Fremantle's Old Soul Takes Centre Stage

A contemporary curtain rises on Fremantle’s stage, revealing a cast of seasoned buildings; each boasting a new outfit with a different script. The old stories woven within weathered timber and quarried limestone sing once more alongside newly polished concrete and warm LED lights. Dubbed “Freo-Euro-Nostalgic Architecture”—it’s a vision splendid, directed by entrepreneurs and developers in Fremantle.

Jason Townes, a self-proclaimed serial entrepreneur in the port city, wears his candour boldly when it comes to assessing certain venues in Fremantle, ones he deems as “sub-standard, formulaic, and lacking soul.” However, Townes isn't content to let this assessment define the city's landscape. Instead, he emerges as one of the visionaries spearheading the transformation of historic, character-rich buildings into thriving hospitality spaces. In his mission, Townes goes beyond the architectural realm—he's helping to revitalise the very heart of Fremantle itself, offering us all a chance to connect with its rich heritage, thriving live music culture, and spirited future.

One of Townes’ most notable adaptive reuse ventures is Ronnie Nights, which opened its doors in 2018. It may be tucked away within the 1890 heritage-listed Higham’s Buildings on Market Street, yet it's impossible to miss. As the sun sets gracefully over Fremantle, the 70s Australiana-themed bar stirs to life. With cocktails like “T-BOZ” and “BUCK OFF BRUMBY” on the menu, it exudes quintessential Australian charm, attracting lively crowds on weekend nights. It's a space where strings are strummed, voices sung, the air is filled with laughter, and bartenders become percussionists with their cocktail shakers. Here is where every sip of alcohol tells a new tale in the Fremantle story.

Beneath a freshly revitalised pressed tin ceiling, the original Georgian stairs lead to a seemingly mysterious place—guiding guests on a journey through time as the old and new mix like spirits in a finely crafted cocktail. At the venue’s rear, tucked away from view, a former frequently trodden backdoor space is now an intimate room adorned with a 1950s teal green wash over rough concrete walls.

Local musician Antonio Corea, a regular performer at numerous venues in Fremantle, acknowledges that “Ronnie’s embodies the essence of coolness. For musicians like myself, it provides opportunities that are not otherwise available. It’s a place where songwriters can express their old and new songs to open-minded good ol’ Freo folks. It breathes the life and soul back into Freo.”

However, beyond the vibrant establishment on Market Street, Townes unveils the challenges he's faced, pulling back the curtain on the less glamorous side of his endeavours. He admits that repurposing old buildings can be an expensive and arduous undertaking, emphasising the patience required when negotiating changes with the Heritage Council of Western Australia and planning authorities. It's a stark reminder that, behind the scenes, bringing these transformations to life is demanding. Yet, with conviction, Townes says, “No challenge is too much as long as you have the right budget.”

In addition to his other ventures, Townes also runs the Republic of Fremantle, a state-of-the-art urban distillery and bar he co-founded with three partners. This establishment, on 3 Pakenham Street, seamlessly revitalises the industrial character of a former 1920s warehouse with a modern, intimate, and inviting atmosphere. Driven by their deep connection to the city and research nationally and abroad, Townes and his co-founders established the venue to pay homage to Fremantle’s industrial legacy within its central business district.

"The West End of Fremantle has a rich history, with industrial enterprises coexisting alongside commercial and residential spaces. However, over time, these industrial elements have relocated away from the city centre. Our vision was to resurrect that industrial spirit within the heart of Fremantle's CBD," Townes explains.

Nevertheless, Townes' efforts are not a solitary endeavour. For over 150 years, the Fremantle Chamber of Commerce has helped steer the ship of business development in the port city and cut out bureaucratic red tape.

Amidst the ongoing revival of Fremantle's historical treasures, none shines as brilliantly as The Old Synagogue. Established in 1902, it originally served as Western Australia's first synagogue. However, in 2019, this historical gem underwent a remarkable transformation, with the restoration of two state heritage-listed structures. The result? A unique hospitality precinct boasting four venues, each offering a distinct experience. From the contemporary Southeast Asian delights of Tonic & Ginger to the elevated vistas and laid-back charm of The Arbor's beer and wine garden, The Old Synagogue stands as a dynamic epicentre within the heart of Fremantle. The building’s hip architectural charm celebrates pressed tin ceilings, its original red brick walls and limestone, and its gleaming wooden finishes—a testament to the harmonious coexistence of the past and present in this vibrant city.

It is beyond question that architectural icons such as The Old Synagogue and Ronnie Nights owe their revival to the ingenuity of visionary architects. Building designer Loreta Roach, from Designer Home Extensions, asserts, "It's all about pushing the boundaries of creativity, both outside and within the box." She further emphasises, "The integration of new technologies for restoring heritage buildings has opened up exciting possibilities and preservation methods that were once unattainable." Perhaps, in time, the modern edifices that we all share and thrive in today will be reimagined, forming the foundation for future sustainable architectural brilliance.

As the stage is set for further evolution in Fremantle's architectural realm, including the development of the Elder's Woolstores by Hesperia, Townes reflects, "I take pleasure in the idea that much of what we've contributed to the town will endure long after my time has passed. It gives me a warm sense of satisfaction."

Just as a lead actor leaves a lasting impression, Townes' contributions to the city will endure, playing an integral role in its dramatic legacy and future.