Perched atop Mt Adelaide overlooking King George Sound, Albany Forts has watched over the coast for more than 130 years, evolving from a defence stronghold into a lasting reminder of the region’s role in Australia’s military history.
The historical site, also known as Princess Royal Fortress, played a significant role in protecting Australian colonies before Federation and later became a key departure point for Australian and New Zealand troops heading overseas during World War I.
The site’s origins date back to the 1880s, when concerns about Russian expansionism and the vulnerability of Australia’s strategic ports prompted the colonies to strengthen coastal defences.
Recognising the importance of King George Sound, the colonies jointly funded the construction of a garrison, while the British Imperial Government supplied the military equipment.
Construction of the artillery battery was completed in February 1892, followed by the garrison in 1893.
The fortress represented an early example of co-operation between the Australian colonies in defending the nation, years before Federation in 1901.
South Australian troops under Capt. J.C. Hanker formed the first garrison at Albany Forts which was later taken over by the Australian Garrison Artillery after Federation.
During WWI, the site became the principle rendezvous for Australian and New Zealand troops before their departure for overseas service, cementing Albany’s place in the Anzac story.
The fortress continued to serve a defensive role in the lead up to WWII, when modernisation works were undertaken.
During the war, a command post and naval signal were added, while two American submarines were based in King George Sound.
However, advances in military technology eventually made coastal defences redundant, and Albany Forts was officially decommissioned and closed in 1956.
Its guns were dismounted and buried.
The site subsequently passed into private ownership in 1959 and was used as a school and holiday accommodation but the venture was short-lived.
Buildings fell into disrepair and were vandalised before the area was declared a recreation reserve in 1977.
The City of Albany took responsibility for the site in 1983, with conservation, renovation and redevelopment works beginning in 1987.
Albany Forts officially reopened in November 1988 as part of Australia’s bicentenary celebrations.
It became a military heritage park in 1995 and remains a popular tourist attraction.
The opening of the National Anzac Centre in 2014 further strengthened the site’s connection to Albany’s wartime history, coinciding with the centenary of the Anzac landings and the city’s role as the key departure point for troops from the eastern colonies.
Today, visitors can explore the historic guns, barracks, guard house and parade ground alongside buildings that have been restored, reconstructed or adapted for new uses.
Beyond its military significance, Albany Forts holds cultural and community value through its position on Irrerup/Mt Adelaide, a prominent granite landmark connected to Menang Noongar culture landscapes and creation stories.
More than a century after its construction, the Albany Forts continues to connect visitors with the people and events that have helped shape Albany and Australia’s history.
Get the latest news from thewest.com.au in your inbox.
Sign up for our emails