- Peel Town Archaeological Sites included in the State Register of Heritage Places
- Archaeological sites dating to circa 1829-30
- Culturally and historically significant sites within Beeliar Regional Park
One of Western Australia's earliest known European settlement sites south of Perth has been included in the State Register of Heritage Places.
Located within the Beeliar Regional Park in Henderson, Peel Town Archaeological Sites comprises 43 hectares of coastal vegetation containing a rich suite of archaeological sites dating back to 1829-30, including some sites within the Naval Base Caravan Park area.
First discovered 15 years ago, the sites are considered a rare example of a settlement during the earliest phase of the Swan River Colony.
The place is a significant reminder of the global spread of the British Empire and some of the material uncovered include limestone tent pads, porcelain plates, limestone and brick hearths and other dwelling remains.
With the sites now afforded permanent protection and recognition, they have the potential to provide even further valuable information about this phase in WA's history.
As stated by Heritage Minister David Templeman:
"Peel Town Archaeological Sites help to tell the story about what life was like in the Swan River Colony over 190 years ago.
"Occupied by British settlers brought to the colony by Thomas Peel, the settlement itself was unsuccessful due mainly to poor planning, but the remnants left behind offer us a truly fascinating insight into early colonial times.
"The knowledge we gain through studying sites such as these deepens our understanding of the world as it was when the colony that became Western Australia was in its infancy."
As stated by Kwinana MLA Roger Cook:
"The Peel region, or Biajareb as it is known by the Noongar community, has a rich history going back at least 60,000 years and this latest find is relatively new in comparison.
"It is a fascinating part of our local story and I am pleased to hear that it has been included in the State Register of Heritage Places."
