Mosman Park sits on the narrow strip of land between the Swan River and the Indian Ocean, and locals love its quiet streets, river views and quick trip to Fremantle. But if you are used to the bars and restaurants of Mount Lawley, it may take some adjusting.
That was the dilemma for one Perth renter this week. They and their partner, a young social couple, are moving from Mount Lawley to Mosman Park after their rental application there was the only one accepted. The renter said they were worried about "living half my life on Stirling Hwy", has no interest in the beach and asked locals to change their mind.
Plenty did. Plenty did not.
The case for Mosman Park
The suburb's own signs call it the place "between river and sea", and residents say that is the main draw.
"10 min to Freo, 20 min to the city, 3 min to the beach (or 15 min walk), and 10 min walk to the river." - Mosman Park apartment resident
The same resident, who has also lived in North Perth, said Mosman Park is a few degrees cooler in summer thanks to the coast. Others pointed to the Fremantle train line, which runs through the suburb with stops at Mosman Park and Victoria Street stations, putting the city about 20 minutes away by train.
For someone who does not like the beach, one local suggested the river instead.
"The river side is beautiful for parks, views, walking, and escaping the afternoon sea breeze." - Perth local
One person who has lived in both suburbs said that, money permitting, they would choose Mosman Park over Mount Lawley.
Photo: Mosmans restaurant on the Swan River, by Zigzig20s via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0).
The case against
Locals were just as blunt about what is missing. Several said the western suburbs peninsula is quiet compared with inner-city suburbs like Mount Lawley, Mount Hawthorn and Subiaco, with far fewer pubs, bars and restaurants within walking distance.
Residents said it depends a lot on where in the suburb you live. Streets close to the river are pleasant but very expensive, while those near Stirling Highway are noisier.
One former resident of seven years said they had not realised how much traffic dust from Stirling Highway blew over the suburb on the afternoon sea breeze. Another, who stayed with family there over summer, said the local supermarkets often struggled to keep fresh food stocked and lunch options were limited.
Others said shopping and a drink sometimes meant getting in the car rather than strolling down the road, which is the opposite of Beaufort Street life.
Advice for the move
The most common advice was practical. Use the train to get to Fremantle and the city for nights out, explore the riverfront parks, and remember that a rental is not forever.
"Best advice for rental if u hate it you can always change location. Be present and enjoy the move." - Perth local
Others noted that in Perth's tight rental market, having any application accepted is a win. Perth's vacancy rate has been among the lowest in the country for several years, and renters often apply for many homes before landing one.
Photo: The Old Wesleyan Church in Mosman Park, by Calistemon via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0).
Sources: Town of Mosman Park; Transperth; comments from Perth locals.
Photo (top): The Swan River and the "between river and sea" sign in Mosman Park, by Zigzig20s via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0).
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