Explore the Hidden Stories of the Fortress

Published on Thursday, 26 October 2023 at 9:49:42 AM

The Princess Royal Fortress has completed Stage 2 of its full display refresh, launching a new permanent exhibition titled The Hidden Stories of the Fortress.

Supported by a Department of Veterans Affairs ‘Saluting Their Service’ grant, this exhibit explores equipment used at the fortress and the evolution of weapons technology during its operation.

Located in the Barracks Rear Gallery, the addition of new showcases and storyboards will allow visitors to fully engage with the content and discover new stories about Albany’s military history.

Curator Princess Royal Fortress David Theodore expressed his enthusiasm to share the project with the community.

“The Hidden Stories of the Fortress is the latest chapter in our ongoing efforts to present the rich history of Albany's Princess Royal Fortress to visitors,” he said.

“By completing Stage 2 of the refresh, we have been able to bring out an additional 200 objects for display, some of which have never been seen by the public.

“It is a truly exciting time to visit the Princess Royal Fortress.”

The exhibition will now feature an array of equipment that was integral to Australia’s defence, including the Depression Range Finder, a Heliograph, and the 9-pounder Rifled-Muzzle Loader gun.

Visitors will also receive new insights into the development of camouflage techniques that were implemented in response to the threat of aerial bombardment during World War II.

“We have also sourced a replica Lewis machine gun to demonstrate the potential threat from above.” Mr Theodore said.

“These were positioned after the attack on Darwin on 19 February 1942, making the threat to Albany all too real."

The Princess Royal Fortress welcomes visitors with free entry to the Barracks Building from 9am to 4pm daily, seven days a week.

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