As well as being a very easy place to see on foot, the free CAT bus service (as in Perth) is another great way to get around. We did the Blue CAT route to get our bearings, before exploring more. Every building was magnificent and the beautiful blue sea, a picturesque neighbour.
In 1900 a time ball was erected, hoisted to the top of the tower each day and dropped at precisely 1 o'clock. At the same time the canon was fired. This was to give mariners and residents an exact daily time check. It was discontinued in 1937, but re-activated in 1998. After a most pleasant day in this beautiful place steeped in history, we caught a ferry back to Perth. The Swan River is surprisingly wide, and the breeze was cool enough to send us inside. We enjoyed the views of houses of some of Australia's wealthiest mining magnates and arrived at the Barrack Street Jetty in time to be serenaded by the Bells of St Martins, now housed in the bell tower here. |