The streets of Fremantle by Kate Hulett

Kate Hulett loves Fremantle and loves owning her shop Kate and Abel in the historic West End of Perth's beloved port city.

Looking back — I think one of my formative experiences may have led me to opening a shop.

"Writing that down, it sounds a bit dramatic — but the experience really got me deep in the soul. It was sometime in the 90's, I was young and at the shops with my dad — one of the big Jeans stores popular in Perth around that time. The assistant was SO WONDERFUL — warm, helpful and kind. I have no idea who she was, or where she might be now, but I still think about that charming service — the experience has been galvanised into my very being.

Maybe I grew up wanting to be her? To give others what she gave to me (not just a new pair of jeans). Again, bit dramatic?

Image: Kate in her store, Kate and Abel. Credit: Duncan Wright

So, what makes being an independent shop owner in Fremantle so great?

When I wander the streets of Fremantle — where I live and work — I often think about that memory. As so many of the shops, cafes and bars are independently run — it's often the owner waving at you through the window, frothing milk, wrapping the book or finding your size. You can feel the care and passion, and that clear intention of wanting to help you (yes, you! the beloved customer) to have a nice time in their space. Those business owners choose their stock with you in mind, they design clothes for your lifestyle, and they uncover beautiful things that they just know you’ll love.

Fremantle's shops feel a world away from big box shopping centres. For one — you don't lose the will to live in a soulless maze of fluro-lit corridors.

Rather you have the pleasure of exploring the heritage-heavy streets, bound by the ocean AND the river — with all its interesting stores, the sun on your shoulders, and fresh air in your lungs: it’s an absolute dream.

And to grab a coffee from one of the seemingly endless snack-options en route? I’d say that’s probably close to actual retail perfection.

A friend of mine recently moved to WA from abroad — when he visits Fremantle, he always comments that, ‘it feels like holidays here’. Not wanting to seem incredibly smug, I internalise my knowing nod and smile politely.

But truth is, I am smug about Fremantle. I adore living in this port city, I love having my shop here, and I care deeply about being part of the community.

And THAT is why it’s such a gorgeous place to visit — people love Fremantle and you can feel that in the shops, in the bars, in the cafes and in the parks. Maybe there’s something in that salty air?

You feel welcome, and you are welcome. Come and see us soon."

Kate Hulett