This follows the official launch of the refurbished brig with a ceremonial ribbon cut last Friday.

Mayor Milton Evans was joined by Noongar elder Carol Pettersen and Dianne May, representing Federal Tourism Minister Martin Ferguson for the ceremony.

Mrs Pettersen gave the Welcome to Country, explaining what the Minang people would have thought as the Amity arrived on Christmas Day, 1826 to establish a colony.

The extensive interpretive works added to the 33-year-old replica include an indigenous perspective of the original brig’s arrival.

Other improvements are lifelike mannequins of “crew members” in their true settings, a high-tech audio-guide tour detailing life on the Brig, interactive interpretive signage throughout and realistic sound effects to create a realistic feel below deck.

Mr Evans said the refurbishment was a key part of a wider Master Plan for the Albany Heritage Precinct that has been developed by the City over several years.

Project partners included the Albany Historical Society, the Albany Museum and the Great Southern Development Commission (GSDC).

The impressive outcome was due to extensive and meticulous planning and the inclusion of innovative interpretive materials as part of the refurbishment task.

The refurbishment has made the attraction into a more contemporary visitor experience.

The GSDC contributed $60,000 towards the project, including $20,000 on the master plan and $40,000 for capital works and fit-out.

Other project funding came from the Australian Tourism Development Program ($100,000), City of Albany ß($40,000) and LotteryWest ($15,000).

Ms May said the brig had received iconic status, helping obtain funding approval from the Australian Government.

She said visitors would now get a greater understanding of local history from a different perspective as a result of the changes.

GSDC chief executive officer Bruce Manning said it was a great outcome to see the replica of the Brig Amity now fully restored.