1800s

1801

This is the first detailed map of the Swan River drawn by François-Antoine Boniface Heirisson of the Naturaliste from direct observation after his journey by longboat along the Swan River from 17-22 June 1801.

Heirisson has included on the chart soundings along the entire length of his journey, and comments on the singular topography of the mouth of the river (the bar) referring to features seen along its course.

Heirisson Island, traversed and linked to the City by the Causeway, is named after him.

Prior to development, there were actually two islands, surrounded by mudflats. Over the years, dredging and reclamation has created a single island, which is now a landscaped nature reserve, with a two kilometre walking path. In recent years a colony of Western Grey Kangaroos have been introduced onto the island.

The first European to visit the Heirisson Island area was the Flemish explorer Willem de Vlamingh in January 1697. He was exploring the Swan River in long-boats but only got as far as the Heirisson Island(s) because the mud flats impeded any further progress.