Catalpa, The World's First 'Crowd Funded' Prison Escape

On Easter Monday 1876, a group of Fenians (Irish political prisoners) escaped from Fremantle prison and rode to Rockingham Beach to escape on a whaling ship funded by donations. 

Learn about this amazing local story and the history of the Fenians statue at Palm Beach, with authors Joy and Mike Lefroy who co-wrote Catalpa - Escape to Freedom.

This is a free event for ages 18+. Bookings are essential and open on Wednesday 12 August 2026.

For further information contact Rockingham Library on 9528 8683 or email rockinghamlibraries@rockingham.wa.gov.au