Weipa, Queensland, offers a diverse range of attractions for travellers. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy abundant opportunities in the pristine waters, while eco enthusiasts can explore the region's natural wonders. The town also offers insightful mine tours, providing a glimpse into the area's rich mining history, and exciting 4WD tracks for adventurous souls.
In the heart of Weipa, nestled amidst nature's splendour, stands The Albatross Bay Resort, affectionately known as the Alby. For five decades, this iconic establishment has been the heartbeat of Weipa, bringing together locals and travellers in a spirit of camaraderie and joy.
The secluded waterfront location is surrounded by natural beauty and offers travellers, diners and adventure seekers a unique dining and accommodation experience. It's also one of the few places in Queensland where you can witness one of Weipa’s extraordinary sunsets over the ocean's horizon from the beer garden.
Exactly 50 years ago, on October 27, 1973, the Alby opened its doors to a modest gathering of 90 people, including Sir William Gunn, Mr. H.S Williams, both partners in the venture who flew in from Cairns, and Mr Eric Riding, State manager of the S.G.I.O. To celebrate the opening, there were free beers and patrons were required to wear ties in the dining room after 6:30pm. It wasn’t long until the Albatross Bay Resort established itself as the go-to meeting place for locals and tourists in the Weipa region.
The venue’s name is predominantly derived from the bay on which the resort is located, although the vessel, QGS (Queensland Government Steamer) Albatross, also played a significant role in naming it. The Queensland Government steamer Albatross was a wooden vessel with a straight stem, a single mast, a hold with superstructure aft, and a tall, thin funnel. She was stationed at Thursday Island from 1886 under the control of the Queensland Government resident, serving as a tender for navigation aids and surveys, as well as for the conveyance of stores. In 1890, she was involved in the rescue of survivors from the Quetta disaster. Initially commanded by Captain David Reid, she was succeeded by Captain George Kerr. Albatross left Thursday Island in 1896 and was used for various tasks such as towing barges and repairing coastal beacons.
After changing hands several times, one thing remains consistent: the Albatross Bay Resort is still renowned as the most popular meeting point for social occasions in Weipa. In early 2020, Waymark Hotels, a privately-owned Australian hotel and property group, acquired the Albatross Bay Resort and Weipa Cellars. The venue is home to bar & dining facilities and the latest in gaming and entertainment, TAB and live music offerings on a regular basis. For those looking for a place to call home for short and long term stays, their accommodation offering includes motel rooms and donga style village rooms.
To mark the 50 year milestone, the Albatross Bay Resort invites everyone to a weekend-long celebration, taking a delightful trip back to the 1970s. Get ready to groove on Friday night as 70s Musical Bingo kicks off at 7:30pm, followed by the beats of DJ Berserk. Embrace the disco era and dress in your best 70s attire – it's strongly encouraged! Saturday night brings the soulful tunes of local band Stone The Crows, along with the exhilarating mechanical bull for the adventurous souls. Sunday offers a recovery session with live music by Cameron Cusack, accompanied by face painting for the little ones.
This celebration is more than just a nod to the past; it's a testament to the community spirit, and the enduring legacy of the Albatross Bay Resort. Join in the festivities, dust off your retro attire, and dance your heart out. Let's create unforgettable memories that will echo through Weipa's history. Here's to 50 fabulous years of the Albatross Bay Resort! Cheers to the Alby, and here's to many more years of laughter, music, and community!
About us:
https://www.albatrossbayresort.com.au/about-us/
Contact details:
marketing@albatrossbayresort.com.au
