$33 million infrastructure program commences on Rottnest Island’s West End

January 21, 2020

Rottnest's spectacular West End is set to receive a tourism infrastructure boost in the first of a suite of Federal and State Government projects to ensure a quality visitor experience on the island.

The rugged and remote West End, which boasts a seal colony and a host of other natural and marine wildlife attractions, will soon have new shelters, seating, access pathways, viewing platforms and an ablution building.

The $1.92 million project is one of nine funded by the Federal Government's Tourism Icons program and is set to feature public artwork and interactive features by Noongar artists. Work is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

Western Australia Assistant Minister for Regional Tourism Jonno Duniam said the project would upgrade amenities and tourism infrastructure on the more remote West End, ensuring better visitor experiences in the increasingly popular area.

Assistant Minister Duniam advised "Rottnest is a jewel in Australia's crown of stunning tourism locations and the Commonwealth is investing to ensure it can keep up with demand.

"The West End project is part of a $33 million suite of Federal and State Government projects to revitalise and build new infrastructure on Rottnest - supporting the island's ongoing growth in visitor numbers.

"It is vital we continue to invest in stunning natural experiences like Rottnest Island, and that's exactly what we are doing.

"A total of $17.2 million in Commonwealth funding will be spent over the next three years as part of the Tourism Icons program, including:

$700,000 for new infrastructure at the island's premier swimming spot The Basin, including a new shaded seating area, refurbished toilets, new beach showers and landscaping.
$2 million for the revitalisation of the Wadjemup Hill lighthouse vicinity, including a transport hub. The work will include a new shaded seating area and accommodation, including the upgrade of the Lighthouse Keepers' House.
$600,000 for new wayfinding signage to help visitors navigate their way around the island."

The State Government has also allocated $16.2 million towards the redevelopment of Rottnest's Fuel Jetty and the construction of a new barge landing to ease the pressure on the Main Jetty precinct.

The new Fuel Jetty will offer improved facilities and accessibility to the island, including power and water, new finger jetties, improved refuelling/berthing for smaller vessels and an extended end platform.

WA Tourism Minister Paul Papalia also noted that the $3 million fuel jetty project has been finalised and tenders have been sought for its demolition and reconstruction, scheduled to begin in April.

Minister Papalia added "as the number of visitors to Rottnest continues to increase, the State and Commonwealth governments are investing in infrastructure to support this growth.

"The State Government has committed critical infrastructure funding for the jetty and barge landing to ensure services are maintained and the visitor experience is enhanced.

"The boating fraternity are an important part of the Rottnest community, with thousands of private boats making the trip to Rottnest every month, and this funding ensures better experiences for all."

Image of Wadjemup Hill lighthouse courtesy of the Rottnest Foundation

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22nd March 2019 - Rottnest Island supports initiative to reduce plastic waste

10th February 2019 - Growing popularity of Rottnest Island sees it approach 2034 visitor target

16th January 2019 - Increased visitor numbers on Rottnest Island

29th November 2018 - Experiences on Rottnest Island enhanced by new recreational activities

28th August 2017 - Rottnest Express achieves Ecotourism Certification

30th March 2017 - Study finds Rottnest Island quokkas thrive despite increased tourism

25th September 2015 - Gateway Ticketing Systems provides ticketing point of sale system at Rottnest Island

14th August 2015 - Plans for new resort and marina at Western Australia’s Rottnest Island

13th April 2015 - Tourists charged after alleged attempting to burn a Quokka on Rottnest Island

29th November 2014 - 2015 Global Eco Conference heads to Rottnest Island

2nd October 2014 - Rottnest Island tops list of destinations to experience in 2014

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