As a long-term resident of Albany I was rather amazed when the bicentenary became 2026 instead of 2027, writes Helen Laing.

I remember on January 21, 1977 we all dressed in period costume and celebrated 150 years of settlement with traditional custodians taking part and helping to make it a special time.

The focus was on the Brig Amity and the crucial part Major Edmund Lockyer played in trying to establish trust and harmony with the first settlers and carry out the enormous tasks required to create a tiny township far from Sydney.

I agree with Drew Bellamy that our celebrations are a year early and feel puzzled and embarrassed.

Why?

Helen Laing

Middleton Beach

Letters to the editor must contain the author’s full name, address and daytime contact number. Letters may be edited for space, clarity or legal reasons. Email news@albanyadvertiser.com or post to PO Box 5168 Albany, WA, 6332.