A tranquil swimming spot beloved by generations of Perth families owes its existence to one man’s determination, ingenuity, and a few well-placed explosives.
Local legend has it that Mettams Pool, the calm and sheltered cove along the Trigg coastline, was created by World War I veteran Frank Mettam — armed with a crowbar and dynamite.
After returning from the war with serious leg injuries, Mettam turned to walking and swimming as part of his rehabilitation. His vision was to create a safe coastal pool where locals could enjoy the ocean without fear of sharks or rough surf.
According to his grandson, Todd Mettam, the area in the 1930s and 1940s was “mostly bush and wild horses,” with few rules or restrictions. Frank sourced explosives from the road crew building West Coast Highway and used them to carefully blast away sections of limestone, forming the natural reef and sheltered pool that remain today.
The project became a family affair, continuing into the 1960s as Frank’s children and grandchildren helped move limestone and shape the site. Todd still keeps his grandfather’s crowbar — a tangible link to the family’s coastal legacy.
“I work for the State Government, and our department manages coastal infrastructure,” Todd said. “Part of me knows we shouldn’t be blowing things up and changing the coastline — but I’m also very proud of what my grandfather created. It’s a great spot for the community.”
For Todd, Mettams Pool holds deep personal meaning. He learned to swim there as a child and later brought people with disabilities to enjoy its calm, accessible waters.
The story of Mettams Pool is one of many featured in the City of Stirling’s Water Stories exhibition at Mount Flora Regional Museum, part of the Australian Heritage Festival. The exhibition explores how water has shaped the region’s landscapes and communities — from ancient Nyoongar fish traps to modern surfing culture and coastal development.
Fittingly, the museum itself occupies a converted World War II water tank that once served as an observation post.
Water Stories is open from 10am to 4pm on Wednesdays at Mount Flora Regional Museum.
