Port Walks being Freo's maritime glory days to life

The Fremantle local's love affair with the area began as a 16-year-old when he and his family sailed into the port on P&O's Oriana in March 1967.

The family were "10 pound poms" en route to Sydney from Scotland.

Max will never forget walking across the footbridge into Fremantle 53 years ago.

"There was a big sign up for Peters Ice Cream," he said.

"Where I came from there was a chip shop called Peters, so that was heartening.

"At the other side of the footbridge was the Australia Hotel.

"That day there were three liners in the harbour so the place was buzzing. The other two were Greek ships.

"I remember the barman standing on the steps of the hotel in his big white apron remonstrating with these Greek ladies and their kids saying kids couldn't come into the pub in Australia."

Max returned to WA in 1981 and has lived in the state ever since.

"Fremantle Harbour has always been one of my favourite places," he said.

"Dad always wanted to come to Perth because it was a Scottish name and we all eventually ended up here.

"Possibly because my dad was in the Royal Navy during the Second World War, I have always been interested in the navy and ships.

"The day I die will be the day I stop looking at ships."

Max is relishing his volunteer role with the Friends of Fremantle Ports, which started after he answered an ad in the local newspaper.

"I just love it; I can't believe it actually. I am learning new things every day," he said.

The friends conduct general walks and walks covering specific topics such as history and architecture.

The walks begin at the C.Y. O'Connor statue outside the Fremantle Ports Administration building.

"We talk about C Y O'Connor then we wander across to B shed and A shed and discuss the heritage value of the sheds," Max said.

"We look at the tide gauges, talk about the shipping that comes in and out of the harbour and the family of dolphins that live in the harbour.

"Probably the cherry on top is going to the top of the admin building, still the tallest building in Fremantle, and seeing the magnificent view."

The group will conduct walks between two and three times a week.

Many of the volunteers have a background in marine or related operations, live locally in Freo, have a strong interest in history, or have worked in community-engagement roles.

Individuals or groups are invited to attend a Port Walk.

www.fremantleports.com.au/events; (08) 9430-3555