Albany's Bicentenary Celebrations Illuminate with Historic Light Spectacle
Albany's bicentenary celebrations have burst into vibrant life as thousands of enthusiastic spectators converged on the city's foreshore and key vantage points over the weekend to witness the breathtaking opening of Lighting The Sound. This landmark event, a highlight of Albany's 2026 calendar, features a record-breaking artistic display masterminded by Finnish visionary Kari Kola, drawing crowds from across Western Australia and interstate.
Rain Fails to Dampen Spirits as Crowds Brave Elements
In a twist typical of Albany's unpredictable weather, heavy rain descended just as darkness fell on the port city during the opening night. However, the downpour did little to deter the determined audience, who stood their ground at the Anzac Peace Park through the early deluge, eager to be among the first to experience the stunning visual feast. The crowd on Friday included a diverse mix of long-time residents, young families, and visitors, with Saturday's turnout proving equally impressive.
World's Largest Light Installation Transforms Coastline
The massive project, which involves 800 LED lights mounted on 15 towers spanning approximately 15 kilometres of the Torndirrup National Park, came to life as a blanket of green light enveloped the coastline, water, and sky near Princess Royal Harbour. Bright red roots intertwined with the green illumination, creating a mesmerizing effect that captivated onlookers, many of whom seized the opportunity to capture photographs of the awe-inspiring beauty.
Community and Economic Benefits Highlighted by Local Leaders
Albany Mayor Greg Stocks expressed his delight at the community's embrace of the project, noting the significant social and economic benefits. "What I'm delighted about is that the community has embraced this project, and WA has embraced it," he told the Advertiser outside the Albany Entertainment Centre. "If you walk down the main street today, it was as busy as I've ever seen it, but the social benefit that comes out of this is as important as the economic benefit." He emphasized the collaborative approach with the Menang-Noongar people, describing it as "exactly what it should have been."
Cultural Performances and Political Presence Enhance Event
The opening night also featured a stirring Indigenous dance performance by local group Mooditj Nop, a traditional welcome to country, and a narration of Albany's historical landmarks. Dignitaries including WA Premier Roger Cook and Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas were in attendance, enjoying the show from the Albany Entertainment Centre. Stirling Terrace transformed into a lively block party, with outdoor markets and extended trading hours welcoming droves of tourists.
Media Coverage and Future Showings
The event garnered extensive media attention, with veteran news anchor Noel Brunning conducting a live cross for 7NEWS Regional, ABC Drive hosting an outdoor show in the lead-up, and Channel 10 covering the spectacle from Perth. Lighting The Sound will continue to illuminate Albany over the next two weekends, with three more nights of displays scheduled, headlining the bicentenary commemorations and solidifying Albany's place on the global cultural map.
