Dog Rock

Yakkan Toort, also known as Dog Rock, is a unique landmark located in Albany, Western Australia.

This natural granite outcrop resembles a dog's head and has become a popular tourist attraction due to its distinctive shape and historical significance. The rock holds cultural importance for the Noongar people, who consider it an ancient territorial boundary marker. In the past, there were proposals to demolish the rock to widen the road, but these plans were met with protests and petitions. The rock was also deemed a traffic hazard in the 1930s, leading to the painting of a white collar around its base for visibility. At one point, there was even a suggestion to move the rock to a different location to make it a more central tourist destination. Yakkan Toort / Dog Rock was classified as a protected landmark by the National Trust in 1973 and was included in the municipal inventory in 2001. In 2021, the rock was given a dual name, Yakkan Toort / Dog Rock, to acknowledge and respect the deep history and relationship the Noongar people have with the land.

For nature and history enthusiasts, a visit to Yakkan Toort / Dog Rock is highly recommended while in Albany. Accessible by car or on foot, this impressive rock formation offers great photo opportunities and is a perfect spot for a picnic. It's important to note that dogs are not allowed on the rock out of respect for its cultural significance.