Cheyne Beach Whaling Station, Maritime heritage site in Frenchman Bay, Western Australia
Cheyne Beach Whaling Station is an industrial complex along King George Sound in Western Australia with buildings made of steel, concrete, and timber arranged along a natural rock slope. The site contains original processing equipment, storage tanks, boilers, and workshops that remain largely intact from its operational period.
The station was established in 1952 and became Australia's last commercial whaling operation before closing in 1978. This period marked the final chapter of a fishing industry that had shaped the region's maritime economy.
The station reflects the impact of Norwegian workers who brought their methods and traditions to this remote location. You can observe how their approach shaped the daily operations and left traces in how the space was organized and used.
The site functions as a museum with displays explaining its industrial history and views across the bay. Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain is uneven and most visitors explore the grounds on foot between the various buildings.
The site preserves original steam-powered winches and cutting decks that reveal how animals were processed and the harsh reality of daily work. These machines tell a story about an industry that seems almost unimaginable today.
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