” because suddenly the new smaller tourist signs are sprouting like weed all over the Fremantle. Is it an avalanche of signs, or a tsunami of signs?
But information should be consistent, and the signs are not! The above sign at the Shipwrecks Museum refers to Arthur Head, but when one is at Arthur Head, the signs there tell visitors that they are at Manjaree. Would dual naming not have solved that problem, you exalted marketing and communications Gurus at Fremantle City?
Roel Loopers
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THE BEAUTY OF BATHERS BEACH
It is going to be a pleasant and mild week, with temperatures in the mid 20s, before next week’s heatwave, so take advantage of it!
The bicycle still life photo is a golden oldie, but the installation of the Safe Swim Enclosure, Shark Barrier, or Eco Barrier is continuing this morning. It’s not a net, but no doubt will catch a lot of the seaweed that Bathers Beach tends to get. That will keep the beach a bit cleaner.
I looks like Bathers Beach House has already extended their alfresco area, but I though it was out for public consultation still. Am I wrong about that?
At Kidogo Arthouse they are promoting the Sail GP beach parties, that will be on in the evenings.
And, City of Fremantle, please attend asap to the tourist signs along the boardwalk. They give important historic information to visitors, but are badly rusting at the edges. Neglect is not a good indication that we really care about and love Freo!
Roel Loopers
MAKE SAIL GP WINDOW WAVES!
The fantastic SailGP is on in Bathers Bay on the weekend of January 17 and 18, so less than two weeks away, and the Fremantle Chamber of Commerce are on the lookout for the best dressed nautical windows in town! 
1. Deck out your shop window in all things nautical
2. Take a quick photo or video
3. Post it and don’t forget to tag Fremantle Chamber of Commerce
You’re now in the draw to win 1 of 5 x $1000 vouchers courtesy of Fremantle Chamber of Commerce & City of Fremantle
It should be a great weekend, with heaps of people in town, as the Nic Cave concert is also on in Fremantle Park, and a cruise ship will be in port as well.
Roel Loopers
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PARKOUR CLOSED DURING SUMMER HOLIDAYS
The Parkour section of the Fremantle Esplanade Youth Plaza has been closed for several weeks, due to required maintenance. Nothing has been happening since the city closed the Parkour, so why was it suddenly so urgent to do so during the summer school holidays, many parents and kids are wondering.
The entire Esplanade Youth Plaza could do with some tender loving care and a coat of paint here and there.
The City is often neglectful in maintaining property, be that tourist and other signs, public seating, etc. The EYP cost a lot of money when it was built, so looking after it more regularly should be the norm, not an exception.
Roel Loopers
THE FREO YEAR OF MIRACLES AND WONDERS
Fremantle had a pretty good year in 2025 with some major development projects approved and others already started. We have recovered from Covid, but retail is still very challenging in our old port city.
Hospitality is doing it tough the first 2-3 days of the week, but most venues are doing well later in the week and on weekends.
I am an optimistic and positive person, and I believe that this year will be the year of miracles and wonders for Fremantle. No, I am am not sarcastically referring to the excruciatingly slow roll-out of the new tourist signs, or the delay of the Safe Swim Enclosure at Bathers Beach. 🥰
If all goes to plan we should see the start of the Elders Woolstores development, and the hotel on the corner of William Street and the Henderson Mall.
A new boutique hotel will open in a few weeks in historic High Street, above the Common Bakery.
The stunning artwork that celebrates the Nyoongar nation is also due to be installed at Walyalup Koort this year, so stay tuned for updates on that.
The STS Leeuwin II will start sailing again very soon, after having been badly damaged by a container vessel.!
And it is only two more weeks until the exciting Sail Grand Prix at Bathers Bay. I can’t wait to go watch that!
And by the end of the year we should have an amazing new Fremantle Traffic Bridge. There is so much to look forward to!
Roel Loopers
P.S. A few too many drinks during the festive season, Comms Team? Zurich is in Switzerland, not Sweden. 🥳
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STRONGER LOCAL GOVERNMENT SCRUTINY
From today, Western Australia’s first Local Government Inspector will be closely watching the conduct and compliance of local government elected officials and administrative staff.
The role of Local Government Inspector was introduced as part of the Cook Labor Government’s landmark local government reforms designed to improve accountability, decision-making and transparency across the sector.
Anthony (Tony) Brown started in the role in October 2025, with his powers under the Act commencing from today, 1 January 2026.
Mr Brown will be assisted by a team of skilled investigators, compliance specialists, complaints handlers and other support staff.
Mr Brown will also be supported by a team of adjudicators who will determine alleged breaches of the Code of Conduct, and a panel of monitors who can work with local governments to resolve issues.
The Local Government Inspector will assist and support the sector to meet its obligations, as well as address any dysfunction.
Under the reforms, the Local Government Inspector can:
- intervene early to resolve issues before they escalate;
- investigate breach complaints about council members, committee members and candidates for election;
- address general complaints regarding non-compliance with the Local Government Act 1995;
- issue infringements of up to $1,000 for certain offences;
- inquire into and intervene in any local government where potential issues are identified;
- appoint monitors to assist local governments with any conduct and compliance issues as well as conflict resolution; and
- recommend the dismissal of a council or council member.
There are also increased penalties for conduct breaches by councillors, including suspending payment of allowances, suspension from a committee or suspension from council for up to three months.
Roel Loopers
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PAULA NELSON ESCAPES FREMANTLE PRISON
Paula Nelson, the delightful director of Fremantle Prison, will leave the world heritage listed historic jail on January 16.
Paula worked at Fremantle Prison for 16 years. I met her first when she was the marketing manager there and did promotional photography for the very popular tourist destination.
Paula moved to the Heritage Council for a few years, but returned to Fremantle Prison as the director.
Her positive, can-do attitude with a smile was inspiring for everyone who worked with her. Under her guidance many significant changes were made, such as major concerts and events, and much better displays for the many thousands of visitors.
You will be missed, Paula!
Roel Loopers
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LOVE, NOT HATE! PLEASE CHILL, AUSTRALIA!
I am disappointed about the lack of bipartisan political collaboration after the Bondi Beach massacre. The relentless attacks on PM Albanese are not helpful and only create more division in Australia.
I do not understand though why the PM is unwilling to call a Royal Commission. It is tactically wrong and politically naive of him not to do so. The excuse that a Royal Commission would take too long is nonsense. Nothing stops the commonwealth or states to implement new laws, before the findings of the Royal Commission. We could have new racism and hate-speech laws as soon as Parliament in Canberra sits, and the unfair, critical, pathetic opposition would have to support those measures.
NSW Premier Chris Minns has been very impressive after the Bondi massacre. His unscripted speeches showed strong leadership, empathy, and action, but did he deserve the applause at the memorial service, while the PM was booed?
Is it not far too simplistic to claim that PM Albanese and the federal government failed the Jewish community because they had not acted against hate speech? Is it not unfair to blame Albanese for the Bondi massacre, when security at the Hanukkah Festival was the responsibility of NSW Police, so ultimately the responsibility of Premier Chris Minns and his NSW government? Why was there not a stronger and better-armed police presence at a Jewish event, when we all knew that antisemitism had increased, since Israel killed 70,000 civilian Palestinians at Gaza?
Why is everyone playing blame games to gain political mileage, when we really need to stand strong together? And let us not for one moment forget that the abuse and attacks on Muslim women in Australia have increase by 200 per cent since the Bondi killings. They don’t deserve that hate and racism either!
The Australian Federal Police yesterday stated that the father and son, who allegedly killed 15 people at Bondi Beach, were lone wolves, not connected to terrorist organisations. How does one stop these fundamentalist, zealot, deranged idiots? How could PM Albanese or any government stop these mad men? Terrorist knife attacks have become common in England, Holland, Germany, France, etc. although police presence with high-powered rifles on the streets of those countries is the new normal.
The best way to give people a feeling of safety and security is to give them a sense of belonging, and that we all work together to improve our country. What about multi-faith festivals where everyone feels welcome?
Political division only creates more division and anger in the community. Anger becomes hate and hate becomes violence, so please, please, please, Australia, chill!
We have a New Year, new hope, new optimism. We have a real opportunity here to connect, deeply connect, with those who are different, but who are an important part of our country. Reach out, because together we will be stronger and better!
Wishing you all a New Year full of love and beauty, and that the sun may shine in your heart and soul every day of the year!
Roel Loopers
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FAMILY FRIENDLY NY EVE AT CLANCY’S
Fremantle’s Clancy’s Fish Pub is having their traditional Family Friendly New Year’s Eve Fiesta from 4pm today, so take the kids to Princess May Park for fun, food and drinks.
There is a DJ, Farmer Damian’s Moobile Farm, inflatable Warrior obstacle course, face painting fairies, etc. It’s a lot of fun, even for the parents! The famous countdown is at 8pm.
Roel Loopers
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