Stories of the Bremer River and Wellstead Estuary: Importance of the river and estuary

Importance
of the river
and estuary

Bremer Bay is "geographically unique"

Max feels that if there wasn't an overland telegraph it would be different. Bremer Bay was one of the five telegraph stations between Albany and Eucla in the trans-Australian telegraph link which was completed in 1877. Max says that the overland was first placed in Bremer Bay because of "the availability of water and other people". John Wellstead's (Senior) eldest daughter was one of the first operators. Max feels that the "geographically unique" structure of Bremer Bay is what brings and keeps people in the town. It also provides a diverse range of tourist activities that are focused around the unique estuarine and river life.

Mick and his fishing mates "get a lot of enjoyment" out of the river and the estuary. Alice says "It just makes Bremer different and its part of what I've grown up with". It is clear from comments such as these that the Bremer River and the Wellstead Estuary have always been, and will continue to be, an important part of the Bremer Bay community.

"It just makes Bremer different"

Both Max and Mick enjoy sitting and fishing at the "Smoke House". It was originally constructed by two Wellstead brothers and the idea was to catch, smoke and export mullet. The smoking and exporting did not eventuate but this place remains a good spot to fish with a rocky ledge that drops into the river. Vehicle access to the "Smoke House" is restricted and you have to take a boat to get up there now.

Athol and Jess also have there own little place besides the fantastic views from their home. They take the Suzuki down the original track to the estuary in town where they like to sit and occasionally throw in a line. Athol taught Jess how to fish in the estuary.