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Fremantle Time Ball and Gun

In 1900 a Time Ball was erected near this site for the purpose of providing an accurate "time check". This enabled ships masters in vessels moored offshore or in harbour to verify the setting of their chronometer (sea clock) used to determine longitude position at sea.

The Time Ball, situated on a high structure was dropped at 1pm. along with the discharge of gun powder, triggered simultaneously by an electrical signal from the Perth Observatory.

The procedure ended in 1937 superceded by radio signals. Today, satellites provide our Global Positioning System.

In 1988, for the enjoyment of visitors and historical purposes, Fremantle Heritage Guides Assn, reactivated the signal station using the ball situated on the masthead above and the cannon on loan from the Fremantle (Dockers) Football Club.