Tucked away within Fremantle Hospital is one of Fremantle’s lesser-known heritage attractions, the Fremantle Hospital Museum. Housed in the former Hyperbaric Medicine Unit, this volunteer-run museum offers a fascinating look at the history of healthcare in Western Australia, with collections dating back to 1897.
For anyone who enjoys local history, community stories and a glimpse into how life used to be, this is a surprisingly engaging place to spend an hour or so. The museum is filled with historical photographs, handwritten records, nursing uniforms, medical instruments and pharmacy items, all carefully preserved to show how medicine and hospital life have changed over the decades.
One of the most memorable parts of a visit is seeing the old operating room set-up, along with anaesthetic equipment and diagnostic tools that were once standard in hospital care.
There are also preserved board minutes and records that reveal how the hospital managed major public health challenges of the past, including typhoid, measles and the Spanish Flu. For many visitors, these displays add a meaningful human dimension to the history.
Another highlight is the retired hyperbaric chambers, affectionately known as George and Mildred. These chambers once played an important role in treating decompression sickness and serious infections, while also supporting divers across Western Australia. They are a unique part of the museum collection and offer an interesting insight into a specialised area of medical care.
The museum also shares the stories of the people who worked at Fremantle Hospital over the years, including notable staff members such as Sister Mavis Fuller. The old tea room and reception area help bring the past to life, while the historical photographs and personal memorabilia add warmth and character to the displays.
Among the more unusual items on display is a brick from Florence Nightingale’s home, a small but remarkable piece of nursing history that many visitors will find especially meaningful.
Founded by Ruth Letts, who trained as a nurse at Fremantle Hospital in 1973, the museum is now run by volunteers, many of whom have strong personal connections to the hospital. That gives a visit an especially welcoming feel, and if you’re lucky, you may hear first-hand stories from former staff who help bring the collection to life.
Entry is free, which makes this a wonderful low-cost outing for locals and visitors alike. As opening hours can change, it’s a good idea to call ahead before visiting. The museum may especially appeal to those with an interest in Fremantle’s past, nursing history, military and maritime connections, or the way healthcare has evolved over time.
If mobility and access are important to you, it may also be worth asking about the easiest entry point and nearby parking when you call. The closest parking mentioned is near N Block, Gate 6 of Fremantle Hospital.
Fremantle Hospital Museum
Fremantle Hospital
Alma Street, Fremantle WA 6160
Opening hours:
Monday and Wednesday: 10:30am – 4:30pm
Phone: 9431 3333
