Friends of UWA’s Great Southern, Great History event to delve into Albany’s past with a broad array of topics

Local history buffs can learn about what went into making their town, at an event exploring different aspects of Albany’s history set to take place later this month. The Great Southern, Great History event run by the Friends of the University of Western Australia Albany will be held on August 31, with eight speakers covering subjects from geology and the labour movement to heritage buildings and art. Program director Malcolm Traill said the group was encouraged by the success of its 2021 event and wanted to encourage insight and introspection of the past ahead of Albany’s bicentenary. “Coming up to Albany 2026, it’s a new look from different voices into the region’s history,” he said. “It’s more than just Albany, it’s the Great Southern story from different perspectives, stories people haven’t heard before, and places they probably haven’t visited. “It’s very important to know about where you live — those who forget the lessons of the past are doomed to repeat them.” Keynote speaker Professor Alexandra Ludewig will discuss the adventures of Ferdinand von Summer, WA’s first government geologist before Shane Burke speaks about Phillip Chauncy’s survey of Albany and Molly Schmidt explores the connection between place and family history. After morning tea, Menang-Noongar artist Shandell Cummings will discuss the relationship between local art and science, before Dr Charlie Fox analyses the history of the Albany labour movement and Alana McNee uncovers the stories of the old maritime community. Mr Traill said he particularly looks forward to hearing young author Ms Schmidt speak on how she turned her family history into fiction with her successful book Salt River Road. As well as a raft of speakers, the day includes a tour of the Albany Pilot Cottages and Norman House, with guides providing snapshots exploring what life was like for the people living in those buildings. Ticket proceeds will be donated to the UWA annual student prizes. Attendees can choose to attend a canape supper at Majuba for an extra $70. The conference runs from 9am to 7.30pm and is sponsored by the Consulate of Germany, City of Albany, Advance Housing, Paperbark Merchants and Southern Ports. Tickets can be bought on Event Brite - Great Southern, Great History or at UWA Albany.