Voices of the South, Reflections 2026, Albany-Kinjarlng, Special Bicentenary edition – launch on August 13

Voices of the South: Reflections 2026 brings together stories, poems, memoirs and essays  that explore the people, places and experiences that have shaped the region. It will be launched at Albany Town Hall on Thursday, 13 August.

More than 60 writers with connections to Albany-Kinjarling have come together on this bicentenary year to help us reflect on what has changed, what has been achieved, what we have lost, and where we will go in the future.

Produced as a special Albany 2026 edition of the annual Voices of the South anthology, the publication features 83 contributions from writers including Menang Elders Aunty Carol Pettersen and Uncle Lester Coyne, historian Malcolm Traill, authors Dianne Wolfer, Molly Schmidt and many others.

The collection explores a wide range of themes including First Nations culture, exploration, local history, community life, work and struggle, architecture, the environment and the diverse experiences that make Albany-Kinjarling unique.

As Albany marks 200 years since the establishment of the first colonial settlement in Western Australia, the anthology offers an opportunity to reflect on the past while looking towards the future. Storytelling and oral history in this part of our world goes back many thousands of years thanks to the Menang people. But it’s in our blood wherever we come from. It defines us as human and helps us understand who we are. The publication will leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

The launch event will feature readings from contributors, music and the opportunity to purchase copies of the book. Proceeds from ticket sales will support Albany Community Hospice.

Voices of the South: Reflections 2026 Book Launch
Thursday 13 August 2026
7 for 7.30pm – 9.00pm
Albany Town Hall
Tickets available from paperbarks.com.au