The year 2025 was marked by significant events across the Great Southern region, shaping the community and its dynamics. Key moments included the unexpected political shift when the Nationals WA took the Albany State seat from Labor for the first time in over 20 years, as well as the opening of the long-awaited artificial surf reef. Additionally, Albany celebrated being recognized as home to the country’s best pie, further highlighting the region’s unique cultural identity.
January to March: Community Challenges and Triumphs
In January, a proposed desalination plant in Frenchman Bay sparked considerable backlash from local residents. Protesters, led by the Save Our Sound group, rallied outside the Albany Shellfish Hatchery to urge former Fisheries Minister Don Punch to intervene. Later that month, Premier Roger Cook announced the cancellation of the plans for the King George Sound, alleviating community concerns.
Tragedy struck when yachtsman Maurice Saunderson went missing during a sailing trip, prompting an extensive search that ultimately concluded after two weeks without success. The community mourned the loss of young father Ricky Harris, who died heroically while rescuing two children from a rip current at Native Dog Beach.
February brought positive changes to Albany’s shopping scene, with major retailers extending their trading hours. The community also celebrated local hero Michael Filby, who received the individual community champion award at the inaugural Clean Up Australia Awards for his dedication to maintaining a stretch of highway over two decades.
In March, the political landscape shifted dramatically as Scott Leary of the Nationals WA won the Albany seat, ending 24 years of Labor representation. This electoral change was accompanied by a historic rainfall event, with the region receiving a record-breaking 126 mm in a single day, leading to flash floods and widespread disruptions.
April to June: A Mix of Joy and Heartbreak
April began with tragedy as a collision between a car and a truck in Jerramungup resulted in two fatalities. This incident prompted a plea from Road Safety Minister Reece Whitby for safer driving practices during the busy Easter holiday period. The community faced additional challenges, with rescue services overwhelmed by multiple incidents over the same weekend.
In June, Albany’s Hilton Garden Inn employee Steve Millhouse garnered recognition at the WA Tourism Awards, while a tornado in Frankland River caused significant damage to farmland, illustrating the region’s vulnerability to natural disasters. The community also celebrated achievements as three local figures were named on the King’s Birthday Honours list for their contributions to society.
July to December: Celebrations and Losses
July brought both excitement and sorrow. The Southern Ocean Surf Reef officially opened at Middleton Beach, marking a milestone for local surfers after more than three decades of advocacy. However, the community was left heartbroken by the tragic death of nurse Bronwyn Clark in a hit-and-run accident.
In August, the Denmark-Walpole Football Club hosted a successful fundraiser for Parkinson’s disease, surpassing their goal and demonstrating community spirit. The Western Australian Meat Marketing Co-Operative faced significant penalties due to safety violations following a worker’s death, highlighting ongoing concerns about workplace safety.
As the year drew to a close, the Great Southern region faced profound sadness with the loss of two community members, including Shire of Ravensthorpe deputy president Mark Mudie, in devastating bushfires. The community rallied to support those affected, while Albany lifeguards held a moment of silence in solidarity with victims of a mass shooting at Bondi Beach.
Overall, 2025 was a year of resilience and transformation for the Great Southern, characterized by its community’s ability to confront challenges and celebrate achievements. As residents reflect on these pivotal moments, the year stands as a testament to the strength and spirit of the region.
