Focus On Freo’s Rich Labour History

‘IMPS’, lumpers, the 1930s rise of fascism and the shooting of four Chinese seamen who went on strike in 1942 after seeking refuge in Fremantle from attacks by Japanese warships.

History lovers are invited to attend the Fremantle History Society’s Studies Day on October 27. This year, it will focus on the labour history of the port – from the 1913 establishment of the State Implement and Engineering Works in North Fremantle to the 1998 Patrick Stevedores dispute in which the MUA proved it was, “here to stay”.

Registrations open at 1pm for a 1.30pm start at MUA HQ on the Corner Kwong Alley and Queen Victoria Street, North Fremantle. Members: $20, non-members $25, with refreshments provided.

People can also enjoy a series of murals of historic battles and heroes in the building’s car park. Bookings essential at: secretary.fhs@gmail.com and Facebook/fremantlehistorysociety.

Following presentations by WA social historian Cate Pattison, UWA historian Charlie Fox, Notre Dame Fremantle philosophy graduate Paul Reilly and UWA honorary research fellow in history Bobbie Oliver, Volume 10 of Fremantle Studies will be launched by Mayor Brad Pettit.