Step into Albany’s past and present through panoramas spanning more than a century.
As part of Albany 2026, discover the evolving stories of Albany through a visual exhibition bringing history, culture, and community to life. Examine sweeping panoramas, captured from vantage points across the city.
Albany is a city of extraordinary natural beauty, where rugged coastlines meet pristine beaches and lush forests. Rich in history, it holds a deep Aboriginal heritage, strong military connections, and streetscapes adorned with significant architecture. Yet Albany is more than its past—it is a city of connection, a vibrant community, and a destination that welcomes visitors from around the world.
This exhibition features a large curved-screen showcasing an immersive audio-visual experience narrated by local experts and historians. Using digital technology enhancements, interactive kiosks and hands-on activations, journey through time and place like never before.
From early Menang heritage to the present day, and from breathtaking landscapes to historic streetscapes, witness the transformation of Albany and uncover the stories of those who call it home.
Visit Information
Visit the Exhibition in-person:
Location: Museum of the Great Southern, Albany.
12 Dec 2025 - 7 Jun 2026. Now finished.
Location: John Curtin Gallery,
Curtin University, Building 200A,
Bentley, Western Australia.
Dates: 14 July 2026 - 23 August 2026.
Open weekdays 10am - 5pm, and Sundays 12 - 4pm.
Panoramic Short Films: The centre-piece of the exhibition is five short films which explore the history of Albany through historical panoramas. The films look best on the big HIVE Cylinder display and bookings are available to see them on that screen. Link to Bookings. At other times the films show on a big 84” TV in the Gallery.
Access: The John Curtin Gallery is located just a 5-10 minute walk from both Curtin University Bus Stations which are served by many Transperth services. If arriving by taxi/rideshare, the closest drop-off/pick-up point is “Taxi Stand 2” aka “The Flagpoles”. If you are arriving by car, the closest long-term parking is Carpark Pi1 Yellow or PJ1 Yellow carparks. See map. Parking sessions are paid using the CelloPark app. Please note that parking will be extremely busy between 10am and 3:30pm on weekdays due to the teaching semester.
12 Dec 2025 - 7 Jun 2026. Now finished.
Location: John Curtin Gallery,
Curtin University, Building 200A,
Bentley, Western Australia.
Dates: 14 July 2026 - 23 August 2026.
Open weekdays 10am - 5pm, and Sundays 12 - 4pm.
Panoramic Short Films: The centre-piece of the exhibition is five short films which explore the history of Albany through historical panoramas. The films look best on the big HIVE Cylinder display and bookings are available to see them on that screen. Link to Bookings. At other times the films show on a big 84” TV in the Gallery.
Access: The John Curtin Gallery is located just a 5-10 minute walk from both Curtin University Bus Stations which are served by many Transperth services. If arriving by taxi/rideshare, the closest drop-off/pick-up point is “Taxi Stand 2” aka “The Flagpoles”. If you are arriving by car, the closest long-term parking is Carpark Pi1 Yellow or PJ1 Yellow carparks. See map. Parking sessions are paid using the CelloPark app. Please note that parking will be extremely busy between 10am and 3:30pm on weekdays due to the teaching semester.
This project is a collaboration between the Western Australian Museum, Curtin University HIVE, and State Library of Western Australia, with support from the City of Albany and Lotterywest. We thank members of the Menang Noongar community, local historians and experts, and other local community members for their involvement.
Image: View of Albany from Mount Melville / Kardarup blended image. 1904 by Melvin Vaniman, courtesy of State Library of Western Australia, 1495B. 2025 by Tomas Szabo and Andrew Woods, Curtin University HIVE.