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Albany Today
By the People, for the People
Albany's Historic Skate Park Celebrates 50 Years of The Snake Run
The iconic skate park, second-oldest in the world, was born from a grassroots community effort in 1976.
Apr. 12, 2026 at 10:35am
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The Snake Run skate park's 50th anniversary celebration will honor the community spirit and evolution of skateboarding that this iconic park has embodied for half a century.Albany TodayAlbany's heritage-listed skate park, The Snake Run, is turning 50 this year, marking a celebration of community spirit and the evolution of skateboarding. This iconic park, the second-oldest in the world, was born from the passion of local children and teenagers who raised funds to build it in the 1970s.
Why it matters
The Snake Run has played a crucial role in the development of skateboarding, serving as a hub for the local community and inspiring skate park designs worldwide. As one of the sport's earliest dedicated facilities, it represents the grassroots origins of skateboarding and the power of community-driven initiatives.
The details
In the 1970s, local teenagers like Graham Macaulay were skating on roads, footpaths, and driveways, fueling the desire for a dedicated skating area. Through a grassroots fundraising effort, the community raised $3,000 by selling raffle tickets and concessions, which, combined with local authority support, led to the construction of The Snake Run in an old gravel quarry. The park's winding downhill design, inspired by surfing, allowed skaters to ride in either direction and quickly became a hub for the sport, hosting Australia's first National Skating Championship in 1979.
- The Snake Run opened in 1976 to a large crowd.
- Australia's first National Skating Championship was held at the park in 1979.
The players
Graham Macaulay
A teenager at the time who recalls the enthusiasm of the local skateboarding community that led to the creation of The Snake Run.
The Snake Run
Albany's heritage-listed skate park, the second-oldest in the world, born from a grassroots community effort in the 1970s.
What they’re saying
“The Snake Run played a crucial role in the evolution of skateboarding and served as a stepping stone for other parks.”
— Graham Macaulay
The takeaway
The 50th anniversary of The Snake Run is a testament to the enduring legacy of skateboarding and the power of community-driven initiatives. This iconic park has inspired skate park designs worldwide and continues to serve as a symbol of the sport's early days and its evolution.
