Alex T. Brown — Attraction in Yanchep

The Alex T. Brown Wreck: A Decaying Relic with Parking Perks Finding your way to the Alex T. Brown wreck feels like embarking on an adventure with a touch of 4WD envy. But, good news for the modestly wheeled: even a 2WD can make it down the rough road with some careful navigation (and a willingness to bond with your suspension). The parking area is surprisingly ample, perhaps more expansive than the shipwreck itself these days.

From there, it's a delightful stroll southward along the beach, best done at low tide when the sands are more welcoming. Be prepared to channel your inner explorer as you navigate overland past a rocky outcrop. It's nothing too strenuous, but the detour does add a dash of rugged romance to the journey.

As for the wreck itself, the Alex T. Brown has weathered its share of storms and salty stories. Time and the tides haven’t been kind, burying much of the old schooner in sand and leaving only glimpses of its former seafaring glory. It’s intriguing but not particularly striking—more of a “hmm” moment than a “wow” experience. Still, there’s a certain charm to pondering its fate, imagining the final voyage that led to its resting place.

Overall, while the Alex T. Brown may not be the most dramatic of shipwrecks, the outing makes for a pleasant coastal escapade, especially if you appreciate a mix of history and natural beauty. Just watch your step on the rocky outcrop and enjoy the fact that, at the very least, your car's parked...

One of Perth's/Western Australia's best kept secrets!

An amazing piece of history, I encourage everyone to go and visit the site before it's too late. Consider setting aside a few hours for the trip including travel and bring a few snacks. Be sure to check the tides before going as access can be restricted. Also if your driving in a passenger vehicle (non-4wd) be sure to check you have a spare tire as the road to the beach is subsurface and you don't want to get stranded.

p.s. click on my profile image to visit my YouTube channel to watch my cinematic 4k short of the shipwreck or search my name under google.

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Alex T. Brown was a 788-ton, 4-masted wooden schooner. The schooner was blown ashore north of Perth during a gale about midnight on 29th May 1917. Homesteads in the Wanneroo district were constructed during the early 20th century using materials salvaged from the wreck. These include the stables and mens’ quarters of Lindsay Homestead. The Lindsay family eventually burnt the wreck as they became tired of trespassers using their property to access the wreck. The wreck is easily accessible from a beach named by locals...