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Discovering the Heart of Perth with Tim Winton
Perth, Western Australia, is a city that captivates the hearts of many, and no one knows this better than celebrated author Tim Winton. Known for his vivid storytelling and deep connection to the land, Winton shares the three things he loves most about his coastal hometown. From the charm of Fremantle’s hidden gems to the timeless beauty of the Swan River, Winton’s insights reveal a city that is as much a character in his stories as it is a place to call home. Here, we delve into his favorite spots and why they hold such a special place in his heart.
A Haven for Music Lovers: The Record Finder on High Street
For anyone who has ever been captivated by the magic of vinyl records, The Record Finder on High Street in Fremantle is a treasure trove. Winton confesses that this store is a temptation he can rarely resist, and it’s easy to see why. Tucked away in the heart of Fremantle, The Record Finder has been a staple for music enthusiasts for decades. The store’s owner, a fixture in the Fremantle community for longer than Winton himself, has curated a collection that spans genres and eras, catering to both the nostalgic and the adventurous listener.
Winton’s most recent haul from The Record Finder included a selection of 1970s prog-rock albums—think Kansas and Parliament—each one a throwback to a bygone era of music. Yet, he’s equally excited about the prospect of picking up the latest release from King Stingray, a band from Arnhem Land whose surf guitar-inspired sound has captured his imagination. For Winton, The Record Finder is more than just a place to buy music; it’s a cultural hub that connects the past and the present, offering a sensory experience that is hard to find in our digital age.
A Family Tradition: The Sardine Jetty
Fremantle’s Sardine Jetty is another spot that holds a special place in Winton’s heart, though for reasons that go beyond its historical significance. This storied jetty, once the base for the Mendolia family’s sardine fishing boats, is where the first production of Winton’s iconic novel Cloudstreet was staged. For Winton, the jetty is a reminder of the city’s rich maritime history and the stories that have shaped its identity.
However, it’s not just the past that makes the Sardine Jetty special—it’s also a place of present-day joy. Winton’s youngest grandson has developed an obsession with the charter boats that set off from the jetty each morning. The ritual of watching these boats depart, their crews greeting the young boy as they do, has become a cherished family tradition. It’s a moment that encapsulates the simplicity and wonder of childhood, and one that Winton clearly treasures. As he notes, the connection to the sea is something that runs deep in Fremantle’s culture, and the Sardine Jetty is a living testament to that tradition.
The Timeless Allure of the Swan River
The Swan River is more than just a geographical feature; it’s a central character in Winton’s life and work. From his earliest memories as a baby in Mosman Park to his days as a young writer, the river has been a constant presence. Winton recalls swimming in the river before he ever set foot in the ocean, a memory that speaks to the river’s importance in his formative years.
As he grew older, the river became a place of shared experiences, a spot where family and friends could gather to prawn and crab. Winton remembers his parents carrying prawning nets on the tram to the foreshore, a sight that seems almost quaint in today’s fast-paced world. These moments of connection—whether it was cooking prawns on the beach or introducing his future wife to the joys of river life—have left an indelible mark on his life. Though he laments the fact that he can no longer share this tradition with his own children, the river remains a source of inspiration and solace.
One particular stretch of the river that holds a special place in Winton’s heart is Harvey Beach in North Fremantle, just next to the Water Police station. This spot became a regular haunt when his children were in school, a place where they could dive into the water as the afternoon sea breeze rolled in. The beach’s vibrant marine life—sea lions, dolphins, and all manner of fish—made it a magical place for his kids, one that they still talk about to this day. For Winton, the river is more than just a backdrop; it’s a living, breathing entity that pulses through the city’s veins.
The River’s Enduring Legacy
The Swan River’s influence extends beyond Winton’s personal experiences, playing a central role in his most famous novel, Cloudstreet. In the story, the river is a symbol of life itself—ever-changing, sometimes turbulent, but always a source of renewal. For Winton, the river has served as both a muse and a mirror, reflecting the ups and downs of his own life and the lives of those around him.
Today, the river remains a source of joy for Winton, who now takes his grandchildren to the same spots where he once swam and fished as a child. It’s a reminder that, even as the city around it changes, the river endures—a timeless presence that connects generations.
Conclusion: Perth, Through Tim Winton’s Eyes
In sharing the things he loves most about Perth, Tim Winton paints a vivid picture of a city that is as much about its people and their stories as it is about its landscapes. From the vinyl treasures of The Record Finder to the timeless beauty of the Swan River, these places are more than just locations—they are threads in the rich tapestry of Perth’s identity. For Winton, the city is not just a place to live; it’s a place that lives within him, shaping his stories and his sense of self.
Through Winton’s eyes, we see Perth as a city of contrasts—old and new, sea and river, tradition and innovation. Yet, it’s these very contrasts that give the city its unique charm. As we explore the places that matter most to Winton, we’re reminded of the importance of slowing down, appreciating the small moments, and finding beauty in the unexpected. Whether it’s the thrill of discovering a rare record, the joy of watching a child connect with the sea, or the peace of sitting by the river, Perth offers a way of life that is hard to find anywhere else.
In the end, Tim Winton’s love for Perth is not just a love for a place—it’s a love for the stories, memories, and people that make it home. As he continues to write about this city and its people, we’re reminded that the best stories are those that are deeply rooted in the places we love.
