Celebrating 125 years of news

First published in 1888, the South Western Times this year celebrates its 125th anniversary. In this fortnightly feature the Times will delve into its extensive archives to bring readers some of the biggest stories, pictures and people from the past...

Bunbury holds a place in former PM's heart

It was the playful photo of then-Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser which gained national attention and was published in papers across Australia.

Mr Fraser was touring Bunbury in 1979, followed by a press pack, when they stumbled across the streets named Malcolm and Fraser in what was once the industrial area of Marlston Hill.

Speaking to the Times from his home in Victoria, Mr Fraser said he vividly remembered his visit.

“I remember it (the photo) being taken, it was an odd circumstance to have two streets like that and someone said ‘we’ve got to take a photo’,” he said.

“I enjoyed visiting Bunbury, it’s an enormously important part of WA.”

The light-hearted photo also earned a spot in The Malcolm Fraser Collection at the University of Melbourne.

During his visit, Mr Fraser took a stroll down Victoria Street, shaking hands and meeting people, and also spoke to students at Bunbury Senior High School.

The 83-year-old retired politician congratulated the Times for reaching its 125-year milestone.

“For a rural paper to reach 125 years, that is pretty good,” he said.