If you’re looking to escape the chilly grip of winter in Perth, welcome to the club. While our city may be renowned for warm weather and blue skies, don’t let that deter you from embracing the magic that the colder months bring. Rain or shine, there’s a whole world of exciting experiences waiting for you, and we know where you can find them: in Albany. What will you need? Grab your umbrella’s (of course) and be sure to grab your Great Southern Flexi Pass (this will give you better access to adventures and experiences in the Great Southern) and get ready for a winter experience that will warm your heart and ignite your imagination.
A piece of history with a commanding view
We’re talking about the National Anzac Centre. This award-winning museum delves into the sacrifices of World War I troops, offering an interactive experience where you embody actual service men and women. Set within Albany Heritage Park, the centre is enveloped by panoramic views of King George Sound and Princess Royal Harbour, where 41,000 Anzacs left Australia bound for the Great War in 1914. Once you’ve let that all soak in, you can fuel up with a yummy lunch at Garrison and get ready for your next adventure.
Swimming, windsurfing and picnicking paradise
Just because it’s winter, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go outside. Grab a jumper and make your way to Middleton Beach where you can enjoy sweeping views of pristine white sand and blue sea. Beachgoers can enjoy a swim or windsurf with the locals, casting a line from the jetty, or rugging up for a picturesque picnic and sunset (there are picnic areas and barbeques). Bring a thermos full of tea to keep you cosy too!
Weave your way through Albany
If you’re interested in scoping out grand old buildings, striking murals and landmarks, then you’ll be interested in Albany Landmarks and Laneways, a portal unlocking more of Albany. Either lace up the walking shoes and immerse yourself in the stories etched within each street or, if the weather permits, jump in your car and meander by wheels.
Get ready for a whale of a time
Fun for the whole family, Albany’s historic whaling station is an activity enjoyed by all. It’s suggested to allocate three hours to fully enjoy all there is to do and see. Explore the whale processing factory and whale chasing ship — where you can stand on the actual decks where the whales were processed and climb aboard and explore the last whalechaser in Australia, engage in exclusive exhibitions, workshops such as ‘yoga and breakfast’ and get the kids excited for the summer school holiday programs.
Bush Mechanics and Sixteen Legs
Check out some of the special exhibitions currently on at Museum of the Great Southern. Bush Mechanics showcases work by Warlpiri artist Jason Japalijarri Woods and explores the ingenuity of outback mechanics whose clever resourcefulness can turn branches, spinifex and sand into tools and spare parts to get cars back on the road. Sixteen Legs is a journey into still-living giant prehistoric spiders (the size of dinner plates). These are just a glimpse of the incredible offerings that await you at the Museum of the Great Southern.
Pack you sense of wonder, bundle up in your cosiest layers, and get ready to uncover the hidden treasures that await in Albany. For more information about the National ANZAC centre, you can visit their website.