$50,000 in funding for heritage upkeep for Albany’s Historic Whaling Station iconic Cheynes IV

Albany’s Historic Whaling Station is one of 39 recipients to receive State funding in the latest round of heritage grants, receiving $50,000 for the repair and upkeep of the Cheynes IV vessel.

The funding will go to the repair of the former whaling vessel and protective coatings to address corrosion issues.

The former whaling station was the last operating station in Australia when it closed in November 1978 before reopening as a historical museum in 1980.

Cheynes IV was bought by the whaling station in 1970 and now sits in a permanent outdoor display at the museum for visitors to walk through and experience what life on board the former whale-chaser would have been like.

Albany’s Historic Whaling Station was recognised as WA’s top tourist attraction at the 2024 Perth Airport WA Tourism Awards in November.

The Albany Club on Aberdeen Street, built in either 1886 or 1887, has also received $37,025 in funding to remediate damp issues, repair and reframe windows, and painting.

Heritage Minister David Templeman said he was delighted to see the record number of applications to the State Heritage Grants scheme to preserve and protect heritage-listed sites.

“I am thrilled to see such a response to this year’s Heritage Grants Program,” he said.

“The record number of applications highlights the community’s deep connection to our heritage and the importance of preserving it for future generations.

“The Cook Government is committed to supporting these valuable projects, which not only conserve historic places but also tell the rich stories of our State’s past.

“From Broome to Albany, these projects will ensure that future generations can continue to experience and learn from Western Australia’s unique cultural and architectural heritage.”