Situated within the Busselton Cultural Precinct at the jetty end of Queen Street, the Old Courthouse Complex buildings are among the oldest in Busselton.
Today, these beautifully restored heritage-listed buildings now serve as a hub for art lovers and history buffs.
Free to enter, the Old Courthouse Complex is owned and managed by the City of Busselton. Open daily from 10am -4pm.
History
The Old Courthouse Complex was constructed between 1860 – 1897, marking the establishment of Busselton as an important regional centre and port during the colonial era. During this time, the Courthouse operated as a judiciary, government administration centre and land agency – servicing the growing settlement’s need for law and order, customs and telecommunications.
Heritage Exhibitions
Immerse yourself in the harrowing tale of the S.S Georgette shipwreck as you take in the fascinating heritage exhibition in the New Courtroom, before heading to the Old Busselton Gaol to learn about the misdemeanours and lived experiences of notorious prisoners and other locals from a bygone era in the audio-visual display in the gaol cells.
Explore the cold, dark gaol cells and imagine being locked up behind a heavy wooden door.
Walk through the cell block into the exercise yard to discover stories from the prisoners who vandalised the metal-clad door that once locked them in the exercise yard.
From Gaol to Peaceful Outdoor Areas – Picnics & Performances
Within the Old Courthouse Complex, the Community Courtyard features an elevated stage for a variety of performances and festivals held here throughout the year. It’s also a peaceful place to sit quietly and enjoy a picnic or let the kids entertain you with an impromptu performance.
Meanwhile, on the northern side of the Old Courthouse, the Merenj Boodja Garden features bush food plants of the six seasons of the local Wadandi Saltwater people. There’s information about the plants in the garden and how they were used by Aboriginal people who have lived in the region for over 60,000 years.
Art Hub
In 1976, WA Police relocated from the complex to new premises and the transformation from law enforcement headquarters to art hub began!
Now the Old Courthouse Complex presents regular art exhibitions and houses a Gallery Store showcasing the work of around 50 celebrated regional artisans who work in a myriad of mediums.
Browse the Gallery Store’s stunning range of quality local art, jewellery, pottery, glasswork, cards, photography, paintings and woodwork.
Be sure to visit the artist in residence in the Stable Studio while you’re exploring the complex. Meet the talented artists and watch them creating their beautiful pieces.
Inspired to create your own masterpiece? You’re invited to attend one of the many art workshops held in the Fodder Room. This beautiful studio is also available for artists who are interested in facilitating classes.
Settlement Sculpture Walk
Continue your walk down memory lane outside of the Old Courthouse Complex, as you stroll along Queen Street’s Settlement Sculpture Walk, which features six bronze sculptures by well-known Western Australian artist Greg James.
The Old Post Office Cafe
After exploring the buildings, heritage exhibitions, art, grounds and gardens of the Busselton Cultural Precinct, why not visit The Old Post Office Café within the Old Courthouse Complex to recharge?
Take a seat in this charming building or relax on the veranda overlooking Queen Street with a cup of coffee or tea alongside delicious sweet and savoury treats crafted with seasonal, locally sourced produce.
Venue hire
The Old Courthouse Complex offers spaces for hire. The Bond Store, The Courtroom, The Courtyard, The Fodder Room and the Merenj Boodja Bush Garden can be booked for functions, workshops, exhibitions, performances, corporate or private functions.
Saltwater Busselton
In 2025, the City of Busselton will introduce a new art gallery, performing arts and convention venue in the Busselton Cultural Precinct.
Positioned to become a destination for the performing, creative and business event sectors, Saltwater Busselton will host a wide range of entertainment, exhibitions and conferences across three levels of innovation and artistic inspiration.
Saltwater will present a number of exciting shows in the opening year, including comedy, theatre, circus and dance tours, as well as some iconic Australian musicians and bands.
