Geraldton has a great significance in the discovery and early colonisation of Western Australia. The Abrolhos Islands, about 60 km off the coast of Geraldton are steeped in the history of the first European contact with Australia almost 200 years before Captain Cook's arrival. Many famous ships such as the "Batavia" and the "Zuytdorp" were shipwrecked in this area. Following exploration of the area in the early 1800's enterprising pioneers recognised the potential of the Midwest and settled huge tracts of land for grazing and pastoral activities.

Mining also became a prosperous venture with rich deposits of lead, copper and coal being discovered in the region. As settlement of the area became more established, a deep water port was built to handle the transshipment of grain and minerals to interstate and overseas markets. Geraldton is now regarded as one of Australia's busiest and most well equipped ports.

Fishing still plays a major part in the economy and lifestyle of Geraldton as a trip to the wharves will show, especially in the western rock lobster (crayfish) season.