Thousands of locals flocked to see HMAS Warramunga at Albany’s PortFest open day, marking the Port of Albany’s 200-year contribution to Western Australia.

Established in 1826 as the state’s first port, Albany later became the departure point for the first Anzac convoys in November 1914, underscoring Navy’s long connection to the historic deep-water harbour and its place in the Anzac story.

Commanding Officer Warramunga Commander Ken Brown said the bicentenary was an important celebration for the port city and its enduring relationship with Navy.

“For 200 years the Port of Albany has connected Australia’s west coast to the world,” Commander Brown said.

“From the departure of the first Anzac convoys, including HMAS Melbourne I and HMAS Sydney I, to the support it provides modern RAN [Royal Australian Navy] and merchant vessels, Albany continues to be an important and significant port for Australia.

“We are extremely proud to be here representing the Royal Australian Navy in this beautiful port.”

The open day gave the Albany community a rare opportunity to see an Anzac-class frigate up close and to meet Navy's sailors and officers.

Southern Ports Chief Executive Officer Keith Wilks said the visit was a special opportunity for the region.

“We were honoured to have an Anzac-class frigate alongside for PortFest, and even more so that the Royal Australian Navy welcomed visitors aboard during the event,” Mr Wilks said.

“Appreciating the scale of these vessels from up close on the berth is one thing, it’s a whole other thing to have the opportunity to go on board.

“Our Port of Albany's enduring connection to the Royal Australian Navy is one of great significance and we look forward to the next visit.”

With Warramunga having recently completed a regional presence deployment, the open day offered a fitting finale, reminding crew and community of the pride and responsibility that underpin Navy’s service.