Walks around Albany and ANZAC rememberance

19th September 2014

What a beautiful day.  Warm and sunny with no wind, just perfect.

Albany is on an extensive harbour system.  The city was founded in 1826 as a colony of NSW because the strategic importance was recognised.  The first settlers involved mostly convicts who were supposedly of the 'artisan' variety so they had skills to build the new colony.

The large harbour of King Georges Sound opens into two inner harbours to the north and south.  We walked on the opposite shore between these two entrances.  An excellent walking trail/cycling path is in place and despite the fact the town is close by the dune vegetation is preserved.

We encountered plenty of birds, lizards and a small furry mammal that was either a bandicoot or a potoroo.

Later, we went to the old gaol where there is a small ANZAC exhibition.  An ANZAC museum is under construction, due to open on 1st November to mark the 100th anniversary of the departure of 26 Australian and 12 New Zealand ships for Gallipoli.  They were assembled here from all around Australia and NZ to sail out as a large flotilla.  There are big memorial ceremonies planned in Albany for the centenary.