Published on Monday, 16 November 2026 at 7:14:55 AM
The City of Albany has been recognised for its delivery of Albany 2026 in partnership with the Menang-Noongar community, winning the Partnerships and Collaboration award at the LG Professionals WA Honour Awards.
The City’s partnership with Wagyl Kaip Southern Noongar Aboriginal Corporation established the Albany 2026 Cultural Advice Sub-Committee to ensure cultural history, knowledge and perspectives were embedded throughout Western Australia's first bicentenary.
This approach represented a shift from traditional consultation for European place anniversaries, creating an opportunity for Menang-Noongar voices to influence projects and help shape how Albany's history and culture was represented.
Major Supporter of Albany 2026, Lotterywest, supported the delivery of the bicentenary program including the operation of the Cultural Advice Sub-Committee.
City of Albany Chief Executive Officer Andrew Sharpe said the genuine collaboration demonstrated the value of building strong relationships with the Menang-Noongar community.
“Albany 2026 has been an extraordinary undertaking, and this award recognises the importance of working together and recognising that Menang voices are an integral part of our story,” he said.
“Meaningful partnerships take time, trust and a willingness to listen, learn and adapt, and we are grateful to the Elders who have shared their knowledge and guidance, and for Wagyl Kaip’s support in helping the City establish this important relationship.”
Wagyl Kaip Chief Executive Officer Heidi Mippy said she is incredibly proud of the contribution Menang Elders have made to Albany 2026.
“Their knowledge, guidance and advice has brought deeper meaning to events and will leave a longlasting legacy for the broader community,” she said.
“Our journey with the City of Albany has laid strong foundations for greater partnership, understanding and meaningful engagement into the future.”
The partnership has helped shape major Albany 2026 events and experiences ensuring culturalstories and connection to Country are reflected in public events.
With more than 150,000 people having participated in Albany 2026 events, the program has provided significant opportunities for residents and visitors to engage with the region's history and culture.
“This partnership has provided a foundation for future collaboration and demonstrates how local governments can work with Aboriginal communities to deliver meaningful outcomes,” Mr Sharpe said.
Image (Left to Right): City of Albany Executive Director Community Services Nathan Watson, Hon Hannah Beazley BA MLA, City of Albany Chief Executive Officer Andrew Sharpe, City of Albany Albany 2026 Coordinator Adam Gregory
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