There’s a summer of discovery, creativity and connection waiting at Albany’s Historic Whaling Station for both locals and visitors to the region. From inspiring exhibitions and hands-on art workshops to family-friendly activities and wellbeing experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy throughout January.
Art lovers won’t want to miss A Sea Change, a stunning new exhibition and sale by textile artist Anne Cochrane, on display from 1 to 30 January. This evocative body of work marks a shift in Cochrane’s practice from land to sea, exploring the colours, movement and textures of marine ecosystems through sculpted felt, shibori and indigo-dyed textiles. Drawing on her background in seed ecology, Anne presents a poetic homage to the ocean that invites viewers to reflect on transformation, interconnection and the unseen life beneath the surface.
The summer program also features a rich line-up of talks, workshops and activities designed to spark curiosity in visitors of all ages. From 12 to 17 January, join Broome’s Shell Ambassador, Taryn The Shell, for Talking Shells: From Beach to Biology. Set among the remarkable Hilda Hotker Shell Collection, these free one-hour sessions dive into the fascinating science of molluscs, shell formation and marine biodiversity. Bookings are essential, with limited spaces available.
For those keen to get creative, there’s a full calendar of art workshops throughout the holidays. Create your own artist’s book at the Botanical Prints Art Workshop with artist Merry Robertson, stitch colourful ocean creatures in the Stitch-a-Sea-Creature activity and enjoy a deliciously fun experience painting cookies with Jade Cookie Collective. Families can also paint side-by-side at Milkshakes & Masterpieces, a relaxed paint-and-sip style workshop guided by artist Bronte Wilkes from Little Art Class.
Wellbeing and movement take centre stage on Saturday 24 January with a gentle Yoga Workshop & Sound Bath in the morning, followed by Family Acro Yoga + Circus Play, a joyful session focused on balance, trust and connection. The month wraps up with Family Circus Exploration on 31 January, offering an open-play environment filled with colourful props and playful movement for all ages.
Science enthusiasts can join UWA marine scientist and whale researcher Hannah Nisbet from 28 to 30 January for Marine Science Investigators, a hands-on exploration of coastal life. Learn to identify beach-combing finds, examine marine specimens up close, and uncover the hidden stories of life beneath the waves. This activity is included with admission or an Annual Pass Membership.
With daily site experiences, beautiful picnic areas and delicious meals available from Whalers Galley Café overlooking the Southern Ocean, summer is the perfect time to spend a full day at our multi award winning attraction. We are OPEN every day over summer, so come explore, learn and create together.
For more information on all that is on this summer and beyond, visit our EVENTS page.
