Complete Travel Guide to Burswood, Australia
Comprehensive travel guide to Burswood, Australia. Discover history, culture, attractions, and practical information for your visit to this authentic destination.
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- Country:Australia
- State/Province:Western Australia
- Population:2779

States in Australia
- Australian Capital Territory
- New South Wales
- Northern Territory
- Queensland
- South Australia
- Tasmania
- Victoria
- Western Australia
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Complete Travel Guide to Burswood, Australia
Burswood Burswood is an inner southeastern suburb of Perth, Western Australia, located immediately across the Swan River from Perth's central business district (CBD). Its local government area is the Town of Victoria Park. Burswood is the location of the State Tennis Centre, Perth Stadium, Belmont Park Racecourse, and the Crown Perth casino and resort complex. Positioned at coordinates -31.95872°N, 115.90396°E, Burswood occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Burswood place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. At an elevation of 16.0 meters above sea level, Burswood benefits from unique topographic advantages that influence local climate, agriculture, and scenic beauty. The elevation of Burswood creates distinctive environmental conditions that support specific ecosystems and agricultural practices while providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Home to 2779 residents, Burswood maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Burswood represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Burswood reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout Australia, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of Western Australia province, Burswood contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines Australia's regional character. The role of Burswood in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Burswood discover a destination that embodies the authentic character of Australia while offering unique local perspectives and experiences unavailable in more commercialized locations.
Historical Heritage of Burswood
History Burswood developed as two separate entities - Burswood Island, and a southernmost part within the suburb of Victoria Park until the 1990s Henry Camfield, who emigrated from England to the Swan River Colony in 1829, with two indentured servants and their families, was granted 1,000 acres (4.
0 km2) of land opposite Claisebrook Camfield named the estate after his father's farm, Burrswood, near Groombridge in Kent The area was a low-lying peninsula leading to a ridge and steep, sandy hill with scrubland beyond The peninsula became Burrswood Island in 1841 when Burswood canal was cut to offer a more direct route to Guildford, which had previously been encumbered by mud flats.
By this time, the land was earning income and Camfield let it to tenants until he sold it in 1871 when he was living at Camfield House A statue of Henry Camfield is located in Burswood Park surrounding the entertainment complex today During the 1890s, the Bunbury Bridge and the Perth to Armadale railway line were built in the area.
The current spelling of Burswood was a result of a misspelling on the station signage Western Australia's first golf course (9-hole) was built at Burswood Island in 1895 - the clubhouse was a mud hut - and in 1899 a racecourse was also built This was built by Albert Edmund Cockram and in 1902 it became the Belmont Park Racecourse.
In 1906 Goodwood railway station, later renamed Belmont Park, opened From 1900 until 1943, there were two racecourses, Goodwood and Belmont Park These were owned by Albert Edmund Cockram, as was Burswood Island He developed the racecourses and became the largest importer of thoroughbreds into Australia.
The Western Australian Turf Club took over both in 1945, purchasing it from the estate of Albert Edmund Cockram, and closed Goodwood Efforts were made to establish a residential district at "Riversdale Estate", but the use of Burswood Island as part of a sewerage filtration system (1906–1934) and the existence of various light industries from the 1910s onward worked against development.
Residents in the area requested a change of name and in 1921, the name Rivervale was adopted In 1985, the development of the Burswood Island Resort, including a casino, rehabilitated the name and the suburb was gazetted as Burswood in 1993, also including the residential area of Victoria Park south of Burswood Road.
The resort is now known as Crown Perth Bowden-Pickstock, Susan (2009) "Burrswood, Kent" _Quiet Gardens: The Roots of Faith London: Continuum International ISBN 9781441184788 Retrieved 11 December 2015 "The Camfield Letters" _The West Australian_ 28 November 1936.
Retrieved 11 December 2015 "History of metropolitan suburb names – B" Western Australian Land Information Authority Archived from the original on 16 March 2022 Retrieved 15 May 2007 ^ _**a**_ _**b**_ Robyn, McSweeney (31 August 2015) _Albert Edmund Cockram king of.
The historical trajectory of Burswood demonstrates the complex interplay between local agency and external influences that has characterized regional development throughout successive historical periods. Understanding this historical context provides essential background for appreciating the depth and authenticity of contemporary cultural expressions.
Historical preservation efforts in Burswood reflect community commitment to maintaining connections with ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary circumstances. These preservation activities create opportunities for visitors to experience authentic historical environments and traditional practices.
The legacy of historical development in Burswood remains visible in architectural styles, urban planning patterns, cultural traditions, and social organizations that provide continuity between past and present while supporting future community development.
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Geographic Environment and Natural Setting
Geography Jacaranda-lined Howick Street, with the CBD in background Burswood is bounded by the Swan River to the west, north and north-east; Graham Farmer Freeway, Great Eastern Highway and the Armadale railway to the east, and Shepperton Road and Harper Street to the south. Water resources have been fundamental to the development of Burswood, supporting agriculture, transportation, and industrial activities. Department of Land Information. _StreetSmart Perth Street Directory_ (54th ed. West Australian Newspapers Ltd. ISBN 978-0-909439-67-5.
The topographic characteristics of Burswood result from complex geological processes that have created distinctive landscape features supporting diverse ecosystems and human activities. These natural features provide both opportunities and constraints that have influenced settlement patterns and economic development throughout history.
Hydrological systems in the Burswood region play crucial roles in supporting natural ecosystems and human communities through provision of water resources, transportation routes, and agricultural irrigation. Understanding these water systems helps explain historical settlement patterns and contemporary development opportunities.
Soil composition and agricultural potential in the Burswood area reflect the interaction of geological substrate, climatic conditions, and human management practices that have created productive agricultural systems supporting local food security and economic development.
Natural resource availability in Burswood has historically influenced economic activities and settlement patterns while continuing to provide opportunities for sustainable development that balances economic needs with environmental conservation.
The relationship between geographic features and human settlement in Burswood demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.
Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Burswood create changing opportunities for agricultural production, outdoor recreation, and transportation that influence the rhythm of community life and economic activities throughout the year.
Climate Patterns and Environmental Conditions
The climatic regime of Burswood reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, topographic features, and regional weather patterns that create distinctive seasonal characteristics influencing both natural ecosystems and human activities throughout the year.
Temperature variations in Burswood create distinct seasonal periods that influence agricultural cycles, energy consumption patterns, and outdoor activity opportunities while requiring adaptive strategies for housing, clothing, and food preservation.
Precipitation patterns in Burswood determine water availability for agricultural production, urban consumption, and natural ecosystem maintenance while influencing the timing of traditional festivals and seasonal economic activities.
Seasonal weather patterns in Burswood create varying opportunities for different types of economic activities, recreational pursuits, and cultural celebrations that contribute to the distinctive rhythm of community life throughout the year.
The interaction between climate and human adaptation in Burswood demonstrates sophisticated traditional knowledge systems for managing seasonal variations while taking advantage of favorable conditions for agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.
Climate considerations for visitors to Burswood include understanding seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours that influence the availability of different activities and the appropriate preparation for outdoor exploration and cultural participation.
Cultural Heritage and Community Traditions
The cultural landscape of Burswood represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining essential characteristics that define community identity and provide continuity between generations.
Social organization in Burswood reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to preserve cultural traditions while adapting to changing economic and political circumstances.
Traditional arts and crafts in Burswood continue to flourish as expressions of cultural identity and sources of economic opportunity, providing visitors with authentic opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques transmitted through family and community networks.
Religious and spiritual practices in Burswood provide insights into the values and beliefs that guide community decision-making and social interaction while creating frameworks for cultural continuity and adaptation to contemporary circumstances.
Language use and cultural expression in Burswood demonstrate the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation as communities maintain linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary communication needs and educational opportunities.
Cultural festivals and community celebrations in Burswood provide opportunities for visitors to experience authentic traditional practices while participating in community life and supporting local cultural preservation efforts.
Economic Activities and Development Patterns
The economic structure of Burswood reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and contemporary opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability.
Traditional economic activities in Burswood often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance and community welfare.
Local markets and commercial activities in Burswood serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange, providing visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices.
Agricultural production in Burswood demonstrates sophisticated adaptation to local environmental conditions while maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming techniques that support both food security and cultural continuity.
Service sector development in Burswood has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.
Economic development opportunities in Burswood focus on sustainable approaches that build upon existing community strengths while creating new opportunities for education, employment, and cultural preservation.
Transportation and Regional Connectivity
Transport The Perth-Armadale rail line runs through the area and is serviced by Burswood railway station. Buses from the Victoria Park transfer station along Great Eastern Highway and Craig Street service the area. Perth Stadium is serviced on event days by the Perth Stadium bus station and the Perth Stadium railway station, with some train services stopping on weekends. All services are operated by the Public Transport Authority. except the privately owned Little Ferry Co. #Bus ##Bus Stations * Causeway Bus Station * Perth Stadium Bus Station (special events only) ##Bus Routes * 38 Perth Busport to Cloverdale – serves Causeway Bus Station and Shepperton Road * 39 Elizabeth Quay Bus Station to Redcliffe Station – serves Causeway Bus Station, Craig Street and Great Eastern Highway * 270 Elizabeth Quay Bus Station to High Wycombe Station – serves Causeway Bus Station, Craig Street and Great Eastern Highway * 282 and 283 Elizabeth Quay Bus Station to Kalamunda Bus Station – serve Causeway Bus Station and Shepperton Road * 930 Elizabeth Quay Bus Station to Thornlie Station (high frequency) – serves Causeway Bus Station and Shepperton Road * 935 Kings Park to Redcliffe Station (high frequency) – serves Causeway Bus Station, Craig Street and Great Eastern Highway * 940 Elizabeth Quay Bus Station to Redcliffe Station (high frequency) – serves Causeway Bus Station, Craig Street and Great Eastern Highway Bus routes serving Causeway Bus Station: * 32 Elizabeth Quay Bus Station to Como * 33 Elizabeth Quay Bus Station to Curtin Central Bus Station * 72 and 177 Elizabeth Quay Bus Station to Cannington Station * 75 Elizabeth Quay Bus Station to Canning Vale * 178 and 179 Elizabeth Quay Bus Station to Bull Creek Station * 220 Perth Busport to Armadale Station * 221 Perth Busport to Armadale Station (limited stops) * 230 Perth Busport to Thornlie Station (limited stops) * 907 Perth Busport to Armadale Station (high frequency / limited stops) * 910 Perth Busport to Fremantle Station (high frequency) * 960 Mirrabooka Bus Station to Curtin University Bus Station (high frequency) #Rail * Armadale/Thornlie lines * Perth Stadium railway station * Burswood railway station The Little Ferry outside Optus stadium #Ferry * The Little Ferry Co. Burswood jetty to Elizabeth Quay via On The Point. Departs every Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun at 10:45am 12:45pm and 2:45pm 1. “Transperth Optus Stadium”. Public Transport Authority of Western Australia. Retrieved 5 July 2021. “Transperth Network Sheet 5” (PDF). Public Transport Authority of Western Australia. Retrieved 5 July 2021. “Train Timetable - Armadale/Thornlie Line” (PDF). Public Transport Authority of Western Australia. Retrieved 5 July 2021. Bus Timetable 90 (PDF).
Transportation infrastructure serving Burswood reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes regional development throughout Australia. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple approaches for reaching and exploring Burswood.
Regional connectivity from Burswood provides access to broader transportation networks while maintaining the authentic character that distinguishes this destination from more commercialized locations. Understanding transportation options helps visitors plan efficient and respectful approaches to exploration.
Planning Your Visit to Burswood
Successful visits to Burswood require preparation that extends beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities and traditions.
The most meaningful experiences in Burswood often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation in community activities, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and environmental conditions rather than imposing external standards or expectations.
Practical considerations for visiting Burswood include understanding seasonal variations in weather and activity availability, respecting local customs and social protocols, and supporting community-based economic activities that contribute to cultural preservation and sustainable development.
The rewards of visiting Burswood extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home, providing new understanding of human potential and community cooperation.
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