Albany 2026: Premier Roger Cook and Basil Zempilas praise the large-scale artistry of Lighting The Sound

Dignitaries including WA Premier Roger Cook and Keader of the Opposition Basil Zempilas travelled to Albany to take in the record-breaking Lighting The Sound show from the Albany Entertainment Centre.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Mr Cook praised the large-scale artistry of the “incredible” event that would see Albany’s coastline “come alive” with the world record-breaking light show.

“This Australian-exclusive event will turn the Great Southern into the backdrop of one of the largest lighting installations ever constructed, showcasing world-class artistry and cultural storytelling, and it’s a great honour to have a renowned Finnish artist, Kari Kola, here,” he said.

“This is an incredibly proud moment where we continue to commemorate in 2026 the bicentenary of a colony here on the King George Sound, and my Government is incredibly proud of the work that’s been done to commemorate this important Great Southern area.

“Lighting The Sound is expected to deliver a major economic boost to the Great Southern as well, with tens of thousands of visitors expected to attend the region.

“The tourism industry is particularly crucial for supporting local jobs, accounting for 50 per cent more jobs in regional WA, so this is not only important to acknowledge and celebrate our great Indigenous cultural history, but it’s also a great opportunity to boost the local economy.”

Mr Zempilas said he was “really impressed” to see the vibrancy of the city, and the overcast conditions would add to the “theatre and drama” of the event.

“I’ve seen the buzz and the excitement up and down York Street — so many people that have travelled in to be here,” he said.

“I think it’s really commendable what the City of Albany and the broader community have done to commemorate this very special milestone.

“I think marking all facets of our history is hugely important.

“I’ve been to Albany before, of course, but I’ve been reminded that there are no bad vantage points, so I’m really looking forward to seeing it.”

Tourism and Great Southern Minister Reece Whitby said the installation provided a major boost for local hotels, restaurants and cafes.

“It’s fantastic to see the community gearing up for this major cultural event, with local businesses preparing for a busy and memorable few weeks,” he said.

“This is exactly the kind of initiative that diversifies the local economy and supports local jobs and local businesses in regional WA.”