MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

FREMANTLE PRISONThe Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage acknowledges the Whadjuk people, the traditionalcustodians of Walyalup, the land on which Fremantle Prison is located. The Department pays respect
to Elders past and present, and all Western Australian Aboriginal communities.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY6INTRODUCTION

11

CONTEXT & ANALYSIS

17

Site details
Heritage status
Conservation and management considerations
Fremantle Prison planning framework
Strategic context
Market context
Social and economic benefits
Community and stakeholder engagement

18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25

MASTER PLAN2019-2029

26

Vision		Objectives
Themes & actions

26
27
28

IMPLEMENTATION

31

Business case
Funding and partnership models
Program management

32
33
34

35

A distinct destination
1. Create a strong sense of arrival
2. Care for visitors
3. Reinforce the character of the Convict Establishment
A premier experience
4. Conserve the heritage building fabric
5. Enthral with spectacular interpretation
6. Deliver authentic immersive Prison experiences
7. Welcome partnerships and innovation
A learning place
8. Refresh and expand the education programs
9. Grow the Prison gardens, and volunteer programs
10. Establish a Centre for Heritage Excellence
11. Connect to Aboriginal experiences and stories

37
37
41
44
47
47
50
53
55
58
58
60
62
65

CONCLUSION68

APPENDIX

70

Heritage buildings and zones

70

FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 •CONTENTSPRIORITY ACTIONS

3

Fremantle Prison Master Plan 2019-2029
Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage
December 20194

Ministerial Foreword

Fremantle Prison is one of Western
Australia’s most important and highly valued
heritage sites with its spectacular convict
and colonial-era buildings and remarkable
collection of stories and objects that tell of its
136 years as a site of incarceration.
The McGowan Government recognises thepotential of Fremantle Prison to contributeto Western Australia’s tourism, culture andarts, heritage and education industries.
Internationally, heritage and cultural tourism is
a rapidly growing market with visitors seeking
opportunities to make personal connections
with history and communities. Fremantle
Prison offers unique experiences that meetthis demand.
The Fremantle Prison Master Plan includes
exciting ideas for increasing and broadening
visitation to the site, including world-classattractions such as an interpretive ‘Soundand Light’ show, authentic immersive Prison
experiences and genuine engagement with
Aboriginal histories and stories at the site.
These new initiatives will put Fremantle Prisonon the must-do list for visitors from aroundthe world.

Managing and conserving the fabric ofFremantle Prison to protect the WorldHeritage values of the site is a significant
responsibility for the State Government. This
Master Plan provides a clear understandingof the priorities and the work involved andestablishes a road map to deliver this work in
a timely fashion in coming years.
The Master Plan has a clear emphasison partnerships, recognising the role of
the Australian Government in maintaining
Australia’s World Heritage sites, and themany opportunities for the private sector,
City of Fremantle and community to be more
involved in activation of the Prison site. I
welcome partners to join us in the importantwork of conserving Fremantle Prison andattracting more visitors to interact with its
buildings, objects and stories.

Hon. David Templeman MLA,
Minister for Local Government, Heritage,
Culture and the Arts.

FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 •5

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
6

Prison is a celebrated Australian heritage
V i s i o n Fremantle
icon - a must-do destination that attracts visitors
to Perth. Management of the site demonstrates
leadership and innovation in the conservation andactivation of heritage places.

Fremantle Prison is the most intact complex of convict-built structures in Australia. It isa World Heritage listed site, recognised by UNESCO as an outstanding and significant
example of a nineteenth century convict establishment, and is included on national andstate heritage registers. As a place of incarceration since 1855, the Prison also tells
important stories about the impact of deportation and imprisonment and the changing
values of our society and justice system.

CONSERVE& SUSTAIN
Invest in the protection andconservation of the World Heritage
values and sustain visitor numberswith renewed interpretation andimproved amenity.
Conservation of the significant fabric ofFremantle Prison, its collections of objects
and its related stories are fundamental tothe ongoing success of the site as a tourism
destination. This Master Plan outlines a
program of capital works to maintain theheritage value of the site and other importantwork to enhance presentation of the site andsustain current visitation levels. Initiatives toconserve and sustain the site are essential
to unlock further economic and community
benefits.

The AEC Group was commissioned toundertake an Economic and Social Impact
Assessment of the proposed investment in
the Prison. The AEC Group found that the
combined impact of the proposed signatureexperiences would be in the order of 45,000
additional visitors per year, generating an
additional $2.3 million in annual revenue
which will significantly increase capacity
to self-fund ongoing conservation andmaintenance of the site. The AEC Groupalso projected that the new initiatives would
generate an additional growth regional
product of $5.3 million per annum in thewider Fremantle economy, supporting nearly
50 additional FTE jobs.

Position the site as a demand-driving
destination with unique, world-classexperiences that grow revenue forthe site and generate benefits for
the State.

ACTIVATE & GROW

1

objective

The Western Australian Government is
the custodian of Fremantle Prison, withresponsibility for ongoing conservationof the heritage site, its collection andstories. The Government has prepared a
Heritage Management Plan (HMP) to guidemanagement and activation of the site inaccordance with its recognised heritage
values. This Fremantle Prison Master Plancomplements the HMP with a ten-year roadmap for investment at the Prison to conserve
heritage values and sustain existing activities,
whilst developing new world class attractions
and experiences that grow visitation anddemand at the Prison, and to Fremantle.

objective

Since first opening for tours in 1992,
Fremantle Prison has developed into a
multifaceted award-winning cultural tourism
attraction that now welcomes approximately
200,000 visitors each year. It offers a
program of tours and activities that enable
visitors to explore the historic buildings andengage with heritage interpretation programs
to learn about Western Australia’s convict
and modern history.

2

Fremantle Prison is a premier tourism
experience with the potential to attract more
visitors to stay longer in Fremantle andPerth. This Master Plan identifies innovative
and unique tours and experiences that will
increase and diversify the Prison’s market
appeal and establish demand-driving
attractions such as an iconic ‘Sound andLight’ show and authentic immersive Prison
experiences.

FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 • Executive Summary

7

11

The Master Plan includes eleven priority actionsgrouped under three themes :a distinctive destinationa premier experience

Present Fremantle Prison as a prominent
landmark and distinct character precinct
in Fremantle, creating a striking first
impression and providing lasting positive
memories for visitors.

Enhance Fremantle Prison’s reputation as amust-do attraction with quality conservation,
innovative interpretation, and uniqueexperiences that grow visitor numbers anddrive tourism demand in WA.

1. CREATE A STRONG SENSE OF ARRIVAL
Establish a clear sense of arrival and a
dynamic transition to the ‘inside’ with
innovative interpretation of the perimeter
walls, re-design of the Terrace arrival plaza,and restoration works along the Terrace.

4. CONSERVE THE HERITAGE BUILDING FABRIC
Deliver a program of essential conservation
works to protect the outstanding universal
values of the site and maintain safe accessfor staff and visitors throughout the site.

2. CARE FOR VISITORS
Upgrade and expand visitor services andamenities to ensure a high-quality visitor
experience, enable increased access, andsupport a wider range of activity across thesite.
3. REINFORCE THE CHARACTER OF THE CONVICTESTABLISHMENT
Prepare new guidelines for urban designand development for the area of theoriginal convict grant to retain and enhancethe visual prominence of the Prison andimprove the character and activation of theentire Convict Establishment.

8

5. ENTHRAL WITH SPECTACULAR
INTERPRETATION
Create a world-class ‘Sound and Light’Show that brings the impressive prison
buildings to life at night with spectacularinterpretation of Western Australian stories.
6. DELIVER AUTHENTIC IMMERSIVE PRISONEXPERIENCES
Develop authentic immersive Prison
experiences that offer visitors unique andauthentic perspectives on prison life andsite history.
7. INVITE PARTNERSHIPS AND INNOVATION
Encourage new proposals for activationof the site and establish a framework
for evaluation and development of new
initiatives and partnerships.

Executive Summary • FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

a learning place
Build Fremantle Prison’s brand as a place for learning and community engagementwith a new Centre for Heritage Excellence and innovative programs to immerse
learners and the community in the site’s cultural and built heritage.

8. REFRESH AND EXPAND THE EDUCATIONPROGRAMS
Establish Fremantle Prison as an
iconic classroom using contemporary
technologies to deliver memorable
learning experiences for schools,
international and special interest
groups.

10. ESTABLISH A CENTRE FOR HERITAGE
EXCELLENCE
Develop a Centre for Heritage
Excellence that utilises conservation
activities on site to demonstrate bestpractice and foster research, educationand training in conservation, curation,interpretation and heritage trades.

9. GROW THE PRISON GARDEN, AND
VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS
Involve volunteers in establishingand maintaining new gardens on thesite of the original prison vegetablegardens. Leverage this initiative todevelop volunteering and community
engagement programs.

11. CONNECT TO ABORIGINAL EXPERIENCES
AND STORIESBe a place for truth-telling, reflection,
healing and reconciliation.
Partner with Aboriginal people, families
and communities to explore new andmeaningful ways for Aboriginal stories
and experiences to be told and heard
at the Prison.

FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 • Executive Summary

9

10

11

INTRODUCTION

Fremantle Prison is a World-Heritage listed site in Western Australia vested in the Minister for
Heritage for the purpose of ‘conservation and management of historic buildings and ancillary
and beneficial uses thereto.’ The Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage manages
conservation, visitation and interpretive activities at the Prison on behalf of the Minister.
Management of Fremantle Prison has
the primary purpose of conserving andmanaging the unique and globally significant
heritage values of the site. The Fremantle
Prison Heritage Management Plan 2019
(HMP) establishes a policy framework for
effective management of Fremantle Prison’s
heritage values, in particular conservationof the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of
Fremantle Prison as a World Heritage site inaccordance with Australia’s obligations under
the Convention concerning the Protectionof World Cultural and Natural Heritage(1972 World Heritage Convention) and theEnvironment Protection and Biodiversity
Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act).
The HMP requires that a Master Plan becreated to investigate and recommend futureuses of the Prison in accordance with theState Government’s objective to position thesite as a premier tourism experience andmaximise opportunities for the community toengage with the site’s heritage values.

12This Master Plan 2019-2029 provides a
strategic framework to guide investment in
the conservation, development and activationof the Prison over the next ten years. It is
a companion document to the HMP. The
Master Plan includes the following elements.
• History and current use• Context analysis: site, heritage,conservation, strategic, market,
social and economic, and planningconsiderations• Vision, objectives and themes• Implementation strategies• Priority actions
The actions outlined in this Master Plan will
demonstrate leadership in the management,
conservation and activation of a cultural
heritage site and secure a sustainable future
for Fremantle Prison.

Introduction • FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

Since the State Government resumed
operations of Fremantle Prison in 2002, thesite has developed into a multifaceted awardwinning cultural tourism destination attracting
approximately 200,000 people each year toengage with the history of the Prison througha range of experiences.

opportunities to engage with the history of
the site. The Prison also offers school tours
and exclusive group tours.
Unique spaces in Fremantle Prison areavailable for corporate and private function
hire and events, ranging from intimate dinners
to large concerts in the yards.

The Gatehouse and entry complex provide
visitors free access to permanent displays
about the site history, temporary exhibitionsin the Prison’s three galleries and a ‘behindthe scenes’ look at the Fremantle Prison
Collection. There is also a gift shop, café andvisitor amenities.

Premises are also leased to private
operators under strict managementagreements. Current uses include educationand training, commercial space, shortterm accommodation, café, catering andcommunity uses.

A suite of guided tours offers visitors
informative, entertaining and unique

The various site activities are indicated on the
Figure 1 below.

Educational uses

Short term
accommodation

Tours(throughout site)

OfficesTunnels tour

Private functions(throughout site)

Gatehouse
Concerts+ entry complex+ large events• Exhibitions • Gift Shop
• Galleries• Café
• Collection• Amenities

Offices, education+ community uses

Figure 1: Current site activation
FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 • Introduction

13

The earliest buildings within
the current site include theBlacksmiths Workshop (1852),
Perimeter Walls (1853-55), Entry
Complex (1854-55) and
Carpenters Workshop (1858).

Pre Colonisation
The Whadjuk people havebeen the custodians ofWalyalup (Fremantle) for tensof thousands of years.
1829 Colonisation
The Swan River Colony was founded on
Whadjuk lands in 1829.
The Roundhouse was built in Fremantle
in 1831 as the Colony’s first prison.

167 YEARS OF BUILT HISTORY

1829

14

1850

The southern wing of
the Main Cell Block was
constructed between 1852-1855
and the first convicts moved in on
1 June 1855.
In late 1859 the project was
officially completed, including thenorthern wing of the Main Cell
Block.
1850s Construction

1850’sLate
1800s1850 Convicts

Late 1800s Prison

Following a request for convicts
to be sent to assist with
development of the Colony,
the Scindian sailed into
Fremantle Harbour in 1850,
carrying convicts, pensioner
guards and their families.

In 1867 the complex was
renamed ‘Fremantle Prison’ andin 1868 the transport of convicts
to Western Australia ended.

The convicts were put towork constructing theConvict Establishment,
as Fremantle Prison
was first known, using
limestone quarried
from the site.
Construction of theWarders’ Cottages
commenced in 1851
and works at the
Prison sitecommenced in 1852.

Introduction • FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

With the end of the convict
system, the Prison was handed
over to the Swan River Colony’s
Legislative Council in 1886.
The institution was modified to
become the colony’s primarygaol for men, women andjuveniles by adding theGallows (1888) and the
Women’s Division (1889).
With the population boomof the 1890s gold rush,
Fremantle Prison
became busy
once again.

The site was developed overtime, including the additionof the Tunnels System(1888-1894), West Workshops(1901-1902) and New Division(1907), and changes to improveconditions following a 1911
Royal Commission.
During the Second World War,the Australian Defence
Department sequestered part of
the Prison as a military detention
centre for ‘enemy aliens’.
Early 1900s Internment

Early
1900s

1980’s

1980s Closure
The State Government resolved
to close Fremantle Prison
in 1983.
In January 1988 there was a fireand riot at the Prison resulting
in extensive damage to theMain Cell Block and in
November 1991, thefinal inmates andstaff weretransferred toother prisons inWA.
A study on
future uses for
the Fremantle
Prison site
recommended it beconserved as asignificant heritage site.

Fremantle
Prison was
listed on theState Register of
Heritage Places in
1992, national
heritage listing
occurred in 2005 andworld heritage listing in 2010.
From 1992-2002 tours wereconducted on site by private tour
company ‘Fremantle Prison
Guardians’.
1990s Heritage

1990’sToday

Today Visitors
Operation of the Prison site
was returned to the State
Government in 2002
and a Master Plan wasdeveloped to guidedevelopment of
the site.
In subsequent years,
a visitor centre,
museum and array ofaward-winning tours
have been developed at
the Prison. Private sector
partnerships and tenancies
have also been fostered toincrease site utilisation and thevisitor experience.

1852 – 2019
FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 • Introduction

15

16

17

CONTEXT & ANALYSIS

West End precinct, Fremantle

HAMPTON ROAD

PARRY ST

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FREMANTLE
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FREMANTLE
MARKETS

MAR

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STR

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HIGH

FR
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MALL

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HODS

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STREE

QU

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FREMANTLE
PRISON

STREE
T

Warders’ Cottages, Fremantle
Figure 2: Location map

Site details
Fremantle Prison is located at 1 The Terrace,
Fremantle, on the eastern edge of thecommercial centre of Fremantle.

Location
The 6.295ha site is bounded by Knutsford
Street to the north, Hampton Road to theeast, Fothergill Street to the south, and
The Terrace to the west. It is accessible byprivate vehicle and public transport and isa short walk from the Fremantle Markets,
the Cappuccino Strip, Esplanade Park andFishing Boat Harbour.
The Prison is part of 16ha precinct thatwas originally granted for the Convict
Establishment. Sites with heritage, historicand cultural value within the precinct include
the Henderson Street Warders’ Cottages,
Fremantle Markets, Fairbairn Street Ramp
and Fremantle Oval. Other sites that add
to the appeal of Fremantle as a heritage
destination include the Lunatic Asylum (nowthe Fremantle Arts Centre), the Roundhouse,
the West End precinct and the Maritime
Museum.

18

Ownership and GovernanceFremantle Prison (Reserve No. 24042, Lot
2095 on Deposited Plan 191368) is an assetof the State of Western Australia, vested in
the Minister for Heritage for the purpose of‘conservation and management of historicbuildings and ancillary and beneficial uses
thereto.’ The Department of Planning, Lands
and Heritage manage the Prison on behalfof the Minister and the Heritage Council ofWestern Australia oversees governance ofthe operation.

Land Use Planning
Fremantle Prison is reserved under the
Metropolitan Region Scheme for the
purposes of civic and cultural use and theWestern Australian Planning Commission(WAPC) determines all applications for works
to the Prison. In deciding an application, theWAPC consults with the City of Fremantle,
Heritage Council of Western Australia andCommonwealth Department of Environment
and Energy.
Fremantle Prison and the wider area of theoriginal Convict Establishment are includedin Zone 4 of the City of Fremantle’s WestEnd Conservation Area Local Planning Policy(DGF14).

Context & Analysis • FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

Heritage status
World Heritage Listing
Fremantle Prison is one of eleven Australiansites that comprise the Australian Convict
Sites World Heritage Property. These sites
were inscribed on the World Heritage List
by UNESCO in 2010 in recognition of theirsignificant heritage and representation of theforced migration and penal transportation ofprisoners across the world. Fremantle Prisonis the most intact convict establishment inAustralia.
As an international signatory to the World
Heritage Convention 1972, the State
Government (representing the Commonwealth
Government as the State Party to theConvention) has agreed to protect andconserve the heritage values of the Prison,and to present these values to the community.
The Government is required to report to
UNESCO every five years on progress, action
and risks for the protection, conservation andpresentation of these values.
Management of Fremantle Prison is also
required to meet the core objectives of theAustralian Convict Sites Strategic Plan
2017-2020, which seeks to:• collaboratively manage the values of thenominated Australian Convict Sites• conserve and protect the values ofthe properties for current and future
generations• present and interpret the values of theproperties, emphasising each site’scontribution to the whole, and• give each of the properties a function in
the life of the community

State and National Heritage Listing
Fremantle Prison’s heritage significance has
also been recognised by its inclusion in the:• State Register of Heritage Places –Heritage Council of Western Australia(10 January 1992), and• National Heritage List – AustralianGovernment (1 August 2005)

Governing Legislation
The ongoing conservation and interpretationof Fremantle Prison’s State, National andWorld Heritage values are governed by
the statutory requirements of the Western
Australian Heritage Act 1990, the Federal
Environment Protection and Biodiversity
Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act), as
well as the UNESCO 1972 World Heritage
Convention.

FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 • Context & Analysis

19Conservation and management
considerations
The conservation of the significant fabric of the Fremantle Prison, its collections of objects
and its related stories are fundamental to the success of the site. A planned and targeted
program of significant conservation works is essential to protect the Prison’s heritage
values and its contribution to the Western Australian economy and community.
The heritage values of the site have been
extensively studied and documented, andrecommendations made as to works required
to maintain, conserve and restore thosevalues. Many of these studies supported
the heritage listing and World Heritage
nomination of the site and informed the2003 Master Plan and the 2019 Heritage
Management Plan. A full bibliography ofstudies is provided in the HMP.

Without this investment, existing levels of
economic and community activity on the site
may be compromised by safety risks arisingfrom deteriorating building fabric. Acting now
to protect and conserve the original fabricand the collections of objects will underwrite
the ongoing success and global recognitionof the heritage site, and avoid future costs
likely to accrue if the buildings continue todeteriorate.

Since the State Government resumed
operations of the Fremantle Prison in 2002,
it has worked to address the recommended
maintenance and conservation works. These
works have largely been funded throughrecurrent budgets and a small number ofcapital works grants from the State andFederal Governments.
This Master Plan outlines a program of works
to address conservation priorities, supported
by an ongoing planned maintenance regime.
Planned investment in effective conservationof the site will sustain current visitation activity
and unlock further economic and community
benefits for the Western Australian community.

20

Context & Analysis • FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

Fremantle Prison planning framework
Management of Fremantle Prison has the primary purpose of conserving and managing
the unique and globally significant heritage values of the site. It is also an objectiveof the State Government to position the site as a premier tourism experience andmaximise opportunities for the community to engage with its significant history.
Heritage Management Plan 20192003 Fremantle Prison Master Plan

The Master Plan 2019-2029 is a companion
document to the Fremantle Prison Heritage
Management Plan 2019 (HMP). Conservationof Fremantle Prison, including its collectionof objects and stories, is fundamental
to its ongoing success, accordingly theconservation considerations outlined in the
HMP will always take priority in the event ofconflict between future use and conservation.

The 2003 Master Plan has guided
conservation and activation of the Prison site
for the past fifteen years. It has informed key
conservation projects and the developmentof the range of tour options and site uses thathave positioned the Prison as a renowned
destination. New developments implemented
in the first five years of the plan include Tunnel
Tours (2005), gift shop (2006) and café (2008),
resulting in a 38% increase in visitors and118% increase in revenue over that period.

As the overarching management documentfor Fremantle Prison, the HMP establishes apolicy framework for effective management ofFremantle Prison’s heritage values, particularly
conservation of the Outstanding Universal Value(OUV) of Fremantle Prison as a World Heritagesite in accordance with Australia’s obligations
under the 1972 World Heritage Convention andthe requirements of the EPBC Act.

The intended life of this plan has now come toan end.
The Master Plan 2019-2029 builds onthe directions set in the 2003 Master Planand establishes a framework to guideconservation, activation and commercial
development over the next ten years.

Policy 6 of the HMP requires that a
Master Plan be created to investigate andrecommend future uses of the site. The HMP
notes that the Master Plan process shall be
guided by the stated goal in the AustralianConvict Sites Strategic Plan 2017– 2020:‘to give the Property a function in the life of
the community’.

H E R I TA G E M A N A G E M E N T P L A N
MASTER
PLAN
Zone
Conservation
Management
Strategies

Collection
Management
PolicyInterpretation
Management
Plan

ArchaeologicalManagement
Plan

Figure 3: Fremantle Prison Planning Framework

FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 • Context & Analysis

21

Strategic context
Our Priorities: Our Shared Prosperity
The State Government has identified six
priority areas and 12 targets to tackle
Western Australia’s biggest challenges. This
Master Plan is aligned with the priorities asfollows.
• A strong economy: boost visitation andtourism spend at the Prison and in theFremantle area
• A bright future: innovative learning
activities on site to support improved
learning outcomes for young people• Aboriginal wellbeing: partner with
Aboriginal people to find opportunities toutilise the site for tourism, learning andcommunity development

State Planning Strategy 2050
The State Planning Strategy 2050 establishes
an overarching framework for developmentof the State, with a vision of sustained
growth and prosperity. Development ofa range of tourism experiences that are
unique to Western Australia is a strategic
direction of the State Planning Strategy,
including improved cultural infrastructure anddiversified visitor experiences. Protection anddevelopment of the potential of Fremantle
Prison is aligned with this Strategy.

Tourism WA Two Year Action Plan
The Tourism WA Two Year Action Plan
has been developed to increase visitation
to Western Australia and increase market
share for leisure and business events. The
Plan includes the following actions that are
relevant to the Fremantle Prison Master Plan.
• Grow the cruise market: Fremantle
Prison can benefit from increased
market share of shore-based tourism forcruise boats• Authentic demand-driving visitor
experiences: the focus of this Master
Plan is to provide new unique experiences
to establish the Prison as a must-do
destination.

Australian Heritage Strategy 2015
The Australian Heritage Strategy has a visionthat heritage places are valued, protected
and cared for. This Master Plan aligns withthe three key outcomes of the Heritage
Strategy as summarised below.
• National leadership: support Australia’s
iconic World Heritage properties• Strong partnerships: develop heritage
partnerships between governmentand other sectors; explore innovative
funding, resource sharing and creative
partnerships; foster greater collaboration
between the heritage and tourism sectors• Engaged communities: promote greaterawareness, knowledge and engagementwith our national heritage; best practicestandards for heritage management andconservation.

Heritage Council Strategic Plan 2019-23
The strategic focus of the Heritage Council
is to ensure that Western Australia’s heritage
places are conserved through sound heritage
practice and harmonious development, andthat the potential community and economic
value of heritage places is realised. The
Heritage Council oversees conservationand interpretation of the heritage values ofplaces under its management to promote asustainable future for the asset. The Master
Plan supports the Heritage Council’s Strategic
Plan.

• Business Events: Fremantle Prison
offers unique night-time and partner
experiences that can be marketed inassociation with other business event
facilities in Perth22

Context & Analysis • FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

Market context
Fremantle Prison is the most visited paid
attraction in Fremantle with annual visitation of
approximately 200,000 people. The Prison isconsistently rated highly by visitors and traveladvisory services, however there has been
limited growth in visitor numbers in recent
years, and the type and origin of visitors has
also remained relatively consistent.
In 2018, 22.7 million intra-state day trips
were taken within Western Australia and 11.9
million overnight (domestic and international)
visitors came to, or travelled within, the State.
This represents a 15.8% increase in thenumber of visitors (overnight and day trip) incomparison to the previous year, including
a 20.3% increase in the holiday market.
Together, these visitors spent $10.4 billion in
the State, with 55% of expenditure occurringin Perth and 45% in Regional WA. Total visitor
expenditure in the State in 2018 increased by
8.7% from the previous year.1
Globally, heritage tourism has become
one of the largest and fastest growing
tourism sectors with the United Nations
World Tourism Organisation estimating that

200,000

State
PrivateGovernment
tours
conducted commences
operation of
on sitesite
1991 2002

In Australia, cultural and heritage segments
have grown at 7.5% and 11.2% respectively
over the past four years: 43% of international
visitors to Australia in 2017 participated ina cultural activity; and 33.9% in a heritage
activity. The National Trust has found thatheritage tourism activities contribute tolonger stays, as well as attracting new visitor
markets to regional Australia. Research also
indicates that visitors to heritage-based
activities are more likely to seek high value
experiences and deliver a higher spend thannature-based activities.2, 3
There is significant evidence that visitors are
attracted to destinations that offer unforgettable
and inspiring experiences that create anemotional connection with places, people andcultures.4 Accordingly this Fremantle Prison
Master Plan prioritises the development of
unique experiences at the Fremantle Prison
that will attract the growing global demand for
heritage tourism experiences.

Tunneltours
commence

GFC impacts
tourismindustry

Several large
outdoor events
held on site

Visitation steady at just over
110,000 visitors annually

250,000

more than 50% of tourists worldwide are
now motivated by a desire to experience a
country’s culture and heritage.

150,000
100,000
50,0000

2018/192017/18

2016/172015/16

2014/15

2013/142012/13

2011/122010/11

2009/10

2008/09

2007/08

2006/07

2005/06

2004/05

2003/04

2002/03

2001/02

1993/01

1992/93

1991/92

Figure 4: Annual Visitor Numbers
Sources
1. Tourism Research Australia’s (TRA) International Visitor Surveys (IVS) Factsheet
2. National Heritage Tourism Summit Discussion Paper, National Trust, (2018)
3. Tourism & Transport Forum Australia, Built Heritage and the Visitor Economy-The case for adaptive re-use of heritage assets (2017)
4. Tropical Tablelands Tourism, Hero Experiences Guidebook (2015)

FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 • Context & Analysis

23

Social and economic benefits
The AEC Group was commissioned to prepare an Economic and Social Impact Assessment of arange of options for increased use and activation of the Fremantle Prison site. The study included
an assessment of the social and economic benefits delivered by the Prison at that time.
The AEC group found that the Prison made a direct contribution of $19.1 million to the regional
economy in the 2017/18 period, including 122 FTE jobs through direct operations and induced
visitation. Further, it was estimated that the Prison supported regional activity with a Gross
Regional Product of $21.7 million annually (including direct and flow-on impacts) and creating
approximately 200 jobs, equating to $12.3 million in wages and salaries.
Table i: Economic Impact of Fremantle Prison Operations (2017/18)
ImpactDirectType I Flow-On
Type II Flow-On
Total

Output ($M)
$19.1
$7.5
$14.8
$41.4

Gross Regional
Product ($M)
$9.7
$3.6
$8.4
$21.7

Incomes ($M)

Note: Totals may not sum due to rounding.

$6.2
$2.0
$4.1
$12.3

Employment(FTEs)
122
25
58
205
Source: AEC

The Economic and Social Impact Assessment also found that the Prison contributed
many social and community benefits (refer table ii). This finding is supported by community
consultation undertaken for the Master Plan process which found that respondents weregenerally supportive of products offered at Fremantle Prison. Many recognised that theeconomic success is translated into conservation efforts and some expressed the view that thecommunity shares in the social and economic benefits generated by the Prison.
Table ii: Fremantle Prison social benefits
Jobs Creation:

Enhanced
Community
Pride:

Amenity
Benefits forUsers/ Visitors:

Enhanced
Education
Outcomes:

24

Fremantle Prison, as a tourism asset, contributes to the local community
by providing jobs and incomes; both directly through the operation of the
Prison and indirectly through the attraction of visitors and visitor spend
within the community.
The cultural and heritage values of the Prison provide an important link toFremantle’s past for the local community, contributing to the community’s
sense of place. As a tourism asset, the Prison also increases awareness ofFremantle in broader society, showcasing the city and attracting visitors to
the region.
Fremantle Prison attracted almost 200,000 visitors in 2017/18, with arange of tourism offerings available. The Prison provides visitors with anopportunity to recreate and learn about the cultural heritage and history
of Fremantle and the Prison, and thereby provides an important amenity
benefit for visitors to the facility.
Fremantle Prison is a rich resource for researchers, archaeologists and theeducation sector. These programs provide important opportunities to teachvisitors about the cultural and historic significance of the Prison, its place inFremantle’s history, and the way of life for inmates of the past. Programs offeredto school groups play an important role in supporting the National Curriculum.

Context & Analysis • FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

Community and stakeholder engagement
Fremantle Prison is a key element of the local landscape and history. It contributes
to a sense of place and carries significant meaning, both positive and negative, formany in the Fremantle community and for those families with a connection to thesite. Accordingly, the ongoing success of the Prison as a sustainable cultural heritagesite requires sensitive consideration of community and stakeholder views regarding
conservation activities, and activation and funding strategies. Providing opportunities for
public engagement is an identified action of the HMP.
Several activities have been undertaken over the past three years to ensure this Master Plan isinformed by community and stakeholder views. These are briefly summarised below.

Community Consultation: Future Uses
In 2016 Lockwood Advisory undertook oneon-one interviews and group forums withstakeholders to consider potential future usesof the Fremantle Prison site. Consultation
included State and Federal heritage
representatives, relevant community andbusiness groups, and staff. The outcomesof the consultation were presented in theFremantle Prison Future Uses – Final Report.
The consultation identified broad stakeholder
support for the development of compatible
uses that contribute to the overall
preservation of the site.
Identified uses
• Festivals, events, food and beverage• On-site dining/wine bar• Arts exhibitions, theatricalperformances, outdoor cinema• Creative industries• Place making and interpretation• Enhance visitor experiences withsound, lighting & projections• Community gathering spaces /community participation• Expanded education and learning
programs• Accommodation

Visitor Input
Visitor surveys provide ideas for improvementfrom the customer perspective. While many
responses suggest improved amenities, themajority support the maintenance of theexisting products, activities and experiences.

Direct Stakeholder Engagement
Staff are actively engaged with several
community, industry and heritage groups toensure future proposals meet stakeholder
expectations and align with other strategicplans. Examples include the World Heritage
Australian Convict Sites Steering Committee,
Fremantle Oval Redevelopment ReferenceGroup, Fremantle Destination Marketing
Working Group and Hampton Road
Community Reference Group.

Review of Draft Master Plan
The draft Fremantle Prison Master Plan
2019-2029 was advertised for publiccomment across October 2019. Twelve
responses were received. Feedback waslargely positive with strong support for theSound and Light Show, including offers of
research assistance. Concerns relating toa ‘Night in Prison’ experience were raisedaround the ability to deliver an authentic, yet
not psychologically damaging experience, so
an expanded range of authentic experience
options are proposed in this final Master
Plan. Tensions between the need to maintainauthenticity and desire to re-establish key
vistas, versus caring for visitors and the Cityof Fremantle’s Urban Forest Plan, will need
to be addressed at each specific location as
the Master Plan progresses. Most responses
will be considered in the detail of futureInterpretation, Landscape, Accessibility and
Education management plans.

FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 • Context & Analysis

25

MASTER PL AN
2019-2029
VisionFremantle Prison is a celebrated Australian heritage icon
- a must-do destination that attracts visitors to Perth.
Management of the site demonstrates leadership andinnovation in the conservation and activation of heritage
places.

26

CONSERVE & SUSTAIN
Invest in the protection and conservation of the World Heritage values andsustain visitor numbers with renewed interpretation and improved amenity.

ACTIVATE & GROW
Position the site as a demand-driving destination with unique, world-classexperiences that grow revenue for the site and generate benefits for theState.

MASTER PLAN
2019-2029

Objectives27

a di s t i nctiv e
destination
Present Fremantle Prison as aprominent landmark and distinct
character precinct in Fremantle,
creating a striking first impression
and lasting positive memories forvisitors.

CONSERVE & SUSTAIN

Themes & a ct ion s

1

28

2

Create a strong sense of arrival
Establish a clear sense of arrival and a dynamic transition
to the ‘inside’ with innovative interpretation of the perimeter
walls, re-design of the Terrace arrival plaza, and restoration
works along the Terrace.

State and local
government
partnership

Care for visitors
Upgrade and expand visitor services and amenities to ensure
a high-quality visitor experience, enable increased access,and support a wider range of activity across the site.

State
Government

ACTIVATE & GROW

3

Reinforce the character of the Convict Establishment
Prepare new guidelines for urban design and development
for the area of the original convict grant to retain andenhance the visual prominence of the Prison and improve thecharacter and activation of the entire Convict Establishment.

State and local
government
partnership in
consultation withland owners

Further detail about the 11 Priority Actions is provided in Section 5 on page 35.

Master Plan 2019-2029• FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

a

pre mi er

experience

Enhance Fremantle Prison’s
reputation as a must-do
attraction with quality
conservation, innovativeinterpretation, and uniqueexperiences that grow visitor
numbers and drive tourism
demand in WA.

CONSERVE & SUSTAIN

4

Conserve the heritage building fabric
Deliver a program of essential conservation works to protect
the outstanding universal values of the site, and maintain safe
access for staff and visitors throughout the site.

State
Government

ACTIVATE & GROW

567Enthral with spectacular interpretation
Create a world-class ‘Sound and Light’ show that brings theimpressive prison buildings to life at night with spectacularinterpretation of Western Australian stories.

State
Government or
public – private
partnership

Deliver authentic immersive Prison experiences
Develop authentic immersive Prison experiences that offer
visitors unique and authentic perspectives on prison life andsite history.

State
Government or
public – private
partnership

Invite partnerships and innovation
Encourage new proposals for activation of the site andestablish a framework for evaluation and development of
new initiatives and partnerships.

Privateenterprise or
public – private
partnerships

FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 • Master Plan 2019-2029

29

a le a rning
place
Build Fremantle Prison’s brandas a place for learning andcommunity engagement witha new Centre for Heritage
Excellence and innovative
programs to immerse learners andthe community in the site’s culturaland built heritage.

CONSERVE & SUSTAIN

8
9

Refresh and expand the education programs
Establish Fremantle Prison as an iconic classroom using
contemporary technologies to deliver memorable learning
experiences for schools, international and special interest
groups.

State Government,
industry andTertiary institutions

Grow the Prison garden, and volunteer programs
Involve volunteers in establishing and maintaining newgardens on the site of the original prison vegetablegardens. Leverage this initiative to develop volunteering andcommunity engagement programs.

Governmentand community
partnership

ACTIVATE & GROW

30

10Establish a Centre for Heritage Excellence11

Connect to Aboriginal experiences and stories

Develop a ‘Centre for Heritage Excellence’ that utilises
conservation activities on site to demonstrate best practiceand foster research, education and training in conservation,interpretation, curation and heritage trades.

Be a place for truth-telling, reflection, healing andreconciliation. Partner with Aboriginal people, families
and communities to explore new and meaningful ways
for Aboriginal stories and experiences to be told andheard at the Prison.

Master Plan 2019-2029• FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

State andFederalGovernments,
industry andTertiary institutions
State and local
Governmentand community
partnership

31

IMPLEMENTATION

Business case
The Master Plan has an estimated cost of$27.58 million over ten years, equating to
an average annual spend of approximately$2.76 million. This important investment will
enable:• essential conservation works to protect
the site’s World Heritage values andenhance the visitor experience• unique, demand-driving attractions
that directly benefit the broader tourism
sector and Fremantle economy• increased revenue from tours,
experiences and commercial activity onsite to improve long term self-sufficiency• the fostering of heritage and curatorialskills and knowledge to maintain
Western Australia’s heritage places into
the future• an active and attractive precinct that
supports a vibrant local community.
The Social and Economic Impact Study
undertaken by AEC Group in 2016 foundthat the combined impact of the proposed‘Sound and Light’ show and ‘Night in Prison’experience (as an example of an authentic
immersive Prison experience) would be in theorder of 45,000 additional visitors per year,
an increase of 22% on current visitor rates.

32

The study projected that these activities,
costed at $2.7 million to establish, could
generate an additional $2.3 million in annual
revenue for the Prison, equating to a 50%
increase in revenue and representing an 85%
return on investment within the first year.
The additional revenue generated by these
initiatives will support ongoing conservationof the site.
In terms of broader economic impact
for Fremantle, the AEC Group projectedthat the new initiatives would generate an
additional $5.3 million in Gross Regional
Product including direct and flow-on impacts,
supporting over 50 FTE jobs per annum andpaying $2.9 million in wages and salaries.
AEC Group found that investment in theexisting prison assets would “play a timely
and key role in raising the profile of Fremantle
as a competitive tourist destination.”
The report also noted that some of the
proposed activation initiatives would not havea direct associated revenue benefit but offer
intangible social and community benefits, forexample the Prison Gardens and the Centre
for Heritage Excellence. The report found thatthese initiatives would add tangible value tothe overall site and that “without them therevenue potential of other developments
could be stifled.”

Implementation • FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

BudgetAn indicative ten-year investment program is set out below.
Immediate Short term Medium(Year 2-4) (Year 5-6)
(Year 1)$M
$M
$M
1. Create a strong sense of arrival

0.50

2.60

2. Care for visitors

0.10

1.00

3. Reinforce the character of the Convict
Grant precinct
4. Conserve the heritage building fabricLong term(Year 7-10)
$M

0.10
3.50

5. ‘Light and Sound’ show

3.57

2.51

2.00

6. Deliver authentic immersive Prison
experiences

0.70

7. Invite partnerships and innovation
8. Refresh and expand the education
programs
9. Grow the Prison gardens, andvolunteer program

0.20

10. Establish a Centre for Heritage
Excellence

1.00

9.50

$4.41

$9.50

11. Connect to Aboriginal experiences
and stories

0.30

Sub-totals

$4.1

$9.57

Funding and partnership models
The Master Plan budget relies on State andFederal Government funding to undertake
conservation works and establish the Centre
for Excellence. The plan also includes
opportunities to invite private partners on site
to invest in activation, tourism and ongoingsite maintenance, thereby increasing selfsufficiency over time.

C A P I TA L
WORKS:
State and/or Federal
Government funding

MASTER
PLAN
2019-2029
NEW
A C T I V AT I O N S :Public-private partnerships

OTHER:
Community andprivate sector initiatives

FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 • Implementation

33

Program management
Delivery of the Master Plan will require
a delivery team that is able to focus on
the capital works conservation programand business development initiatives
independently of the day-to-day operational
requirements which are the responsibility ofcurrent staff.

A senior manager and project assistantwill be engaged to oversee delivery of the
Master Plan with support from contract
staff and/or consultants as warranted by
the program, and drawing on expertise of
the DPLH for specific matters. The delivery
team will require skills in project management
and stakeholder engagement, as well as
conservation and heritage expertise.

Risk management
Compatible future uses can contribute tothe ongoing conservation of Fremantle
Prison and will assist in establishing the site
as a demand driving destination. However
future uses that are not properly considered
may put the heritage values at risk. To thisend, the HMP requires a case-by-caseassessment of any proposed activities on
the site to ensure they would not adversely
impact heritage values and will deliver
economic and/or social value to the site.

This includes consideration of the potential
impact of proposed uses on the existing
visitor experience, other site users andsurrounding residents and land uses. The
Priority Actions in this Master Plan haveundergone preliminary assessment against
the HMP. Ongoing compliance with the HMP
will be monitored as the detail is developed.

The Master Plan is guided by the following risk management principles to protect
the heritage values and reputation of the site, and the safety of staff, contractors andvisitors.
• Regular risk assessment will be undertaken to identify and manage potential negative
impacts on heritage values and reputation of the site.
• Risk management plans will be prepared and implemented for any activity that carries
a risk of negatively impacting significant heritage fabric or the reputation of the place,where that risk can be managed.
• Activities that involve external parties will require effective management controls such asaccess agreements and use conditions to manage risk of harm.
• Activities that are considered incompatible, or with risks that cannot be managed, will not
be supported.

34

Implementation • FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

35

PRIORITY ACTIONS

11

FREMANTLE PRISON SITE MAP PROPOSED ACTIVITIES(TO BE SUPPLIED)

eleven Priority Action s

to Conserve & Sustain, Activate & Grow:

7
8
6

4
9

5
10

2
1

11

3

1

Create a strong sense of arrival

7

Invite partnerships and innovation

2

Care for visitors

8

Refresh and expand the education
programs

3

Reinforce the character of theConvict Establishment

9Grow the Prison garden, and volunteer
programs

4

Conserve the heritage building fabric

10

Establish a Centre for Heritage
Excellence

5

Enthral with spectacular interpretation

11

Connect to Aboriginal experiences
and stories

6

Deliver authentic immersive Prison
experiences

Figure 5: Site map indicating location of priority actions

36

Priority Actions • FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

A distinct destination

1.

Create a strong sense of arrival
Establish a clear sense of arrival and a dynamic transition to the ‘inside’ with
innovative interpretation of the perimeter walls, re-design of the Terrace arrival
plaza and restoration works along the Terrace.

Background

However, there is potential to better utilise
the perimeter walls and Hampton Road
reserve to define and interpret the Prisionfrom Hampton Road and to improve amenity
and access for pedestrians and residents,
such as establishing an interpretive walkaround the perimeter of the site. Hampton
Road residents have requested treatmentsthat would improve the visual amenity of theHampton Road walls. This will be carefully
managed to mitigate any impacts on theheritage values of the walls.
Opportunity exists for creative interpretive
elements to assist with traffic calming in thisarea.

Visitors arrive at the Prison via one of threeroutes: the primary Fairbairn Street ramp;
the Holdsworth Street ramp or adjacentstairs from the Terrace carpark; or byvehicle on Fothergill Street. Sightlines along
these access routes are increasingly being
obscured by trees on the Fairbairn Street
ramp, Terrace carpark and Fremantle Oval.
All three entries meet in front of theGatehouse at an arrival plaza, which is a
popular photo opportunity for all visitors.
However, the plaza is a poorly planned‘shared zone’ in which visitors must
contend with vehicles, buses and cyclists.
The challenges of negotiating this busy
environment detracts from the overall arrival
experience, particularly the dramatic impactof the Gatehouse and entry to the Prison.
The Terrace land form and its collection ofconvict-era, colonial buildings add to theattractive and striking face of the Prison.
Unfortunately, these buildings have poor
access due to design of the carpark.

FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 • Priority Actions

a di s ti nct destination

Fremantle Prison’s imposing perimeter walls
and striking Gatehouse are highly visible
elements on approach to the Prison and fromseveral key viewsheds in the precinct; evoking
a brooding presence, particularly on Hampton
Road, Fothergill Street and Knutsford Street.
Their stark appearance has significant heritage
value and contributes to the interpretation of
the site.

37

Above: Images indicate possible styles and approaches for interpretation and improved amenity on the Prison
perimeter. They are not design proposals.

Description of Works
The Terrace
The collection of buildings and landscaped
gardens along the Terrace have exceptionaland considerable heritage significance andprovide a striking contrast to the austerearchitecture of the Prison. Restoration
work and activation of the streetscape will
significantly enhance the visitor experience.
The proposed works include:• high quality entry and interpretive
signage, way-finding signage andsculptural elements

Terrace arrival plaza
The arrival experience for visitors will be
improved by designating a pedestrian plaza
immediately in front of the Gatehouse,providing arriving visitors, including large
groups of school children and coach tours,with a safe space to gather, photographand appreciate the historic building before
entering the site. A reconfigured carpark will
include parking for people with disabilities, a
dedicated pick-up area and coach parking.

• reconstruction of historic elements on
the Terrace such as the convict-era bell
post and cannon• repairs to building facades, authentic
roof treatments and development ofhistoric gardens• grow activation with tenancies
complementary to a vibrant locationand the precinct character, such asaccommodation, restaurants, cafés,bars and galleries• additional lighting of walls andpedestrian paths.

38

Priority Actions • FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

Hampton Road reserve
The Hampton Road reserve can be used
to enhance the arrival experience. Works
will include way-finding signage, groundlevel interpretative elements as well as tree
removal to reinforce the austere character ofthis space, while being conscious of the needto care for our customers.

Heritage Impact and Regulatory
Compliance

Perimeter walls and watch towers
The perimeter walls and watch towers
can be used more effectively to provide aninterpretive canvas for the Prison, whilst
achieving improved amenity for neighbouringresidents. Works might include selected
up-lighting of the walls and/or interpretive
installations. These works would enhance
the arrival experience, and could entice
visitors to walk around the perimeter with theopportunity to learn more about the Convict
Establishment. Notwithstanding the above,
maintaining the heritage values of the walls isa major consideration and will determine thefinal scope of works.

SPECIFIC POLICY 49: Fremantle Prison
visitor’s will not expose its staff and visitors to
unacceptable risks to health and safety. It willcomply with its statutory obligations.

This action will enhance the heritage
authenticity of the site. Reduced vehicle
circulation in the arrival plaza will also improve
the historic presentation of this area.
These proposed works align with the 2019
HMP as follows:

PRINCIPLE 68: The prominence and visibilityof the Gatehouse must be maintained, as
seen on approach from the west, including
the building’s central place and primacy inviews from the Fairbairn Street Ramp. The
Gatehouse should remain the focus of the
Prison as it presents to Fremantle.
POLICY 69: Fremantle Prison will be
managed to ensure that its landmark statusis retained and its monumental presence inthe landscape is enhanced.
POLICY 72: The exterior of Fremantle
Prison will be managed to retain its austere
institutional appearance.
The project will improve compliance withsafety and access requirements throughre-design of the arrival plaza, vehicle accessand parking areas.

FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 • Priority Actions

39

Interpretive Potential

Community Benefit

This project will support the interpretation of
the Prison and its perimeter features through:A well-designed and safer arrival at Fremantle
Prison will facilitate positive community
engagement with the site and reduce therisks to public safety arising from the current
configuration. A reconfigured carpark will
also offer broader benefits to patrons at
Fremantle Oval, including the provision ofcoach parking. The proposed works tothe perimeter walls will also improve visualamenity for neighbouring properties.

• Restoring elements of the Gatehouseand Terrace buildings to their convict-era
presentation• Allowing pedestrians to view andappreciate the buildings and gardens
safely• Redeveloping interpretive signage that
explains the significance of the Terrace
buildings• Emphasising the World Heritage
significance of Fremantle Prison.
Landscaping, lighting and sculptural elements
can begin to tell the story of the Prison byenhancing the thematic ideas of security,
incarceration, separation and observationthat the walls and towers symbolise. For
example, a sculpture of convicts escaping
over the Hampton Road perimeter wall
will identify the historic events of prisoner
escapes from the east workshops and entice
visitors to come inside and see more of the
Prison. Similarly, a sculpture on the number
3 guard tower walkway above Fothergill
Street will reinforce the idea that the Prison
was a place of security and observation.

40

Financial Analysis
Direct financial benefit is anticipated throughincreased rental potential from buildings on
the Terrace, due to increased visitation andamenity of the area. Indirect financial benefit
to both the Prison and wider Fremantle area
will accrue from increased visitation to the
area.

Priority Actions • FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

2.

Care for visitors
Upgrade and expand visitor services and amenities to ensure
a high-quality visitor experience, enable increased access, andsupport a wider range of activity across the site.

BackgroundA high standard, and adequate number, ofvisitor amenities and services is important tothe success of any destination. While it is
not the purpose of the visit, poor amenities
can detract significantly from the visitor
experience and lead to unfavourable reviews,
which over time decreases visitation anderodes sustainability efforts.

Increased accessibility across the site isalso a visitor expectation. While there areconstraints to providing universal access toall areas of a heritage site, there is a general
expectation, and obligation, to facilitate
access to the extent possible.

However, visitor feedback indicates that thelack of modern, universally accessible public
toilets and standard of other amenities andservices has a negative impact on the visitor
experience at Fremantle Prison. Ironically,
it was the lack of decent toilets that led toclosure of the Prison in 1991.

FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 • Priority Actions

a di s ti nct destination

The Economic and Social Values Review
prepared by AEC in 2019 indicated that
visitors valued the World Heritage status andthe quality of the staff at the Prison. Other
strengths valued by visitors included goodparking, value for money and proximity toother attractions.

The quantity of services and amenities
available can also restrict the activities
conducted on site by restricting the numberof guests able to attend a function or activity
due to an inadequate number, or limitedaccess to, facilities.

41

Description of Works
It is proposed to provide a complete
suite of contemporary visitor amenities toaccommodate increased visitation at the site.
Visitor reception, way-finding andservices• Improved ticket office and ticketing
facilities• Introduction of improved technologies,
such as public wi-fi and languagetranslations for non-English speakers• Improved café and dining facilities• Meeting facilities• Refit of vacant or under-utilised space toaccommodate new uses
• Upgrade of existing spaces, such as thegift shop

Toilets and personal amenities
Upgrades are required to the accessible
toilets, parent’s room and first aid room tomeet visitor expectations. A new cloak roomwith locker storage is also required. Thereis also a requirement for upgrades to toilets
across the site and new/additional toilets toaccommodate increased activation.
There are several locations that could be
adapted to accommodate these facilities, as
listed below. It is anticipated one or more ofthese sites will be selected subject to detailed
assessment of heritage impacts.
• The existing 1970s Prisoner Shower
Block – linking to the Main Parade
Ground• The current storage facility adjacent to
Prisoner Reception – linking directly to
the Gatehouse forecourt• The West Workshops following
relocation of the Visible Collection
Store – linking directly to the Gatehouseforecourt• A new build on the footprint of theoriginal 1930s Prisoner Shower Block– linking directly to the Gatehouseforecourt and the Main Parade Ground• Within the proposed new Centre for
Heritage Excellence

42

Priority Actions • FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

Heritage Impact and Regulatory
ComplianceInterpretive Potential

The proposed works will be sited anddesigned such that they do not have a
detrimental impact on parts of the sitewith exceptional or considerable heritage
significance. Provision for ongoingsustainable visitation is consistent with theintent to provide the community with theopportunity to experience heritage places.
These proposed works align with the 2019
HMP as follows.
PRINCIPLE 81: When considering new visitor
facilities in the Gatehouse and Entry Complex
area, preference the use of existing buildings
over the introduction of new buildings andstructures. If new buildings are absolutely
required they should not:• be dominant new elements within thelimited entry court space; andWhile the purpose of these works is toimprove the visitor amenity, design should
consider the potential for interpretive
outcomes where practical.

Community Benefit
Improved amenities and services will provide
a more positive experience for visitors to the
Prison, which will reflect on the reputation of
the wider tourism industry. Better provisionof amenities and services can also broaden
the range of activities that occur at the site,
providing more opportunities for community
visitation and engagement on the site.

Financial Analysis
This activity is essential to sustain andexpand visitation levels. It will deliver indirect
financial benefit by enabling the growth ofvisitation numbers and associated income.

• interfere or impact on the visual andfunctional relationships of the historic
entry court buildings and inner and outergates.
ACTION 35: Through interpretation anddesign, continue to develop high quality
visitor facilities located in the heritagebuildings of the Entry Complex. Aim to makevisitors feel comfortable about entering thecomplex at this point despite its forbidding
character.
Improved accessibility of the site will ensure
better alignment with the intent of the
Disability Discrimination Act 1992.

FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 • Priority Actions

43

3.

Reinforce the character of the Convict Establishment
Prepare new guidelines for urban design and development for the area of theoriginal convict grant to retain and enhance the visual prominence of the Prison
and improve the character and activation of the entire Convict Establishment.

Backgrounda dis t inct destination

The 16ha grant allocated for development of
the Convict Establishment and associatedbuildings, including Fremantle Prison isdepicted at Figure 8 below. Today theFremantle Prison occupies 6.3ha of theoriginal grant and is a prominent element in
the precinct.

44

Other development and land uses within theoriginal site include the Fairbairn Street ramp,
Fremantle Oval Henderson Street, Warder’s
Cottages, Fremantle Markets, the Old Courts
and Police Station and parts of the Fremantle
Hospital.

Fairbairn Street Ramp

Fremantle Prison

Fremantle Oval

Old Courts &Police Station

Warders’ Cottages

Fremantle Markets

The Knowle

Figure 6: The Convict Establishment, with the current prison site outlined at the top.

Priority Actions • FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

Fremantle HospitalDevelopment has been proposed in andaround the Fremantle Oval and the Old
Courts and Police Station, and further
development of the precinct is likely in futureyears to meet growth targets for the area.
There is therefore a pressing need for aplanning policy and guidance to maintainthe character of the area, reinforce heritage
interpretation of convict and colonial-era
buildings and protect key sightlines andviewsheds to the Prison. Well-planneddevelopment also presents an opportunity toincrease and extend activation of the overall
precinct including utilisation of the Prison site.
The City of Fremantle has a suite of policies
that provide design guidelines for individual
precincts across the City. The Fremantle
Prison and Convict Establishment are
currently included in Design Guide F14:
Fremantle West End Conservation Area
Policy, dated 1992. This policy focuses on
the protection of heritage values of the Prisonsite. It does not contemplate the type ofdevelopment now proposed in the Convict
Establishment and does not establish clear
urban design principles for the precinct.
The recent inclusion of the West End
Heritage Area on the State Heritage Register
necessitates different management andpolicy arrangements for those parts of thewider area covered by DGF14. This provides
an opportunity to develop a Precinct Master
Plan with policy and design guidelines
for development activity in the Convict
Establishment.

Description of Works
Partner with City of Fremantle to develop
a new master plan and design guidance
for the Convict Establishment, including
conservation principles, precinct objectives,
development controls and a design codefor land use and development within the
precinct. The policy should also include
urban design and interpretive elements
throughout the Convict Establishment toincrease understanding and appreciationof the precinct’s history and enhance theheritage values of the Prison.
By way of example• The 2003 Master Plan recommended
interpretation of Fairbairn Ramp in its
original form, including the base of
the ramp on the western side of ParryStreet with the inclusion of wayfinding
and public art to interpret this zone.
Development of the Fremantle Oval site
presents an opportunity to realise thisoutcome. Conversely if adequate design
guidance and controls are not provided
this important physical and visual link
may be further diminished.
• Trees on Hampton Road, the Fairbairn
Street ramp, Terrace Carpark andFremantle Oval are encroaching on
key sightlines of the Prison walls andGatehouse, particularly from ParryStreet and the Markets and are causing
damage to the convict era ramp.
Strategies are required throughout the
precinct to achieve a better balance
between streetscape amenity andconservation of heritage fabric, key
sightlines and the visual austerity which
form part of the Prison’s heritage values
and character of the precinct.
This project would be undertaken as apartnership of the Department of Planning,Lands and Heritage and the City of Fremantle
and will involve engagement with Convict
Establishment landholders, the communityand other stakeholders.

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Heritage Impact and Regulatory
Compliance
These proposed works align with the 2019
HMP as follows.
POLICY 80: The wider historical settingof Fremantle Prison should be enhanced
through interpretation measures designed toillustrate the historical connections between
the Prison, the Henderson Street Warders’
Cottages and the original Convict Grant.
Where possible, visual connections between
the Warders’ Cottages and Fremantle Prison
should be enhanced by removing intrusive
built form and plantings.
POLICY 89: Fremantle Prison will seek tore-establish and/or enhance the physical andhistorical relationships between the Prison,
the Knowle, the Fairbairn Street ramp, theHenderson Street Warders’ Cottages, theformer Rottnest Island Gaol, the former
Fremantle Lunatic Asylum and the Warders’Terrace on Holdsworth Street through a
program of interpretation and in consultation
with the City of Fremantle, WA Department
of Health (and private owners wherepracticable).

Community Benefit
Fremantle is renowned for its varied places
to explore, including Fishing Boat Harbour,the historic West End, the Port and thefamous Cappuccino Strip. The Convict
Establishment with its convict history andco-location of significant historic buildings
and community uses is one of Fremantle’s
significant precincts and requires appropriate
recognition and protection in the planning
framework.

Financial Analysis
Indirect financial benefit will be experienced
by businesses in and around the Convict
Establishment, including the Prison, as wellas the broader tourism industry throughenhanced destination appeal and newactivation opportunities.

Improved legibility of the original Convict
Establishment will strengthen heritage valuesby placing Fremantle Prison in an appropriate
historical context and provide opportunities
to interpret convict-era buildings external tothe perimeter walls.

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A premier experience

4.

Conserve the heritage building fabric
Deliver a program of essential conservation works to protect the outstanding
universal values of the site and maintain safe access for staff and visitors
throughout the site.

Background

While all conservation works identified areessential, the required works have been
programmed over several years according toranked assessment of the following factors:

Highest priority is given to:• essential conservation works to protect
the values of elements with exceptionalsignificance and the World Heritage
status of the site, and• essential works to protect the safety ofstaff and visitors on site and meet theregulatory obligations of the Minister asowner of the site.

• the significance of each building, fabric,
space and/or element (as detailed in the
HMP),• the current condition of the element andrisks of delaying works,• the impact on safety, visitation andactivation at the site if works are notcarried out.

FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 • Priority Actions

a p remier experience

Fremantle Prison requires conservation
works to stabilise deterioration and conserve
key heritage values. The budgeted costof these works is $13.08 million over the
next six years. $3.5 million of this has been
provided by State Govenment with works inprogress. It is anticipated that after this timethe majority of maintenance works will besustained by increasing operational revenue.

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Exceptionalsignificance

These areas relate to the convict era and the identified OUV that led
to the site’s World Heritage listing. This significant historic era extends
from 1851 when the earliest convict related works commenced
through to 1886 when the Convict System ended, and managementof Fremantle Prison passed to the Swan River Colony’s Legislative
Council.

Considerable
significance

These areas are predominately associated with the early years ofState administration from 1886 to 1918 and reflect the transition of the
Prison from a convict facility to a modern prison.

Somesignificance

These areas include some pre-World War II and post-World War II
elements, items associated with the Prison experience and elements
added through the twentieth century.

Intrusive works

Some modern elements that are intrusive.

Description of Works
The works involve the following key
conservation activities:• rectify site drainage to minimise ongoingrising damp and salt attack in walls• repair windows and window sills to keep
the buildings weathertight

Many of the works will require specialist
conservation trades which impacts
scheduling of works. Works must also
be planned to minimise impact on visitor
operations.

• stabilise and repair deterioration inlimestone foundations and walls acrossthe site (perimeter and external walls tobuildings and internal division yard walls)• replace asbestos roofs and repair otherroofs on site,• upgrade or replace corroding steel inwalkways, stairs, handrails and othersite elements• repair walls, ceilings and floors in cells in
the Main Cell Block and New Division• upgrade ground surface treatments toremove trip hazards and reinstate orinterpret original materials• restore under-utilised buildings to meetconservation outcomes and enable
activation or adaptive reuse48

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Heritage Impact and Regulatory
Compliance
These proposed works align with many
policies and actions of the 2019 HMP. The
following particularly apply.
POLICY 22: All decisions at Fremantle Prison
will be made having regard to the HMP. The
paramount consideration in any decisionmaking process will be the conservation ofFremantle Prison’s heritage values, especially
its OUV.
ACTION 16: Continue to prepare specificconservation management strategies that areconsistent with the HMP and which identify
short-term and long-term capital works
projects.
POLICY 65: Fremantle Prison will continue
to maintain a cyclical and regular monitoringand maintenance program. The physicalcondition of the site will be assessed atleast every three years through a Building
Condition Assessment prepared by Building
Management and Works (WA Department of
Finance). Based on the results of the Building

Condition Assessment, the Schedule ofConservation Works maintained by Fremantle
Prison will be regularly updated and therelevant data will inform existing and futurezone-by-zone Conservation Management
Strategies.
POLICY 66: To ensure the timely and cyclical
implementation of necessary conservation
work, Fremantle Prison’s Schedule ofConservation Works and its zone-by-zone
Conservation Management Strategies will
include Implementation Plans. These will
provide clear time frames for the completionof specific conservation works.

Cost Benefit Analysis
Investment in conservation of the Fremantle
Prison is essential to maintain the intrinsic
value of the site and the financial benefit thatcan be leveraged from increased visitation
and activation at the site.

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a pr emier experience

5.

50

Enthral with spectacularinterpretation
Create a world-class ‘Soundand Light’ show that brings theimpressive Prison buildings tolife at night with spectacularinterpretation of Western
Australian stories.

BackgroundFremantle Prison, Perth’s only World
Heritage attraction, has excellent
potential to develop unique experiencesthat further raise Western Australia’s
visitor profile and offerings.
One example is the development of a‘Sound and Light’ show in the Main
Parade Ground. Known internationallyas a ‘son et lumiere’ this spectacularinterpretation style brings history tolife through immersive displays ofimagery, narrative and sound set against
iconic architecture or landscapes. The
popularity of this interpretive techniqueis evident through events such as thehugely popular Boorna Waaginy in Kings
Park commissioned by Perth Festival,
which attracted 110,000 people in 2017and 230,000 when it returned in 2019.
A high calibre experience would create a
new demand-driving tourism attraction
in Western Australia, strengthen
Fremantle Prison’s ability to create
commercially viable, commissionable
wholesale tour options and generate ahigh-return commercial income streamthat can support broader conservation
efforts at the site. Over time, a calendarof shows could be developed to attract
return visitation and interpret different
aspects of Western Australian heritage,environment and culture.
Augmented reality, virtual reality,
photogrammetry and videogrammetryoffer new ways of interpreting heritage
sites, objects, research and stories,
enabling visitors to interact with history
in new and exciting ways. Adoptionof these cutting-edge technologies
will increase visitor interaction with theFremantle Prison collection of objects
and augment and enhance existing tour
products and education experiences.

Priority Actions • FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019–2029

Description of Works
Works for the development of a ‘Soundand Light’ show and wider use of emerging
technologies across the site include:• Story production, including research,
photography, computer modelling andrendering• Installation of projection equipment andlighting• Audio hardware and software.
The installation of technology must comply
with the HMP and not be detrimental to theheritage values of the site.
Works will also be required to the Main
Parade Ground to improve safety andaccessibility for visitors and events. Given
that drainage issues are accelerating
deterioration of the Main Cell Block due
to damp and salt attack, works to theMain Parade Ground could assist withconservation of these buildings. Expert
design input is required to find a wellconsidered solution that facilitates higher
visitation and rectifies the drainage issues,
whilst conserving the heritage values of the
Parade Ground.

Heritage Impact and Regulatory
Compliance
As highlighted in the previous section theseworks must be carefully managed to balance
the potential benefits in terms of conservationof the Main Cell Block and interpretation andactivation of the site, with mitigation of risks
to the heritage fabric and values of the Main
Parade Ground.
These proposed works are aligned with the2019 HMP, particularly:
POLICY 83: Fremantle Prison will pursue anactive and integrated program of heritage
interpretation. It will ‘tell the story’ of theplace in an informative and engaging mannerso that Fremantle Prison remains a living partof the local and national community.
However these works have the potential toconflict with other aspects of the 2019 HMP.
Proposed solutions will therefore requiredetailed heritage assessment.

Above: Visualisation of a potential projection at Fremantle Prison inspired by the 1988 fire and riot, and an actual
projection on the Main Cell Block.

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Interpretive Potential

Financial Analysis

Sound and light shows offer a breadth ofinterpretation opportunities that were notpreviously possible. Well-designed narratives
about the history of the Prison and its impact
on the development of the State of Western
Australia can achieve the strategic objective ofFremantle Prison and the Australian Convict
Sites to ‘present and interpret the Property’s
Outstanding Universal Value’ to the community.

All product enhancements support theongoing viability of the site as a contemporary
visitor attraction. This unique night time
experience has the capability to attract highvisitor numbers, including visitors that may
not attend more conventional tour offerings at
the Prison.

Community Benefit
All product enhancements, and newinterpretive experiences provided by newtechnology will:• provide an entertaining and interpretive
experience to the community thatenhances their understanding andappreciation of the Western Australianstories through the eyes of Fremantle
PrisonThe proposed ‘Sound and Light’ show
was analysed by AEC Group in the 2019
Economic and Social Impact Assessment.
AEC estimated that after three years,
31,200 tickets would be purchased annually,
generating a projected annual revenue of$932,100.
Indirect benefits of establishing a new worldclass visitor drawcard at the Prison include:• increasing activation in Fremantle during
the evening driving increased patronage
at restaurants and more overnight stays• enhance community pride because of
the raised national and international
profile of the Prison• providing a vehicle to connect visitors toregional WA through the stories of the
Prison• create flow on social and economic
benefits to the local community byattracting more visitors to Fremantle.

• enabling the Prison to better delivercommissionable product.

Clockwise from top left: Projections used to tell historic stories; light projections on the Main Cell Block; theBoorna Waaginy sound and light experience in Kings Park; lighting on the Gatehouse.

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6.

Deliver authentic immersive Prison experiences
Develop authentic immersive Prison experiences that offer visitors unique andauthentic perspectives on prison life and site history.

Background

There are very few prisons that offer anauthentic prison experiences.

These experiences are not a tour, but a
guided performance where guests become
part of the narrative. Facilitators will leadparticipants through a series of activities
typical to prison life, before their ‘release’.
Different experiences could be developed tosuit the requirements of specific audiences,such as school camps, team building
activities and fund-raising events.
It is proposed to adapt the New Division
prison block (built in 1907) to provide
an authentic location for the experience
complemented by other unique locations
across the site.

FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 • Priority Actions

a p remier experience

The Prison-hotel conversion model has
proved popular around the world, withnumerous notorious jails in the U.S., Britain
and the Netherlands being transformed intoboutique hotels. Most of these hotels offer anovel but high quality overnight stay (such as
Charles Street Jail, Boston, Massachusetts
and Oxford Prison, UK).

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Description of Works

Interpretive Potential

Works will include:

On a general tour the tour guide is theprimary interpretive agent, transferring
information to the visitor. While a tour can be
an enriching experience, the visitor remains
at a distance from the reality of what it would
have been like to be a prisoner.

• Conservation works to New Division• Fit out of cells with authentic, functional
furniture• Adaptive works to provide amenities to
acceptable standards• Development of a program ofexperiences

Heritage Impact and Regulatory
Compliance
These proposed works align with the 2019
HMP, particularly:
POLICY 83: Fremantle Prison will pursue anactive and integrated program of heritage
interpretation. It will ‘tell the story’ of theplace in an informative and engaging mannerso that Fremantle Prison remains a living partof the local and national community.

Immersive experiences enable the visitor
to become the interpretive agent as theyexperience first-hand through sight, sound,
touch and smell what it is like to be locked
up in a prison, to wear a prisoner uniform, tosleep in a cell, to eat prison food; to feel like aprisoner.

Community Benefit
This project provides the community withthe opportunity to interact with the site in anauthentic and immersive manner.

Financial Analysis
A preliminary evaluation of ‘A Night in Prison’at Fremantle Prison, undertaken by the AEC
Group in 2019, indicated potential demandof 13,590 people annually, generating
approximately $1.4 million per annum.

Above: Participants in a charity Prison Experience and images from the proposed location for the experience.

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Priority Actions • FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

7.

Welcome partnerships and innovation
Encourage new proposals for activation of the site and establish a framework forevaluation and development of new initiatives and partnerships
Description of Works

There are several unique, atmosphericspaces within the Prison that can beutilised and activated in novel ways withoutcompromising the significance of the site or
harming the original fabric. While some ofthese spaces form part of the guided tours,
and/or are used for functions, events or
private leases, others are not yet utilised.

As spaces become available, information will
be prepared regarding potential activities,
desired outcomes and principles for use of
the site to inform evaluation of proposals.
The over-arching objectives and principles for
activation are summarised in the preliminary
evaluation framework for partnerships andinnovative activation. All proposals will beassessed against the HMP first and foremost,as well as the evaluation framework.

As buildings become vacant, or areconserved to a standard that suits regularuse, opportunities arise for new uses that arecompatible with the objectives of the Prison,
meet the requirements of the HMP andstrengthen the overall appeal of the site as
a visitor destination. Proposed uses do notneed to be permanent – they may occur on
a seasonal or temporary basis, or outside thehours of the regular tour program.
This initiative will establish an unsolicited bids
process for proponents to present innovative
activations proposals for consideration
against a clear evaluation framework.

FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 • Priority Actions

a p remier experience

Background55

Preliminary evaluation framework for partnerships and innovative activation
Tours andinterpretation

Expand the range of tours and experiences to provide more
options for visitors to interact with, and learn about, the heritage
site.

Events, exhibitions
and performances

Increase use of the site’s unique and iconic spaces for events,
exhibitions, performances and community activities to growactivation of the site and revenue for conservation.

Hospitality,
retail andaccommodation

Activate the precinct and extend visitor stays with hospitality,
retail and accommodation uses in the heritage buildings on
the Terrace.

Research,
education, training,
office andprofessional
services

Grow the profile of the site as a learning place by attracting
complementary research, education and training activities onsite, and allied consultancy and professional services.

Creative industries
and heritage trades

Enrich the visitor experience and generate new interpretationof the site through interactions with working artists andartisans on site.

Mandatory Requirements• All site activities and uses will meet the requirements of the Management Frameworkand not harm or detract from heritage values of the site and its buildings, collections andstories.
• Adaptive reuse of spaces must be consistent with the HMP and new works shall be readas new with minimal impact on heritage values of the site.
• Tours and visitor experiences will be innovative and diverse to drive demand, broaden thepotential audience, and generate return or extended visits.
• All interpretation must be accurate and balanced and not misrepresent the site’s history.
• Well-managed, high-quality products and services must complement and enhance thecore business, brand and reputation of Fremantle Prison.

Priority will be given to proposals that:• Strengthen the site as a demand-driving destination with innovative products.
• Generate income to assist with the ongoing viability of the site.
• Demonstrate experience in service delivery to a standard appropriate to a World Heritagesite.
• Offer services and choice for visitors that will increase activation of the precinct.
• Boost the Prison’s role in the life of the community.

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Heritage Impact and Regulatory
ComplianceInterpretive Outcomes

These proposed works align with the 2019
HMP, particularly:• SPECIFIC POLICY 5: Fremantle Prison
will continue to encourage a range ofuses to be accommodated at the place,
without adversely impacting its heritage
values.
• SPECIFIC POLICY 7: Proposed futureuses at Fremantle Prison should beassessed on a case-by-case basis
having regard to the potential adverse
impacts on the fabric and form of its
built elements and setting, among
other relevant matters. An importantconsideration will be the reversibility ofphysical changes to that fabric and form
that any new use may require.

All site activation shall include strategies toincrease and broaden interpretation of thesite’s values.

Community Benefit
Diversified use of the site will increase
community access to, and understandingof, the site. Additional uses also provide new
employment opportunities, and provide flowon benefits for the Fremantle economy.

Financial Analysis
The generation of leasing or licensing fees
and/or profit-share from joint ventures
will contribute to the long term financial
independence and viability of the site. Internal
resource requirements also need to beconsidered.

E as t Reservoir
The Reservoir on the East Bank is an
extraordinary, and unused, space. The
undulating form of rendered brick vaulting
to the top of the Reservoir and uniqueinterior character could house a truly iconic
restaurant, bar or performance space.
This is just one of several spaces on
the site that present great potential for
private enterprise.

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A learning place

8.

Refresh and expand the education programs
Establish Fremantle Prison as an iconic classroom using contemporary
technologies to deliver memorable learning experiences for schools, internationaland special interest groups.

a lear ni ng place

Background

58

Community education to build knowledge
and understanding of the site’s history,
stories and significance is fundamental to theconservation of heritage values at Fremantle
Prison. This is highlighted in the National
Heritage Listing, which notes:

School programs
Fremantle Prison offers unique insights into
numerous subjects examined in school
education programs, including:the oral tradition, documentary evidence,collections, structures, engineering relics
and archaeological features at Fremantle
Prison have unparalleled potential forcommunity education. (Commonwealth ofAustralia Gazette no. S142, August 2015).

• incarceration and its impact on groups
in society including Aboriginal people,
women, juveniles and the mentally ill

Some twenty-thousand Western Australianschool children attend tours of Fremantle
Prison each year. The format of the school
tours has remained relatively unchanged overthe past twenty years. There is a need torefresh the tours to reflect current curriculum
frameworks, technologies and learning
practices, and to better respond to the needsof both local and international students.
Investment in updating and expanding the
education program will enhance learning
outcomes and sustain revenue associatedwith education programs.

• the history of convictism and the earlyyears of the colony• punishment, justice, crime and the law.
An expanded educational program could
offer activities for students from Kindergarten
to Year 12 in a dedicated learning space.
Aligned to the curriculum framework,
this suite of educational experiences willencourage school groups to extend thecurrent one-hour tour into a half-day or day
excursion, and could even be combined witha ‘Sound and Light’ show or Torchlight Tour.

Priority Actions • FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

International students
Perth is rapidly growing the international
student market, attracting students to English
language courses and tertiary studies.
The Prison provides an iconic learning
environment in which international students
can learn about Australia’s convict history
and the history of Western Australia throughthe eyes of Fremantle Prison, as well as
offering novel lessons on prison vocabulary,
the Australian vernacular and other uniqueexperiences specifically designed forinternational students.
Special interest groups
Fremantle Prison will continue to supportand develop special interest programs.
These generate a wide variety of benefit from
community engagement, to sharing specificsubject matter knowledge.
Tertiary programs & advanced research
While the site is highly relevant to students
from diverse areas such as tourism andmarketing, to architecture, archaeology andplanning, restricted staff resources combinedwith immediate business demands limit/
prohibit the delivery of a broad range ofpractical learning experiences at a tertiarylevel. The ability to deliver niche, behind thescenes experiences for tertiary students
could be achieved with a dedicatededucation team.

Description of Works
Physical works to enable educational
activities are minimal. Staff investment isrequired to develop and deliver programs.
The Prison has tools and equipment tosupport educational activities. There aresuitable spaces within New Division.

Heritage Impact and Regulatory
Compliance
These proposed works will be managed inaccordance with the 2019 HMP, particularly:
SPECIFIC POLICY 62: Fremantle Prison
will ensure that visitation continues to be
managed and controlled in a manner thatbalances the attraction and educational
value of the Prison experience, with sensitive
interpretation, promotion and communicationof the heritage values.

Interpretive Potential
Education programs can greatly extend
interpretive programs by providing participants
with a deeper understanding of the site, its
objects and stories in a manner that supports
these and other learning objectives.

Community Benefit
Education is noted as a key benefit to thecommunity in the AEC Report.
This proposal will support the tourism
industry and education sector throughthe development of valued educational
experiences to strengthen WA’s appeal as adestination for learning.

Financial Analysis
Educational experiences are delivered on
a commercial basis and contribute to theoverall economic sustainability of the site.
Based on an estimated 70% take-up of new
experiences by existing educational groups
only, a comprehensive education program
would return almost $300,000 per annum
which will generate sound profits after wages
and costs.

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9.

Grow the Prison gardens, and volunteer programs
Involve volunteers in establishing and maintaining new gardens on the site of theoriginal prison vegetable gardens. Leverage this initiative to develop volunteeringand community engagement programs.

Backgrounda lear ni ng place

The Fremantle Prison vegetable gardens
were created in 1911 along the elevatedsouthern bank of the Parade Ground. Prison
records show that in the following year
21,687 pounds of vegetables were produced.
The reinstatement of these gardens cangive visitors a visual understanding of what
this area looked like while the Prison was inoperation, and how prisoners were engaged
during their sentence.

60

This project also includes re-commissioningof a 191kl underground reservoir that was
excavated from the limestone on the south
knoll beside the southern perimeter wall in
1876, and filled with runoff from the roof of
the Main Cell Block. This reservoir provided
gravity fed water to boats in Fremantle
Harbour. Today, the water could be used tosustain the proposed vegetable gardens.
Reconnecting the Main Cell Block stormwater to the reservoir can also assist in
managing some of the impacts of stormwater run-off on the building fabric.

It is proposed that the gardens beestablished, operated and maintained with
community involvement, for example inpartnership with volunteer organisations,community group, local schools, orvolunteering options for visitors. Produce
from the gardens could be used by the caféor for a social enterprise in Fremantle.
This initiative will provide a catalyst for thedevelopment of other options for volunteers
to participate in conservation activities
at the Prison, such as paid volunteeringtourism where visitors gain skills and uniqueexperience, or groups of skilled and semiskilled community volunteers regularlycommit time to projects at the Prison.
The HMP identified the long-term potential
for a philanthropic structure to contributeto conservation works on site. Building
community relationships and engagement isa necessary first step towards the larger goalof attracting community investment in thesite.

Priority Actions • FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

Description of Works

Interpretive Potential

Works will include:

The restored reservoir, plumbed to the Main
Cell Block to collect rainwater, will help
to interpret the original use of the South
reservoir and harvesting of resources on site.
The gardens will interpret the way outdoor
spaces were used by prisoners and the roleof gardening in keeping prisoners occupied,developing skills and supplying food.

• Repairs to and restoration of South Knollgardens spaces, paths and retaining
walls• Installation of reticulation and new soil
• Planting and on-going maintenance• Restoration of the south reservoir andstorm water connections to Main Cell
Block
• Employment of volunteer coordinator

Heritage Impact and Regulatory
Compliance
The restoration of the south reservoir andthe South Knoll gardens, paths, retaining
walls and other features will have a positive
conservation outcome and associatedpositive heritage impact. The use of gardens
is consistent with how these spaces wereused during prison times and so adds to theauthenticity of the site.

Community Benefit
This project will strengthen long-term
community engagement with, andconnection to, the site.

Financial Analysis
Whilst there is limited direct financial
benefit from this activity, the provision ofopportunities for the local community toengage with the site is central to its long-termsustainable success as a community asset.

These proposed works align with the2019 HMP:
PRINCIPLE 172: As a place formerly used for
growing vegetables, new plantings could beconsidered for the terraces, but they should
be of a scale and concentrated as per typicalvegetable growing.
PRINCIPLE 182: Interpretation of theSouth Knoll is essential to conveying thehistory of its role in the Prison construction
and development, and to highlighting andtransmitting the OUV of the Prison.
ACTION 86: Investigate interpretive
opportunities for the southern Reservoir.
ACTION 87: Consider the reinstatement of
the vegetable gardens on the South Knoll.

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61

Above: Examples of high quality storage and exhibition spaces

10.

Establish a Centre for Heritage Excellence
Develop a ‘Centre for Heritage Excellence’ that leverages conservation
activities on site to demonstrate best practice and foster research, educationand training in conservation, curation, interpretation and heritage trades.

Backgrounda lear ni ng place

As a World Heritage site, Fremantle Prison
has a unique opportunity to showcase to
stakeholders, visitors and the community
best practice in heritage management
and conservation of historic buildings andsignificant collections. There is also an
opportunity to provide training in traditionalbuilding trades and skills, including
conservation works, which is not currently
available in Western Australia, and to hosttertiary level research activity.

62

It is therefore proposed to establish a Centre
for Heritage Excellence at Fremantle Prison,serving two key purposes.
1. Provision of appropriate, climaticallycontrolled storage conditions for better
protection to the Prison collection andimproved public viewing of collection
storage and conservation areas todevelop more awareness of how thesuch collections are managed andconserved.
2. Delivery of conservation specificeducation and training, including
heritage planning, professional
services and traditional building trades
and skills in a hands-on learning
environment.

The proposed project will provide prison staff
with the tools, spaces and specialist skills
needed to ensure the ongoing preservation,conservation and interpretation of the site’s
exceptionally significant heritage buildings
and collection.
A review will be conducted on the availability
and suitability of existing buildings forthis purpose. If a purpose-built facility is
considered the best option, relocation of thecollection and operational activities will free
up heritage buildings that could be suited
to accommodation, hospitality, education orother commercial uses.
Collection Store and Public Viewing
Facility
The Prison is a State collecting institution witha collection of 15,000 objects that require
best practice storage and conservationin purpose-built facilities. Currently thiscollection is stored in heritage buildings.
These are difficult to modify to ensure climaticconditions meet long-term preservationneeds, without jeopardising heritage values.
The nature of these buildings, and related
limitations on storage and display areas,
currently restrict opportunities for the public
to engage with the Collection.

Priority Actions • FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

The HMP notes the following risks relevant tothe site’s moveable heritage:• loss of or damage to objects in theFremantle Prison Collection due tounder-resourced or below-standard
storage, physical conservation or
exhibition facilities;• the collection of objects at Fremantle
Prison fails to reach its potential as ateaching and learning resource because
it is unrepresentative of the place’s
heritage values or because access to it
is unnecessarily restricted.
Dedicated storage and display areas within
a Centre for Heritage Excellence will addressthese risks, affording greater protection to
the Collection and greatly enhancing theinterpretive and education capacity of thesite.
Conservation Skills Training
Conservation of the original building fabricrequires traditional skills and techniquesthat are being lost in Western Australia andthere is limited training available to accredit
new tradespeople in these skills. Thereis substantial ongoing demand for theseskills to maintain the heritage buildings inFremantle and Rottnest Island, as well asother significant buildings and site around theState.

Description of Works
Deliver a Centre for Heritage Excellence
including:• climate controlled Collection stores tohouse the entire collection to current
museum standards• conservation laboratories to enable
conservation of all object types on site
• a public viewing area
• exhibition galleries• research facilities including a library• trade training workshops for traditional
heritage trades• office space for Heritage Management
staff as well as volunteers, and visiting
museum, architecture and heritage
management interns.
An appropriate site for any new development
is directly south of the Gatehouse on thefootprint of a now demolished building.
The project could provide an opportunity todemonstrate best practice design principles
for new construction within a heritage
precinct or alternatively adaptive reuse ofexisting buildings.

Fremantle Prison is the perfect venue toprovide heritage trade training, including
observation of traditionally skilled artisans,practical and to hands-on training in
traditional construction techniques andrelated conservation skills. Hands-on training
has the added benefit of completing urgent
and priority conservation works underappropriate supervision, and increasing theskill-base available for future conservation
works.

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63

Heritage Impact and Regulatory
Compliance
These proposed works align with the 2019
HMP, which notes the following actions inrelation to moveable heritage:
ACTION 26: Engage appropriately qualified
professionals to determine the storage
requirements (especially in terms of floor
space) of the Fremantle Prison Collection.
Initiate discussions with an architect to
explore options in relation to the location anddesign of a new onsite storage facility.
The 2019 HMP also includes comprehensive
considerations and approvals for any
proposed new development:
POLICY 50: New development and works
at Fremantle Prison should not impact on or
detract from the place’s heritage values. Suchworks should respond to and be respectfulof the Prison’s unique character and physicalattributes, historical planning and layout,
and the visual and functional relationships
between buildings and spaces. New
development should also be sympathetic
to and in keeping with the historic prison
buildings.
POLICY 51: New development and works
at Fremantle Prison should support theongoing management and use of the place.
In all instances it should serve a necessary
operational need.

Community Benefit
A Centre for Heritage Excellence will offer
new resources, skills and opportunities not
currently available in the community, including
new learning and employment opportunities,
as well as new ways to engage with the
Prison and its collection and expertise.
The promotion of heritage trades andprofessional learnings will have a widespread
positive impact of the planning, maintenanceand conservation of all heritage buildings andobjects in Western Australia.

Financial Analysis
The provision of adequate storage facilities
for the Fremantle Prison Collection is
critical for optimum conservation of theseimportant artefacts. These objects areused for interpretive purposes and support
commercial operations that generateover $4.5 million in revenue each year. A
dedicated public viewing facility would further
support the commercial aspects of the wider
business.
The provision of a dedicated conservation
work facility would enable the reactivation of
Terrace Houses Numbers 10 and 12 that are
currently used for object storage and staff
offices. As these buildings front both the
Gatehouse and the Terrace, additional rent of$70,000 per annum is likely.

Interpretive Potential
The safekeeping of these significant artefacts
is fundamental to achieving interpretive
benefit for future generations. The inclusionof public viewing facilities also provides more
opportunity for the public to interact with, andbetter understand, the scale of the Collection
held at the Prison.

64

Priority Actions • FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

11.

Connect to Aboriginal experiences and stories
Be a place for truth-telling, reflection, healing and reconciliation.
Partner with Aboriginal people, families and communities to explore new andmeaningful ways for Aboriginal stories and experiences to be told and heard
at the Prison.

Background

Nationally, it has been acknowledged thatthe history of Australia’s Indigenous peoples
is under-represented and poorly told atmany heritage sites. Cultural mappingand ethnographic surveys, stakeholder

engagement and interpretive and public
programs have been initiated to bridge
this gap. An ethnographic survey has
been completed for Fremantle Prison andconsultation undertaken with Aboriginal
stakeholders. The Australian Convict Sites
Steering Committee is also documenting
stories of first contact and the impact ofcolonisation on the first peoples.
This history cannot be truly told, understoodand acknowledged without the voices andstories of Aboriginal people. Fremantle Prison
will engage with Aboriginal businesses,
community organisations, families andindividuals to explore opportunities to havetheir stories heard and acknowledged.
It is hoped that the telling and hearing of
Aboriginal stories on the Fremantle Prison site
can contribute to processes of reconciliationand healing.

FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 • Priority Actions

a lear ni ng place

Since the 1850s, the Fremantle Prisonsite has represented sadness, loss andoppression for Aboriginal people. The World
Heritage listing of the Australian Convict Sites
notes that Fremantle Prison “illustrates anactive phase in the occupation of colonial
lands to the detriment of Aboriginal people”.
In 1903, the Prison became the main placeof incarceration for Aboriginal prisoners
following the closure of Rottnest Island
Gaol. Aboriginal prisoners faced uniquehardships and were segregated from otherprisoners until the 1960s. Many Western
Australian Aboriginal families still carry aburden of suffering and hurt from the impactof imprisonment, and the loss of those family
members who died in custody.

65Description of Works
Primarily this activity involves engaging with
Aboriginal people to identify ways in which
Aboriginal stories can be better represented
and told on site, and collaboratively designing
experiences so that Aboriginal people havecontrol of the story-telling and interpretive
activities.
Other potential actions are listed below,
subject to further consultation.
• Establish a stakeholder referencegroup and identify actions relevant toFremantle Prison for inclusion in the
Department of Planning, Lands andHeritage’s Reconciliation Action Plan
• Engage with Aboriginal people toundertake further research anddocumentation of the history andexperiences of Aboriginal people at thesite of Fremantle Prison, including acomprehensive set of interviews and oral
histories• Redevelop the John Pat Memorial in
consultation with family, elders and the
Deaths in Custody Watch Committee• Explore potential for a ‘Sound and Light’show that provides interpretation ofAboriginal stories

Heritage Impact and Regulatory
Compliance
Better interpretation and telling of Aboriginal
history and stories about the site will reinforce
the World Heritage values of the site whichreference the displacement of Aboriginal
peoples.
These proposed works align with the 2019
HMP as follows:
POLICY 5: Fremantle Prison will continue
to develop processes that ensure effective
and meaningful engagement with relevant
Aboriginal stakeholders insofar as the siteembodies Aboriginal heritage values.
POLICY 6: Fremantle Prison will seek
to realise the potential of the site as an
instrument for reconciliation.
ACTION 4: Prepare a Reconciliation Action
Plan (RAP) in consultation with relevant
Aboriginal persons. Consultation will include
Whadjuk Noongar people (the traditional
owners of the country in which Fremantle
Prison is situated) in addition to other
Aboriginal groups with a demonstrated
connection with Fremantle Prison. The RAP
will conform with the ‘Reflect – Innovate –Stretch – Elevate’ pathway encouraged by
Reconciliation Australia.

• Continue to develop the Prison as aplace for truth-telling, reflection, healing
and reconciliation.

66

Priority Actions • FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

Interpretive Potential
The evidence of Aboriginal incarcerationis strongly represented at the site throughnumerous artworks and murals painted
by Aboriginal prisoners on the cell andexercise yard walls, as well as artworks in
the Fremantle Prison Collection. The siteof Aboriginal segregation in 2 Division and
2 Division yards is intact, as is the Parade
Ground lawns and garden beds where
Aboriginal prisoners worked on the garden
party. These works and spaces offer afoundation for new products to interpret andtell Aboriginal histories, experiences andstories.

Community Benefit
The history of Aboriginal incarceration
at Fremantle Prison, which includes thedisplacement of people, over-representationof Aboriginal people, and deaths in custody,
is challenging and difficult to discuss.
However, reconciliation between Aboriginaland non-Aboriginal people cannot be
achieved without open discussion andacknowledgment of the past. Fremantle
Prison, as the nexus of much social injustice

towards Aboriginal people, is well placed tofacilitate that discussion; revealing histories
and telling hidden stories that can assist inbuilding greater empathy and understanding
in the community, and lead to healing andreconciliation.

Financial Analysis
Many overseas visitors are seeking authentic
cultural tourism experiences and thisinitiative has the potential to develop new
products that meet this demand in the Perthmetropolitan area. This would flow on toincrease visitation and spend at the Prison.
The initiative may also assist Aboriginal
people to establish businesses or findemployment in tourism and heritage.

John Pat Memor ia l
The John Pat Memorial on the Terrace provokes
reflection on the deaths of people whilst heldin custody. It is a meeting place for thoseaffected by deaths in custody and a place ofremembrance for John Pat and his family.
The design of the memorial area does not
safeguard the sanctity of the memorial, nordoes it adequately convey the story andsignificance to visitors. Improvements to thisarea are proposed, in collaboration with family
members and the Deaths in Custody Watch
Committee WA.

FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 • Priority Actions

67

CONCLUSION
68

The Fremantle Prison Master Plan 2019-2029 provides a practicalroad-map to conserve the values of the Prison, sustain existing
visitation, increase activation, and grow revenue with demand-driving
attractions. The Plan will establish Fremantle Prison as a globally
recognised must-do destination and position the State Government as
a leader in conservation and activation of a World Heritage site.

The Master Plan includes eleven priority
actions to be implemented over ten years.
• Four signature actions will deliver highquality experiences to significantly
grow visitor demand and revenue – theproposed ‘Sound and Light’ show,authentic immersive Prison experiences,
the Centre for Heritage Excellence andconnection with Aboriginal stories.
• Four priority actions comprise works
that will realise the potential benefitsof the signature initiatives, protect
heritage values and sustain visitation –conserve the heritage building fabric,create a strong sense of arrival, care forvisitors and welcome partnerships andinnovation.

Investment in the Master Plan will deliver
economic benefits for the site and region,
including increased revenue and longer-term
self-sufficiency of the site and additional
output and jobs in the wider Fremantle
economy. The Master Plan will also deliversocial benefits including connection to ourpast, reconciliation, education and enhanced
community identity.
Delivery of the Master Plan will realise thepotential of Fremantle Prison as a demanddriving attraction for Fremantle and Perth,whilst fulfilling Government responsibilities
to maintain the World Heritage values of thesite.

• The remaining three priority actions
will generate community benefits thatenhance and sustain activities at the site
– reinforce the character of the originalConvict Establishment, refresh andexpand the education programs andgrow the Prison gardens and volunteer
programs.

FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 • Priority Actions

69

Heritage buildings and zones

4
17

1

16

2

5
6

3

15

7

14

8

18
9

13
12

10
19

The Knowle(not pictured)

11

East Terrace, Reservoir,
Tunnels & Pumping Station

10

The Gatehouse & Entry Complex

2

Exercise Yards

11

Fairbairn Street Ramp

3

Refractory Block

12

The Terrace

4

Hampton Road Reserve

13

West Workshops

5

East Workshops

14

Female Division

6

Sterile Zones

15

New Division

7

Main Cell Block16

Hospital

8

Main Parade Ground

17

Watch Towers & ElevatedWalkways

9South Knoll, Prison Industries &Southern Area

18

Perimeter Walls

Priority Actions • FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

APPENDIX

70

1

1

2

East Terrace, Reservoir,
Tunnels & Pumping Station

3
Exercise Yards

Refractory Block

ExceptionalsignificanceConvict era terrace andremains of 1850s bathhouse

Size, form and layout ofyards and all convict built
elements

Convict built Refractory
Block (punishment block)

Considerable
significancePost-convict era reservoir
and pumping station

Post-convict era divisions,gallows and ablution facilities

Nil

Conserve &Sustain

Maintain safe tour access topump station, tunnels andEast terrace

Selected conservation works
to demonstrate different
phases of use of the yards

Retain and conserve
heritage significance ofbuilding, maintain accessfor guided tours, and quality
interpretation

Activate &Grow

Continue guided tours;
Explore adaptive reuse ofreservoir for hospitality,
exhibitions and/or
performances

Continue supervised publicaccess and interpretation

Activate access to full block

4

5

6

Hampton Road Reserve

East Workshops

Sterile Zones

ExceptionalsignificanceThe entire reserve as a sterilezone and remains of convictera warder’s cottages

Convict built blacksmiths
and carpenters workshops

Sterile zones associated withconvict era prison

Considerable
significanceShafts, drives and bores
associated with the tunnels
and located beneath thereserveNA

Sterile zones associated withcolonial era prison

Conserve &Sustain

Maintain walls and other built
fabricConserve building, maintainsafe access for fuctions andtours

Maintain sterile zones andinterpretation

Activate &Grow

Footpath, interpretive
sculptures and signage,
limited endemic landscaping

Adaptive reuse for creative
industries or conservation
trades, or as function space

Nil new activity

FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 • Priority Actions

71

7

8

South Knoll, Prison
Industries & Southern Area

Main Cell Block

Main Parade GroundExceptionalsignificanceConvict-built 4-storey cell
block, Anglican chapel,
original north and south
Association wards, Catholic
ChapelConvict-era Parade Groundand road alignment

Remnant landform as
modified during the convictera constructions; brickvaulted undergroundreservoir

Considerable
significance

Post 1898 divisions tobuilding and widening ofcells, Recreation Hall, library,
cookhouse

Old canteen

1896 terraces and brickwalls, remains of prison
vegetables gardens from the
1910sConserve &Sustain

Maintain as dominating
feature of prison and inoriginal condition; display
fabric and features of prison
life; conserve and/or restore
ceilings, walls and floors in
the Main Cell Block; restore
the chapels and library

Modify drainage to mitigate
storm-water impacts
on buildings, replace
inappropriate and unsafe
ground surfaces, maintain
austere aesthetic

Retain and conserve
landform

Activate &Grow

Ongoing tours and use forfunctions‘Sound and Light’ show,
events and performances

Reinstate prison garden andreservoir, add interpretive
elements

10
The Gatehouse &Entry Complex

72

9

11
Fairbairn Street Ramp

12
The Terrace

ExceptionalsignificanceConvict built gatehouse,
guard houses, entry court
and Wray Gates

Convict built ramp

Overall landform and layoutof the Terrace, convict era
buildings (8, 10, 12, 14,
16 and 18) and convict era
walls and steps

Considerable
significanceNA

NA

Gardens and settings to
the Terrace (2, 4 and 6) andadditions to 18

Conserve &Sustain

Remove incompatible
additions, conserve
deteriorated limestone,
make good poor repairs

Select pruning of trees toreinstate sightline alongramp and protect batteredbankConserve the buildings,
remodel car-parking andvehicle circulation areas

Activate &Grow

Re-design forecourt
and visitor arrival area toimprove presentation of theGatehouse and functionalityof the entry complex

Interpretive elements and art
installations

Facilitate adaptive re-use forcomplementary hospitality,
accommodation, educationand commercial activities

Priority Actions • FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029

13

14

West Workshops

15
Female Division

New Division

ExceptionalsignificanceNilConvict era bakehouse,cookhouse and laundry

Nil

Considerable
significanceAll post-convict era original
fabric and the sterile zone

Entire construction andyards as at completion in
1910

Whole of New Division
including yard, sterile zone
and archaeological remainsof exercise building

Conserve &Sustain

Retain and conserve theworkshops

Ongoing maintenanceContinue existingaccommodation and tour
use

Retain and conserve;
maintain a sample of cells forinterpretation; continue tour
accessActivate &Grow

Facilitate appropriate
adaptive re-use

Explore new package
opportunities

Adaptive reuse forauthentic immersive Prison
experiences and education
activities

16

17

18

Watch Towers &Elevated Walkways

Hospital

Perimeter Walls

ExceptionalsignificanceFree standing convict-built
hospital, terraced gardens
and stone walls

Nil

Convict-era limestone
perimeter walls to entire
boundary

Considerable
significance

Stone and concrete steps,
stone piers and timber rails

The watchtowers are later
elements and have somesignificance as part of thehistorical continuum of the
PrisonNil

Conserve &SustainReinstate timber floor andconservation works toremedy rising damp and salt
attackRetain some or all
watchtowers and walkways
and maintain access for a
viewpoint of the Prison andhistorical interpretation

Retain and conserve theperimeter walls, guided
public access

Activate &Grow

Compatible commercial,educational or community
uses

Continue access for tours
and facilitate ‘Sound andLight’ show

New lighting and interpretive
elements where possible

19(not pictured)

The Knowle
ExceptionalsignificanceConvict-era building,the Knowle

Conserve &Sustain

Retain and conserve, allow
ongoing adaptive re-use

FREMANTLE PRISON | MASTER PLAN 2019-2029 • Priority Actions73