Complete Travel Guide to Swanbourne, Australia

Comprehensive travel guide to Swanbourne, 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:4592
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    Complete Travel Guide to Swanbourne, Australia

    Swanbourne Swanbourne is a western coastal suburb of Perth, Western Australia, located within the City of Nedlands. It is an affluent, upper middle class residential area with older Federation style homes, many being renovated. The suburb was established in the late 19th century. New housing estates have been built recently through the redevelopment of areas such as the Swanbourne Senior High School, Swanbourne Primary School and Lakeway Drive-In Cinema sites. Positioned at coordinates -31.96878°N, 115.7673°E, Swanbourne occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Swanbourne place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. At an elevation of 36.0 meters above sea level, Swanbourne benefits from unique topographic advantages that influence local climate, agriculture, and scenic beauty. The elevation of Swanbourne creates distinctive environmental conditions that support specific ecosystems and agricultural practices while providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Home to 4592 residents, Swanbourne maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Swanbourne represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Swanbourne 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, Swanbourne contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines Australia's regional character. The role of Swanbourne in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne

    History Sign at Swanbourne Beach Swanbourne was initially called _Osborne_ , and was renamed in 1921 The renaming was done in order for the suburb to not be confused with Osborne Park, another suburb in Perth, and after an individual died following an ambulance being sent to the wrong location.

    Swanbourne was named for Swanbourne House, in Swanbourne, Buckinghamshire, the family seat of Thomas Fremantle, a prominent Conservative politician, and his brother, Charles Fremantle, for whom the city of Fremantle was named _Sunday Times (Perth)_ Western Australia.

    1 (Second Section) Retrieved 12 January 2018 - via National Library of Australia "SWANBOURNE LATE OSBORNE" Western Australia Retrieved 12 January 2018 - via National Library of Australia "What's it's like from the air" _The Daily News_ Western Australia.

    Retrieved 12 January 2018 - via National Library of Australia.

    The historical trajectory of Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne 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 and population Swanbourne is bounded by the Swanbourne Rifle Range and Cottesloe Golf Club to the north, Lake Claremont and Stirling Road to the east, the Fremantle railway line and North Street to the south, and the Indian Ocean to the west. At the 2016 Australian census, Swanbourne had a population of 4,059 people. 6% of people were born in Australia. The next most common countries of birth was England at 7. 0% of people spoke only English at home. The most common responses for religion were "no religion" 37. 9% and Catholic 19. There were 1,320 occupied private dwellings in Swanbourne. 7% of these were separate houses and 13. 0% were semi-detached. Swanbourne is a high income suburb with a median family income of $3,564, compared to $1,910 for Western Australia and $1,734 for Australia. 8% of employed residents worked in defence. #Climate Swanbourne has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate (Köppen climate classification _Csa_), similar to the rest of the Perth metropolitan region. In contrast to Perth, it is slightly more humid and cooler in the summer, due to the sea breezes, which can be quite strong in the afternoon, with an average 3 pm wind speed of 27. Climate data for Swanbourne Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 44. 7) Mean maximum °C (°F) 39. 2) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 29. 4) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 18. 2) Mean minimum °C (°F) 12. 2) Record low °C (°F) 9. 3) Average rainfall mm (inches) 19. 67) Average precipitation days 2.

    The topographic characteristics of Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.

    Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Swanbourne 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

    #Climate Swanbourne has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate (Köppen climate classification Csa), similar to the rest of the Perth metropolitan region. In contrast to Perth, it is slightly more humid and cooler in the summer, due to the sea breezes, which can be quite strong in the afternoon, with an average 3 pm wind speed of 27. Climate data for Swanbourne Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 44. 7) Mean maximum °C (°F) 39. 2) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 29. 4) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 18. 2) Mean minimum °C (°F) 12. 2) Record low °C (°F) 9. 3) Average rainfall mm (inches) 19. 67) Average precipitation days 2. Rainfall patterns in Swanbourne determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 9 Average afternoon relative humidity (%) (at 15:00) 55 54 52 57 59 62 63 63 62 59 58 54 58 Source: Bureau of Meteorology Temperatures and rain data: 1993–2020; Relative humidity: 1993–2010 1. Temperature patterns in Swanbourne influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. ^ a b “Climate statistics for Australian locations – Swanbourne”. Bureau of Meteorology. Retrieved 16 July 2020. “Monthly highest temperature – Swanbourne”. Temperature patterns in Swanbourne influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. Bureau of Meteorology. Retrieved 16 July 2020. “Monthly lowest temperature – Swanbourne”. Temperature patterns in Swanbourne influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. Bureau of Meteorology. Retrieved 16 July 2020.

    The climatic regime of Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.

    Economic development opportunities in Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne is served by Swanbourne railway station and by various bus routes that pass through Swanbourne. All services are operated by the Public Transport Authority. #Bus * 27 Claremont Station to East Perth – serves Stirling Road, Shenton Road, Servetus Street, Narla Road and Alfred Road * 28 Claremont Station to Perth Busport – serves Stirling Road * 102 Claremont Station to Cottesloe Station – serves Stirling Road, Shenton Road, Servetus Street and North Street #Rail * Fremantle Line * Swanbourne Station 1. Bus Timetable 33 (PDF). 13 March 2025 [effective from 27 April 2025]. Bus Timetable 33 (PDF). 13 March 2025 [effective from 27 April 2025]. Bus Timetable 31 (PDF). 6 November 2024 [effective from 9 December 2024].

    Transportation infrastructure serving Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne.

    Regional connectivity from Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne

    Successful visits to Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne 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 Swanbourne 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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