Albany's Historic Whaling Station — Attraction in Torndirrup

22/11/1978: A Momentous Farewell - The Last Day of Whaling in Albany, Western Australia.

The year was 1978, and emotions ran high as the sun kissed the horizon on that fateful day in Albany, marking the final chapter in the saga of whaling at the Cheynes Beach Whaling Company. The winds whispered their last secrets across the shores, carrying with them a poignant mix of nostalgia and anticipation. For decades, the station had symbolized the relentless pursuit of whales, steeped in tradition and industry. However, winds of change were blowing, advocating for conservation and respect for these majestic creatures.

As the operations ceased and the hum of machinery subsided, a profound silence enveloped the waters around Albany. The closure wasn't just an end to an industry; it heralded the beginning of a new narrative—one emphasizing preservation and understanding. This pivotal moment sparked global conversations, fueling environmental consciousness and reflection on our responsibility toward the planet and its inhabitants.

Amidst this transformation, the last whaling ship departed, carrying not just barrels of whale oil but a legacy—a testament to collective action and the potential for change. Albany stood witness to history, embracing transformation and altering its relationship with the ocean forever.

Fast forward forty-five years from that poignant day, and the former Cheynes Beach Whaling Company has been reincarnated as the remarkable Albany's Historic Whaling Station. The museum now standing on those grounds preserves the industry's heritage while fostering education and awareness. Visitors trace history through displays of processing equipment and images frozen in time, navigating a narrative steering toward conservation and respect for marine life.

The museum stands as a living tribute, weaving tales of change and utilizing the stark realities of the past to paint a picture of growth and understanding. It's a space where history intertwines with hope—a reminder that every end can herald a new beginning.

The significance of the station's closure resonated nationally, marking the symbolic end of an epoch in Australia's whaling history. While other stations had closed earlier, the Cheynes Beach Whaling Company's resilience echoed across the continent, stirring conversations about tradition, industry, and conservation.

In the wake of its closure, the station became a poignant reminder of collective responsibility to safeguard our oceans and their magnificent inhabitants. Its transformation into a museum encapsulates not just local history but the closure of an entire industry in Australia.

The echoes of that final day linger, serving as a reminder of our ability to evolve, adapt, and embrace a more sustainable future where the whispers of whales echo through...

A huge rip off. One of the most disappointing experiences of my life. I only wanted to see the wild flower / botanic garden but to gain entry to the wildflower garden you still had to pay $32 which covers the whaling station (which I have zero interest in.) For some completely inexplicable reason you may only purchase a separate ticket to see the wildflower garden during school holidays?

I spent a long time looking for the garden to realise that I was in fact in it, it was little more than a car park with some walk ways and was over all very badly kept and sad looking. I am a botanical illustrator and have visited botanical gardens all over Australia and this one is by far the worst and most expensive I have ever visited. There was also a small “wildlife park” which was one of the saddest things I have ever seen, very small enclosures for the couple of animals with chicken wire and corrugated iron sheets as fencing and seemed very neglected and almost like an afterthought.

For full transparency the staff member at the desk when I bought my ticket advised me it was not the best time of year to see flowers, however I had driven a long distance to visit as there was very little clarity on the website regarding the fee for the garden would be $32. To be honest, even if every plant in the garden was in full flower my review would be the same.

I filled out a feedback form at the conclusion of my visit requesting someone contact me to discuss my concerns but no response was forthcoming.

I feel disgusted and ripped off. The management of this business should urgently revise the pricing to reflect the value of the experience. I would not recommend anyone to visit this venue should it be for the purpose of visiting a botanical garden until prices...

Definitely factor time while at Albany to visit this venue. You can easily spend the better part of a day across the whaling, botanical and wildlife park. $35@ adult which admits to all 3 areas might initially appear expensive but our visit delivered much much more than anticipated. What I enjoyed was the historical accurate and informative presentation of the whaling industry as it was at the end of the 1970's without apologies or 2020's wokeism. Exploring the whaling vessel was informative and interesting from the harpoon cannon on the bow to the bowels of the ship. Kudos for how the land based whale oil tanks have been converted to movie theatres, gallery and scrimshaw display which were unexpected and a delight. Various photos, videos, holograms, info sheets and displays presented the entire whaling process from start to finish in all gore and back breaking dangerous work. What I loved looking back at 1978 and before was the distinct lack of OHS concern, a cigarette hanging out of most workers mouth, skin cancer was not invented and the hard ass nature of those working in this trade. This place is much enjoyed by kids and adults alike. The exquisite skeleton display truly shows you the size of these beheamoths. Make sure your camera or mobile phone is fully charged as you will take many many photographs. The view from this centre is outstanding looking out across the bay. The cafe is worth a visit and an excellent shell display and gift shop add to the experience. The adjacent native wildlife area and botanical garden just adds to the enjoyment for your visit. Highly recommend you factor in at least 4hrs+ to do justice for your visit. Probably the premier tourist attraction for Albany. Highly...