Western Australian Museum Albany Exhibitions
The Western Australian Museum maintains an active exhibition programme focused around its permanent exhibitions. These exhibitions are supplemented with travelling, temporary and community generated exhibitions. Refer to the 'What's On' section for the latest exhibitions.
Permanent Exhibitions:
The Residency
Built in 1850 and extended in 1875 the Residency served as a store and offices for the nearby convict hiring depot. When the depot closed more rooms were added and it became home to the Government Residents and then to the Resident Magistrates. The Residency contains displays focusing on the natural and social history of the region. Discover the origins of the Gap and Stirling Ranges; admire the courage of the early whalers; discover the natural diversity of the region; and trace the story of first settlement.
Artisans’ Gallery
Housed in the former Mount Barker Co-operative store the Artisans’ Gallery contains a
working saddlery and leather shop. Watch a traditional artisan at work as he uses the historic 'Morrison Collection' of saddlery tools and machines. A great place to purchase that unique bag, hat, belt or art piece.
One Teacher School
Let us take you back to school as it was. The Torbay School building stands as a tribute to Western Australia’s pioneer
teachers. The building fosters an appreciation and understanding of the history of rural education. Use the blackboard, old
fashioned nib and ink or slates. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of an old fashioned schoolroom.
Albany Lighthouses -
This gallery explores the characters and tales surrounding the three main lighthouses off the Albany coast, Eclispe Island,
Breaksea and Point King lighthouses. Through installations, artefacts and photographs discover the human side to life, dictated
by the sea. Read their moments of sadness and despair in times of chaos. Admire their humour when things didn't go according
to plan, such as the dilemma faced by Stan Austin, the lighthouse tender skipper, who once watched as his boat and cargo took off
on its own into the wild seas. The wondrous Eclipse Island lighthouse optic is our showpiece. Consisting of three glass lenses,
each three metres high, the optic rotates silently on its bed of mercury guiding visitors to a fascinating museum experience.
Marine Discovery Centre -
The developing Marine Discovery Centre, on the ground floor of the Eclipse Building, is all about hands on activity. Come and explore the wonders of our marine world using all your senses. View interesting live specimens and investigate the world of an aquatic zoologist. Play games and take part in fun activities.