All things maritime and marine is the theme for these July school holidays at Albany’s Historic Whaling Station, as we host a range of activities and events all part of this year’s Albany Maritime Festival.
The holidays start with two creative workshops by artist Alex Gerrard, Seaweed Pressing on Saturday 2 and Shell Shadow Box Frame on Sunday 3. Highlighting the natural beauty of our coastal town, you will discover how to create beautiful artworks using simple beach finds. All materials are provided and these workshops are suitable for ages 14 years and over. Spaces are limited, so bookings are essential.
Alex’s marine artwork will also feature in the art exhibition, In from the tide, which is on display for the duration of the holidays, 2 to 17 July. The exhibition features pressed seaweed and seashell artworks from both Alex and fellow artist and Marine Biologist Nicola Thomas.
Across the two weeks of the holidays, Monday to Friday, you will be able to meet past whalers from 10am to 2pm each day. Hear firsthand stories from these men as they look back on their time working for the Cheynes Beach Whaling Company, which was a major industry in Albany’s and Australia’s maritime history.
Plus, each weekday over the first week of the holidays you will be able to get crafty with the yarn whale activity, 10am to 2pm. Grab a ball of yarn and create your woollen whale with this fun activity that is suitable for all ages.
On Saturday 9, you will have an opportunity to discover all things seaweed with Marine Biologist Nicola Thomas. Get hands on from 11am to 2pm exploring our diverse local seaweed and discover the unique textures and colours of these underwater plants, all without needing a snorkel. This event is free to join and does not require purchase of Historic Whaling Station admission.
During the second week of the holidays, Monday 11 to Friday 15, you can try your hand at constructing a miniature whaleboat from 10am to 2pm. Using the supplied craft materials equip your boat with a sturdy sail and some oars to replicate the whale boats of old. Then add a bit of decoration and your boat is ready to set sail.
Plus, every day over the July school holidays, visitors can join the Processing Factory Audio Experience at 11:30am and 1:30pm. This is a 15-minute audio track that guides you through the processing factory, providing an interesting insight into the history.
Then escape the winter chill in the Colin Green Gallery and discover the “History Highlights” featuring whaling incidents, accidents and weird sightings, retold on film by past whaling station workers. These History Highlights are handpicked from the Historic Whaling Station’s oral history collection.
There really is something for everyone to enjoy these school holidays at Albany’s Historic Whaling Station, so pack your jacket and head out and explore Albany’s unique maritime history.
