Albany Town Hall returns to historic glory

I am very much looking forward to stepping inside the newly renovated Albany Town Hall today.

To live in a town with such a significant building that can still be used is something Albany should be proud of.

It is just one of the many connections we have to our beautiful city’s history as the first European settlement in WA.

The striking architecture and looming clock tower that can be seen from almost anywhere in the CBD is a reminder that a town hall used to be the centre of any regional community.

It will be wonderful finally to put the historic venue to good use once again.

Works to the heritage-listed hall are coming to an end as the City of Albany prepares to open the doors for the first time in more than a year.

The Artisan and Designer Gift Fair will be the first event hosted inside its renovated walls.

The project to restore the hall to a modern standard started in December last year and involved conservation works, structural repairs and infrastructure and technology upgrades.

The City’s vision included a building refresh restoring the hall, allowing it to host a variety of visual and performance arts, collections and exhibitions to the community.

The doors will open from 10am today with the ground floor dedicated to 6330 Kinjarling Place of Plenty — an exhibition of works from the City of Albany Art Collection.

“The last time this incredible building was renovated was back in 1983 and now it has been restored back to its former glory of 1888 heightening its connection with Albany’s heritage, culture and history,” Mayor Dennis Wellington said.

“Being able to provide a soft launch opening ahead of the major opening at Easter time means that we can start to make use of this icon right before the holiday season, provide the community with an exciting unveiling and gather important feedback on the use of the venue.”

A bigger launch of the revamped Town Hall will take place in April 2021 in conjunction with the Great Southern Art Award.

With the hall back to its former glory and ready for use, it must be time for the clock to be restored to working order too.