Published on Wednesday, 9 September 2026 at 10:40:03 AM
A significant piece of Western Australia’s history has been given greater recognition, with new signage installed along Albany’s Parade Street identifying it as the State’s oldest street.
Three signs have been installed where Parade Street meets Stirling Terrace, Duke Street and Vancouver Street, highlighting the street’s connection to the establishment of the British military outpost at Kinjarling/Albany almost 200 years ago.
Parade Street lies within the site of the military outpost established under Major Edmund Lockyer, whose party arrived aboard the Amity in December 1826 to establish a British presence at King George Sound.
Initially known as Frederick Town, the settlement was established several years before the Swan River Colony and marked the beginning of a permanent British settlement in Western Australia.
A barracks and parade ground were constructed at the site in early 1827, with Parade Street taking its name from the military activities conducted there.
Today, the street runs through one of Albany’s most significant heritage precincts, close to the Albany Convict Gaol and historic buildings of Stirling Terrace and Duke Street.
Mayor of Albany Greg Stocks said the new signs provided a simple but important way to recognise the significance of the street and encourage people to learn more about the area.
“Parade Street provides a direct physical connection to the earliest period of colonial settlement in Albany and Western Australia,” Mayor Stocks said.
“These signs give Parade Street greater recognition within this important heritage precinct and encourage residents and visitors to explore the surrounding landmarks and learn more about Albany’s history.
“For many people, it may be surprising to learn that a street they regularly walk or drive along has been part of the fabric of Albany for almost two centuries.
“Albany’s history is layered and complex, and markers such as these can prompt people to better understand the events, people and perspectives that have shaped our city and Western Australia.”
The new signage forms part of the Albany 2026 Bicentenary initiative, creating opportunities to recognise, explore and better understand the people, places and events that have shaped Albany.
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