Stirk Cottage is a charming slice of Kalamunda’s history, tucked away at the southern end of Stirk Park. Open to the public on Sunday afternoons from 2pm to 4pm, this tiny cottage offers a fascinating glimpse into early settler life in the Perth Hills. Entry is by gold coin donation, making it an affordable and worthwhile stop for families, history buffs and locals alike.
Built in 1881 by Frederick and Elizabeth Stirk, the cottage was the very first house in Kalamunda. The Stirks owned a large property here, part of which would later become the much‑loved Stirk Park. It’s incredible to imagine that a family of eleven once lived within these modest walls. As you step inside the three-room cottage, it’s easy to appreciate just how resourceful and resilient the early settlers had to be.
The building itself is a wonderful example of pioneer construction, made using wattle, daub, jarrah saplings and mud. These simple, local materials give the cottage an authentic, rustic feel that you don’t get from modern replicas. Inside, the rooms are filled with artefacts and period pieces that help bring the Stirks’ story to life. From household items to everyday tools, the displays offer a vivid sense of what daily life would have been like for the family more than 130 years ago.
A visit to Stirk Cottage pairs perfectly with time in Stirk Park, whether you’re enjoying the Playground, having a picnic or simply wandering through the grounds. Popping into the cottage for a look around is a lovely way to add a little learning to a relaxed afternoon in the park. Volunteers are often on hand to answer questions, and children and adults alike will enjoy imagining how different life was for Kalamunda’s first residents.
Stirk Cottage
Address: Southern end of Stirk Park, Kalamunda, WA
Opening hours: Sundays, 2pm–4pm
Official website: City of Kalamunda – Stirk Cottage
- About the Author
- Latest Posts
Jennie McNichol is on a mission to prove there is always something fun to do in Perth. After 11 years in London working in the television industry for the BBC, Jennie moved to Perth in 2010 and founded Buggybuddys to silence the “nothing to do” crowd. Fifteen years later, it is the city’s number one guide for families, packed with daily inspiration and a huge focus on free local activities.
As a mum of two daughters, Jennie has evolved the site right alongside her own family—growing from a toddler-focused resource into a guide that supports parents through every stage, from the early years through to the teens. A passionate advocate for the WA lifestyle, Jennie loves helping families discover the best playgrounds, hidden gems, and budget-friendly days out in the most family-friendly city in the world.
