WAPlanned settlement
Albany
A garrison sent to secure the southern coast.
1826Military outpost established
WHAT STARTED IT
Albany began as a British military outpost at King George Sound. Concern that France might establish a claim on the western coast prompted the expedition aboard the Amity, carrying soldiers, officials and convict tradesmen.
WHAT SUSTAINED IT
The expedition arrived in December 1826, followed by a formal foundation ceremony in January 1827. Albany developed as a sheltered port, communications point and whaling centre. In 1914 it was a departure point for the first convoy carrying Australian and New Zealand troops to the war.
TURNING POINTS
1826The Amity brings the military and convict party.
1914Troop convoys depart for the First World War.
1978The Cheynes Beach whaling operation closes.
2001Albany Wind Farm was commissioned with twelve turbines, adding renewable generation to the port city’s economy.
WHAT IT DOES NOW
A Great Southern regional centre for services, agriculture and visitors. Maritime history, the Anzac story and the former whaling station are prominent parts of its visitor economy.