Museum of the Great Southern sends out call for new volunteers to man Albany replica ship Brig Amity

One of Albany’s most iconic tourist attractions is on the lookout for new volunteers to crew its beloved deck.

The Museum of the Great Southern has put out the call for history-lovers to join the Brig Amity crew, committing to at least one shift a week on the replica vessel.

Stationed on the galley of the ship, the volunteers help orient visitors on self-guided tours and provide interesting historical facts about the convict ship and its place in Albany’s history.

The replica has been open since 1976 and gives visitors an insight into what life was like on the convict ship that brought the first 23 convicts, 21 soldiers and domestic animals to WA from Sydney in 1826.

Museum of the Great Southern regional manager Catherine Salmaggi said volunteers played an essential role in keeping the Amity running.

“Our Brig volunteers are the face of the experience,” she said.

“They welcome visitors, share local knowledge and help keep Albany’s maritime history alive.

“Without them, we simply can’t open the ship.”

Volunteers receive induction and training, a travel reimbursement for each shift, and get to meet visitors from around Australia and the world.

Former sailor John Beamon has been volunteering on the replica ship for five years and said he meets interesting people during every shift.

“I get to meet people from literally all over the world,” he said.

“I could be chatting to an ex-sailor one minute and a curious six-year-old the next.

“You never know who’s walking up the gangway!”

Two shifts are available each day: 9.30am to 12.45pm and 12.45pm to 4pm.

To find out more, visit the Museum of the Great Southern website or the museum itself.