All things maritime and marine is the theme for these July school holidays and across winter as we host a range of activities and events all part of this year’s Albany Maritime Festival.
Over the first week of the holidays, Monday 1 to Friday 5 July, enjoy a fun craft activity creating your own sea creature from clay, 10am to 2pm each day. Let your imagination inspire your design – will it have a tail, fins, or legs, or perhaps some eyes to see? A fun activity for all ages!
On Friday 5 July, come aboard the Cheynes IV whale chaser for songs of the sea, from 1pm to 3pm. As part of the Albany International Folk ‘n’ Shanty Festival, this concert features renowned shanty performers, The Dunn Bay Wailers, and local quartet, The Offsiders. Sing along, dance on the deck, or just enjoy the sea and shanty sounds as you explore this historic vessel.
The musical festivities continue on Sunday 7 July with the Sunday Sundowner by the Sea, 4:30pm to 7pm. Savour local flavours whilst enjoying a relaxing afternoon on the deck at Whalers Galley Café, accompanied by the sounds of Albany folk duo, Soul Train. Sip on a complementary selection of Alkoomi wines and beer, and delight in an array of delicious and warming winter bites, by the sea as the sun goes down. This is a ticketed event, so bookings are essential.
During the second week of the holidays, Monday 8 to Friday 12 July, you will be able to meet retired whalers onsite 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 and Australia’s maritime history.
Plus, every day you 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 Gary Tonkin Gallery and discover The Art of Scrimshaw. This awe-inspiring exhibition explores the history and creative process of scrimshaw, and features artwork from internationally renowned Scrimshander, Gary Tonkin, including his largest and most intricately carved piece, an intact 4-metre Sperm whale jawbone.
For those looking to further their creativity this July, make sure to book your spot at one of our Draw like a Scrimshander Workshops with artist Andy Dolphin on Wednesday 24 July. Be inspired by the nautical images crafted on early whaling voyages and learn drawing techniques you can use to create your own maritime artworks, working in a similar style to the Scrimshanders. All materials are supplied, and the workshops are suitable for beginners aged 15 years plus. Spaces are limited, so bookings are essential.
There really is something for everyone to enjoy this winter at Albany’s Historic Whaling Station, so pack your jacket, head out, and explore Albany’s unique maritime history.
These events are part of the Albany Maritime Festival 2024. Albany will come alive with an array of different events across the month of July, from food, culture, creative workshops, art exhibitions and more, there really is something for everyone during this year’s winter celebration.
