Dog Rock, Rock formation in Albany, Australia
Dog Rock is a large granite outcrop along Middleton Road near Albany, named for its striking resemblance to a dog's head in profile. The formation rose from geological processes over millions of years and remains a prominent feature of the surrounding landscape today.
A 1921 proposal to demolish the rock for road widening encountered strong local opposition and resulted in its preservation. This moment became a turning point in the region's history, ensuring the formation would survive as a protected landmark.
Aboriginal Noongar people call this rock Yacka, a name meaning tamed wild dog in their language. The formation held significance in traditional practices and remains tied to the cultural landscape of the region.
A white collar painted around the rock's base improves visibility for drivers and serves as a safety marker along Middleton Road. The site is easily accessible from the roadside and offers space for visitors to stop and view the formation.
In the 1960s, a local radio station manager proposed an unusual plan to slice the rock into sections and move it to a roundabout for greater visibility. Though never carried out, this idea reveals how creative some locals were in trying to boost the landmark's prominence.
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