Amity History Tour and City Council Reception

Richard aboard the Amity

Off we went to the heart of Albany for a morning tea and History Tour given by Malcolm, the friendly town historian.  We visited the  brig ship, Amity, the first replica ship that dropped off the original settlers from eastern Australia in 1826.  Some of the settlers were convicts and we learned from our host Australians that having convict heritage in your family tree is now something to brag about!  These so called convicts were often young boys who were arrested for stealing a coat or food in England during dire circumstances.  After 3 times caught "breaking the law", they were shipped all way to Australia.  Many were as young as 15 or 16 years of age.

Good eats at the Squid Shop



Joanne visiting the brig Amity

Our hosts took us to the funky Squid Shack were we had traditional Australian fish & chips and fried squid - all very good!  The Mayor of the town invited us to City Centre for an afternoon reception.  There were short speeches of welcome,  Our Fort Worth Exchange Director, Randy, presented them with a letter from the Mayor of Fort Worth and other gifts.  It was very nice!  The day ended with us treating Maggie to a dinner at Rustlers, a delicious steak restaurant.  Tomorrow is our last day of activities and we will be sorry to leave but Perth awaits!