Albany 2026: Finnish Ambassador set to join WA Premier and Leader of the Opposition for Lighting the Sound

Politicians and international dignitaries will travel to Albany this month to enjoy the fruits of Kari Kola’s world record attempt, Lighting the Sound. WA Premier Roger Cook and Leader of the Opposition Basil Zempilas will make the trip from Perth during the event’s nine-day run. Expected to join the two State politicians is Finland’s Ambassador to Australia, His Excellency Arto Haapea, in honour of his countryman’s greatest feat yet. Flagged as the centrepiece of Albany’s 2026 bicentenary commemorations — the first city in the State to hit the milestone — the mammoth lighting installation will be switched on each weekend evening from March 13 to 29. “Albany holds a significant place in the hearts of many Western Australians, and it’s fitting there will be a range of exciting events across 2026 to mark Albany’s bicentenary,” Mr Cook said. “This includes the Lighting the Sound — the first event of its kind in Australia — which is supported by my Government. “This week’s celebrations will be fantastic for Albany, bringing visitors from across the State and boosting the local economy. “I intend to attend and look forward to reflecting on Albany’s history as part of the city’s bicentenary and celebrating the many millennia of connection in the region.”