Centenary of Western Australia

In 1929, Western Australia celebrated the centenary of the founding of Perth and the establishment of the Swan River Colony, the first permanent European settlement in WA. A variety of events were run in Perth, regional areas throughout the state, and even across Australia such as the Western Australian Centenary Air Race.

In 1926, the 25th anniversary of federation passed without much recognition, due in part to the sense of isolation that help to form Western Australia's identity. There was limited acknowledgement from the other states of the unique circumstances of Western Australia's situation, due to what historian Geoffrey Blainey described as "the tyranny of distance". It was this isolation that helped focus the community on celebrating its centenary; later, it would also be the catalyst for a growing secessionist movement.

In 1927, the premier, Phillip Collier, asked Hal Colebatch to write a history of the state, and in 1929 A Story of a hundred years : Western Australia, 1829-1929 was published.

A celebration committee began preparations in 1928, and in 1929 produced a number of publications including calendars of events. As 1929 approached, most towns formed their own committees and organised events, these ranged from special race meetings to regional shows, formal dinners, dances and sporting events. Additionally some towns and community organisations also renamed existing local features like parks and buildings, while others set aside an area for a monument which was then unveiled in the presents of dignitaries including the Governor, Premier and descendants of the early settlers.

In April 1929 there was an Australian Fire Brigade Demonstration held in Perth.

In June 1929 there was the Australian national general Methodist conference.

In July 1929 there were interstate football games held in Perth.

Many locations in Western Australia had buildings or locations that became known as Centenary memorials; for example the Claremont Showgrounds has a Centenary Pavilion that still stands, and Northam had a Centenary Hill.

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