This protected nature reserve boasts an abundance of unique flora and fauna. It includes spectacular marine life and, of course, the adorable quokka. Discover rich cultural heritage, explore numerous beaches and bays, swim and snorkel in pristine waters. Don’t forget to meet the happiest animal on earth, all in this little pocket of paradise.

Rottnest Island also has a fascinating history to explore and learn about. Read on to discover more.

The Quokka

The Quokka is the only mammal which is native to Rottnest Island. It can be found almost everywhere on the Island. It is mainly nocturnal. This means that it is mostly active at night, preferring to rest or sleep in the shade during the day.

The Quokka bounds and hops along the ground although it can climb trees if it needs to. It will sit on its hind legs and use its front paws to search for and pick up food.

The Island habitat supports the largest known Quokka population and is essential for the survival of species. There are around 10,000-12,000 of these animals living on Rottnest. At all times of the year, there is a high number of Quokkas in the Settlement area. The small marsupials love this area because there is lots of water and food available. They have become one of the main tourist attractions of Rottnest Island. They have a cute appearance and are easy to see and photograph.

On Rottnest, Quokkas have a short breeding season which happens in late summer. One joey is born around February to April. It remains in the pouch until August or September. The joey suckles from its mother for another two months afterwards. The Quokkas on Rottnest do not breed again in the spring.

The History of Rottnest Island

Rottnest Island, Wadjemup, Rotto…

Rottnest Island has a rich history, spanning cultures and generations. It has been known by many names and used for different purposes. 

Wadjemup 

Rottnest Island’s history extends as far back as 50,000 years ago. At that time it was still connected to the mainland of Western Australia. Aboriginal artifacts suggest there was significant human occupation until ~7,000 years ago. At that time the rising sea levels resulted in the separation of the island. Without boats Aboriginal people on the mainland couldn’t make the crossing, leaving the island uninhabited for several thousand years. Rottnest Island features in Noongar Aboriginal mythology as Wadjemup, meaning “place across the water where the spirits are”.

‘t Eylandt ‘t Rottenest 

After separating from the mainland, the island remained uninhabited until 13 Dutch sailors from the Waeckende Boey landed near Bathurst Point on the 19 March 1658. This marked the beginning of the European exploration and settlement on the island. In 1696, Dutch captain Willem de Vlamingh spent 6 days exploring the island . He then give it the name ‘t Eylandt ‘t Rottenest (“Rats’ Nest Island”). He named it after the quokkas which he mistook for giant rats. In his reports, Willem described Rottnest island as “…a paradise on earth”.

Swan River Colony Offshoot

A couple hundred years later, William Clarke and Robert Thomson received land grants from the British Swan River Colony. They were for pasture land and town lots to be built on the island. In 1831 Thomson moved his family to the island and began building up the island’s main settlement at Thompson Bay. Pasture land for hay production was developed west of Herschel Lake. Also several salt lakes were harvested and the salt was exported to the mainland. Today, you can wander through the main settlement and be transported back through time. As you stroll past early colonial cottages, including the salt stores, you gain a sense of what life may have been like in those times. 

Throughout the majority of the European exploration and settlement, Rottnest Island communicated with the mainland of Western Australia through semaphore flags and flares. Up until the 1880s, a manned lookout at Bathurst Point included a signalling station. It conveyed shipping information between the island’s Wadjemup Lighthouse and Arthur Head on the mainland.

Wadjemup Lighthouse has undergone many upgrades throughout its history, continuing to be in operation today by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority. 

Rottnest Island Fortress

During World War II, Rottnest Island was an important part of the defence of the Fremantle port. Military fixtures including the railway, barracks, concrete lookouts, bunkers and four large guns positioned at Oliver Hill and Bickley Point became known as the “Rottnest Island Fortress”. Much of this infrastructure was decommissioned after WWII and in the 1990s the gun emplacements and railway were extensively reconstructed. Today, you can set up camp in the old barracks, take a tour of the guns and tunnels, and journey to the battery on the train from Kingstown Barracks. 

Rottnest Island still goes by many names – known as Wadjemup to the local Noongar people, and colloquially known as Rotto. Today, it is a popular holiday destination, with ~500,000 annual visitors. Rottnest has a rich social and geological history as well as a truly unique ecosystem. It has been classified as an A-class reserve – the highest level of protection afforded to public land. 

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1. The island is home to an impressive variety of marine life. There are over 22 species including whales and dolphins that stop by during their migration routes. The best time for spotting these creatures is between November and April. During these months the water is clearer due to less rainfall. It’s also a great place for snorkelers, the water is shallow and the coral beds are teeming with colourful fish.
   
2. The island has over a dozen beaches to explore, with everything from sandy shores perfect for swimming and snorkeling to rugged cliffs that make great photo opportunities. The best time of year to visit is during the summer (October – April). However even then you should be prepared for occasional rainfall.

3. Most visitors to the island are day trippers from Perth, but if you plan ahead there’s plenty of accommodation available on Rotto and in nearby Fremantle (about 40 minutes away by ferry).

4. A day trip to Rotto is a great opportunity for the whole family, with plenty of places specifically for kids. The island has four playgrounds and lots for the kids to see and explore.

5. One of the best ways to explore Rotto is via bicycle. These can be rented from the visitor center and taken along any one of the island’s bike paths or trails. All bikes come with a helmet, lock, and basket for convenience.

6. If you’re looking to spend a night on Rotto without heading back into town, there are three camping grounds. These open year-round (the best months being from October – April).

7. In addition to camping, there are a few day use areas available for picnickers and those looking to escape from the crowds of nearby Perth. Make sure you bring your sunscreen, hats and drinking water.

8. If scudding along the beach in your boogie board sounds like fun, make sure to bring one of those too! Rotto is reportedly home to the world’s longest boogie board, measuring 11 meters long.

9. If you’re a history buff and want to explore colonial relics on Rotto, make sure to stop by The Quod. It is an old settlement built in the late 1800s by the British for prisoners of Rotto’s penal colony.

10. If you’re looking to relax, grab a drink from one of many bars and cafes on the island. There are plenty open during peak season (especially around New Year’s Eve).

11. For those looking to explore the wild side of Rotto, make sure you visit Cathedral Rocks – a rock formation overlooking the Indian Ocean. It is possible to spot native colonies of fur seals from this spot.

12. Other interesting sites on the island include Salmon Bay, where large numbers of dolphins can be seen in winter months; and The Knoll – a raised sandstone formation overlooking the Indian Ocean that is one of Rotto’s most popular tourist attractions.

13. The Rottnest Bakery – this bakery features some tasty eclairs and other pastries that are perfect for a snack with coffee! They’re also famous for their custard slices, which you can enjoy in the outdoor courtyard space. Alternatively you can enjoy one from one of many cafes around the island.

14. The Quokka – an animal found on the island that is a member of the Wallaby family and looks like it’s always smiling! The Department of Parks and Wildlife has information on what you can feed to the quokka. This can be a fun experience for all visitors.

15. Bathurst Lighthouse Cafe – located on the island’s north-west corner is a cafe that offers delicious coffee (and other beverages) with some hearty breakfast dishes from their continental buffet.

As you can see there are many, many things to see and do on Rottnest Island. We encourage you to visit this great little island and explore the delights Rottnest has to offer.

We hope to see you soon!

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This is the term locals use to explain the explosion of interest in the island state. The owner and founder of the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), is David Walsh. A long-haired arts patron from the northern suburbs of Hobart, he is often referred to as Tasmania’s unofficial leader.

MONA is responsible for the summer festival MONA FOMA, curated by Violent Femmes guitarist Brian Ritchie. Using his industry contacts, the state can now boast the likes of The Flaming Lips, Gotye, Phillip Glass and Nick Cave among past line-ups.

Traditionally Tasmanians once hibernated during the bitterly cold, long winters. Dark MOFO (another offering from David Walsh) has lured them out of their homes. Alongside thousands of interstate and international visitors they celebrate the Southern Hemisphere’s winter solstice. Events include musical acts, art installations, food, and artisan beers and spirits. The festival wraps up with a nude swim. Here shrinkage is guaranteed as the temperature struggles to get into double figures in the early morning.

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There are so many amazing things to do in Alice Springs!
Alice Springs is the very heart of Australia, and all things Australian.  Featuring an abundance of rivers, ranges, native wildlife, and ancient Aboriginal culture to explore, Alice Springs has it all. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and warm weather, or explore the countryside on an action packed tour.

Located at the base of the MacDonnell Ranges only 7kms from the centre of Alice Springs, the Desert Park should be on every tourist’s list of things to do in Alice Springs. The Desert Park showcases wildlife found in Central Australia, in open enclosures that replicate a range of local habitats. This is a great introduction to the local wildlife you can encounter such as kangaroos, wallabies, dingoes and thorny devils.

This amazing garden has over 500 central Australian plant species. Included are bush foods and medicinal plants like native lemon grass, quandong and bush passionfruit. A variety of walking trails takes visitors around the garden and up to Annie Myers Hill which offers spectacular views of Alice Springs, the Todd River and the MacDonnell Ranges. If you love birdwatching there are over 80 different species of birds having been recorded here. Weather isn’t a problem as there are shelters available for visitors to relax or enjoy a picnic during their visit.

This amazing centre showcases an impressive collection of venomous snakes, thorny devils, and bearded dragons. You’ll also come across Terry, their 3.3 metre saltwater croc! The Reptile Centre offers some great experiences for those who dare. Have a python around your neck or get hands-on with a blue tongue lizard during their handling demonstrations.

 

Anzac Hill  – this popular site is one of the most visited landmarks in Alice Springs. Take a trip up to the top of Anzac Hill to the war memorial for a 365-degree view over the town, a spectacular view particularly at sunrise and sunset. The war memorial is to honour those who served in the defence of their country during all wars in which Australia has participated. This makes it a special place to pause and reflect for those young and old. Visiting this site should be at the top of any visitor’s list of things to do in Alice Springs.

The Kangaroo Sanctuary is a special part of Alice Springs. The Sanctuary was started by Chris ‘Brolga’ Barns who cares for orphaned and injured kangaroos. Education is a vital part of the success of this project so Chris spends time educating locals and tourists on how to prevent collisions with wildlife. There are also guided sunset tours over the 90 acre property where you can walk amongst these iconic Australian animals in their natural habitat.

Visit the spiritual heart of Australia, Uluru. Located 462 kilometres South-West of Alice Springs, it is well worth the trip, with tour operators running daily trips from the town centre. Gain a first-hand experience of the stunning outback scenery of the red rocks which are millions of years old. Whether you are wanting to sit back and relax, or take in the culture, there are plenty of things to do while you’re in Uluru.

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Esperance is blessed with beautiful white sand, turquoise waters, untouched islands and colourful wildflower country. A beach and nature-lover’s dream, it’s famous for having Australia’s whitest beach, Lucky Bay – set against a stunning seascape of 110 islands of the Recherche Archipelago.

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