WIN IT! We have copies of Early Albany up for grabs!

A new book exploring Albany’s early history has been described as a “printed museum” by former Australian ambassador to the United States and WA governor Kim Beazley.

Early Albany, by Fremantle Society president John Dowson, was launched at Fremantle Town Hall last Thursday, with Mr Beazley telling a packed Fremantle Society event that the book offered a fresh look at the region’s history.

“It is not so much a book; it’s a printed museum,” Mr Beazley said. “It has been superbly curated by John.”Mr Beazley praised Dowson’s examination of Albany before and during European settlement, including Dutch, French and British exploration and the relationships between settlers and the Menang people.

He said the book brought together material and perspectives that had not previously been widely available, including memorials and diaries.“They will get out of this a whole range of things, perspectives, memorials, diaries that really just haven’t been out in the public domain,” he said.

Mr Beazley also said the book fitted strongly with themes being considered for WA’s bicentenary in 2029, including recognising Aboriginal heritage, sharing stories, reconciliation and celebrating the contributions of people from all backgrounds.

He congratulated Dowson on what he described as “a really brilliant piece of work”.“I know you don’t do this for the money, you do it because your pride is in West Australia,” he said.

Dowson told the Herald that audience members also offered ideas for the 2019 celebrations, including a suggestion from a young person to bring trams back to Fremantle to improve transport while promoting the city’s heritage and human-scale architecture.

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