Old Court House

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. 

Free to enter, these beautifully restored heritage-listed buildings are owned and managed by the City of Busselton as part of the Busselton Cultural Precinct.  

Today, the Old Courthouse Complex provides a fascinating glimpse of life during the town's early settlement years.  

Immerse yourself in the harrowing tale of the S.S Georgette shipwreck as you take in the fascinating 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 one of the heavy wooden doors.

 
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. 

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 the Aboriginal people who have lived in the region for over 60,000 years.

In 1976, WA Police relocated from the historic building to new premises. The complex was vacant for a while and it was in danger of demolition. However, local artists needed studios and exhibition space and they found the character-rich complex was ideal for their needs.

 
So, the complex was conserved and heritage listed. Since then, the buildings have been beautifully restored to ensure the complex continues to stand for future generations to enjoy. Now the Old Courthouse Complex houses a Gallery Store that is carefully curated to tell local stories and exhibit the work of around 50 celebrated local and regional artisans who work in a myriad of mediums. 

Browse the Gallery Store where you'll discover a 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. 

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.   

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.   

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.

 
Opening hours:

Monday - Friday: 10am - 4pm 
Saturday & Sunday: 10am - 1pm