Sometimes, unexpected delays can turn into delightful opportunities. While facing refueling challenges and windlass issues with our boat, we found ourselves with some downtime in Geraldton, Western Australia. Necessity, as they say, is the mother of invention, and in our case, it was the mother of hiring a Car For Tooling Around Town. What started as a practical solution for errands – jerry jugging fuel, restocking provisions, and filling propane – quickly evolved into a wonderful way to explore this charming coastal city.
Even before getting behind the wheel, we noticed Geraldton’s pedestrian-friendly layout. However, having a car truly unlocked the city and its surrounding areas, allowing us to venture further and discover hidden gems at our own pace. It turns out, Geraldton is ideally suited for exploration by car, offering a blend of historical sites, poignant memorials, and scenic coastal drives.
One of our first destinations was the Mount Scott memorial, a prominent landmark visible from the foreshore. Driving up, we were met with a powerful tribute to the HMAS Sydney II, sunk in a tragic World War II encounter with the German cruiser Kormoran. This moving memorial features a granite wall inscribed with the names of the lost crew, a dome of 645 stainless steel seagulls symbolizing each life lost, and the evocative bronze statue “Waiting Woman,” forever gazing out to sea. It’s a sobering yet essential stop, offering a moment to reflect on Australian naval history.
Geraldton itself boasts a rich history, dating back to 1848 with the discovery of lead ore. Driving through the town, you can see remnants of this past beautifully repurposed. The Old Gaol, dating back to 1856, now serves as a vibrant crafts gallery, a museum showcasing local history, and even a venue for gemstone displays. Exploring the old jail cells, now transformed into unique little shops, is a step back in time.
For a taste of local history and hospitality, we recommend a visit to the Freemason’s Hotel. This landmark hotel, with roots stretching back to the 1870s (and a quirky land acquisition story involving a bottle of rum!), was rebuilt in 1895 and continues to operate as a hotel, pub, and community hub. It’s a great example of Geraldton’s blend of historical charm and modern life.
Geraldton’s coastal location is also central to its identity. The city prominently acknowledges its proximity to the Abrolhos Islands and the tragic shipwreck of the Dutch East Indies ship Batavia in 1629. Beyond the extensive Batavia shipwreck exhibit at the Western Australian Museum (a must-see for maritime history buffs), reminders of this event are scattered throughout Geraldton. A replica of the longboat used in a remarkable rescue voyage to Jakarta is moored near the marina, a testament to human resilience.
Even a bit of rain couldn’t dampen our spirits as we explored the Platform Market at the old Geraldton Railway Station on Sunday morning. It was a delightful experience, browsing fresh local produce and handcrafted goods. This weekly market offers a real taste of Geraldton community life.
No exploration of Geraldton is complete without seeing the Point Moore Lighthouse. As the oldest surviving Commonwealth lighthouse in Western Australia and the first steel tower on mainland Australia, it’s an impressive structure. Operating since 1878 and still guiding ships today, its striking red and white stripes are visible for miles – a perfect photo opportunity and a symbol of Geraldton’s maritime heritage.
On our way to pick up our rental car, we also stumbled upon the Pioneer Memorial Wall, a peaceful park preserving and honoring pioneer gravestones. This thoughtfully restored area provides another glimpse into Geraldton’s past and the lives of its early settlers.
While our primary goal was boat maintenance, having a car in Geraldton transformed our unplanned stop into a memorable exploration. It’s a city that balances maritime history with modern charm, and is perfectly suited for “tooling around town” by car. So, if you’re planning a visit to Western Australia, consider adding Geraldton to your itinerary and experience the ease and enjoyment of exploring this delightful city from behind the wheel.
