Height
20 meters (length)
Year Built
1982
Address
Frenchman Bay Road, Albany, WA 6330
The Lowdown
The Big Blue Whale at Albany's Historic Whaling Station commemorates both the majesty of the world's largest animal and Albany's significant place in Australian whaling history. This impressive life-sized sculpture captures the grace and enormity of the blue whale, serving as a reminder of the industry that once operated from this Western Australian port. Albany was Australia's last operating whaling station, closing in 1978 after over 150 years of commercial whaling. The Big Blue Whale now invites visitors to explore the superbly preserved whaling station museum, understand the history of an industry that helped build Albany, and celebrate the conservation efforts that have allowed whale populations to recover. Today, Albany is one of Australia's best locations for watching live whales during their annual migration.
Did you know?
"Albany is now one of Australia's best places to watch live whales"
History
The Big Blue Whale was installed in 1982 at the Historic Whaling Station, which closed as Australia's last operating whaling station in 1978. Albany was a major whaling port for over 150 years, with the industry playing a significant role in the town's development. The Cheynes Beach Whaling Company processed thousands of whales before international pressure and declining populations led to the industry's end. Today, the beautifully preserved station is a museum documenting this complex history.
More Fun Facts
- •Albany was Australia's last operating whaling station, closing in 1978
- •Blue whales are the largest animals ever to exist - larger than any dinosaur
- •A blue whale's heart is the size of a small car
- •Since whaling ended, humpback whale populations have recovered dramatically
- •Albany is now one of Australia's best places to watch live whales
Visiting Tips
- 💡Allow 2-3 hours to explore the complete whaling station museum
- 💡Visit during whale watching season for live encounters
- 💡The museum has actual preserved whaling boats and equipment
- 💡Albany's coastline is spectacular for walking and photography
- 💡Gap and Natural Bridge nearby offer stunning coastal scenery
Opening Hours
Historic Whaling Station hours.
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