Rottnest

Island
Management Plan 2003-2008
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
Table of Contents

Foreword 2 CHARTS

PART A. BACKGROUND Chart 1 Rottnest Island Reserve 5

Chart 2 Unvested Lands on Rottnest Island 9
1. Introduction 4
Chart 3 Terrestrial Zoning Scheme 21
2. Development of the Plan 7
Chart 4 Settlement Planning Scheme 24
3. Format of the Plan 8
4. Definition of the Area 9 FIGURES
5. Policy Context 10
Figure 1 4
6. Roles and responsibilities of Western Australian 12
Rottnest Island Authority Organisation Structure
Government Bodies
Figure 2 62
PART B. MANAGEMENT PLANNING Total Number of Visitors to Rottnest Island Arriving by
Commercial Ferry or Aircraft (1997/98 - 2001/2)
1. Introduction 16
Figure 3 62
2. Reserve Zoning Plan and Settlement Planning Scheme 18
Occupancy of Rottnest Island Accommodation per Month
3. Terrestrial Environment 32
1996/97 - 2001/2)
4. Marine Environment 42
5. Cultural Heritage 50 TABLES
6. Holiday and Recreation Services and Facilities 61
Table 1 Activities and Developments Permitted in 20
7. Marine Recreation and Facilities 78
the Rottnest Island Terrestrial Zones
8. Community Involvement and Relations 88
Table 2 Rottnest Island Landscaping Materials 30
9. Visitor Support Services 90
Table 3 Rottnest Island Vegetation Types 38
10. Infrastructure and Utilities 93
Table 4 Marine Habitats of Rottnest Island 42
PART C. IMPLEMENTATION Table 5 Accommodation Charges 68
Table 6 Summary of Recreational Mooring Trial System 83
1. Introduction 101
2. Legislation 102 APPENDICES
3. Research 103
Appendix 1 110
4. Resources and Funding 104
Principles Guiding the Development of the
5. Implementation 105
Reserve Zoning Plan and Settlement Planning Scheme
6. Review and Public Reporting 106
Appendix 2 111
Implementation Timelines and Responsibilities
References 108

Acknowledgements 129

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Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008

Foreword

organisations and the public sector.

Foreward

Overwhelmingly, we have heard that

you, the community of Western
Australia, want your Island to retain its
unique style, to be managed effectively
and sustainably, so it can be enjoyed by
future generations of visitors - just as
you have enjoyed it.

Recommendations contained within

the Management Plan demonstrate the
Rottnest Island Authority’s
commitment to maintaining the Island’s
environmental, social and economic
values for the coming five years.
Rottnest Island is fondly regarded as a
special place by the many Western I would like to acknowledge the Board
Australians, and visitors from interstate Members and staff of the Rottnest
and overseas, who go there for the day, Island Authority, for their vision and
or an extended stay. commitment in guiding the
development of the Plan through
There are a lot of different reasons why
various stages, to its completion.
people visit Rottnest Island. These
include relaxing in a coastal setting; I would also like to thank each person
enjoying its scenic natural beauty; and organisation that responded to the
taking part in a special event; carrying Draft Management Plan. Your active
out a research project or participating in participation has enabled a Plan to be
a conservation initiative. These produced that will serve the broader
different areas of interest reflect the community well over the next five years.
wide range of people who enjoy
Rottnest Island’s facilities and services,
and who want to ensure it is effectively
The Hon. Clive Brown MLA
managed into the future.
Minister for Tourism
These different interests and viewpoints
were an important consideration for the
process involved in compiling the
Rottnest Island Management Plan
2003-2008. Following the release of a
Draft Management Plan in June 2002,
the Rottnest Island Authority received
more than 700 submissions from
individuals, community groups, private

2
Part A. Background
1. Introduction 4
2. Development of the Plan 7
3. Format of the Plan 8
4. Definition of the Area 9
5. Policy Context 10
6. Roles and Responsibilities of Western Australian
Government Bodies 12

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Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
1. Introduction
1.1 BRIEF DESCRIPTION
Part A. Background
Rottnest Island is one of the most popular
recreation and holiday destinations for
Western Australian families, and is also
a popular destination for interstate and
international visitors. Approximately
500,000 people visit Rottnest Island
every year.
Rottnest Island is located on the southwest
coast of Western Australia at latitude
32º00 S and longitude 115º30 E, 18
kilometres west of Fremantle. It lies in an
approximately east-west orientation, is
11 kilometres long and less than 5
kilometres wide at its widest point. It is
an A-Class Reserve declared under the
Land Administration Act 1997.
The boundary of the Rottnest Island
Reserve (the Reserve) contains the
terrestrial component of the Island itself
and the surrounding sea (refer Chart 1-
Rottnest Island Reserve). The
terrestrial area is approximately 1859
hectares in area, containing 200
hectares of classified ‘Settlement’ area
and 200 hectares of salt lakes and
swamps. The marine portion of the
Reserve constitutes approximately 3810
hectares of sea surrounding the Island
and includes several smaller Islands and
exposed rocks adjacent to its coast.
1.2 ROTTNEST ISLAND AUTHORITY
1.2.1 Organisation Structure
and Powers
The Rottnest Island Authority Act 1987
(the Act) creates the Rottnest Island
Authority (the Authority) as a statutory
4
body to control and manage the Island,
reporting to the Minister for Tourism.
The Act gives the Authority the power
to control and manage the Island for the
following purposes:
• to provide and operate recreational
and holiday facilities on the Island;
• to protect the flora and fauna of the
Island; and
• to maintain and protect the natural
environment and the man-made
resources of the Island and, to the
extent that the Authority’s resources
allow, repair its natural environment.
The Authority consists of a Chairman
appointed by the Governor on the
nomination of the Minister for Tourism
and five other members appointed by
the Governor, also on the nomination of
the Minister. The Minister for Tourism
also appoints a Deputy Chairman.
Members are appointed so that not less
than one member is:
• a person experienced in conserving
the environment;
Figure 1: Rottnest Island Authority Organisation Structure
Chief Executive Officer
Marketing and Communications
Director
Conservation and Planning
Environment
Planning and Projects Accommodation Services
Heritage
Risk Management
Ranger Services
Education and
Interpretation Services
• a person experienced in preserving
buildings of historic value;
• a person with sound commercial
experience; and
• a person who is a regular user of the
Island for recreational purposes.
The Chief Executive Officer of the
Authority is appointed under the
Public Sector Management Act 1994
and is responsible for the
administration, subject to the control
of the Authority, of the day-to-day
operations and management of the
Island. The Chief Executive Officer is
supported in these operations by a
staff of 117 people, which may vary in
response to seasonal requirements.
Rottnest Island Authority staff are
managed under three directorates:
Conservation and Planning;
Tourist Services; and Business
Services, as illustrated in
Figure 1 - Rottnest Island
Authority Organisation Structure.
Director Director
Tourist Services Business Services
Visitor Services Contract Management
Lease Management
Mooring Services Finance
Human Resources
Information Services
 Chart 1: Rottnest Island Reserve

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Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
1.3 ROTTNEST ISLAND
Part A. Background
STRATEGIC PLAN
The Authority operates under the
guidance of its Strategic Plan which
incorporates the organisation’s vision,
mission, goal and strategies. This
Rottnest Island Management Plan
(RIMP) gives detail and specific
initiatives to the directions and priorities
articulated in the Strategic Plan. The
Rottnest Island Strategic Plan may be
viewed on the Authority’s website
www.rottnest.wa.gov.au
1.3.1 Vision
The vision Rottnest: Forever Magic,
reflects the community’s wish that the
unique Rottnest Island experience be
preserved for future generations of
Western Australians.
1.3.2 Mission
The mission is:
‘Rottnest Island provides holidays for
Western Australians and other visitors
while sustaining the Island’s natural
environment and unique heritage.’
1.3.3 Goals & Strategies
The Authority has three goals:
• Rottnest Island provides a unique
holiday experience that is accessible to
Western Australians and other visitors;
• Rottnest Island’s environment and
heritage are conserved and enhanced
as a model of sustainability;
• The Authority conducts its business
responsibly and in a way that is
sustainable and beneficial to the Island.
6
Fifteen strategies have been adopted to
meet these goals in line with the mission
and vision. These strategies are:
• Conserve and protect the unique
Rottnest Island ethos;
• Base decision-making processes on
customer needs;
• Provide equitable access to the
Rottnest Island holiday experience;
• Provide enjoyable holiday and
recreational experiences;
• Preserve and enhance the amenity of
Rottnest Island;
• Manage the impact of natural
processes and human activity to
protect and conserve the Island’s
natural and built environments;
• Work with the Western Australian
community to ensure that Rottnest
Island’s heritage is understood
and protected;
• Provide affordable options for
Western Australian families to stay
on Rottnest Island;
• Promote the active participation of all
visitors in the protection of the
Island’s natural and cultural heritage;
• Provide information and education
services that promote knowledge of the
unique Rottnest Island environment;
• Secure a resource base for Rottnest
Island operations;
• Align services provided by the Business
Community with the strategic goals
of the Authority and the Rottnest ethos;
• Develop, operate and maintain Island
services on a sustainable basis;
• Build on the contribution of volunteers
to the Rottnest Island experience; and
• Develop Rottnest Island in consultation
with the community and stakeholders.
1.4 FINANCIAL POSITION
The financial provisions of the Rottnest
Island Authority Act 1987 (the Act) are
framed in the expectation that the
Authority is self-sufficient. In other
words, sufficient revenue is to be
generated from operations to meet
expenses. The organisation’s financial
results are reported in Annual Reports.
Financial pressures experienced by the
Authority over many years have caused
loans to be raised that are now in the
process of being repaid. These loan
repayments have added to the financial
pressures and losses in recent years.
1.5 STATUTORY BASIS AND TERM
OF THE ROTTNEST ISLAND
MANAGEMENT PLAN
The Act directs that the Rottnest Island
Authority control and manage the
Island in accordance with a Management
Plan. The Management Plan is a gazetted
statutory document that directs the
Authority in its management over a
period of five years.
The Act directs the Authority to review
each Management Plan in terms of its
ability to meet the statutory purposes of
the Reserve, no later than five years
after its approval. Based on the review
of the Plan, the Authority may determine
to reinstate the existing Plan without
amendment, amend the existing Plan, or
develop a new Management Plan.
A review of the Rottnest Island
Management Plan 1997-2002 indicated
that the development of a new
Management Plan was required.
In accordance with the Act, the Rottnest
Island Management Plan 2003-2008
contains a statement of policies and a
summary of the operations
recommended to be undertaken.
2. Development of the Plan
The methodology adopted to develop
the Rottnest Island Management Plan
2003-2008 is based on the
requirements of the Rottnest Island
Authority Act 1987 (the Act).
The development of this Management
Plan can be described in four phases.
PHASE 1 - Review of Previous
Management Plan
The development of the Plan
commenced with the review of the
Rottnest Island Management Plan
1997-2002. This included both an
internal review of that Plan and a
community comment process.
PHASE 2 - Draft Rottnest Island
Management Plan and Community
Consultation Phase
Based on key inputs from community
consultation, a review of the previous
Management Plan, and a review of all
operations and functions, a Draft
Rottnest Island Management Plan was
prepared for community consultation.
The Authority released the Draft
Management Plan for community
consultation for a period of three
months commencing 27 June 2002.
As specified by the Act, the release of
the Draft Management Plan was
published in the Government Gazette
and advertised in two issues of
The West Australian newspaper. A
further two public advertisements were
placed in The West Australian newspaper
approximately one month prior to the
close of the consultation period. The
Draft Management Plan was forwarded
to identified interest groups and
relevant government departments.
Members of the public were able to
request a copy of the Draft
Management Plan and also view it on
the Authority’s website. Copies were
available for viewing at the Salt Store on
the Island and in the Fremantle
Administration Office. The availability of
the Draft Management Plan was
advertised with posters around the
Island and public comment forms
placed in all accommodation units.
Over the three month consultation
period, the Authority held five public
meetings to further clarify issues with
the community and generate further
awareness of the Draft Management
Plan. In addition, representatives of the
Authority conducted and attended
numerous other meetings with special
interest groups.
Comments that were faxed, posted
or delivered to the Authority prior to
the closing date were accepted as
formal submissions on the Draft
Management Plan.
PHASE 3 - Analysis of Community
Consultation and Finalisation of
Management Plan
At the close of the consultation period,
the Authority summarised, collated and
analysed public submissions and revised
the Draft Management Plan in the
context of this analysis. A Community
Consultation Report was compiled by
the Authority, and a final Draft
Management Plan was forwarded to
the Minister for Tourism for approval.
PHASE 4 - Ministerial Approval
This Plan has been approved by the
Minister for Tourism, and is now in
operation. It will direct the
management activities of the Authority
for the next five years, from 2003-2008.
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Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
3. Format of the Plan
The Rottnest Island Management Plan
Part A. Background
2003-2008 comprises three sections.
Part A (this section) is the introductory
section which provides background on
the process and scope of the Plan, an
overview of the Authority, its powers and
responsibilities and an overview of the
role of other government bodies,
policies and legislation.
8
Part B is the core of the Management Part C provides the framework for
Plan. In Part B, the Island’s management implementation of the Plan including
has been divided into Chapters of: funding, resourcing, priorities,
Reserve Zoning Plan and Settlement responsibilities, timeframes, reporting
Planning Scheme, Terrestrial and monitoring of progress.
Environment, Marine Environment,
Cultural Heritage, Holiday and
Recreation Services and Facilities, Marine
Recreation and Facilities, Community
Involvement and Relations, Visitor
Support Services and Infrastructure and
Utilities. The introductory chapter of Part B
provides an overview of the Authority’s
commitment to sustainability.
It should be noted that due to the high
level of complexity and inter-related
management issues, sections of Part B
are linked. Numerous cross-references
are made in the document to guide the
reader to understand the connected
nature of these issues. Greatest value
will be gained if this Plan is read
comprehensively.
4. Definition of the Area
This section describes the spatial
boundary of Rottnest Island for the
purposes of the Rottnest Island
Management Plan 2003-2008
(refer Chart 2 - Unvested Lands on
Rottnest Island).
The Rottnest Island Authority Act 1987
states that the Reserve is:
(a) ‘The land containing 1,859 hectares
comprising Swan Location 10976
on Department of Land
Administration Plan No. 16860; and
(b) The waters comprising Swan
Location 11022 as shown, at the
commencement of this Act, on
Department of Land Administration
Plan No. 16932, including the
sea-bed and subsoil beneath
such waters,
being Reserve No. 16713 in the records of
the Department of Land Administration.’
Chart 2: Unvested Lands on Rottnest Island
Within the boundary of the Reserve,
there are several small land blocks not
currently vested in the Authority. These
include Swan locations 12523, 12524,
12525, 12526 and 12667, that are
vested in the Minister for Planning and
Infrastructure; and Swan locations
10613, 10750 and 10614 that are
unallocated crown lands. These land
portions will be considered part of the
Reserve for the purposes of the
Management Plan, as action is in place
to have them vested in the Authority.
All jetties on the Island, apart from the
Green Island Jetty at Nancy Cove, are
licensed to the Authority from the
Department for Planning and
Infrastructure. The Main Passenger jetty
was licensed to the Authority in mid
2002 and processes have commenced
to improve the operation of this facility.
The scope of the Management Plan also
includes the airspace above the Reserve.
It is acknowledged that this area is not
vested in the Authority; however, there
is an interest in influencing those using
the airspace to ensure that their
behaviour is consistent with the
management of the land and water on
which it impacts.
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Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
5. Policy Context
There are numerous State, National and
Part A. Background
International policies which influence
the management of Rottnest Island. Where
appropriate, further detail on these policies
is provided in sections relating to specific
management issues in Part B of this Plan.
5.1 INTERNATIONAL POLICY
International policies relevant to
operations on Rottnest Island include:
• ICOMOS International Cultural
Tourism Charter. The ICOMOS
International Cultural Tourism
Charter provides a standard guide for
the protection and interpretation of
the heritage assets of Rottnest Island.
• Agreements between the
Government of Australia and the
Governments of Japan and China
for the protection of Migratory
Birds and Birds in Danger of
Extinction and their Environment
(JAMBA & CAMBA), and
Convention on the Conservation
of Migratory Species of Wild
Animals (CMS or Bonn
Convention). These conventions
provide protection for migratory bird
species. There are migratory bird
species listed in these conventions
which use Rottnest Island as either a
breeding or roosting location.
• Convention of Wetlands of
International Importance (Ramsar
Convention). As there are no Ramsar
Wetlands on Rottnest Island, this
Convention is not relevant to the
management of the Island. It has
been suggested, however, that
wetlands worthy of Ramsar listing
exist on the Island.
10
• Convention of Biological Diversity
(Rio Convention). Australia ratified
this Convention and has
subsequently implemented it by
developing the National Strategy on
the Conservation of Australia’s
Biological Diversity.
• International Charter on the
Protection and Management of
Underwater Cultural Heritage
(ICOMOS). Australia’s commitment
to this Charter is reflected in the
Historic Shipwrecks Act 1976, as well
as State legislation, the Maritime
Archaeology Act 1973, both of which
apply to wrecks in the waters of
Rottnest Island.
5.2 AUSTRALIAN POLICY
Key national policies that influence
Rottnest Island operations include:
• National Strategy for the
Conservation of Australia’s
Biological Diversity. This strategy
represents Australia’s commitment to
the outcomes of the Rio Earth Summit
following its ratification in 1993.
The strategy is in part implemented
through the Commonwealth
Environment Protection and
Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.
This Management Plan is consistent
with the goal of the National Strategy,
which is to protect biological diversity
and maintain ecological processes
and systems.
• National Ecotourism Strategy.
The National Ecotourism Strategy
defines ecotourism as nature based
tourism that involves education and
interpretation of the natural
environment and is managed to be
ecologically sustainable. The Strategy
addresses issues associated with the
management of and planning for
ecotourism in Australia and identifies
the major elements of ecotourism as
the natural environment, ecological
and cultural sustainability, education
and interpretation and local and
regional benefits.
• The Burra Charter. The Australian
ICOMOS Charter for the
Conservation of Places of Cultural
Significance was developed in 1981
and is otherwise known as the Burra
Charter. It includes a comprehensive
list of definitions of items such as
place, fabric, conservation,
maintenance, preservation,
restoration, reconstruction,
adaptation and compatible use. It
also introduces the concept of
cultural significance, the ‘aesthetic,
historic, scientific or social value for
past, present and future generations,’
and requires this to be defined for
each place, and conservation plans to
be established and justified prior to
any intervention. The Charter also
contains conservation principles and
processes that are intended as a
definition of good practice. The Burra
Charter principles are relevant to
Rottnest Island’s heritage assets and
will be applied within this
Management Plan.
• Native Title. Native Title describes
the rights and interests of Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander people on
land and water according to their
traditional laws and customs. There
have been a number of Native Title
claims over Rottnest Island, and there
is currently one claim that includes
the Island. The claim, by the
Combined Metropolitan Working
Group (CMWG), covers the entire
metropolitan area. This claim was
registered under the Native Title Act
1993 in May 1993 and is yet to be
determined.
• The Commonwealth Disabilities
Discrimination Act 1992. The
Commonwealth Disabilities
Discrimination Act 1992 aims to
provide uniform protection against
discrimination for all people with
disabilities in Australia. The Act
requires that people with disabilities
be able to access any building or
facilities that the public is entitled to
enter and use, and have access to any
services and facilities provided in
those facilities. The Act applies to all
levels of Government and the private
sector, including all Rottnest Island
services and infrastructure.
5.3 WESTERN AUSTRALIAN between the government and the
STATE POLICY volunteering community. The
compact is currently being developed
Key state policies that influence
in consultation with the community.
Rottnest Island operations include:
The compact will support the value of
• Western Australian Sustainability
volunteers and encourage volunteering
Strategy. In response to the
in Western Australia. Many volunteer
international and national direction to
groups are active contributors to the
consider sustainability as a driving
management of Rottnest Island. The
issue for all operations, the
compact will guide the Authority in its
Department of Premier and Cabinet’s
continued effort to embrace and
State Sustainability Unit (SSU) is in the
enhance the contribution of
process of developing a State
volunteers to the Island.
Sustainability Strategy for Western
• State Commitment to a New and
Australia. The Draft Sustainability
Just Relationship between the
Strategy was released for public
Government of Western Australia
comment in September 2002. The
and Aboriginal Western Australians.
Authority will operate in accordance
In October 2001 the Chair of the
with the policies and principles and
ATSIC State Council and the Western
other guidelines determined in the
Australian Premier signed a
resultant State Sustainability Strategy.
Statement of Commitment to a new
• Nature Based Tourism Strategy 1997.
and just relationship between the
The Nature Based Tourism Strategy
Government of Western Australia
1997 is the result of a joint effort by
and Aboriginal Western Australians.
the tourism industry, the Western
The Statement of Commitment sets
Australian Tourism Commission and
out an agreed set of principles and a
the Department of Conservation and
process for improving the relationship
Land Management. The Strategy
between and the delivery of
provides the framework for the
government services to Aboriginal
development of an industry that will
people in Western Australia.
deliver long term and wide ranging
• State Disability Services Act 1993.
benefits to Western Australians and
The State Disability Services Act 1993
visitors through nature based tourism
requires State Government public
opportunities. As a destination for
authorities to have a Disability Services
nature based activities, the Authority
Plan and to report on the implementation
is guided by this Strategy.
of the Plan’s access initiatives each
• Western Australian Volunteering
year in their Annual Reports.
Compact. A key commitment of the
Western Australian Government’s
Valuing Volunteers policy was to
develop a compact that will provide a
framework for effective cooperation
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Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
6. Roles and Responsibilities of Western Australian
Government Bodies
The Rottnest Island Authority Act 1987
Part A. Background
states that the Authority ‘has the power
to do all things that are necessary or
convenient to be done in connection
with the management and control of
the Island under this Act.’
The Authority also has the power to
make regulations in this regard.
The Act also states that the application
of other written law to, and in relation
to, the Island is not affected by the
vesting of the control and management
of the Island in the Authority or the
conferral of any power on the Authority
by this Act. The roles and responsibilities
of other Government bodies are
applicable on Rottnest Island. There are
several Government bodies that have a
particularly relevant role to Rottnest
Island. These are described below.
6.1 DEPARTMENT FOR PLANNING
AND INFRASTRUCTURE
The Department for Planning and
Infrastructure plays a significant role in
both the terrestrial and marine portions
of the Rottnest Island Reserve.
The Department for Planning and
Infrastructure is responsible for all
boating regulations including licensing,
safety standards, marker buoys and
jetties. Through the administration of
the Marine Act 1982 the Department for
Planning and Infrastructure has
responsibility for ensuring the safety of
all vessels in State Territorial waters. The
Department chairs and supports the
Western Australian (National Plan) State
Committee for Combating Marine Oil
Pollution which provides the mechanism
12
to coordinate the management of
marine pollution incidents.
The Department for Planning and
Infrastructure is also responsible for the
maintenance of all gazetted roads on
Rottnest Island, under the Road Traffic
Act 1974.
6.2 DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
Under the Rottnest Island Authority Act
1987, the Department of Health is
responsible for monitoring environmental
health standards on Rottnest Island.
The Department’s objective in relation
to Rottnest Island is ‘to provide an
efficient and effective environmental
health service to the Rottnest Island
Authority, business community, visitors
and residents of Rottnest Island so that
the provision of environmental health is
maintained at the highest possible
standard at all times.’
As part of its mandate, the
Department of Health has a role in
environmental monitoring, pollution
control, food safety, disease control,
health education, waste disposal, pest
control, chemical control and building
management. The Department also
has a role in addressing environmental
health considerations in relation to
festivals, special events and
emergency incidents. Environmental
health officers visit the Island regularly
to undertake various inspections
relating to these areas of the
Island’s operations.
6.3 WESTERN AUSTRALIAN
POLICE SERVICE
The Western Australian Police Service is
responsible for the application of a
number of Acts, including the Police Act
1892, on Rottnest Island. The Western
Australian Police Service is the lead
agency in the enforcement of law and
emergency management procedures on
Rottnest Island and its waters. The
Police Service operates a station on the
Island staffed by resident Police Officers.
6.4 DEPARTMENT OF
ENVIRONMENT, WATER AND
CATCHMENT PROTECTION
The State Government is creating a new
integrated environmental protection
and natural resource management
agency for Western Australia. The
Department of Environment, Water and
Catchment Protection will be formed by
the amalgamation of the Department of
Environmental Protection, the Water
and Rivers Commission and the Keep
Australia Beautiful Council.
This new Department will control
marine and terrestrial pollution and
provide advice to the Minister for the
Environment on issues relating to
protection of the environment.
Several Rottnest Island operations such as
the water supply, wastewater treatment
and the landfill site operate under licence
agreement with the Department of
Environmental Protection and the Water
and Rivers Commission, which will now
be with the Department of Environment,
Water and Catchment Protection. This
Department will also be responsible for
ensuring the protection and conservation
of the Island’s groundwater resources.
6.5 DEPARTMENT OF
CONSERVATION AND LAND
MANAGEMENT
The Department of Conservation and
Land Management (CALM) was
established under the Conservation and
Land Management Act 1984. The
Department of Conservation and Land
Management administers the Wildlife
Conservation Act and Regulations 1950
that aim to conserve Western Australia’s
native flora and fauna. The Act can also
allocate special status to species,
providing a higher level of protection.
Native terrestrial flora and fauna that
exist in the Reserve are protected
under this Act, meaning that they
may not be injured, killed or removed
from the Island.
6.6 DEPARTMENT OF FISHERIES
The Department of Fisheries is
responsible for the management of
Western Australia’s fish, marine and
aquatic resources and pearling industry,
while protecting and conserving the
various related ecosystems. The
responsibilities and the management
tools are provided to the Department
through its primary legislation, the Fish
Resources Management Act 1994.
In particular, the Department of
Fisheries manages and regulates
commercial and recreational fishing
activities within the marine portion of
the Reserve and has the lead role in
enforcement of fisheries legislation.
6.7 WESTERN AUSTRALIAN
MUSEUM
The major functions of the Western
Australian Museum are to preserve
significant and representative examples
of Western Australia’s heritage for the
enrichment of present and future
generations; investigate the natural and
cultural world; and share ideas and
information on natural and cultural
heritage through a variety of public
programs. The WA Museum consists of
several branches, a number of which
have a role on Rottnest Island.
The Western Australian Museum’s
maritime division is responsible for the
protection of pre-1900 shipwrecks and
artefacts under the Marine Archaeology
Act 1973. Shipwrecks over 75 years old
are declared and protected under the
Commonwealth Historic Shipwrecks
Act 1976. These Acts combine to
protect valuable State and
Commonwealth maritime heritage
sites, both above and below the water.
The two Acts aim to preserve the
integrity of Australian shipwrecks for
the benefit of the community’s present
and future generations.
The Western Australian Museum
through the Museum Act 1969 also has
the task of documenting the fauna of
Western Australia. The Western
Australian Museum’s Natural Science
division has undertaken considerable
work in documenting the marine fauna
of Rottnest Island.
6.8 DEPARTMENT OF INDIGENOUS
AFFAIRS
The Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972 is
administered by the Department of
Indigenous Affairs. The Department is
responsible for the administration of
Aboriginal sites of significance and of
indigenous material culture.
Rottnest Island is the location of 17
Aboriginal sites and the Authority has a
responsibility to notify the Department
of Indigenous Affairs of any developments
that may have an impact on these sites.
Additional sites may be located as a
result of further study or ground
disturbing work on the Island, or new
information may come to light requiring
the extent of some sites to be revised.
6.9 HERITAGE COUNCIL OF
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
The Heritage Council of Western
Australia is the State’s advisory body on
heritage and was established through
the Heritage of Western Australia Act
1990. The Heritage Council encourages
and provides for the conservation of
places that are significant to the cultural
heritage of Western Australia.
The Authority is responsible for the
conservation of a large number of
significant cultural heritage places
representing the layers of historical
use of the Island. Many of these sites
are listed on the Western Australian
Heritage Register. Any development
of or interference to these listed
places requires approval from the
Heritage Council.
13
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
6.10 WESTERN AUSTRALIAN
Part A. Background
TOURISM COMMISSION
The Western Australian Tourism
Commission (WATC) is a statutory
authority of the Western Australian
Government and is the pre-eminent
body responsible for the promotion,
development and marketing of tourism
in Western Australia.
Rottnest Island is an attractive
destination and considered an icon of
the State’s tourism infrastructure. The
Island is often featured in high profile by
the WATC in its State promotional
campaigns. The Authority works with
the WATC in liaising with transport
providers to and from Rottnest Island,
facilitating visiting journalist and agent
familiarisations, and by providing
opportunity for positive State tourism
development and growth.
14
6.11 DEPARTMENT OF INDUSTRY
AND RESOURCES
The Department of Industry and
Resources is the administrator of the
Mining Act 1978 and Petroleum Act
1967. Although it is considered unlikely
that significant mining would ever be
approved on the Island itself, such
proposals may be presented. It is the
Department’s role to assist the Minister
for State Development to allocate
mining titles and to monitor and assess
activities on the titles when granted.
6.12 DISABILITY SERVICES
COMMISSION
The Disability Services Commission
provides information and advice to the
Rottnest Island Authority to assist the
development of Rottnest Island as a
universally accessible Island.
6.13 DEPARTMENT OF FIRE AND
EMERGENCY SERVICES
The Fire and Emergency Services
Authority of Western Australia (FESA)
is a statutory authority declared under
the Fire and Emergency Services Act
1988 and also administers that Act,
the Bush Fires Act 1954 and the
Fire Brigades Act 1942.
FESA provides training for the
emergency services on Rottnest Island
and fire and public safety advice on
Island facilities for the protection of
residents and visitors. Since 1999, the
Fire Service on Rottnest Island has been
a registered Private Brigade with FESA
in accordance with the Fire Brigades
Regulations. The private brigade is
referred to as the Rottnest Island Fire
and Rescue Service.
Part B. Management Planning
1. Introduction 16
2. Reserve Zoning Plan and Settlement Planning Scheme 18
3. Terrestrial Environment 32
4. Marine Environment 42
5. Cultural Heritage 50
6. Holiday and Recreation Services and Facilities 61
7. Marine Recreation and Facilities 78
8. Community Involvement and Relations 88
9. Visitor Support Services 90
10. Infrastructure and Utilities 93

15
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
1. Introduction
1.1 GENERAL
Part B. Management Planning
Part B is the core section of the
Management Plan. In this section the
operations of the Island are explored
and the direction of management for
the Island over the next five years is
documented. The major management
areas of the Authority are addressed
separately in the following sections:
Reserve Zoning Plan and Settlement
Planning Scheme, Terrestrial
Environment, Marine Environment,
Cultural Heritage, Holiday and
Recreation Services and Facilities,
Marine Recreation and Facilities,
Community Involvement and Relations,
Visitor Support Services and
Infrastructure and Utilities. Within each
chapter, necessary background is
provided, key management issues are
documented and recommendations
relevant to the management of the
Reserve are specified. To gain the
greatest level of understanding of the
management strategies recommended
in this Management Plan, it is important
that the reader considers the
background information and issues that
are documented, in conjunction with
the resultant recommendations.
Although there have been many
factors that have influenced the
recommendations of this Management
Plan, the underlying principle of this Plan
is the requirement and commitment to
ensure the sustainability of Rottnest
Island and the services and facilities it
provides to the Western Australian
community. Therefore, it is important
that the concept of sustainability on
Rottnest Island is clearly articulated.
16
1.2 ROTTNEST ISLAND AS A MODEL is an important aspect of achieving
OF SUSTAINABILITY sustainability, and the objective to
maintain this social experience has led
The elements of sustainability have
to recommendations in this Plan.
always been a dominant factor in the
These recommendations are based
management of Rottnest Island. The
on specified limits to further
development of this Plan has allowed
development, maintaining the current
the Authority to formalise its
style and range of services and facilities,
commitment to sustainability and
and improvements that retain the
demonstrate the relevance of this
essential elements of the Rottnest ethos
concept to Rottnest Island.
and provide a quality holiday and
Sustainability is the concept that seeks recreation experience.
to integrate short- and long-term
economic, social and environmental Protection of the Natural
Environment and Heritage Asset
effects in all decision making. For
Rottnest Island is an A-class Reserve
Rottnest Island sustainability means that
with many significant and valuable
the Authority will control and manage
terrestrial and marine resources. It also
the Island in a way that ensures that its
has highly significant cultural heritage
resources and experiences are available
values that reflect the many facets of
for future generations. This
Western Australia’s development. The
interpretation has generated the
continued management, repair and
following drivers of the
enhancement of these resources is a
recommendations contained within this
fundamental goal of sustainability and
Management Plan.
a key focus of this Plan.
Maintenance of the Rottnest Island
Precautionary Management of
social experience
Capacity
The social value of Rottnest Island is well
The Island’s resources are more
understood by the Authority. This social
constrained than on the mainland and
value is often called the "Rottnest Island
there are complexities, expenses and
ethos" and can be described in terms of
potential impacts associated with the
the self-directed, simple, nature-based
use of these resources. Furthermore, the
and family-oriented experience, very
sustainable level of use of Island
much dependent on a high degree of
resources is not well defined. These
natural amenity and space. It is also
factors combine to justify the
heavily based on the management
implementation of a precautionary
practices of the Authority that have approach to the management and use
promoted a high level of access to the of resources such as power, water and
Island for Western Australians. space, and to the exploration of
The maintenance and protection methods to manage the impact of
of the Rottnest Island experience Island visitors.
Generation of Viable Economic 1.2.1 Recommendations
Environment
• Develop Rottnest Island as a model
The Rottnest Island Authority faces
of sustainability.
financial pressures that constrain and
limit its operations. During the life of the • Develop and commence
Plan the Authority will seek to improve implementation of an
its operations, increase its revenue and interpretation strategy that allows
continue to meet its obligations to visitors to fully appreciate and
provide affordable family holiday understand the values of the Island,
services and conserve the natural and and which communicates its
built environment. sustainable management practices.
• Promote, demonstrate and
Management of Seasonality integrate environmental
of Visitors technologies where they meet the
The highly seasonal nature of activity social and cultural requirements of
and business on Rottnest Island has the Island and are economically
environmental, social and economic viable and relevant.
implications. The high numbers of
visitors during peak times can have an
impact on the social amenity of the
Island, and can also potentially lead to
environmental impacts through
excessive demand on resources. This
seasonality also leads to economic
issues such as the need to manage staff
levels and deal with heavy resource
demands in peak times and low
turnover in off-peak times.

Demonstration of Sustainability
through Interpretation
The demonstration of sustainable
management on Rottnest Island
through a range of interpretative
vehicles is a key element of the
Authority’s vision of sustainability.
This will be achieved through an
interpretation strategy that allows
visitors to fully appreciate and
understand the values of the Island and
how their actions and activities impact
on those values.

17
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
2. Reserve Zoning Plan and Settlement Planning Scheme
2.1 INTRODUCTION
Part B. Management Planning
2.1.1 Purpose of the Zoning Plan and
Planning Scheme
This section describes the Zoning Plan
for the Reserve and Planning Scheme
for the Settlement. The concept of
developing spatial plans for the
management of Rottnest Island is
important for a number of reasons:
• understanding how different parts
of the Reserve are being used allows
the creation of Zones that ensure
activities are compatible with the
environment and with each other;
• planning in this manner ensures that
long-term strategic decisions are
made, reducing the threat of costly,
ad hoc decisions;
• at the scale of the Settlement, planning
is also important to ensure that optimal
and functional use is made of the built
and natural environment and to
ensure that appropriate services and
facilities are provided.
Although these spatial plans have been
developed in the context of the five-year
Management Plan, the Reserve Zoning
Plan and Settlement Planning Scheme
have been developed to give long-term
direction to the development and
management of Rottnest Island.
Several plans that have been prepared
previously for Rottnest Island have been
used as inputs into the Reserve Zoning
Plan and the Settlement Planning
Scheme. Relevant outcomes and
recommendations of those plans have
been reconsidered and incorporated
into the Reserve Zoning Plan and
Settlement Planning Scheme.
18
The development of the Reserve Zoning
Plan was based on a number of
overriding principles that are contained
in Appendix 1.
2.2 ROTTNEST ISLAND RESERVE
BOUNDARY
2.2.1 Definition of the Rottnest
Island Reserve Boundary
The boundary of the Reserve was
discussed in Part A, Chapter 4 -
Definition of the Area. There have
been no pressures to deviate from the
current Rottnest Island Reserve
boundary. The Authority has no
intention of proposing amendments to
the boundary of the Reserve during the
life of this Management Plan.
It is noteworthy that although the
boundary is well illustrated on maps and
charts, currently it is not described in
terms of geo-positioning reference
points. Considering that this boundary
is irregular, marine based and
unmarked, it is difficult for users of the
Marine Reserve to determine whether a
given point is inside or outside the
boundary of the Reserve. Describing its
boundary by way of geo-positioning
reference points would improve the
understanding of the location of the
boundary of the Reserve.
2.2.2 Purpose of the Reserve
The current gazetted purpose of the
Rottnest Island A-Class Reserve is
‘public recreation’. This purpose does
not reflect the complete objectives of
the Reserve as established by the
Rottnest Island Authority Act 1987,
which include the protection of flora
and fauna and the maintenance and
protection and, where possible, repair
of the natural and man-made resources.
The Rottnest Island Management Plan
1997-2002 recommended an
amendment to the Reserve purpose to
fully reflect this situation. Further
consideration has been given to this
matter and the Authority is pursuing an
amendment to the purpose of the
Reserve to: for the purposes of the
Rottnest Island Authority Act 1987.
2.2.3 Areas Not Vested in the
Authority
There are areas within the boundary of
the Reserve that are not vested in or
controlled by the Authority. These
include three blocks of unallocated
crown lands and five blocks vested in
the Minister for Planning and
Infrastructure (refer Chart 2 -
Unvested Lands on Rottnest Island).
The transfer of responsibility for these
lands has commenced.
2.2.4 Recommendations
• Define the boundary of the Rottnest
Island Reserve in terms of a series of
geo-positioning data points.
• Amend the Rottnest Island Reserve
purpose to ‘for the purposes of the
Rottnest Island Authority Act 1987.’
• Incorporate Swan Locations 12523,
12524, 12525, 12526, 12667,
10613, 10750 and 10614 into the
Rottnest Island Reserve.
2.3 ROTTNEST ISLAND RESERVE
ZONING PLAN
2.3.1 Current Zones
The Island is currently separated into
three Zones that were established in the
Rottnest Island Management Plan
1997-2002. These are the Settlement
Area, Natural Area and Marine Area.
These Zones recognise the division
between the Settlement area that
includes Thomson Bay, Geordie-
Longreach-Fays Bays and Kingstown,
and the natural area where the
provision of accommodation is not
permitted. They also recognise the
division between the land and sea that is
self-evident.
As specified in the Rottnest Island
Authority Act 1987, accommodation
development is limited to the Settlement
Zone (displayed in Chart 2 - Unvested
Lands on Rottnest Island). Development
in any other area of the Island can only
occur if approved by the Minister or if
provided for in this five-year Management
Plan. The limit of the Settlement Zone is
well illustrated on charts but has not
been defined geographically.
The Authority has identified a need for a
more comprehensive planning scheme
that provides greater definition of the
terrestrial and marine environments, to
appropriately manage natural resources
and activities throughout the areas.
2.3.2 Terrestrial Zoning Plan
2.3.2.1 Description of
Terrestrial Zones
The zoning system for the terrestrial
environment is a formalisation and
documentation of existing management
measures and uses of the Island and
does not propose new uses or activities
for any areas. This system will ensure
that necessary facilities are provided
throughout the Island without impacting
on the amenity and experiences that are
valued by Rottnest Island visitors.
This will be achieved by implementing
the following zones as illustrated in
Chart 3 - Terrestrial Zoning Plan .
Settlement Zone: The limit of the
Settlement area that includes
Geordie/Longreach and Fays Bay,
Thomson Bay and Kingstown. This Zone
represents an area of high intensity of
use where the development of
accommodation facilities is permitted.
The boundary of the Settlement Zone is
still relevant to the management of
Rottnest Island and will be maintained
for the life of this Plan, although there is
a need to define this geographically.
Natural Zone: The area that is
managed for conservation and low level
activity compatible with the
preservation of environmental values.
The majority of the area outside the
Settlement Zone is classed as the
Natural Zone, and contains several
smaller areas of Activity Nodes,
Permanent Environmental Exclusion
Zones and Temporary Environmental
Exclusion Zones.
Activity Nodes: Areas outside the
Settlement Zone that are managed for
low to medium level activity compatible
with the environmental and social values
of those areas. Within these Nodes, public
facilities will be provided for medium scale
functions, events and activities. These
areas will relieve the Natural Zone of
pressure from such activities and from
the effects of the construction of public
facilities and services.
Activity Nodes include Oliver Hill,
Wadjemup Hill Lighthouse area, Parker
Point, Salmon Point, Parakeet and Little
Parakeet Bay, City of York Bay, Green
Island, Strickland Bay, Narrow Neck,
Stark Bay and West End Boardwalk area.
These areas generally contain existing
built facilities capable of providing for
low to medium level activity.
Wadjemup Hill and Oliver Hill contain
heritage items and buildings of
significance that may lend them to
becoming areas of increased activity
outside the Settlement Zone. The
Authority is considering the
development of these areas to enhance
the visitor experience.
19
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008

Environmental Exclusion Zone, Environmental Exclusion Zone, Temporary Environmental Exclusion

Part B. Management Planning

Permanent: Areas of the terrestrial
environment closed permanently for the
purposes of protecting terrestrial and
freshwater environmental values such
as fragile and ecologically significant
wetlands. Such Zones may be located
anywhere on the Island, including
within the Settlement Zone, where this
level of protection is warranted. The
exact location of Permanent
Environmental Exclusion Zones will be
determined and implemented over the
life of the Plan.
Temporary: Areas of the terrestrial
environment closed periodically or
temporarily for the purpose of
protecting terrestrial and freshwater
environmental values such as for dune
rehabilitation, protection of plantation
areas and seasonal breeding areas. Such
Zones may be located anywhere on the
Island, including within the Settlement
Zone, where this level of protection is
warranted.
Zones will include woodland restoration
areas, areas being used by migratory
seabirds and areas that are subject to
harsh erosion processes. The exact
location of Temporary Environmental
Exclusion Zones will be determined and
implemented as required.
Management of activities and
development in these Zones are
described in Table 1 - Activities and
Development Permitted in the
Rottnest Island Terrestrial Zones.

Table 1: Activities and Development Permitted in the Rottnest Island Terrestrial Zones

Activity Settlement Zone Natural Zone Activity Nodes Environmental Environmental

Exclusion Zone, Exclusion Zone,
Permanent Temporary

Public Access1 Yes Yes Yes No No

Escorted Access 2
Yes Yes Yes Special 4
Special4

Accommodation Yes No No No No

Built Facilities (other than accommodation) Yes No Yes Special4 Special4

Vehicle Access (on designated roads and tracks only) Yes Yes Yes Special4 Special4

Approved Events and Functions 3

Yes No Yes No No

Notes:
1. Public Access - Available to the public.
2. Escorted Access - Access only permitted while in the company of a Rottnest Island Authority Officer
e.g. organised tour or escorted party of a smaller nature.
3. Approved function or events Including weddings, parties, conferences, festivals and sporting events.
4. Limited for the purpose of conservation and risk management.

20
 Chart 3: Terrestrial Zoning Plan

21
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
2.3.2.2 Signage
Part B. Management Planning
Effective signage is a key form of
information for visitors but can also
negatively impact on the Island’s
amenity. There are numerous signs on
Rottnest Island both within the
Settlement Zone and the Natural Zone.
There is a need to rationalise signage
and investigate other mechanisms of
disseminating information to visitors.
2.3.2.3 Recommendations
• Define the Rottnest Island Settlement
Zone boundary in terms of a series of
geo-positioning data points.
• Implement the Terrestrial Zones as
described in Chart 3 - Terrestrial
Zoning Plan that comprise the
Settlement Zone, Natural Zone,
Activity Nodes and Permanent and
Temporary Environmental Exclusion
Zones, and manage in accordance
with Table 1 - Activities and
Development Permitted in the
Rottnest Island Terrestrial Zones.
• Investigate the feasibility of the
development of Wadjemup Hill Activity
Node for the interpretation of military,
maritime and environmental heritage.
• Investigate the feasibility of the
development of Oliver Hill Activity
Node for the interpretation of military,
maritime and environmental heritage.
• Develop and implement a signage
plan for Rottnest Island.
2.3.3 Marine Management Strategy
The marine portion of the Reserve
contains many features of conservation
and social value. This results in it being a
highly popular recreation area, used for
a wide variety of recreational pursuits.
There is a need to manage the Reserve
to ensure that conflicts between
recreational pursuits are addressed and
22
that environmental values are protected.
Current forms of management of the
Marine Reserve include (refer Chart 1-
Rottnest Island Reserve):
• Fishing regulations gazetted under
the Fishing Resources Management
Act 1994 (refer Part A, Chapter 6 -
Roles and Responsibilities of
Western Australian Government
Bodies), including:
- Two no-fishing zones within the
marine portion of the Reserve:
Kingston Reef and Parker Point Reef;
- Speargun prohibition within a
portion of the Reserve;
- Commercial Western Rock Lobster
fishing prohibition within a portion
of the Reserve;
- Other recreational fishing
regulations that are developed,
implemented and enforced by the
Department of Fisheries.
• Portions of Thomson Bay, Geordie
Bay, Longreach Bay, Marjorie Bay and
all of Little Parakeet Bay and the Basin
zoned for no anchoring, no boating
and no daylight fishing.
These management measures are
designed to protect natural values of
the marine environment, but are less
effective at protecting social values of
the Reserve. Furthermore, the Authority
is concerned about the health of the
marine environment given the level of
activity that occurs in the Reserve. The
Authority wishes to review the current
marine management regime and
investigate the need to implement
further measures to protect the Reserve.
The Authority is committed to maximising
equity of access and opportunity for a
quality experience among recreational
users of the Reserve, while protecting its
environmental values. This objective will
be pursued through the development of
a marine management strategy, which
may involve the development of
regulations under the Fish Management
Act 1994. The marine management
strategy will be pursued in coordination
with the Department of Fisheries and in
consultation with relevant stakeholders.
Commercial fishing within the Reserve is
inconsistent with its explicit legislated
purpose, of ‘public recreation.’
2.3.3.1 Recommendations
• Develop and implement a marine
management strategy that promotes
equity of access and opportunity for a
quality experience among
recreational users of the Marine
Reserve, protecting its environmental
values, in coordination with the
Department of Fisheries and in
consultation with relevant stakeholders.
• Pursue restrictions on commercial
fishing in coordination with the
Department of Fisheries.
2.4 SETTLEMENT PLANNING SCHEME
The Settlement Planning Scheme is
limited to the boundary of the
Settlement Zone and is based on a series
of precincts that are separated according
to core function. The precincts are
illustrated in Chart 4 - Settlement
Planning Scheme. These are:
• Arrival and Departure Precinct (1)
• Commercial Precinct (2)
• Visitor Accommodation Precincts
(3a, 3b, 3c, 3d)
• Staff Accommodation Precinct (4)
• Kingstown Precinct (5)
• Services and Operations Precincts
(6a, 6b, 6c)
• Recreation Precincts (7a, 7b, 7c)
For each precinct, this Plan provides a
description of the area, documents
issues associated with the management
of the area and makes recommendations
for management.
2.4.1 Arrival and Departure Precinct
2.4.1.1 Description
The Arrival and Departure Precinct is
that part of the Settlement Zone that
includes the first contacts both visually
and physically, for visitors to the Island.
The ‘arrival’ sequence and how it has
evolved is very much a part of the
Rottnest Island experience. The
departure sequence is also significant.
Key elements of this precinct are the
Main Passenger Jetty, Visitor and
Information Centre, Accommodation
Office and the seawall. This precinct also
includes the vacant land on the western
side of Colebatch Avenue, between
Henderson Avenue and Forrest Avenue.
Two of the Settlement’s most prominent
landscape features also fall within the
bounds of the Precinct: Signal Hill and
the hill south of the Tearooms. These
two features provide natural landscape
breathing spaces.
Buildings and lands in this precinct will
be reserved for facilities and services
that support the arrival function. As the
precinct contains the primary point of
arrival to and departure from the Island,
the landscape and materials used here
‘set the scene’ and should thereafter be
employed consistently throughout the
area of the Settlement Zone.
2.4.1.2 Issues
Issues associated with the management
of the Arrival and Departure Precinct include:
• The vistas of the Island as viewed from
the Arrival and Departure Precinct
have high historical and social value.
• The Arrival and Departure Precinct is
in need of appropriate shelter for
passengers waiting to board ferries.
• Access from the jetty through the
Arrival and Departure Precinct has
improved in recent years; however,
areas of conflict involving
pedestrians, bicycles and vehicles still
remain. Conflict areas include the
jetty, the barge area, Colebatch
Avenue and the road from the base of
the jetty to the Visitor and
Information Centre, particularly the
crossover on this road between the
Visitor and Information Centre and
the Dôme Café. These conflicts will
continue to be managed by the
Authority over the life of the Plan by
developing and enforcing vehicle no-
go and no parking areas.
• The temporary solution of two lanes
on the jetty to relieve congestion and
conflict between visitors and the
luggage and barge functions appears
to be effective, and the Authority will
consider mechanisms to formalise
and improve this remedy.
• Vehicle movement and parking on
Henderson Avenue adds to
congestion in this precinct and
unnecessary movements will be
prohibited by the Authority to reduce
this problem.
• For first-time visitors to Rottnest Island,
orientation to Island services and
facilities can be difficult. This is a whole
of Island issue but is most prevalent in
the Arrival and Departure Precinct.
• The absence of elements which aid in
the direction of flow of visitors from
the jetty can lead to congestion at
service points during peak times.
• There is an absence of a central facility
for orientation and interpretation.
• Signal Hill is a fragile area that
is susceptible to erosion caused
by trampling.
2.4.1.3 Recommendations
• Develop the Arrival and Departure
Precinct to provide for a visitor-
friendly experience.
• Investigate and implement methods
to improve the orientation of visitors
arriving on the Island to their required
first point of contact and other points
around the Island.
• Establish appropriate shelter for ferry
passengers in the Arrival and
Departure Precinct.
• Develop a conceptual model for a
purpose-built interpretation facility
on Rottnest Island.
• Seek external funding for the
establishment and operation of an
interpretation facility on Rottnest
Island in consultation with relevant
groups with a historical interest in
the Island.
• Develop and implement a strategy for
Signal Hill to reduce erosion from
trampling and to manage risk issues.
23
 Part B. Management Planning Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008

24
2.4.2 Commercial Precinct
2.4.2.1 Description
This precinct surrounds the Arrival and
Departure Precinct and forms the
commercial core of the Settlement
Zone. The precinct includes three main
areas that are the retail shopping area;
the dining area including the Dôme
Café and the Tearooms; and the
Rottnest Island Hotel and Lodge area.
It should be noted that the Rottnest
Island Hotel is not only an important
area of the Commercial Precinct, but
also forms a significant visual element of
the arrival vista as it has always been one
of the most visible elements of the
Settlement from the sea.
This precinct also includes Heritage
Common, adjacent to the retail
shopping area, that is used for events
and is a visual extension of the shopping
area. The museum and library are also
included in this precinct.
2.4.2.2 Issues
Issues associated with the management
of the Commercial Precinct include:
• Bicycle riding through the mall
continues despite signs at all entry
points that indicate that riding in this
area is prohibited.
• Vehicular traffic through the
Commercial Precinct is higher than
preferred because there is no
alternative route to service the shops
and accommodation north of the jetty.
• The museum service is a valuable
but under-utilised asset of the
Island experience.
• The library service is a valuable but
under-utilised asset of the Island
experience.
• The Commercial Precinct contains
staff accommodation that is
inappropriate for this area.
• Some shops have limited accessibility
to people with disabilities.
2.4.2.3 Recommendations
• Maintain the Commercial Precinct
to provide commercial services
to enhance visitor experience
and improve access for people
with disabilities.
• Investigate the feasibility of the
construction of a vehicular route
connecting the Service Precinct 6a to
the Golf Club and the south side of
the Settlement to link the north and
south of the Settlement, eliminating
the need for vehicles to move through
the core pedestrian area.
• Investigate the feasibility of
establishing an additional food outlet
in the Commercial Precinct, which
provides value-for-money food
options utilising and promoting
Western Australian produce.
• Develop and implement strategies to
enhance the library service.
• Develop and implement strategies to
enhance the museum service.
2.4.3 Bathurst Visitor
Accommodation Precinct
2.4.3.1 Description
The Bathurst Visitor Accommodation
Precinct is the northernmost
accommodation area within Thomson
Bay. The Bathurst Visitor
Accommodation Precinct is very popular
with Island holiday-makers.
At the north of Bathurst Precinct are the
Bathurst Lighthouse and Lighthouse
Keeper’s Cottage. These buildings are
highly significant from a heritage
perspective and are also an important
and highly recognisable symbol of
Rottnest Island.
2.4.3.2 Issues
Several issues are associated with the
management of the Bathurst Visitor
Accommodation Precinct:
• The coastline of this precinct is a
particularly hazardous area,
experiencing potentially dangerous
rockfalls; and as a result it has been
fenced along its full length.
• The continued preservation and
conservation of the Lighthouse and
Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage is a
high priority.
2.4.3.3 Recommendations
• Manage the Bathurst Visitor
Accommodation Precinct to provide
visitor accommodation.
• Provide appropriately designed beach
access paths and approaches in the
Bathurst Visitor Accommodation Precinct.
• Maintain and preserve the Bathurst
Lighthouse and Lighthouse
Keeper’s Cottage without additional
development.
25
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
2.4.4 North Thomson
Part B. Management Planning
2.4.4.1 Description
The North Thomson Visitor
Accommodation Precinct contains a
particularly high number of heritage sites.
Perhaps the most significant of these is
the area of Vincent Way, including both
the cottages and the road above the
seawall that have been recognised as the
oldest intact streetscape in Australia.
The front row of villas at North Thomson
is one of the first visible elements of the
Island’s landscape. The 1920s bungalows
exist in a refurbished state side by side
with 50s-era buildings and an array of
brick cottages. Most of the brick
cottages have been recently upgraded.
This precinct contains the earliest family
accommodation in the Settlement. The
early beachfront villas represent the best
interpretation of the modern holiday
experience in terms of facility and form.
Curved, meandering roads lead holiday-
makers through the precinct, and the
retention of this random approach and
permeability is desirable. The visual
prominence of this precinct requires
that it be considered within the context
of the surrounding environment with
careful integration of the landscape and
its cultural and historical values.
This precinct also contains the highly
significant Aboriginal burial grounds
established during the period in which
the Island was an Aboriginal Prison (refer
Part B, Chapter 5 - Cultural Heritage).
The camping ground and two areas of
camping cabins are also located within
the North Thomson Visitor
Accommodation Precinct.
26
2.4.4.2 Issues
The management of the North
Thomson Visitor Accommodation
Precinct includes the following issues:
• There are notably degraded
accommodation units in this precinct,
particularly units on Kelly and Abbott
Streets and the Allison Camping Cabins.
The management of these areas is
addressed in Part B, Chapter 6 -
Holiday and Recreation Services
and Facilities.
• The Hire Services Shed and offices are
inappropriately located in this precinct.
• The full extent of the Aboriginal
burial grounds has been questioned
and there may be further locations in
this vicinity that require protection.
This issue is addressed in Part B,
Chapter 5 - Cultural Heritage.
• This area currently contains staff
accommodation that is
inappropriately located for this area
(refer Section 2.4.7 of this Chapter)
• There are opportunities for the
location of Youth Hostel Facilities in
the North Thomson Visitor
Accommodation Precinct.
2.4.4.3 Recommendations
• Manage the North Thomson Visitor
Accommodation Precinct to provide
visitor accommodation.
• Relocate the Hire Services Shed and
the Office from the North Thomson
Visitor Accommodation Precinct to
the Services Precinct or the
Commercial Precinct.
• Investigate the feasibility of relocating
the Youth Hostel facility from Kingstown
Barracks to the North Thomson
Visitor Accommodation Precinct.
2.4.5 South Thomson
2.4.5.1 Description
The South Thomson Visitor
Accommodation Precinct is principally
an accommodation area favoured by
young families. The waterfront units in
this precinct occupy a highly desirable
location. The area is quiet and suits the
nature of its occupancy well.
2.4.5.2 Issues
The management of the South
Thomson Visitor Accommodation
Precinct includes the following issues:
• The South Thomson Visitor
Accommodation Precinct has
reached its capacity in terms of
accommodation units.
• This precinct is adjacent to a fragile
dune system that is subject to beach
erosion pressures and requires
protection from further development.
• Beach access must be appropriately
controlled in this area.
2.4.5.3 Recommendations
• Manage the existing accommodation
stock in the South Thomson Visitor
Accommodation Precinct to provide
visitor accommodation.
• Continue to provide access to
the beach via purpose-built
designated accessways and stairs
in the South Thomson Visitor
Accommodation Precinct.
• Monitor beach erosion in the
South Thomson Visitor
Accommodation Precinct.
2.4.6 Geordie, Longreach
and Fays Bay Visitor
Accommodation Precinct
2.4.6.1 Description
Geordie, Longreach and Fays Bay Visitor
Accommodation Precinct provides a
unique style of accommodation, and all
units have an exceptional outlook. The
accommodation here is constructed
very close to the shoreline. A bus service
caters for visitor movement.
2.4.6.2 Issues
Management of the Geordie,
Longreach and Fays Bay Visitor
Accommodation Precinct includes the
following issues:
• Geordie, Longreach and Fays Bay
accommodation requires
refurbishment. This is addressed under
Part B, Chapter 6 - Holiday and
Recreation Services and Facilities.
• The design of roads in this area
has led to inconsistent traffic
movement patterns.
• Beach access is a critical management
issue in this fragile coastal area.
• Fays Bay headland is highly degraded.
2.4.6.3 Recommendations
• Manage the Geordie, Longreach and
Fays Bay Visitor Accommodation Precinct
to provide visitor accommodation.
• Review and realign roads, tracks and
traffic flows in the Geordie,
Longreach and Fays Bay Visitor
Accommodation Precinct to improve
amenity and traffic flow.
• Improve beach access in the Geordie,
Longreach and Fays Bay Visitor
Accommodation Precinct.
• Restore and rehabilitate
Fays Bay headland.
2.4.7 Staff Accommodation Precinct
2.4.7.1 Description
Some Island staff are accommodated in
the area defined in this Plan as the Staff
Accommodation Precinct. However,
there is also a large number of staff who
are inappropriately accommodated
throughout the Settlement area,
adjacent to visitor accommodation and
commercial facilities. It is proposed to
develop this area, which currently has
the highest concentration of staff housing,
as a Staff Accommodation Precinct.
This area is defined by Parker Point Road
to the north and contains
accommodation to the east of Brand
Way in addition to the power house
residences to the west of Brand Way.
This is the precinct where the majority of
the Island’s residents currently live.
Much of the existing accommodation is
set back from the road or in landscaped
areas and has poor amenity and
landscape conservation value. Between
dwellings, the landscape has been
allowed to deteriorate.
2.4.7.2 Issues
Issues associated with development of a
Staff Accommodation Precinct include:
• Staff are currently accommodated,
sometime inappropriately, in
other precincts.
• Parker Point Road is the main
pedestrian and bicycle track out of the
Settlement Zone to this precinct but
is also heavily used by vehicles.
• Some staff accommodation is in
poor condition.
2.4.7.3 Recommendations
• Develop a Plan for a dedicated Staff
Accommodation Precinct including
the relocation of staff from other
precincts to this area.
• Investigate the feasibility of the
development of an additional road
along the Railway Track to limit the
use of Parker Point Road by vehicles.
2.4.8 Kingstown Barracks Precinct
2.4.8.1 Description
Kingstown Barracks nestles between
the primary dunes of the Bickley Point
headland. The use of Kingstown
Barracks as budget accommodation for
groups and as an education centre has
seen its facilities maintained but not
restored or improved.
This precinct has several significant
values. It is a military heritage site of
note. Kingstown Barracks was built in
1938-39, during World War II, and at
the time it was the only military building
established offshore in Australia (refer
Part B, Chapter 5 - Cultural Heritage).
More recently, Kingstown Barracks has
become the location of the Island’s
Environmental Education Centre that
forms a significant part of many schools’
education programs. A hostel facility
and commercial catering centre are also
located at Kingstown Barracks.
27
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
2.4.8.2 Issues
Part B. Management Planning
Issues associated with the management
of Kingstown Barracks Precinct include:
• The education services provided at
Kingstown Barracks are highly valued
by the many schools that utilise them.
• Kingstown Barracks is poorly utilised
at certain times of the year.
• Kingstown Barracks is not
well interpreted and utilised by
visitors, other than those staying
at this location.
• Kingstown Barracks Precinct contains
a number of high maintenance
significant heritage buildings.
2.4.8.3 Recommendations
• Maintain and improve the use of
Kingstown Barracks as an
Environmental Education Centre
primarily for school groups.
• Develop a business plan for Kingstown
Barracks that capitalises on other
opportunities for the use of this area
and improves its economic viability.
28
2.4.9 Service and Operation Precinct
2.4.9.1 Description
The Service and Operation Precinct on
Rottnest Island comprises four areas,
three of which are contained within the
Settlement Zone. The main area is the
service compound that is located to the
west of the Staff Accommodation
Precinct and contains the bus depot,
recycling facility and power plant. A
second Service and Operation area
contains the wastewater treatment
plant just south of the Basin. A third
area located around Mt Herschel
contains the bituminised catchment
area, desalination plants and water
collection tanks, and is the site for a
proposed wind turbine. Finally, the
landfill is located at Forbes Hill, outside
the boundary of the Settlement Zone.
2.4.9.2 Issues
Issues associated with the
management of the Operations
and Services Precinct include:
• Potential noise, odour and visual
amenity concerns are typically
associated with such facilities; however,
these appear to be well managed.
• Material collection areas are visible from
the walk to Vlamingh lookout and these
areas require ongoing management
to minimise potential impacts.
2.4.9.3 Recommendation
• Control noise, odour and visual
impact around the Service and
Operation Precinct.
2.4.10 Recreation Precinct
2.4.10.1 Description
The Recreational Precinct will contain
facilities for sports, holiday activities and
events. The Recreational Precinct is
separated into three areas. The major
area is that containing the two
dominant recreational facilities, namely
the oval and the Rottnest Island Country
Club. This area could be developed as a
significant area for recreation within the
Settlement Zone.
The Basin and Pinkys Beach comprise a
Recreation Precinct adjacent to the
Country Club and oval area, but are
used in quite a different manner to the
Country Club recreation area.
The third area of the Recreational
Precinct is the Army Jetty area. This area
has previously been proposed as an
alternative barge landing location.
Without structural modification to the
jetty area, sea swell would make landing
here dangerous on some days in winter
months. There is a need for this area to
be maintained and utilised as an
alternative delivery site for large-scale
special goods. However, during the
extensive periods when its function as a
barge landing site is not required, the
area in the immediate vicinity of the
Army Jetty can be utilised for recreation,
functions and events.
2.4.10.2 Issues
Issues associated with the management
of the Recreation Precinct include:
• There is congestion in the
Commercial Precinct and Arrival and
Departure Precinct because of the
large number of facilities and services
located within those areas.
The development of an additional
recreational sub-centre, near the
Country Club, containing a significant
number of services and facilities,
may draw people away from
existing congested precincts and
lead to a greater utilisation of the
Country Club area.
• Limited promotion and the absence
of grassed fairways reduce the
popularity and utilisation of the
Country Club and Golf Course.
• The Recreational Precinct may be
developed to provide the necessary
facilities to satisfy the current
perceived need for youth oriented
activities on Rottnest Island.
2.4.10.3 Recommendations
• Develop and implement a plan for the
development of a Recreation Precinct
based around the Country Club.
• Promote and enhance golf on
Rottnest Island and undertake a
feasibility study into the sustainable
greening of the golf course, with a
view to implementation.
2.5 ROAD DESIGN AND VEHICLE USE
2.5.1 Roads and Tracks
2.5.1.1 Background
Roads and tracks are used by visitors as
pathways for exploring the Island.
Roads and tracks formalise and
streamline visitor access to sensitive
outer bay and inland areas and are
therefore considered environmental
management tools. Roads and tracks
also provide access for Island staff to
carry out environmental management
tasks and access for emergency purposes.
2.5.1.2 Issues
Issues associated with the management
of roads and tracks include:
• There are many tracks that have been
created outside the Settlement Zone
which are not necessary for the
protection of the Island and are
creating a negative environmental
and aesthetic impact.
• There is a demand for further
development of the Island’s coastal
walking trail, although its extension
beyond Narrow Neck could impact on
values in that location.
• As there is no stormwater drainage
system, hardened surfaces such as
roads and paving may increase the
potential for water erosion.
The Authority manages this issue
in the establishment of new
hardened surfaces.
2.5.1.3 Recommendations
• Review, rationalise and where
necessary realign tracks in areas
outside Settlement Zone.
• Extend and enhance the existing
Rottnest Island coastal walk trail.
2.5.2 Vehicles
2.5.2.1 Background
Vehicles are prohibited on the Island
except for those necessary for the
operation of facilities and services, and
the low number of vehicles is
considered a major attraction for
visitors. The Authority operates bus and
coach tour services, and visitors and
residents are not permitted to bring
vehicles to the Island.
2.5.2.2 Issues
Issues associated with the management
of vehicles include the following:
• There are visitor complaints about the
number of vehicles. The amount of
vehicle movement is increased by the
very high level of movement created
by luggage delivery and collection
and cleaning of accommodation.
• Some vehicles are over-sized for their
intended use and the style of many is
urban and not consistent with the
Island’s relaxed environment.
• Insufficient designated parking-bays
results in vehicles parked in
inappropriate, highly visible areas in
the Settlement Zone. The creation of
designated parking places for Island
operations would reduce this impact.
2.5.2.3 Recommendations
• Restrict vehicle numbers, size and
type to the minimum required to carry
out necessary operations and actively
encourage alternatively powered
vehicles, as replacements are required.
29
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
2.6 LANDSCAPE MATERIALS
Part B. Management Planning
2.6.1 Background
Materials are required for landscaping
within the Settlement Zone, including
roadway, paving and retaining walls
among others. Various different styles
of landscaping have been introduced to
the Settlement Zone over several
periods of development including those
documented in Table 2 - Rottnest
Island Landscaping Materials.
2.6.2 Issues
Issues associated with the use of
landscape materials on the Island
include the following:
• There is a need to be consistent with
respect to the landscaping materials
employed and these should be
sympathetic with heritage elements.
2.6.3 Recommendation
• Implement an approved range of
landscape materials for Rottnest Island.
Table 2 - Rottnest Island Landscaping Materials
Function
Roadways
Cycle/pedestrian ways
Pathways
Paved areas
Landscaping walls
Activity spaces
Fences
30
2.7 PUBLIC FURNITURE
2.7.1 Background
Public furniture is provided throughout
the Settlement Zone. This mainly
includes benches, playground furniture,
shade shelters and other seating, tables
and bus stop furniture.
2.7.2 Issues
Issues associated with the provision of
public furniture on the Island include
the following:
• There is a need to be consistent with
public furniture provided, which
should be sympathetic to the heritage
element of the Settlement Zone and
also be functional to meet visitor needs.
2.7.3 Recommendation
• Define and implement a furniture style
for the public open spaces of the
Settlement Zone and around the Island
that meets customer needs and is
consistent with and sympathetic to the
heritage elements of Rottnest Island.
Landscape Material
Black bitumen
Black bitumen; stabilised crushed limestone/sand
Soft black bitumen; stabilised crushed limestone/sand
Unit format ‘Rottnest Crete’; Limestone paving slabs
Limestone and/or rendered brick in painted in Rottnest Island ochres
Grass, reticulated, woodchipped, sand
Timber post and rail; Timber post and rail and wire mesh where required for animal exclusion
2.8 SETTLEMENT VEGETATION 2.9 COLOUR 2.10 LIGHTING

2.8.1 Background 2.9.1 Background 2.10.1 Background

The Settlement Zone contains
numerous plant species that, while
introduced, are of cultural heritage
value. Plantings, including avenues of
trees, create important ambience in the
Settlement Zone.
Vegetation at ground level within the
Settlement is minimal as a result of a
lack of water, quokka damage, overuse
and dense shade.
2.8.2 Issues
Issues associated with the management of
the vegetation in the Settlement include:
• The maintenance of trees and their
associated vistas can only be
undertaken by inter-planting seeds
from the existing stock, adapted to
the Island’s harsh environment.
• Lawned areas lead to enlarged
population levels of quokkas as they
utilise grass as a food source.
• Due to quokka grazing, fencing is an
essential element of landscaping.
• Lawn areas require a high level of
irrigation that draws valuable water
supplies away from essential demands.
The Rottnest ochre colour is a highly
recognisable element as it dominates
the colour-scape of the Island. The
colour was introduced to cover the
original whitewashed limestone walls
which created an extreme glare. The
colour was generated by adding rusted
nails to the wash and so originally there
was a range of different intensities of
Rottnest ochre on the buildings of the
Island, although all were of a similar hue.
2.9.2 Issues
Issues associated with the colour-scape
of the Settlement buildings include the
following:
• The use of the historical range of
colours on the Island adds historical
relevance and appropriate colour to
the Settlement vista.
2.9.3 Recommendation
• Define and implement a colour
scheme that maintains the character
of Rottnest Island.
Lighting is a definite requirement in the
Settlement Zone for visual and risk
reasons. Lighting has been added to
over a period of several years with no
comprehensive plan for location or style.
2.10.2 Issues
Issues associated with the management
and provision of public space lighting on
the Island include the following:
• The progressive nature of lighting
installations has resulted in a range of
styles being used that has led to visual
inconsistency.
• Inappropriate lighting could lead to
risk issues.
2.10.3 Recommendation
• Develop and implement a lighting
plan that addresses location and
style of lighting.

2.8.3 Recommendations

• Retain existing Settlement

vegetation including trees,
ground cover and shrubs.
• Maintain existing canopy lines within
the Settlement Zone, particularly
along the ocean frontage where they
are a key element of the vista.

31
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
3. Terrestrial Environment
3.1 INTRODUCTION
Part B. Management Planning
The natural environment of Rottnest
Island is a reflection of its separation
from the mainland for between 6,500
and 10,000 years, and of influences
from the many roles that the Island has
had over its 170 years of settlement. The
terrestrial environment contains many
reminders of the pre-developed
landscape but the relative abundance
and distribution of most characteristics
are altered from pre-settlement state.
Over recent years, substantial attention
has been devoted to the protection,
enhancement and restoration of the
environmental values of Rottnest Island.
The Authority’s environmental
management charter is formalised in
the Rottnest Island Authority Act 1987
that states that the purposes of the
Island’s management include:
• Protecting the flora and fauna of the
Island; and
• Maintaining and protecting the
natural environment and, to the
extent that the Authority’s resources
allow, repairing its natural environment.
The management of the Island’s
facilities and services is intrinsically
linked to environmental management.
This section should be read in
conjunction with other chapters of this
Management Plan that address the
management of facilities and activities.
Particularly relevant chapters of
Part B are Chapter 2 - Reserve Zoning
Plan and Settlement Planning
Scheme, and Chapter 6 - Holiday and
Recreation Services and Facilities.
32
3.2 GEOLOGY, LANDFORMS
AND SOILS
3.2.1 Background
Rottnest Island is the largest and
northernmost of a chain of limestone
Islands and reefs on the continental
shelf near Perth. The Island was
connected to the mainland during the
last Glacial period when the sea level
was 130 metres lower than at present.
With the rise in sea level from 10,000 to
6,500 years ago, the Island became
separated from the mainland.
The terrestrial component of Rottnest
Island is composed of marine and dune
limestone and sand formed during the
Pleistocene and Holocene periods up to
140,000 years ago.
The highly calcareous Pleistocene dunes
have been cemented to form the Tamala
limestone formation that is extensive
across the Island (Playford and Leech
1977). The dune terrain varies from high
parabolic dunes to low, gently undulating
limestone flats. Marine limestone was
formed during the last interglacial event
120 to 130 thousand years ago and
comprises fossil coral and shell species.
This occurs at Fairbridge Bluff.
Holocene coastal dunes have formed
around the margins of the Island and
overlie much of the limestone.
Foredunes occur at the landward
margins of most sandy bays and
interface with extensive parabolic dunes
that occur on the south and southwest
coast and minor parabolic dunes on the
north and northwest coasts. The dunes
are highly calcareous, partially lithified
in places, and display minimal soil
development (Hesp et al 1983). Soils on
the Island are low in nutrients and the
use of fertilisers in the Natural Zone is
limited to protect this natural state.
The Island overlies the Perth basin, a large
geological structure that extends from
the south coast to Geraldton and is a
known gas and oil source. As such, there
may be future proposals for titles to allow
for exploration near to or even on the
Island. The Department of Industry and
Resources is responsible for the
consideration of such proposals, in
consultation with the Authority.
A system of salt lakes and swamps
occurs in the central and northern parts
of the Island. The salt lakes probably
originated as collapsed cave formations
that were subsequently inundated due
to rising sea levels. They were sheltered
marine environments about 6,500 to
7,000 years ago and with the closure of
marine connections, became highly
saline lakes. Shell, sand and mud flats
and terraces adjoin the lake margins.
Sites of limestone with geological
heritage significance have been listed
on the National Heritage Register.
One of the most important features of
the geology of the Island is the evidence
of higher sea levels in the recent past,
especially from 5,900 to 4,800 years
ago when sea level was about 2.4
metres higher than it is today. That sea
level eroded a shoreline platform that is
very well displayed around the salt
lakes. At that time Rottnest Island
consisted of at least 10 separate Islands.
Four sites on Rottnest Island have been
proposed to be included in the Register
of the National Estate. These are
Fairbridge Bluff, Herschell Quarry, Salmon
Point, and elevated platforms that are
probably areas that partially coincide with
the Rottnest Island lake formations. Three
other areas that may warrant similar
recognition and protection are Barker
Swamp, Parker Point (including its
Pocillopora Reef) and Wilson Bay.
Sensitive marginal habitats occur on the
Island between major geological
formations. These are highly vulnerable to
human impacts, particularly the coastal
areas and wetland margins. The Reserve
Zoning Plan recognises this vulnerability
and contains controls on development in
sensitive marginal environments (refer
Part B, Chapter 2 - Reserve Zoning Plan
and Settlement Planning Scheme).
3.2.2 Values
Rottnest Island has the following
geological, landform and soil values:
• Sites of geological significance
contained on the Register of the
National Estate and additional sites
that have been proposed for inclusion.
• Evidence of higher sea levels in the
recent past, especially from 5,900 to
4,800 years ago when the sea level
was about 2.4 metres higher than it is
today, especially around the salt lakes.
• Significance as the largest and
northernmost of a chain of limestone
Islands and reefs on the continental
shelf near Perth.
• Geological formations of the Island
supporting a diverse range of
terrestrial habitats.
3.2.3 Issues
Issues relevant to the management of
the Island’s geological, landform and
soil values include:
• The Island contains a number of
coastal formations that are a hazard
to visitors. This issue is addressed in
Part B, Chapter 9 - Visitor Support
Services.
• Erosion can threaten the geological
and landform value of coastal
margins, and major erosion events are
currently occurring in isolated areas of
the Island.
• As Rottnest Island is a low nutrient
environment, the addition of
fertilisers requires careful
management.
3.2.4 Recommendations
• Develop and implement a strategy for
the protection and rehabilitation of
coastal landforms.
• Review and implement the
interpretation program featuring the
Island’s geology, landforms and soils.
3.3 HYDROLOGY
3.3.1 Background
Groundwater
The shallow unconfined aquifers on the
Island contain two significant
freshwater lenses. One is located to the
west of the central lighthouse and salt
lakes and is known as the Wadjemup
Aquifer. The other is located in the
vicinity of Oliver Hill, known as the
Oliver Hill Aquifer.
The Wadjemup Aquifer contains a lens
of freshwater overlying a zone of saline
water. The top of the lens is at its highest
elevation about 0.35 metres above sea
level and the maximum thickness is about
10 metres. The zone of mixed water
below the lens is about 15 metres thick.
The Wadjemup Aquifer has played a
major role on the Island as a source of
potable water. Groundwater from the
aquifer is abstracted via the Island’s
borefield system. Until recently the
aquifer provided 70 percent of the Island’s
potable water supply. With the installation
of a second desalination plant in 2002,
the proportion of water provided by the
aquifer has been reduced to 20 percent.
There are several issues relevant to the
abstraction of groundwater for potable
water supply and these are addressed in
Part B, Chapter 10 - Infrastructure
and Utilities.
Although the Oliver Hill Aquifer includes
a small lens of potable groundwater, it is
insufficient to warrant development.
Surface Water
Rottnest Island is the only Western
Australian Island with naturally
occurring, permanent deep lakes. The
six permanent salt lakes are extensive,
covering about 200 hectares or about
10.5 percent of the Island’s surface
(Playford and Leech, 1977) and ranging
from two to seven metres in depth
(Bunn and Edward, 1984).
Rottnest Island originally contained
eight seasonally fresh to brackish
ephemeral swamps that carried water in
winter and dried out in summer.
33
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
Most of the swamps have been affected
Part B. Management Planning
by human activities. In the early 1970s
five of the swamps (Bickley, Bulldozer,
Lighthouse, Parakeet and Salmon) were
mined for marl. The removal of marl
deepened the swamp creating
permanent water bodies and allowing
saline groundwater to seep in,
increasing the salinity of the swamps.
Riflerange Swamp has been subject to
nutrient enrichment, possibly from
previous golf course fertilisation
practices, and Aerodrome Swamp has in
the past been mown on one side
(Saunders and de Rebeira, 1993). Only
Barker Swamp remains in an essentially
undisturbed state.
The Authority has recently approved a
schedule for the rehabilitation of the
five swamps mined for marl, with three
scheduled for rehabilitation during the
life of this Management Plan.
Finally, four ephemeral freshwater pools
(Garden North, Corio, Gull Wash and
Frog Pool) and several freshwater seeps
occur on the Island around the margins
of the salt lakes.
There is a possible relationship between
the freshwater seepage around Barker
Swamp and the Island’s freshwater
aquifer; however, more research is
required to determine the nature and
extent of this relationship (Playford, pers
comm.). Similarly, the seepage at
Lighthouse Swamp may be connected
to that aquifer. Research to date has not
recorded a relationship between the
aquifer and other wetlands on the
Island. The relationship between the
34
Island’s groundwater, surface water and
rainfall levels and the relations of these
to abstraction rates is not well defined.
Physical disturbance of wetlands from
direct human activities can have
subsequent impacts on the water
quality and habitat value for
communities occupying these areas.
The Reserve Zoning Plan (refer Part B,
Chapter 2 - Reserve Zoning Plan and
Settlement Planning Scheme)
manages this by prohibiting use of and
public access to the Island’s wetlands,
except as part of a supervised tour.
A nitrogen-rich plume emanating from
the Rottnest Island landfill is threatening
the water quality and ecology of Lake
Herschel and associated freshwater
seeps. Trees have been planted in the
path of the plume in an attempt to
absorb the nutrients.
3.3.2 Values
Rottnest Island has the following
hydrological values:
• The Wadjemup aquifer is valued as a
significant source of potable water for
Rottnest Island.
• Rottnest Island is the only Western
Australian Island with permanent
deep lakes.
• Possible links between the aquifer
and wetlands give the aquifer
significant ecological value.
• Because of its relatively undisturbed
state, Barker Swamp is representative
of pre-disturbance swamp conditions.
• The Island’s wetlands provide habitat
and a water source for a range of flora
and fauna.
3.3.3 Issues
Groundwater
Issues associated with the
management of the Island’s
groundwater resources include:
• The lack of definition of the
relationship between rainfall, the
aquifer and the Island’s wetlands
limits the Authority’s ability to
determine appropriate management
actions to protect the hydrological
values of the Island.
• The development of recreation and
holiday facilities on Rottnest Island,
requiring the installation of utilities
and infrastructure, has brought with
it isolated incidents of groundwater
contamination. All infrastructure and
utilities on the Island are managed to
limit groundwater impacts.
Surface Water
Issues associated with the
management of the Island’s surface
water resources include:
• Management of the nutrient plume
emanating from the landfill is
required to protect the water quality
of Lake Herschel.
• The past treatment of swamps is
linked with the suspected decline in
reptilian and amphibian fauna
populations. Rehabilitation of the
swamps may have significant positive
effects on these fauna.
3.3.4 Recommendations
• Undertake research into the relationship
between rainfall, groundwater and
the wetlands of Rottnest Island.
• Protect, preserve and interpret Barker
Swamp as a primary example of the
 pre-disturbed condition of Rottnest
Island swamps.
• Protect, conserve and interpret Rottnest
Island lakes, swamps, freshwater seeps
and surrounding vegetation.
• Monitor water and salinity levels
within swamps and freshwater seeps
on Rottnest Island.
• Rehabilitate Lighthouse Swamp.
• Rehabilitate Parakeet Swamp.
• Rehabilitate Salmon Swamp.
• Develop a Plan for the rehabilitation
of Bulldozer and Bickley Swamps.
• Develop and implement a Plan to
interpret the rehabilitation of
Rottnest Island swamps.
• Manage the nutrient plume from
Rottnest Island’s landfill to ensure
minimal impact to the water quality
and other values of Lake Herschel.
3.4 LANDSCAPE AND VISTAS
3.4.1 Background
The term ‘landscape’ refers to the
appearance or visual quality of an area
as determined by its geology, soils,
landforms, vegetation, water features
and land use history.
On a broad scale, Rottnest Island is
typical of other semi-arid and
Mediterranean landscapes of the
Western Australian coastline. In the
overall State context, Rottnest Island lies
within the Swan Coastal Plain
Landscape Character Type - one of 39
distinct broad-scale landscape areas
located throughout Western Australia
(Department of Conservation and Land
Management, 1994).
At a local scale, the Island can be
classified into distinct areas of common
distinguishing aesthetic characteristics
known as landscape Character Units. Five
landscape Character Units can be
identified for Rottnest Island, four of which
are contained within the Natural Zone
and one within the Settlement Zone. The
Character Units are briefly described below.
Marine Character Unit:
Comprises marine waters adjoining
the Island’s coast and the embayment
areas that contain these waters.
This Character Unit also includes views
of adjacent islands and rocks located
within the Reserve.
Coastal Landscape Character Unit:
Comprises a broad Zone of variable
width, extending from the onshore
waters to the landward boundaries of
active marine erosional weathering. The
boundaries coincide with the outer
Islands, onshore reef landforms and the
inner stable dune and associated
vegetation communities.
Hinterland Landscape Character
Unit: Comprises the remaining
stabilised coastal dune limestone lands,
inland from the Coastal Landscape
Character Unit.
Lakes Landscape Character Unit:
Comprises the extensive swamp and
salt lakes system with associated
shoreline flats, salt marshes, and relic
sand/shell terraces and flats.
Settlement Landscape Character
Unit: Comprises the major built-up
areas of the Island, including the
Thomson, Kingstown, Geordie and
Longreach Bay Settlement and
accommodation facilities. This unit
includes the European plantings such as
the Norfolk pines which contribute to
the vista and character of the
Settlement Zone.
This section deals exclusively with the
four natural landscape elements of
Rottnest Island. The management of
the Settlement Character Unit is
addressed in Part B, Chapter 5 -
Cultural Heritage.
3.4.2 Values
Rottnest Island holds several landscape
values including the following:
• There is an unusually high diversity of the
landscape Character Units, particularly
given the small size of the Island.
• The inland, coastal and marine vistas
associated with the range of
character units are a key element of
the visitor experience and contribute
to the appreciation of the Island.
3.4.3 Issues
Issues associated with the management
of the Island’s landforms include:
• Alterations to the existing diversity
and nature of Character Units will
have an impact on the visitor
experience on Rottnest Island.
• Fire, grazing and various other forms
of habitat modifications have
significantly disturbed the hinterland
landscape Character Unit.
• Any development, particularly
development that screens existing
vistas or modifies the nature of the
landscape, has the potential to
negatively affect the vista and
landscape values of Rottnest Island.
35
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
• The addition of natural or built
Part B. Management Planning
landscape elements that are not
consistent with the landscape
characteristic may adversely affect the
value of the various Character Units.
3.4.4 Recommendations
• Revise and commence the
implementation of plans for outer
bays to minimise negative impact on
the diversity and values of the Island’s
landscape and vistas.
• Develop and implement a Plan
to effectively manage and
interpret the values of the
Island’s natural landscapes.
3.5 ATMOSPHERE
3.5.1 Background
Air Pollution
The Authority is committed to the
management of air pollution on
Rottnest Island. The Authority is a
signatory to the National Greenhouse
Challenge and the State Cleaner
Production Statement, and is an affiliate
to the global Green Globe process.
There are positive benefits that will arise
from State, National and global
commitments to the management and
reduction of greenhouse gases.
Contributors to greenhouse gases
include vehicles, boats, plant,
equipment and wood heaters. The
power station is the largest contributor
to greenhouse emissions on the Island.
The Authority is taking advantage of
several opportunities to reduce the
36
production of greenhouse gas
emissions, including the planned
construction of a wind turbine which
will reduce the existing reliance on
diesel generated power. This issue is
addressed in Part B, Chapter 10 -
Infrastructure and Utilities,
Section 10.5 - Energy. Alternative
powered vehicles are now available in
the market and are currently being
trialed on Rottnest Island. Wood heaters
are being phased out and replaced with
alternative sources of heating.
Odour
The Rottnest Island Wastewater
Treatment Plant, landfill and
composting site have the potential to
cause odour, but have not been
observed to be an issue to date.
Noise
Vehicles, plant, equipment and aircraft
are major contributors to the noise
levels on Rottnest Island. Some vehicles
on the Island are considered noisy,
particularly when used early in the
morning or late in the evening. Noisy
plant machinery on the Island is
appropriately located to prevent noise
impacts and is not considered an issue.
Noise from aircraft impacts on the
amenity of the Island at certain times of
the year. The amount of air traffic is a
result of the Island’s positioning beacon
that makes it an attractive destination
for training schools. The commercial
aircraft carrying passengers to the Island
are thought to be only a minor
contributor to aircraft noise impacts.
3.5.2 Values
The clean air and relative quietness of
Rottnest Island contributes to its popularity
as a recreation and holiday destination.
3.5.3 Issues
Issues associated with the
management of the Island’s
atmospheric conditions include:
• The small number of vehicles on the
Island contributes to a relatively clean
atmosphere. The low level of air
pollution and noise makes the
exhaust and noise from the few
vehicles on the Island noticeable.
• The management of the airspace above
the Reserve is important as aircraft
noise affects the Island’s amenity.
3.5.4 Recommendations
• Develop and implement strategies to
reduce greenhouse gas emissions on
Rottnest Island in accordance with the
National Greenhouse Challenge actions.
• Eliminate wood fires in Authority
accommodation and replace them
with an alternative environmentally
sensitive and cost-effective source of
accommodation heating.
• Investigate options to reduce the
impact of aircraft noise.
3.6 TERRESTRIAL FLORA & FAUNA
3.6.1 Background
Rottnest Island experienced significant
changes in vegetation composition
through the Pleistocene and early-to-
mid Holocene periods. As the sea level
rose and fell the Island alternated
between being a non-coastal mainland
site with sea levels 130 metres lower
than at present and a coastal Island
when sea levels were at least three
metres higher than at present. The
vegetation would have fluctuated from
being dominated by Tuart woodland to
being dominated by coastal Heath
(Chappell, 1983; Churchill, 1960;
Marchant and Abbott, 1981).
In addition to the provisions of the
Rottnest Island Authority Act 1987, all
of Rottnest Island’s indigenous flora and
fauna are protected by the Wildlife
Conservation Act 1950.
3.6.2 Terrestrial Habitats
Terrestrial areas of Rottnest Island have
been classified into six distinct habitat
types described below.
Coastal habitat
The coastal habitats of Rottnest Island
are characterised by resilient vegetation
that acts to stabilise dunes and protect
areas further inland. Coastal areas are
the most exposed on the Island and are
also popular destinations for visitors.
The combination of visitors and
weather extremes places pressure on
coastal habitats.
Woodland habitat
Woodland species, including Rottnest
Island Pine, Tea Tree and Summer
Scented Wattle, once covered two-
thirds of the Island. Historical evidence
of this includes Vlamingh’s observations
and aerial photographs taken since 1941.
The coverage of woodland on the Island
is now considerably less. There are
several factors likely to have contributed
to the decline in woodland areas
including sheep grazing, settlement
development, fire, timber cutting for
firewood and construction purposes
and quokkas grazing on regenerated
areas. A 20-year Woodland Restoration
Strategy is in its fifth year of
implementation on Rottnest Island. This
will shortly be revised to improve the
result of reforestation efforts.
Grass and heathland habitat
In 1998, grasslands and heathlands
occupied 62 percent of the total Island
area. The total area of grass will
decrease as woodland restoration
increases and is likely to fall to 40
percent of the Island.
Salt lake habitat
Although Rottnest Island is small
compared to other Australian coastal
Islands, it is unique in that it possesses a
salt lake complex. The lakes contain
columnar algal stromatolites and
microbial mats on the lake bottom up to
10cm thick in areas. Stromatolites
represent the earliest record of life on
earth, dating from some 3,500 million
years ago. Brine shrimp exist in the lakes
supporting a wide variety of permanent,
vagrant and migratory birds feeding at
Rottnest Island.
The salt lakes are a particularly
important habitat for numerous bird
species including internationally
important migratory bird species.
The international Ramsar Convention
to which Australia is a signatory
recognises and provides protection for
habitats of protected migratory bird
species. Wetlands on Rottnest Island
are home to many internationally
protected migratory birds but these
areas are not covered by this
convention. There may be benefits
from listing the Island’s wetlands on
the Ramsar Convention.
Three butterfly species and localised
quokka populations rely on the salt
lakes for food and habitat.
Swamps and freshwater
pool habitat
The swamps and freshwater pools are
a significant habitat. The three frog
species found on Rottnest Island rely on
the swamps and pools for food and
breeding grounds. Many other fauna
rely on the swamps and freshwater
pools especially during summer months.
Freshwater lens and seep habitat
Freshwater seeps are important for a
number of species of flora such as water
thyme (Hydrilla verticillata). This flora
supports a range of fauna including two
lizard species, one of which is
uncommon (Bassiana trillineata) and is
confined to damp places. A species of
native couch, Sperogulus verginicus, is
also commonly found around the seeps.
Localised quokka populations use the
seeps as a source of fresh drinking
water. The Rock Parrot (Neophema
petrophila) and White Fronted Chat
(Epthianura albifrons) depend on these
sources of water as does the Australian
Shelduck (Tardorna tadornoides) which
defends them as part of its brooding
territory. The Caspian Tern
(Hydroprogne caspia) also utilises the
seeps as a freshwater source to wash.
37
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008

Relationship between Habitats and rehabilitation areas and sensitive bird 3.6.3 Terrestrial Flora
Part B. Management Planning

the Reserve Zoning Plan breeding sites, in order to minimise

As described above there are several
sensitive ecological habitats on the
Island. The Reserve Zoning Plan
manages the impact to these areas, by
restricting access where necessary.
In particular, the Reserve Zoning Plan
controls public access to wetlands,
woodland restoration areas, dune
The range of vegetation types on the
negative impacts from associated
Island is described in Table 3 - Rottnest
activities (refer Part B, Chapter 2 -
Island Vegetation Types.
Reserve Zoning Plan and Settlement
Planning Scheme). The Zoning Plan also
minimises activities in the sensitive areas
of the Natural Zone by the establishment
of Medium Use Activity Nodes.

Table 3 - Rottnest Island Vegetation Types

Vegetation Type Description

Coastal Dense Heath The coastal dense heath comprises the ‘mobile’ dune community that occurs on beach backshores, foredunes and blowouts,
and the ‘stable’ dune community chiefly comprising parabolic dunes.

Acanthocarpus preissii This community covers approximately one-third of the Island, although the two dominant species (Acanthocarpus preissii and
and Stipa flavescens Stipa flavescens) are present within many of the other communities. The community is extensive because Stipa and
(Low Dense Heath) Acanthocarpus rapidly re-grow from root crowns following fire and are unpalatable to quokkas (O’Connor et al, 1977).

Acacia littorea The Acacia littorea (formerly A. cuneata) community occurs on shallow limestone headlands and Holocene parabolic dunes.
Dense stands of A. littorea may die out from the centre and regenerate as seeds become established.

Acacia rostellifera The Acacia rostellifera community occurs as a low forest in the Island’s sheltered eastern portion, and as a wind-pruned closed
(Low Forest or scrub in the less sheltered western portion. The community was extensive on the Island prior to 1930 but now occurs as small,
Closed Scrub): scattered thickets because of extensive recurrent wildfires and excessive grazing by quokkas (Rippey and Rowland ,1995).

Melaleuca lanceolata/ The Melaleuca lanceolata/Callistris preiseii association formed the Island’s original vast woodland vegetation type. Melaleuca
Callitris preiseii lanceolata grows in many forms including low closed forest and closed scrub. Callistris preiseii has declined markedly to the
(Low Forest) extent that this association is no longer very well represented on the Island. Re-establishment of this association is an objective
of the Woodland Restoration Strategy.

Templetonia retusa The Templetonia retusa (dense heath) vegetation primarily occurs on shallow limestone ridges surrounding the salt lakes
(Dense Heath) at the eastern end of the Island. Where it is dense it is generally the only species present and where less dense may have an
under-storey of perennials.

Pittosporum phy Pittosporum phylliraeoides was formerly mapped as part of the Templetonia dense heath. It dominates certain areas and has
lliraeoides (Low Forest) also invaded some areas (for example Geordie Bay and Little Parakeet) (White and Edmiston, 1974).

Saline and Brackish This community extends around the margins of the salt lakes and brackish swamps. It is particularly extensive on the northwest
Water Marsh Community margin of Lake Baghdad.

Mixed Succulent This mat community principally occurs on exposed limestone headlands and on a few sandy scree slopes around the coast.
Mat Community The community is characterised by low spreading scrubs, often succulent, and some annual species. The introduced annual
Gasoul crystallinum forms an extensive association along the western cliff-edge of Cape Vlamingh.

Nitraria billardieri This dense spreading succulent scrub forms homogeneous stands on limestone cliffs at Cape Vlamingh and on some
Community offshore stacks and Islands.

38
3.6.4 Terrestrial Fauna
Mammals
Only two native mammal species remain
on Rottnest Island: the quokka (Setonix
brachyurus), and the White Striped
Mastiff Bat (Tadarida australis).
The quokka is one of the most
recognisable symbols of Rottnest Island
and is an attraction for visitors. In
addition to being protected by the
Wildlife Conservation Act 1950, the
quokka is also a declared threatened
species. Rottnest Island carries the
largest existing population of quokkas,
estimated at between 8,000 and
12,000 individuals.
Hunting by Aboriginal prisoners on
Rottnest Island up until the 1920s kept
quokka numbers low. The combined
impact of subsequent protection and
ample supply of food led to a quokka
population increase. The increased
grazing by quokkas has now
contributed to a decline in the Island’s
overall woodland area to the extent that
trees and shrubs are unable to
regenerate without protective fencing.
The presence of the white striped
mastiff bat on Rottnest Island was
recorded from a deceased specimen
found in 1997. Since then, live specimens
have been handed in by visitors and seen
and heard in the Kingstown area (Wright
pers comm, 2001).
Birds
Rottnest Island has a rich bird fauna
with 112 species having been recorded
on, over or around the Island (Saunders
and de Rebeira,1985 and 1993).
Of these, around 49 species occur
regularly on the Island, including a
number of transequitorial migrant
species (Saunders and de Rebeira, 1993)
which breed in the Arctic Circle and
spend the northern winter feeding
around the Island’s salt lakes.
Important habitats for birds on the
Island include coastal breeding grounds
for the breeding migrant Fairy Tern
(Sterna nereis) and Wedge-tailed
Shearwater (Puffinus pacificus) and the
salt lakes and swamps that are
important for the large number of water
birds, especially migratory species
(Saunders and de Rebeira, 1993).
There have been three recorded bird
extinctions and ten immigrations of
birds to the Island. All of the extinctions
and seven migrations have been directly
related to human influence (Saunders
and de Rebeira, 1985).
Isolated populations of Red Capped
Robins and Golden Whistlers occur in
the Island’s Melaleuca woodlands.
These species are no longer present on
the Swan Coastal Plain or on Garden
Island. The Honeyeater on the Island is
significantly larger than mainland
individuals of the same species.
Reptiles and Frogs
Reptiles and frogs are an integral part of
Rottnest Island’s terrestrial ecosystem.
Seventeen species of reptiles
(two geckoes, two legless lizards, 12
skink lizards and two snakes) and three
species of frogs occur on Rottnest Island
(Brooker et al, 1995, and Smith, 1997).
Due to its isolation for 6,500 years and
the rigorous conditions on the Island,
local genetic adaptations have taken
place and some Island populations have
diverged from their mainland ancestors.
As a result of this, there are two
endemic subspecies on the Island which
are the Rottnest Island Bobtail (Tiliqua
rugosa knowi) and the Rottnest Island
Dugite (Pseudonaja affinis exilis).
The Salmon-bellied Skink (Egernia
napoleonis) and another skink, Lerista
lineata, may represent extinctions that
have occurred since European
settlement, with no sightings since
1959 and 1930 respectively (Storr 1989;
Brooker et al, 1995). A number of other
skink species and one of the legless
lizards were described as rare or
uncommon in 1985 (Storr, 1989);
however, little recent data is available.
Of particular note is the skink
Acritoscincus trilineatum, which is
limited to areas of damp soil and may be
affected by a reduction in the extent of
freshwater seeps.
The three frog species on Rottnest Island
are the Southern Moaning Frog
(Heleioporus eyrei), the Squelching Froglet
(Crinia insignifera) and the Western
Green Tree Frog (Litoria moorei). These
frog species rely on the swamps and
pools for food and breeding grounds.
39
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
Butterflies
Part B. Management Planning
At least 16 species of butterflies have
been recorded on the Island (Williams,
1997 and Powell, 1998). While some of
these species are considered uncommon,
none is considered rare or endangered.
All butterfly species on Rottnest Island
are found on the mainland.
Spiders, insects and other
arthropods
Little research has been undertaken on
the terrestrial arthropods of Rottnest
Island. These groups are an important
part of the ecosystem, particularly as a
food source. At least 15 species of
spiders and 42 species of ants have been
identified on the Island.
Pests and Feral Animals
There are a number of pests and introduced
species found on the Island. These include
cats, black rats, house mice, peafowl,
galahs, magpies, silver gulls, ravens,
pheasants and two species of exotic doves.
Peafowl and pheasant are introduced
but these species are relatively benign in
terms of their impact on the natural
environment, and are also valued
cultural heritage elements of the Island.
The other species of birds are likely to
have migrated from the mainland but
their numbers have increased to the
extent that they are considered pests
and detract from the visitor experience.
Cats and rodents can severely impact on
native fauna by preying on them or
competing for food or territory. Feral
cats on Rottnest Island have been
greatly reduced, and possibly eliminated
as a result of the eradication program.
40
At various times over the Island’s history
horses, sheep, cattle, cats, dogs, poultry
and caged birds have been allowed on
Rottnest Island. Under current
management arrangements the
transport of exotic species to the Island
is prohibited.
Weeds
Several weed species are prevalent on
the Island both within and outside the
Settlement Zone. These may have the
potential to out-compete native species
within all habitat types.
Plant Diseases
Plant diseases have not been well
researched on Rottnest Island, although
the canker fungus that kills the aerial
parts of plants is evident on some of the
Island’s tuart trees. Armillaria sp, an
indigenous species of mushroom
producing pathogen that causes infection,
is present on Garden Island but has not
been detected on Rottnest Island.
3.6.5 Values
Various aspects of habitats, flora and
fauna have value on Rottnest Island:
• Quokkas and White Striped Mastiff
Bats are highly valued as the two
remaining terrestrial mammals of
Rottnest Island.
• Rottnest Island contains many
examples of diverged fauna subspecies
as a result of the Island’s isolation.
• Remnant woodland habitats represent
the original dominant vegetation type
at the period of settlement.
• Rottnest Island provides habitat for
several uncommon, rare or significant
fauna species
- Swamps and freshwater seeps
provide the only remaining habitats
on the Island for three frog species
and some lizard species.
- Melaleuca sp. woodlands of the Island
are an important habitat for several
isolated populations of Red Capped
Robins and Golden Whistlers, which
are now absent from the Swan
Coastal Plain and Garden Island.
- Internationally protected breeding
sites for migratory bird species occur
around the Island including the
coastal and wetland areas that are
possibly worthy of international
Ramsar Wetland status. Migratory
bird species are protected under
international agreements applicable
to Rottnest Island.
• Stromatolites represent the earliest
record of life on earth, dating from
some 3,500 million years ago.
• Coastal vegetation stabilises dune
systems and protects against erosion.
• The ability of wildlife to be viewed
and appreciated at distances closer
than on the mainland due to the
history of human contact is an
important aspect of visitor enjoyment.
3.6.6 Issues and sensitive areas is a threat to the 3.6.7 Recommendations
Island’s habitat and property values.
Issues associated with the management • Review and implement the Woodland
• Erosion processes threaten the coastal
of Rottnest Island’s terrestrial habitats, Restoration Strategy, in the context of
habitat value of Rottnest Island as
flora and fauna include: a vegetation management strategy.
many important flora and fauna
• Threatened and endangered species • Assess and manage all developments
occur in this area.
inhabit Rottnest Island. on the Island to minimise possible
• Weed species have the potential to
• Habitat management is critical to the threats to the habitats, flora and
out-compete native species within all
preservation of the Island’s unique fauna of Rottnest Island.
habitat types.
and rare fauna and flora species. • Review and implement a plan for the
• Some pest species, particularly silver
• Any future development that does interpretation of the flora and fauna
gulls and ravens, diminish the visitor
not pay due regard to the terrestrial of Rottnest Island.
experience while others may compete
floral and faunal values of Rottnest • Develop and implement a fire
with native Rottnest Island species.
Island could threaten important management plan for Rottnest Island
• Rottnest Island’s environment
species by either modifying or that recognises key ecological areas of
provides an opportunity to increase
removing their habitats. protection, in coordination with the
the awareness and appreciation of
• Rehabilitation of the Island’s swamps Fire and Emergency Services Authority.
flora, fauna and their habitats.
and the restoration of woodlands are • Implement an effective weed
critical elements in the reversal of management program for Rottnest
human impacts on the Island. Island, based on existing procedures.
• Management of quokkas with • Implement an effective feral animal
respect to the woodland restoration eradication program, based on
program is critical. existing procedures.
• A woodland restoration program • Encourage research on Island flora
intended to restore the relative and fauna, particularly that which
distribution of vegetation on the contributes to the management of
Island prior to human habitation will plant diseases on Rottnest Island.
reduce the present coverage of other • Investigate the benefits of pursuing
vegetation types. Ramsar wetland classification for
• Heavy human use of a particular area Rottnest Island wetlands used by
or habitat type may make those areas migratory bird species.
vulnerable to impact.
• In Rottnest Island’s dry environment,
fire is a threat to all habitats. Fire is
particularly a threat to woodland
communities as these have lengthy
regeneration periods.
• Currently the firebreak system is
based on historic tracks and breaks in
vegetation. The absence of a more
strategic system considering
prevailing winds, potential for erosion

41
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
4. Marine Environment
4.1 INTRODUCTION
Part B. Management Planning
Rottnest Island lies just inside the 50-
metre water depth contour of the
continental shelf. Approximately 30km
west of Rottnest Island the sea bottom
rapidly descends to approximately
4000m. A reef, which reduces the depth
of the water to 10m, extends between
the eastern tip of Rottnest Island and
Garden Island.
Rottnest Island’s marine biota has been
the subject of much study. A collection
of some 30 research papers relating to
marine biota was published in 1993
(Wells et al 1993a; 1993b).
Table 4: Marine Habitats of Rottnest Island
Habitat Type
1. Sand
2. Seagrass
3. Seagrass (1)
4. Seagrass (2)
5. Mixed seagrass and reef
6. Reef
7. Intertidal platform
8. Reef wash
These habitat types are described in more detail on the following pages.
42
The environmental management of the
Marine Reserve is intrinsically linked to
the management and control of the
facilities and recreational activities that
occur in the marine environment. This
section should be read in conjunction
with Part B, Chapter 7 - Marine
Recreation and Facilities that deals
with management actions relating to
these. The Reserve Zoning Plan
(established in Part B, Chapter 2 -
Reserve Zoning Plan and Settlement
Planning Scheme) also influences
the outcomes and recommendations
of this chapter and should be read to
gain a full appreciation of the set of
management tools recommended for
the marine environment.
Dominant Plant Species
Sparse seagrasses (Posidonia spp., Heterozostera, Halophila)
Amphibolis spp. dominant, Posidonia spp. subdominant
Posidonia ostenfeldii, Posidonia coriacea, Amphibolus griffithii
Posidonia australis
Amphibolus spp, Ecklonia, Sargassum, Algal turf
Ecklonia, Sargassum, Algal turf, Amphibolis antarctica, Thalassondendron
Algal turf, Sargassum
Sargassum, Ecklonia, Algal Turf
4.2 BACKGROUND
4.2.1 Marine Habitats
Eight habitat categories within the
marine waters of the Reserve have been
described. These are outlined in Table 4
- Marine Habitats of Rottnest Island
below. In the shallow (<10m), subtidal
regions algae and seagrasses
proliferate. Inter-tidal zones consist of
limestone rock platforms and small
sandy beaches. In sheltered bays,
seagrass meadows support thriving
communities and provide nurseries for
juvenile marine species. Rottnest Island
boasts the most southerly occurring
tropical coral assemblages in the State.
% Area
20
7
3
1
10
45
4
9
Sandy bottom
These areas consist of bare sand or
sparsely populated patches with smaller
seagrass species. These areas of sandy
patches often contain a large diversity
of microorganisms.
Seagrass and algae communities
Seagrasses have been classified into
four communities that may also
incorporate the macroalgae species. Of
the eight species of seagrasses that
appear in the Reserve, five are large
southern Australian species that form
extensive, secure meadows that occupy
over 60 percent of the habitat.
Seagrass and algae are the major
primary producers in the marine system
and sustain many other marine animals
and decomposers either directly or
indirectly. Seagrass meadows act as a
substrate for colonisation by plants and
animals that further contribute to the
food chain (Walker, 1985). The larger
marine plant species do not support
much direct grazing but instead break
down after detachment and support
organisms that feed on decaying and
decomposing matter. These, in turn,
support life higher in the food chain
(Walker, 1985).
Seagrass is also an integral structure of
the bay environment. Meadows provide
protection by reducing current flow,
resulting in sediment trapping and
stabilisation that decrease the potential
for erosion.
Intertidal platform and reef
communities
This group is further divided into three
marine habitats: the reef, the reef/rocks
awash and intertidal platforms. The reef
and reef/rocks awash support similar
habitats, but are separated by the
degree of exposure to wave action and
turbulence (Rottnest Island Authority,
1985a). Reef communities are rarely
exposed by low tides and are located in
areas of lower turbulence, although
there are areas around the Island that
are subject to harsh environmental
conditions. In contrast, reef/rocks
awash are often exposed at low tide and
usually have waves breaking on them.
Intertidal communities are highly
exposed to wave and tidal impact and,
as a result, can only support plants
capable of withstanding both this
turbulence and conditions of extreme
heat in summer.
4.2.2 Marine Fauna
Rottnest Island’s wide variety of habitats
provide for a diverse marine fauna.
A significant value of Rottnest Island’s
marine fauna is its unique mixture of
tropical and temperate species
including several species endemic to
Western Australia. This species mix is
related to a variety of factors that
influence the waters of Rottnest Island
(Wells and Walker, 1993).
West End is particularly important for
illustrating this unique species diversity.
A study of tropical/temperate mollusc
ratios and their spatial variability on
Rottnest Island and the mainland coast
found that tropical species favour the
west end of the Island over the east end
(Wells, 1985). The distribution of
tropical mollusc species at West End is
unique to Perth. As these species are
near to their southernmost distribution
limits they are particularly susceptible to
environmental disturbance (Wells, 1985).
It has been suggested that the
zoogeographic importance of tropical
species at Rottnest Island is a general
faunal feature and not restricted to
molluscs (Wells, 1985). The southward
flowing Leeuwin Current is thought to
be the mechanism allowing planktonic
larvae of tropical species to reach
Rottnest Island and survive. This may
account for the preference of tropical
fauna species for West End.
Currents are also thought to be the
reason for the distinction between habitat
and fauna types on the northern and
southern coasts of Rottnest Island. It is
noteworthy that there is no portion of
the northern marine environment of the
Reserve that is currently protected from
various potential human-induced impacts.
Coral Communities
Coral reef areas are important habitats
for many marine species, particularly as
a nursery site for juvenile life forms.
They also provide sites for breeding,
reproduction, and protection for a
diversity of marine organisms.
The coral representation at Rottnest
Island is diverse but typically not dense.
Rottnest Island is the southern most
location of the coral Pocillopora
damicornis, located at Pocillopora Reef
43
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
(southern coast near Salmon Point)
Part B. Management Planning
(Hutchins, 1985, Wells et al., 1993a,
Wells et al., 1993b). Another 25 species
of coral have been recorded (Veron and
Marsh, 1988) with most present as
isolated colonies.
The most diverse coral communities at
Rottnest Island are located at the
southern end of the Island, in particular
Kitson Point, Salmon Point and Parker
Point (Marsh, 1985). In addition to
Pocillopora, Rottnest Island is the
southernmost limit of three other
hermatypic coral species or genera
(Porites, Acropora and Alveopora) and
two ahermatypic Tubastereai species
(Marsh, 1985). The areas from Parker
Point to Salmon Point and from Nancy
Cove to Kitson Point are also significant
for the preservation of coral, and an
increase in the diversity of coral species
has been observed over the last ten years.
Fish
There are approximately 420 recorded
fish species in the waters surrounding
Rottnest Island (Hutchins, pers data).
These range from reef-dwelling gobies
to pelagic species such as the mackerels,
although reef dwelling species form the
majority (Hutchins, 1979).
Approximately 20 percent are endemic
to Western Australia, 25 percent are
tropical, and the remainder are warm
temperate southern Australian species
(Hutchins, 1979). Parker Point has the
largest amount of tropical fish activity,
centered on the 100m long reef of
Pocillopora coral (Hutchins, 1985).
The Island contains numerous examples
of fish activity including Buffalo Bream
44
algal polygon behaviour and fish Storm-tossed seagrass dominates Island
cleaning stations - areas where fish visit beaches in winter. Decaying seagrass is
to have their scales cleaned by other fish. recognised as an important contributor
to the ecosystem as it provides habitat
4.2.3 Marine Flora for a variety of insects and food for fish.
A total of 355 species of marine plants
4.3 VALUES
have been identified in the waters
surrounding Rottnest Island (Huisman The values of the marine environment
and Walker 1990). Included in this are of Rottnest Island are many and include:
eight species of seagrass, 54 species of • There is a unique mixture of tropical
green algae, 71 species of brown algae and temperate fauna and flora
and 222 of red algae (Rottnest Island species, with a prominent component
Authority, 1995). of endemic Western Australian species.
• The Island has the southern-most
Biogeographically, the marine flora of
occurring assemblages of tropical corals
Rottnest Island has a different
in the State and possibly the nation.
distributional pattern to the fauna.
• The Island is the southernmost
Almost two-thirds of the algae are
location of the coral species and
temperate species and 17 percent are
genera: Pocillopora damicornis,
endemic to Rottnest Island. In contrast
Porites, Alveopora and Acropora; and
to the fauna, only 3 percent of the flora
two ahermatypic Tubastereai species.
are Indo-west Pacific and 11 percent are
• There is a particularly diverse coral mix
warm temperate species. The distinct
in the areas of Kitson Point to Nancy
change from the western end to the
Cove and Parker Point to Salmon Point.
eastern end of Rottnest Island (as
• Reef and seagrass habitats support
displayed by the fauna) is not evident in
marine fauna and flora by providing
the algae either. It has been speculated
sites for breeding, spawning, feeding
that this is due to the much shorter lives
and shelter and in particular is home
of the propagules of algae in
to juveniles of marine species.
comparison with the planktonic larvae
• Coral reef habitats in particular are
of animals (Hoffman, 1987).
important for the maintenance of
tropical fauna at high latitude.
The dominant seagrass species belong
• Reef, seagrass and shipwrecks have
to the genera Posidonia and Amphibolis.
social value in that they provide
These are large southern Australian
popular sites for recreational activities.
seagrasses capable of forming extensive
• Marine habitats support recreational
stable meadows. The remaining smaller
and commercial fisheries through the
species colonise more readily, but they
provision of breeding and nursery
are less stable in a stressed high-energy
sites and habitats for species targeted
environment (Wells et al., 1993a; Wells
et al., 1993b). Rottnest Island has a by these groups.
notably high level of seagrass diversity.
• Seagrass meadows reduce water flow
and stabilise subtidal sediments,
preventing erosion.
• Seagrass and algae are important
primary producers in the marine
system sustaining other marine
animals either directly or indirectly.
• The Marine Reserve contains a notably
high species diversity of seagrass.
• The clarity and high water quality of
Rottnest Island Reserve waters
contribute to this area being a popular
diving and swimming location, and to
the health of the environment.
• Numerous fragile submerged
limestone structures, which represent
previous geological periods, are
valued diving and snorkelling sites.
4.4 WATER QUALITY
4.4.1 Issues
Water quality around Rottnest Island
can be affected by various marine-based
or land-based activities. These include
the discharge of boat-based sullage,
fuel and oil spills and land-based
discharges, as discussed below.
Liquid waste from vessels
A major concern for the Authority has
been the discharge of boat-based liquid
wastes into the bays of Rottnest Island.
In particular, concerns relate to the
discharge of ‘black water’ (that includes
human waste and waste from marine
sanitation devices), bilge water and
‘grey water’ (the term used to describe
dirty water from showers, hand basins
and kitchens).
The discharge of liquid waste has the
potential to increase concentrations of
nutrients, bacteria, viruses, and
introduce chemicals, fats and oils to
the marine environment.
Rottnest Island has the potential to be
more susceptible to liquid waste
impacts than most metropolitan marine
areas as boats occupy its bays for
extended periods on overnight stays,
and often there is a concentration of
boats in a bay further increasing the
potential for impact.
The flushing characteristics of a bay can
also influence the potential impact of
liquid waste discharge into a particular
area. Some peak boating periods coincide
with calm sea conditions leading to
increased residence times and minimal
dispersion of discharged substances.
The introduction of bacteria and viruses
into popular swimming areas can result
in a serious public health risk. The
Authority undertakes regular water
quality monitoring in accordance to
ANZECC guidelines for primary contact
(eg. swimming). Monitoring data
has revealed that there have been
incidents where ANZECC guidelines for
primary contact have been exceeded.
These incidents usually occur in areas
of high boat concentration and times
of low flushing, for example around
Easter holidays.
Nutrient enrichment from liquid waste
can potentially lead to phytoplankton
blooms, and subsequently to light
reduction. This can lead to anoxic
conditions resulting in widespread death
of flora and fauna, a localised reduction
in species diversity, and an unpleasant
smell of rotting seaweed (Walker, 1985).
Research to date on the impact of
liquid waste at Rottnest Island, has
concentrated on bacterial loads with
respect to public health. As no research
has been conducted on nutrient
enrichment, there is no evidence of any
effect from the discharge of liquid
waste from boats on seagrass
populations in the Reserve. However,
there is some evidence of this
elsewhere. Nutrient rich sludge input is
known to have increased epiphyte
densities enough to restrict light levels
reaching seagrass meadows at other
locations, leading to a seagrass
population decline.
45
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
Left unmanaged, the impact of liquid
Part B. Management Planning
waste discharge will continue to
increase with the predicted increase in
boat activity and boat size in the
Reserve. The Authority has introduced a
strategy for the management of waste
discharge from vessels. This strategy is
aligned with approaches being
undertaken elsewhere in Western
Australian and other States. The
strategy establishes a zoned approach
to the management of waste discharge
from vessels. In Zone 1, there is to be no
discharge of blackwater, solid waste,
fuel, oils or lubricants. The discharge of
greywater is allowed in Zone 1 pending
further research into its impact at
Rottnest Island. In Zone 2, there is to be
no discharge of solid waste, fuel, oils or
lubricants. Discharge of waste from
approved Marine Sanitation Devices
(any toilet and associated pumping or
holding tanks onboard a vessel to
receive, treat, retain or discharge
human body wastes) and discharge of
greywater is permitted in Zone 2.
Currently Zone 1 includes the waters of
Rottnest Island bays and Zone 2 includes
all the waters of the Rottnest Island
Reserve except for the embayment
areas. The Authority intends that from
2005/2006 the entire waters of the
Rottnest Island Reserve will be Zone 1.
Fuel and oil spills
Fuel and oil spills are known to have
potentially significant impacts on
marine flora and fauna through impacts
to the water quality. Minor fuel and oil
spills in the Reserve occur approximately
six to eight times per year. No major spill
is known to have occurred in the waters
46
of Rottnest Island. Potential sources of
an oil or fuel spill at Rottnest Island
include fuel jetty leaks or spills, boat
accidents and wrecks, illegal discharge
of contaminated bilge water and oil
spills from vessels in transit.
The Authority participates in the local
emergency procedures that deal with
spills of this nature.
Land-based impacts
There is potential for the past and present
land-based activities to impact on the
water quality of Rottnest Island bays. In
particular, septic toilets around the Island
have the potential to leach nutrients and
bacteria into the marine environment.
There is no intended land-based
discharge into the environment with
the exception of the saline water
by-product of the desalination system.
The Authority continues to minimise the
unintended release of contaminates or
nutrients into Rottnest Island bays.
4.4.2 Recommendations
• Implement the Rottnest Island policy
on waste discharge from vessels.
• Develop and implement a water
quality monitoring program for
Rottnest Island bays, to test for
bacteria and nutrients.
• Manage Island infrastructure to minimise
land-based discharge of nutrients and
debris into the marine environment.
• Review the Rottnest Island fuel and oil
spill plan.
• Investigate the provision of a waste
receptor facility for liquid waste
discharge from vessels.
4.5 VESSEL MOVEMENTS
4.5.1 Issues
Environmental management issues
associated with the movement of
vessels within the Reserve include:
• Movement of vessels has the potential
to stir up bottom sediments, reducing
the amount of light penetrating the
water. This can affect seagrass, coral
and algal populations that are reliant
on sunlight for photosynthesis.
• Light restriction can subsequently
initiate short term or long term
population reductions, and has been
known to be a major cause of
seagrass decline in Western Australia.
• The stirring up and oxidisation of
sediments can release nutrients and
other materials trapped in the
sediment, again leading to localised
nutrient enrichment and/or
contamination. Increased
sedimentation can also cause harm
through increasing the level of
siltation on corals and other bottom
dwelling organisms, resulting in a
smothering effect.
• As there has been no research into the
relationship between vessel activity
and sediment movement at Rottnest
Island, it is unknown whether such
effects are occurring. The most
concentrated area of activity in this
regard is the main passenger jetty
where there is high movement of
commercial ferries.
4.5.2 Recommendation
• Undertake research on the impact of
vessel movements on Rottnest Island’s
marine habitats, particularly in
relation to movement of large vessels.
4.6 MOORING DAMAGE
4.6.1 Issues
There are 899 moorings within the
Marine Reserve. The original unregulated
moorings at Rottnest Island were of a
design that resulted in the creation of a
high number of scour circles, from
30 to 300m2 in area around the anchor
point. It is estimated that this resulted in
the loss of 18 percent of seagrass from
Rocky Bay from 1941-1982, and a
further 13 percent from 1981-1992
(Hastings et al., 1995).
Moorings are now subject to standard
environmental criteria set by the
Authority (Rottnest Island Mooring
Policy, 1997). This includes ensuring
that the bottom apparatus cannot
move and that the riser chain does not
scour the seafloor. Mooring licensees
are required to have their mooring
assessed annually, against criteria, by a
mooring contractor.
Environmental management issues
associated with the moorings located
within the Marine Reserve include:
• It is recognised that moorings cause
less environmental impact than the
alternative of repeated anchoring.
The provision of mooring facilities in
the Reserve reduces the amount of
anchoring and is considered an
environmental management tool.
However, it must be recognised that
despite the improvement in design,
moorings may still have some level of
impact on the sea bottom
environment, particularly when However, anchoring does occur in non-
located over sensitive habitats. sand areas as a consequence of lack of
• The level of impact of the current skill, poor visibility or disregard for the
mooring design on the marine Guide. Accepting that the Marine Act
habitats of Rottnest Island has not 1982 allows that anchorage may occur
been assessed. anywhere in the event of an emergency,
the Authority will pursue increased
4.6.2 Recommendations protection from anchoring by making it
an offence to anchor on areas other
• Maintain the use of moorings in
than sand.
designated Rottnest Island bays as an
environmental management tool. Commercial diving and fishing charter
• Develop and implement a research vessels regularly anchor within the
program to monitor the level of Reserve and there is concern about the
environmental impact from the impact of repeated anchoring by these
current mooring apparatus design. vessels at popular sites. This issue is
addressed in Part B, Chapter 7 -
4.7 ANCHOR DAMAGE Marine Recreation and Facilities.
4.7.1 Issues
4.7.2 Recommendation
Both drop anchoring and beach
anchoring are permitted in the Reserve. • Prohibit the anchoring of boats in
Beach anchoring is not considered to be the Rottnest Island Reserve on areas
a major issue in terms of environmental other than sand.
impact but is a public amenity issue.
Issues associated with beach anchoring
are addressed in Part B, Chapter 7 -
Marine Recreation and Facilities.
Drop anchoring on bottom habitats and
limestone areas cause physical and
biological damage to the fauna, flora
and structures. This can cause further
visual impacts that detract from the
quality of diving or snorkelling
experiences. Repeat anchoring at popular
sites can severely disturb both ecological
and structural habitat elements.
The Authority’s Marine and Boating
Guide requests that boaters do not
anchor on areas other than sand.
47
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
4.8 PHYSICAL DAMAGE FROM
Part B. Management Planning
DIVERS AND SNORKELLERS
4.8.1 Issues
Unskilled or careless divers and
snorkellers can cause environmental
damage through physical contact
between the diver and the marine
habitat. Divers and snorkellers can also
increase sedimentation and cause corals
to become covered with silt.
4.8.2 Recommendation
• Develop and implement a
campaign to promote
environmentally benign diving
techniques to divers and snorkellers
in the Rottnest Island Reserve.
48
4.9 FISHING Commercial fishing
A commercial fishing exclusion zone
4.9.1 Issues
occurs within the marine portion of the
Reserve, applying to net fishing and
Recreational fishing
Western Rock Lobster fishing.
Recreational fishing is a popular pursuit
The extent of the commercial exclusion
in the Marine Reserve. For some,
zone means that there are areas within
recreational fishing is the primary
the Reserve where commercial fishing is
reason for entering the Reserve,
permitted and occurs.
generally on a day trip basis. For others,
recreational fishing is one of the many Allowing commercial fishing to occur
pursuits enjoyed while holidaying on within the Reserve is inconsistent with
the Island. the explicit legislated purpose of the
Reserve being for ‘public recreation’.
Several forms of recreational fishing
Part B, Chapter 2 - Reserve Zoning
occur in the Reserve including line
Plan and Settlement Planning
fishing, spearfishing, craypotting and
Scheme recommends prohibition of
abalone fishing. As considered in Part
commercial fishing within the Reserve.
B, Chapter 2 - Reserve Zoning Plan
and Settlement Planning Scheme, 4.9.2 Recommendation
recreational fishing in the Reserve is
subject to management controls • Develop and implement a research
administered by the Department program to monitor fish stocks and
of Fisheries. gain an understanding of the level of
recreational fishing in the Rottnest
The level of fishing pressure within the Island Reserve.
Reserve and the impact of this on fish
stocks and marine communities is
unknown. The Authority is committed
to increasing its understanding of the
recreational fishing activity and
potential impacts of this within the
Reserve in order to ensure that
appropriate management measures are
determined. Research that is required to
develop an understanding of these
issues will be closely linked to the
development of a Marine Management
Strategy as described in Part B,
Chapter 2 - Reserve Zoning Plan and
Settlement Planning Scheme.
4.10 REEF WALKING
4.10.1 Issues
Reef walking can be a popular activity in
coastal areas. Although this allows close
observation of reef species, it can be
dangerous, and without appropriate
care and management can also be
destructive.
The level of reef walking around the
Island is not well known. The impact of
this activity on the specific reef species
that exist on Rottnest Island is similarly
not well understood.
4.10.2 Recommendation
• Raise awareness and understanding
among Island visitors of the adverse
impacts of reef walking on marine
habitats and species.
4.11 MARINE LITTER
4.11.1 Issues
Marine litter is a growing problem on
many coasts including on Rottnest
Island. Marine litter has an aesthetic
impact that detracts from the visitor
experience, and some forms can cause
physical damage to marine fauna.
While most Western Australians are
responsible in regard to the disposal of
litter, littering does occur throughout
the Settlement and outer bays of
Rottnest Island as a result of both land-
based and marine-based activities.
School groups conduct an annual
collection and survey of marine litter on
Rottnest Island.
4.11.2 Recommendations
• Develop and implement a strategy to
reduce the occurrence of locally
generated marine litter in the
Rottnest Island Reserve.
• Implement an annual program to
collect litter in Rottnest Island bays.
4.12 CORAL BLEACHING
4.12.1 Issues
Coral bleaching is the phenomenon
whereby the usually brightly coloured
coral polyps lose their colour by
expelling the symbiotic plant cells which
would normally reside inside individual
polyps. As a result the coral takes on a
white, bleached look. There are many
theories on the cause of coral bleaching,
some of which attribute it to stress,
possibly as a result of seawater
temperature increases.
Coral bleaching has been observed on
coral reefs worldwide. True coral
bleaching has been observed to only be
a minor problem at Rottnest Island.
Most of the bleaching has occurred in
deeper waters affecting the temperate
coral species Coscinaraea.
4.12.2 Recommendation
• Encourage research on the
occurrence and extent of coral
bleaching in the Rottnest Island
Marine Reserve.
49
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
5. Cultural Heritage
5.1 INTRODUCTION
Part B. Management Planning
The history of Rottnest Island has
provided it with a rich and significant
cultural heritage. First records of human
occupation of Rottnest Island are from
more than 6,500 years ago when the
Island was still attached to the
mainland, and Aboriginal people
inhabited the area. Since its initial
European exploration from the 18th
Century and its settlement in 1829,
Rottnest Island has been through a
number of stages of development and
has been used for a variety of purposes.
Rottnest Island allows a number of
aspects of Western Australian history to
be appreciated in the one area. A visitor
can experience military, European,
colonial, Aboriginal, maritime,
recreational and social heritage on
Rottnest Island, which to a certain
extent is reflective of the development
of the State of Western Australia.
This section addresses the cultural
heritage management of Rottnest
Island. There are, in addition, numerous
natural heritage values on the Island
such as remnant woodlands and these
are discussed within Part B, Chapter 3
- Terrestrial Environmental.
50
A brief summary of the colonial history Rottnest Island’s cultural heritage is an
of Rottnest Island is as follows important element of the visitor
(Considine, Griffiths and Richards, 1994): experience and Rottnest Island product,
and is highly valued by the Authority.
Pre 6500 years ago
Aboriginal occupation. The Authority has commissioned studies
1658 - 1829 into the significance and management
European exploration. of cultural and natural heritage and has
produced Conservation Plans for
1829 - 1838
Thomson Bay Settlement, Kingstown
European settlement, pastoral, fishing
Barracks, Governors’ Summer
and salt gathering.
Residence and an Interpretation Plan for
1838 - 1844
the Thomson Bay Settlement.
Aboriginal prison, farming, pastoral and
salt gathering. In addition to these studies, an audit of
1844 - 1849 the built heritage items of Rottnest Island
Aboriginal prison and pilot service, both within and outside the Settlement
farming, pastoral and salt gathering. Zone was undertaken in 2002.
1849 - 1855
Pilot service and lease, farming,
pastoral and salt gathering.
1855 - 1903
Aboriginal prison, Governors’ Residence
and Boys’ Reformatory, pilot service and
lease, farming, pastoral and salt gathering.
1903 - 1936
Recreational use, internment.
1917
Rottnest Island was declared an A-Class
Reserve under the Permanent Reserve
Act 1899 and the Rottnest Board of
Control was formed.
1936 - 1985
Recreational use and military training.
1985 onward
Recreational use.
5.2 HISTORY OF ROTTNEST ISLAND
In order to understand the heritage
values of Rottnest Island, it is necessary
to have knowledge of the various
phases of the Island’s history.
While it is not possible to detail the
history of all activities that have occurred
on Rottnest Island in this document, it is
possible to describe major periods of the
Island’s development according to
functions and themes.
The major layers of human activity can
briefly be described as Aboriginal
occupation, maritime history, early
colonial settlement, Aboriginal penal
establishment, Boys’ Reformatory,
Governors’ Residence, recreational
history and military function.
5.2.1 Aboriginal Occupation
Artefacts have been found at a number
of sites on Rottnest Island pre-dating
6,500 years ago and are possibly tens of
thousands of years old, indicating
previous Aboriginal occupation of this
area prior to the separation of the Island
from the mainland. Since the most
recent rise in sea levels from 10,000 to
6,500 years ago, the Island has been
separated from the mainland. The local
Aboriginal people were not sea-faring
and did not have vessels capable of
making the crossing from the mainland
and therefore did not traditionally inhabit
the Island following the rise in sea level.
Known to local Aboriginal people as
Wadjemup, the Island is believed to be a
place of spirits and is of significance to
Aboriginal communities.
There are 17 sites on Rottnest Island
listed under the Aboriginal Heritage Act
1972-1980. This Act makes it an
offence to alter an Aboriginal site in any
way without written permission from
the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs.
5.2.2 Maritime History
Rottnest Island’s waters contain a
number of shipwrecks - a legacy of the
uncharted navigational voyages that
occurred during the early exploration of
the southwest coast of Australia.
The earliest discovery of Rottnest Island
by Europeans is credited to Dutch
navigators during the 17th century in
their search for a shorter route from the
Cape of Good Hope to Batavia.
The first Europeans to actually land on
the Island are believed to have been
Samuel Volkerson and his crew of the
Dutch ship Waeckende Boey while
searching for survivors of another Dutch
ship the Vergulde Draek in 1658.
William de Vlamingh, who in 1696 was
the next recorded European visitor to
Rottnest Island, gave the Island its name
after the abundance of quokkas he saw,
mistaking them for rats.
More than thirteen ships have been
wrecked within the waters of Rottnest
Island (refer Chart 1- Rottnest Island
Reserve). These wrecks are protected
under Commonwealth legislation,
Historic Shipwrecks Act 1976, as well as
State legislation, Maritime Archeology
Act 1973. Plaques have been located
next to the wrecks and are
complemented by onshore plaques
indicating their locations.
The operation of the pilot station is
another major element of the maritime
history of Rottnest Island. The Rottnest
Island Pilot Station operated between
1848 and 1903. Pilots were experienced
sailors whose job was to guide ships
around dangerous reefs and into
Fremantle harbour mainly to deliver
supplies to the Swan River Colony. Over
its 55 years of operation, the Rottnest
Island Pilot Station used a number of
different boats. Generally, the boat
types used were a double-ended
whaleboat, a slightly larger lugger and a
small dinghy.
Lighthouses played a key role in the pilot
boat operations by providing a
communication link between the pilot
boat station and incoming ships. The
Island’s first lighthouse was completed
in 1851 and was constructed by Aboriginal
prisoners, under the supervision of the
Prison Superintendent. Half a century
later it was replaced with a new, taller
lighthouse on Wadjemup Hill; and a
third was built in 1899 at Bathurst Point
after the loss of 11 lives when the ship,
the City of York, was wrecked. The
Bathurst Point and Wadjemup Hill
lighthouses remain today (refer Chart 1-
Rottnest Island Reserve).
A secure boathouse, established in
1846, was the first building constructed
for the pilot service. This was built at the
northern end of the seawall. Six years
later, quarters for the pilot crew were
added to the top of the boathouse. In
1859 another boathouse was built and
still remains today. The last pilot left
Rottnest Island in 1903, ending more
than 55 years of piloting, and a new
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Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
system was established with a signal
Part B. Management Planning
station set up near Bathurst Lighthouse
for the Fremantle Harbour Trust. It was
dismantled in 1904 and then erected
near Wadjemup lighthouse. Once a
vessel was sighted, the news was
telephoned to the lighthouse in
Fremantle and the new, steam-powered
pilot boat dispatched from there. The
signal station remained in operation until
1949 when compulsory pilotage was
abolished, effectively making the signal
station on Rottnest Island redundant.
The signal station was restored in 2002.
In 2000, a special exhibition on the
Rottnest Island Pilots was established,
involving the development of a replica
whaleboat, now housed in the 1859
pilot boathouse. This exhibition is
interpreted by the Rottnest Island
Voluntary Guides Association.
5.2.3 Early Colonial Settlement
The first Europeans took up residence
on Rottnest Island shortly after the first
settlement of the Swan River Colony
was established in 1829. Rottnest Island
was considered to be of interest as a
place with potential for salt harvesting,
farming and fishing.
In December 1830, Benjamin Smyth
surveyed Rottnest Island for the Surveyor
General. A plan for the township to be
known as Kingstown was proposed,
containing 177 lots of about 1/3 acre
and other lots of 10 acres to be offered
to the public. These lots were contained
within the area now known as Thomson
Bay and extended around to what
became Bickley Bay on the site where
Kingstown Barracks stands today.
52
William Clarke and Robert Thomson
took up town lots and pastureland and
Smyth’s survey of 1831 showed the
town lots and sites for various
designated purposes. Farming
comprised successful cereal cropping
and other attempts at establishing
vegetable gardens and vineyards.
Thomson Bay was named after Robert
Thomson, who became a major landholder
on Rottnest Island during the 1830s.
5.2.4 Penal Establishment for
Aboriginal People
Ten Aboriginal prisoners were brought
to the Island in August 1838. After a
short period when both settlers and
prisoners occupied the Island the
Colonial Secretary announced in June
1839 that the Island would become a
penal establishment for Aboriginal
people. The Crown resumed all land on
the Island, compensating settlers with
land on the mainland. Access to the
Island during the prison era was restricted.
For almost a century the Island served as
a prison for Aboriginal people
(except for a short period of closure
between 1849 and 1855) during
which some 3,700 Aboriginal men and
boys, from many parts of the State,
were imprisoned.
Between 1838 and 1931, it is reported
that 369 Aboriginal prisoners died.
While most deaths were caused by
disease, it is reported that five prisoners
were hanged. An Aboriginal cemetery
is located within the Thomson Bay
Settlement.
Over the prison period, the Aboriginal
prisoners constructed a large number of
buildings and other structures including
the seawall, lighthouses and other heritage
buildings, mostly under supervision of
Henry Vincent who was Superintendent
of the establishment for 20 years.
Most of the development took place in
Thomson Bay, and of particular significance
is the Quod that was the prison
accommodation for the Aboriginal men.
The Quod is now part of the Lodge,
which is operated under a private lease
as holiday accommodation until 2018.
Closure of the Aboriginal prison was
recommended in 1902. It officially
closed in 1904 although prisoners were
used to build roads and other works on
the Island until 1931. Closure of the
prison turned the attention of the public
and the Government to Rottnest Island’s
possibilities as a recreation destination.
5.2.5 Boys’ Reformatory
In 1881 the Western Australian
Government decided that the Island would
be a suitable location to reform young boys
who had come into conflict with the law.
The Rottnest Island Boys’ Reformatory was
opened in 1881 next to the Aboriginal
Prison, and operated for 20 years.
Carpenter John Watson was asked to
construct the Boys’ Reformatory
buildings on Rottnest Island and these
included a workshop, kitchen, two large
dormitories, a school room and four
small cells. Upon completion of the
building work, Watson decided to stay
on as the Reformatory Superintendent
and to teach the boys carpentry, joinery
and gardening.
The Reformatory closed in 1901. Since
1909 the Reformatory buildings have
been used as holiday accommodation,
operated as part of the Lodge.
5.2.6 Governors’ Residence
In 1848 Governor Fitzgerald expressed
an interest in residing on Rottnest Island
so it became the exclusive summer
retreat for successive Governors and
their friends.
Superintendent Vincent’s house was
originally used as the Governors’ House
but in 1861 Vincent began work on a
purpose-built summer residence for the
Governor overlooking Thomson Bay.
The 1912/1913 summer was the last
time the Governor used the Governor’s
House on Rottnest Island as a summer
residence. It was later converted to flats
and used by holiday-makers. Today, it is
part of the Rottnest Island Hotel.
5.2.7 Recreation Island
From 1902 ferries carried excursionists
to Rottnest Island on Sundays. During
these times visitors and prisoners were
kept well apart.
The first public jetty was built in 1906 to
the south of Thomson Bay Settlement,
where the Army Jetty stands today. Until
then passengers and cargo were brought
ashore by a lighter. A tram track was laid
from the Jetty to Thomson Bay Settlement
and horse drawn trams were used to carry
visitors and goods. The trams were later
replaced by motor vehicles in 1925 and
most of the tracks were removed and
relocated to the Perth Zoo. Some small
portions of the track still remain.
In 1907 a scheme for transforming
Rottnest Island from a penal settlement
to a recreation and holiday Island were
drawn up by the Colonial Secretary’s
Department. As part of this scheme the
Bickley area began to be modestly
developed for public recreation. Timber
and hessian camps, a store and a
recreational hall were built overlooking
Bickley Bay in the vicinity of where
Kingstown Barracks stands today. A
number of houses in the Thomson Bay
Settlement were also made available for
use, and the opening season was 1911.
The Prison and Boys’ Reformatory were
converted to hostel accommodation
completed in the 1913/1914 summer
season. The Bickley camps were closed
in 1911, and in 1913 it was proposed to
shift the camp reserve to the Bathurst
side of the Settlement. Thirty
weatherboard camps were
subsequently rebuilt at the Bathurst end
of Thomson Bay.
More improvements were planned in
1917. A large tearoom and store were
erected near the main jetty and wooden
bungalows were also constructed close
by and on the north side of the jetty.
In 1917 Rottnest Island was declared an
A-Class Reserve under the Permanent
Reserve Act 1899 and the Rottnest
Board of Control was formed.
The original limestone buildings of
Rottnest Island were whitewashed and
this created an extreme glare.
To remove the glare, buildings were
progressively painted with an ochre
colour that was created by putting rusty
nails in the white wash paint.
Recreational and holiday pursuits have
continued on Rottnest Island from this
time to the present day except for its
closure in 1914 and again from 1940 to
1945 for military functions.
5.2.8 Military Functions
Rottnest Island has played a military role
in both World War I and World War II
and has also had post-war training
functions, which are described below.
World War I
With the start of World War I the
Department of Defence commandeered
the Island for use as an internment and
Prisoner of War camp from 1914 to the
end of 1915. In September 1915, the
camp held 989 persons, including 841
Austrian and German internees and 148
Prisoners of War. Recreational and
holiday pursuits were re-established in
December 1915.
Preparation for World War II
In response to increasing global tensions
in the 1930s, the Australian government
developed a three-year Defence
Development Program that it
commenced in 1933. In the Plan, Rottnest
Island was identified as being critical to
the defence of Fremantle as guns there
could engage hostile ships well before
they approached the range that would
allow bombardment of Fremantle Port.
53
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
In 1934 the Western Australian Premier
Part B. Management Planning
officially informed the Rottnest Island
Board of Control of the Commonwealth’s
intentions for a defence program on
Rottnest Island and in 1936 it purchased
land at Bickley for this purpose and
construction began later that year.
The fixtures on Rottnest Island became
known as the Rottnest Island fortress
and were made up of the Oliver Hill fort
with two 9.2-inch batteries guns and
quarters at Oliver Hill; Bickley Point fort
with two 6-inch batteries and quarters
at Bickley; permanent Army Barracks at
Kingstown (containing living
accommodation for four warrant
officers or sergeants and 72 rank and
file personnel, cottages for
commanders, officers mess, cottages
for married non-commissioned officers
(NCOs) and gunners, Army institutional
buildings, small hospital, dry canteen,
workshop, store, railway buildings, and
supporting communication and
observation structures); a three storey
fortress and battery command post
building at signal ridge; Port war signal
station at signal ridge; observation post
and engine rooms.
Also constructed by the military at this
time were six searchlight
emplacements, magazine shell stores,
powerhouse, directing station and a
railway from the jetty to the 9.2-inch
guns. Improvements to the jetty were
also undertaken. When the Barracks
were completed in September 1937
Rottnest Island was declared a
permanent station for troops.
54
World War II
In June 1940 the Island was declared a
prohibited area and all recreational
activity ended. The declaration was
intended to last for three months, but
continued for five years until June 1945.
During the war period, administrative
fire command staff and a coastal
artillery gunnery school occupied
Rottnest Island. The guns were manned
24 hours a day.
In the mid-1940s, the focus of threat
moved to Northern Australia, so the
fixed defences at the Rottnest Island
Fortress were reduced. The 9.2-inch
guns were put on a maintenance basis
and only the 6-inch gun at Bickley
remained manned. The period of
intensive military activity on Rottnest
Island ended with the guns never being
fired at the enemy.
Postwar
After the war, all military units were
disbanded and the guns placed in long
term storage. By April 1945 all Thomson
Bay buildings had been vacated by the
military with the exception of the
bakehouse and garage. Approximately
200 Italian internees were sent to the
Island for four months to carry out
repairs and renovations.
In June 1945, the prohibition order on
Rottnest Island was lifted but until
October only people travelling on
commercial vessels could visit the Island.
Dismantling of the battery was finalised
in March 1953. An artillery maintenance
detachment remained on the Island
until 1960.
In 1953, the Army decided that it had no
further use for Kingstown Barracks, but
this changed in early 1955 when it was
determined the Barracks’ would continue
to be used for training purposes. Training
at Kingstown Barracks re-commenced in
May 1955.
In 1962 it was determined that the use
of coastal artillery in the defence of
ports was out-moded and coastal
artillery guns and ammunitions around
the nation were declared for disposal.
The 9.2-inch battery on Rottnest Island
was saved from disposal because the
high cost of removing and shipping the
guns to the mainland exceeded their
value as scrap metal.
In 1967, the Army returned most of its
land holdings on Rottnest Island to the
Western Australian Government,
retaining Kingstown Barracks, the Bickley
area and easements necessary to connect
water to the Barracks. The Army’s use of
Kingstown Barracks declined gradually
from the 1960s to the 1970s and then
sharply from 1974, to the point in 1979
where it was utilised for only 43 days in
the year. In 1984 the Army and the
Rottnest Island Board of Control began
negotiations for the Board to purchase
the remaining Army land and buildings
including Kingstown Barracks. This was
formalised in an official closing
ceremony in December 1984.
After successful trials using Kingstown
Barracks for environmental education
programs over the 1984/1985 summer
season, the Board recommended to the
Government that the Barracks be used
as an environmental education centre.
This use continues today.
5.3 VALUES
5.3.1 General
The cultural heritage significance of the
Island is of a high order. The National
Trust of Australia (WA) formally
recognised Rottnest Island as a place of
National Heritage Significance by
classifying it as a Historic Island in 1993.
The previous Rottnest Island
Management Plan (1997-2002)
recommended that the Authority
pursue the concept of World Heritage
Status for Rottnest Island. Investigations
have revealed that World Heritage
listing is not consistent with the values
or operation of the Island; however, the
Authority will continue to work with the
Heritage Council of Western Australian
in the management of the Island’s
heritage estate.
There are buildings that are already
included on the State Register of
Heritage Places, including: Oliver Hill
Battery, Kingstown Barracks, Bathurst
Lighthouse and quarters, Thomson Bay
settlement, and the Rottnest Island
Signal Station.
5.3.2 Aboriginal Heritage Values
Aboriginal heritage values on Rottnest
Island include:
• The Island has cultural heritage values
to the Aboriginal community as an
area that was once occupied by their
ancestors prior to its separation from
the mainland.
• The Island, and the Settlement in
particular, is important to the
Aboriginal community in Western
Australia as a whole, and to individual
Aboriginal groups from the various
regions of the State whose ancestors
were prisoners on the Island.
• The Quod and the Aboriginal
cemetery are of particular heritage
significance to Aboriginal people.
• The Authority acknowledges
that Aboriginal incarceration
was a significant part of the history
of the Island and is an important
issue for Aboriginal people with
links to this area.
• The Island holds spiritual significance
for the Aboriginal community as the
place to which the departed spirits of
their ancestors travelled.
5.3.3 Maritime Heritage Values
There are also maritime heritage values
on Rottnest Island:
• Numerous shipwrecks within the
Reserve have State and National
historic value and are protected under
State and Commonwealth legislation.
• Shipwrecks are popular diving and
snorkelling sites.
• The Bathurst and Wadjemup
lighthouses, lighthouse keeper’s
house, pilot boat shed and other
remaining structures from this period,
represent an important part of
Rottnest Island’s maritime history as a
permanent pilot boat station.
• The Rottnest Island lighthouses have
been reported as being in a highly
original state.
5.3.4 Settlement and Wadjemup Hill
Heritage Values
Heritage values of Settlement and
Wadjemup Hill buildings, character
units, landscapes and vistas are
documented below.
Buildings
• The Rottnest Island Settlement
contains a rare example of a large
group of buildings constructed in the
early and middle part of the 19th
century that have not only survived
but have been adapted to serve
continuous use.
• Some of Rottnest Island’s Settlement
buildings have significant heritage
value being among the oldest in
Western Australia, including:
- The large body of building works
created by Superintendent Vincent
and his prison labour force including
cottages E, F, G, H and J, the
museum, parts of the shops,
Manager’s House, the seawall,
boathouse, salt store, native prison
and chapel.
- Remains of the Boys’ Reformatory
contained within the Rottnest Island
Lodge.
- The Rottnest Island Hotel originally
constructed as the Governors’
summer residence.
- Buildings associated with the penal
establishment including the Quod,
the superintendent’s quarters and
ancillary buildings.
- Structures on Signal Hill that were
significant in terms of
communication with the mainland.
55
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
Character unit and Landscape
Part B. Management Planning
• The unique aesthetic quality and
character of the Island has been
formed by the combination of various
landscape features and elements
including the Settlement layout,
topography, buildings and the
planting stock.
• Several individual sub-components of
the Settlement collectively form a
significant streetscape, townscape or
cultural environment including:
- The seafront cottages, seawall and
salt store group;
- The lighthouse and keeper’s
quarters group;
- The timber bungalow group;
- The museum, native prison, chapel
and reform school group;
- The unifying planting groups and
avenues.
• Strong historical vistas within the
Settlement Zone have been created
by the combination of treelined
avenues, stone construction
buildings, the sea wall and views of
the water.
• The Settlement contains numerous
landscape elements of historical value
including:
- Some roads and tracks established in
the 19th century which are still in
use today.
- Vincent Way, identified as the oldest
intact streetscape in Australia.
- The largely exotic landscape of the
Settlement, resulting from rigorous
planting programs from 1908
onwards. The natural landscape
now also has highly valued social
and aesthetic qualities.
• There is a high level of authenticity of
landscape and streetscape as a result
of the lack of infill and modifications.
56
Vistas
The Settlement and Wadjemup Hill
have numerous significant historical
vistas including:
• The view from the water on
approaching Thomson Bay, with vista
of the historic seawall and row of
historic buildings. This vista has
changed very little since the seawall
and the buildings were completed in
the 1840s. The fact that the row of
buildings along the seawall is still
intact and that no infill or demolition
has been carried out since its
construction is unique in Australia and
makes this vista highly significant.
• The view of the south end of
Thomson Bay up to Bickley Point.
The vista along the south end of
Thomson Bay up to Bickley Point is
highly significant as this formed the
original arrival vista.
• Bathurst Lighthouse and the Basin.
The Basin is the most highly
frequented bathing beach on the
Island, resulting in a large archive of
photographs showing the Basin in
use since the turn of the last century.
It was also the approach Willem De
Vlamingh took to explore the Island,
hence making it a historical site
and vista.
• The approach from the seawall
between cottages E, J and H and
Manager’s House towards the
entrance gate of the former Quod.
This was the approach taken by
thousands of Aboriginal prisoners
facing incarceration at the Rottnest
Island Prison. The symmetric layout of
the Settlement buildings and central
location of the Quod are of great
historic significance, especially the
crossed paths across what is now
known as Heritage Common.
• The view from the bottom of Signal
Hill past the General Store and on to
Lomas Cottage. This view has
changed very little over time, taking in
the heritage-listed General Store and
the historic plantings of Moreton Bay
Fig trees that have become a
distinctive feature of the Thomson
Bay Settlement.
• The view of the peppermint tree-lined
path leading towards the Rottnest
Island Hotel, formerly the Governors’
summer residence. The Residence
was purposely built away from the rest
of the Settlement, and peppermint
trees were planted after the Governor
left his Island summer residence.
• View of Garden Lake, Herschel Lake
and Government House Lake from
various vantage points. The vistas
taking in Garden Lake, Herschel Lake
and Government House Lake from
various vantage points have been well
documented over the years.
• Wadjemup Hill / Signal Ridge.
The vista from the Signal Station in a
north-easterly direction towards the
Oliver Hill Gun Battery is of particular
significance for the interpretation of
the military heritage of the Signal
Ridge buildings. It clearly illustrates
the function of the Signal Station
and Battery Observation Post as
part of the World War II coastal
defence system.
• The view of Wadjemup Lighthouse.
The view of Wadjemup Lighthouse
approaching from the ‘centre road’,
 where the road and the lighthouse
framed by vegetation is noteworthy.
The lighthouse is the only significant
structure outside the Settlement,
which together with its central
location on the Island has made it an
important beacon both on the Island
and from the mainland.
5.3.5 Military Heritage Values
The Military heritage values of Rottnest
Island are as follows:
Built heritage
• As a result of military occupation, the
Island has numerous military
structures of historical significance,
which are concentrated in Bickley,
Oliver Hill and Wadjemup Hill, but
also occur in other areas of the Island.
• Particularly significant built
structures include:
- Kingstown Barracks, which contains
nineteen extant buildings of
substance which are of good to high
authenticity and which were the
only military buildings established
offshore in Australia. Kingstown
Barracks has rarity value as it is the
only purpose-built permanent
Barracks built in Western Australia in
a remote location to support coastal
defence fortifications and built to
accommodate ground-based mid-
twentieth century weapons.
- Searchlight bunkers, observation
towers and the signal station at
Wadjemup Hill, which have historic
significance associated with the
military occupation of the Island.
- Oliver Hill Battery, which is a rare
example of military coastal defence
technology of the era 1935-1945.
- The 9.2-inch guns at Oliver Hill
Battery, which have particular
historic significance as an authentic
example of such guns in situ. There is
possibly one other example
worldwide of an authentic 9.2-inch
gun battery with guns in situ.
• Apart from individual built structures
at Kingstown Barracks, the collection
of buildings and other structures
forms a significant cultural
environment of streetscapes and
settings, which contributes to the
overall aesthetic character and
understanding of the place.
• Kingstown Barracks has social
heritage value connected with the ex-
service men and women of the place
where they lived and worked during
the period of occupation before,
during and after World War II, and
also to those internees held on
Rottnest Island during war periods.
• Kingstown Barracks is valued by the
community for demonstrating a
tangible link with World War II.
Vistas
• There are numerous historical cultural
vistas contained within the
Kingstown areas which have been a
key part of its landscape since
construction, including:
- The vistas of the commander’s
residence, the officers mess and the
clock tower of the main Barracks
from Thomson Bay.
- The vista along the road to the main
entry of Kingstown Barracks that
unfolds gradually as the main
complex of buildings is approached.
- Vistas along the road from the dry
canteen toward to the NCO and
gunners’ cottages (Governors’ Circle)
which are flanked by plantings.
5.3.6 Western Australian Social
Heritage Values
As a result of its long history as a holiday
and recreation destination, Rottnest
Island has an important cultural
heritage value to Western Australian
family groups and others with a close
asssociation with the Island.
The Island is associated with a deep-
rooted community sentiment and
attachment. Of particular note are the
many community groups, associations,
schools, clubs and individuals who have
had social associations and have
participated in its development.
The affection of the Western Australian,
and particularly Perth-based
community, for the Island is also
thought to be related to the isolation of
these communities from the rest of
Australia and the visual connection with
the Island from the mainland.
The value of Rottnest Island to the
Western Australian community is
illustrated through the following:
• Many community groups give freely of
their time to assist in the conservation
and enhancement of the Island.
• The Island, and the Settlement in
particular, has been the subject of
much painting, photography,
literature and film.
• Rottnest Island continues to be a
popular destination for family holidays.
• To the people of Western Australia,
the Settlement at Thomson Bay is one
of the State’s most recognisable images.
• Some sense of standing is evident in
the caution with which Rottnest
Island has developed.
57
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
5.3.7 Moveable Heritage Items and
Part B. Management Planning
Archaeological Remains
There are moveable items and
archaeological remains on the Island,
which have heritage values:
• As a result of the history of Rottnest
Island, numerous archaeological
remains and moveable heritage items
have been located. Items include
remnants of previous buildings, human
remains, glass spear points crafted by
Aboriginal prisoners, art works,
bottles, coins, clay pipes, general
furniture pieces, household items and
tools from earlier times. A collection
of moveable heritage items and
archaeological remains is displayed in
the Rottnest Island Museum.
• There are numerous unexplored
areas on the Island that could
contain archaeological remains.
For example, many moveable
heritage items may still be present
within the sand foundations of the
Island and may be discovered either
through digging associated with
construction or through natural
exposure following major wind and
rain driven sand movements.
• Archaeological remains on the Island
will provide further opportunities for
discovery and interpretation of past
activities on the Island.
• The Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972
prohibits the removal of any
Indigenous cultural material without
the proper authority and there are
moves to mirror this arrangement
for other heritage materials under
the Heritage of Western Australia
Act 1990.
58
5.4 ISSUES
Resourcing the management of a
heritage estate
Issues associated with the management
of the Island’s heritage estate include:
• The restoration and interpretation of
heritage requires improved attention.
• The magnitude of the heritage asset
on Rottnest Island represents a
significant community service
obligation in terms of protection,
maintenance and interpretation.
• The complexity of heritage issues on
Rottnest Island adds significantly to
the costs of heritage management.
• Funds for heritage works comes
largely from revenue raised and to a
lesser extent from grants which have
been gained for small projects.
• There are missed opportunities in
terms of harnessing volunteer efforts
for heritage restoration and
maintenance works.
• Strategic business links could be
made between the maintenance of
heritage places and the provision of
visitor services, through paid
interpretation programs.
• The quantity of resources required to
adequately protect, maintain and
interpret the heritage asset is greater
than the resources available to the
Authority to carry out these tasks.
Maintenance and condition
Issues associated with the maintenance
of the Island’s heritage estate include:
• Limited resources has led to
maintenance problems for
heritage assets.
• As a consequence of Rottnest Island
being a public recreation destination,
the heritage buildings and structures
are subject to constant use and
pressure, increasing the need for
regular maintenance.
• The harsh climatic condition of
Rottnest Island adds to these
maintenance demands.
• The use of poor or inappropriate
maintenance treatments in the past
has led to the creation of irreversible
impacts that have compromised the
value of some sites and structures.
• Various modifications to the fabric of
the remaining Thomson Bay and
Kingstown Barracks buildings have
been made in order to adapt them to
their current function or to better
adapt them to the Rottnest Island
climate. Some of these changes are
intrusive and some are not reversible.
• The absence of a comprehensive
understanding of the comparative
significance and condition of various
elements of the heritage estate and of
requirements and priorities for
maintenance and restoration is limiting
the Authority’s ability to manage these
assets strategically and effectively.
• Access to advice on restoration and
maintenance of heritage buildings is
severely limited.
• There are several heritage buildings
that are occupied by independent
Island businesses who are responsible
for the maintenance of these structures.
Aboriginal Heritage
Issues associated with the management
of the Aboriginal heritage on Rottnest
Island include:
• The Aboriginal heritage of the Island
is understated.
• The Quod, which is of particular
significance to Aboriginal people, is
currently under lease as the Rottnest
Island Lodge. The lease extends to 2018.
• The full extent of the cemetery has
been suggested to be greater than
that currently protected.
• There is one existing Native Title claim
on Rottnest Island, which is yet to be
determined by the Native Title Tribunal.
Vistas, Landscapes and
Character Units
Issues associated with the management
of the Island’s heritage vistas,
landscapes and character units include:
• Management of landscapes, vistas
and spaces is as important as
maintenance of individual buildings.
Similarly, the maintenance of
significant collections of buildings is
important in order to maintain overall
historic character.
• The loss of European plantings or the
built landscaping elements that exist
in the Settlement Zone would affect
the nature of the Settlement
Character Unit, including its
significant vistas and ambience.
The condition of the planting stock is
generally mature to over-mature.
• There are several historic vistas in and
through the Settlement Zone that
have been weakened.
• Uniform paint colour has diminished
the complexity and variety of finishes
and has tended to disguise the history
of development and aesthetic
subtleties. This issue was addressed in
the Settlement Planning Scheme
which recommended the
development and implementation of
a policy of colour scheme which
reflects the historical Island colour
scheme (refer Part B, Chapter 2 -
Reserve Zoning Plan and
Settlement Planning Scheme).
Interpretation
Management of the interpretation of
the heritage values on Rottnest Island
includes the following issues:
• Interpretation is one of the Authority’s
key tools in terms of raising the
appreciation of the heritage asset and
influencing people to ensure that
their behaviour is consistent with the
values of Rottnest Island.
• Generally the significance and scale
of the heritage value on Rottnest
Island is not well appreciated as a
result of limited interpretation.
• There is an absence of a dedicated
purpose-built facility for interpretation
on the Island. This was highlighted in
the Settlement Planning Scheme and
the design and sourcing of funds for a
dedicated interpretation facility was
recommended (Part B, Chapter 2 -
Reserve Zoning Plan and Settlement
Planning Scheme, Section 2.4.1.).
• The current range of brochures and
other materials related to heritage are
out of date and therefore not
effective interpretation tools.
• There are opportunities to interpret
the heritage estate through heritage-
focussed conferences, seminars and
training programs.
• There are opportunities to further
interpret the heritage asset of
Rottnest Island through the Rottnest
Island website.
• Kingstown Barracks is under-utilised
as a contributor to the interpretation
of the Island’s Military History.
• Several opportunities exist to better
interpret Rottnest Island’s maritime
heritage, including opening the
lighthouses to public viewing and
better interpretation of shipwrecks.
Moveable Heritage
Management of the moveable heritage
values on Rottnest Island includes the
following issues:
• Professional and amateur collectors
have removed many moveable
heritage items from Rottnest Island.
• Hardening of areas has the potential
to seal in undiscovered
archaeological remains.
• Works that involve digging
and/or ground disturbance
have the potential to uncover
archaeological items and should
be appropriately managed.
• There is no formal program for the
exploration of archaeological remains
on the Island.
• The absence of resources, in
particular a curator, has led to
difficulties in the appropriate
collection and management of
historical artefacts.
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Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
Today as history
Part B. Management Planning
The heritage of Rottnest Island is
constantly evolving. Future generations
will consider this current period to hold
relevance to the history of Rottnest
Island. Management and recording of
current operations for future
interpretation from a heritage
perspective include the following issues:
• Management should consider the
preservation of the social heritage
value of Rottnest Island, as created by
its history and current use as a
recreational area.
• Maintenance of good records as
practice will contribute significantly to
the future understanding and
interpretation of the current period of
Rottnest Island’s history.
• There are numerous opportunities for
gaining further heritage records that
are not being explored. In particular,
oral accounts of people with close
associations with the Island are a
pivotal but disappearing resource.
60
5.5 RECOMMENDATIONS
Maintenance and Management
• Compile a comprehensive inventory
of Rottnest Island’s heritage assets.
• Undertake an assessment of the
condition and significance of all
heritage assets on Rottnest Island.
• Develop a priority listing of heritage
restoration projects required on
Rottnest Island according to condition
and significance of assets.
• Develop and implement heritage
maintenance procedures, in
accordance with the Burra Charter
(refer Part A, Chapter 5 - Policy
Context, Section 5.2), to direct
heritage maintenance activities on
Rottnest Island.
• Develop comprehensive guidelines
for the appropriate treatments for
landscapes and streetscapes on
Rottnest Island in order to maintain
associated heritage values.
Resources
• Develop and implement heritage
projects that can be undertaken with
the aid of volunteer effort.
• Establish a Cultural Heritage Advisory
Committee reporting to the Rottnest
Island Authority to provide expert
advice on heritage issues.
Interpretation
• Develop an Island-wide integrated
heritage interpretation approach that
includes business opportunities that
support heritage works.
• Revise and reissue heritage brochures
to enhance the interpretative
capability of this medium.
• Develop and implement a strategy to
increase the profile of Rottnest Island
for heritage-focussed conferences,
seminars and training events.
• Maintain and enhance opportunities
for free-of-charge, self-directed
heritage interpretation on
Rottnest Island.
Aboriginal Heritage
• Undertake further ground probing
radar work to determine the full
extent of the Aboriginal burial grounds.
• Relocate any accommodation
overlying the established area of the
Aboriginal burial grounds.
• Investigate and implement
mechanisms to further interpret the
Aboriginal burial grounds and other
areas of Aboriginal significance.
• Maintain and enhance relationships
with Aboriginal people to further
interpret the Aboriginal heritage of
Rottnest Island.
Moveable Heritage
• Develop and implement guidelines
for the appropriate archaeological
assessment and supervision of
ground disturbance and hardening
work on Rottnest Island.
• Review, assess and enhance the
Rottnest Island museum collection.
Today as history
• Develop and implement a program
of recording current features,
operations and activities of
Rottnest Island.
• Undertake a program of recording
oral accounts from people with
previous and current associations
with Rottnest Island.
6. Holiday and Recreation Services and Facilities
6.1 INTRODUCTION
Rottnest Island has been managed as a
public recreational Island for some 95
years with the first accommodation on
the Island established at Bickley around
1907. Recreational pursuits have ceased
only for short periods during the First
and Second World Wars.
The holiday and recreational focus of
the Island is now strongly forged in
legislation with a function of the
Rottnest Island Authority Act 1987
being to ‘provide and operate
recreational and holiday facilities on
the Island.’
The Rottnest Island Authority Act 1987
directs that in the provision and
operation of recreational and holiday
facilities on the Island, the Authority
shall give particular regard to the needs
of people usually resident in the State.
Further, the Act states that the supply
of these facilities should give no
preference or advantage to any person
or group.
These legislative directions have heavily
influenced the range and style of
facilities provided on the Island.
6.2 VISITOR ADMISSION FEES AND 6.2.2 Issues
ENTRY TO THE RESERVE
Issues associated with the Rottnest
6.2.1 Background Island Admission Fee and entry into the
Reserve are as follows:
This section refers to the individual
• As the Admission Fee provides to the
Admission Fee only and does not refer
Authority funds necessary for the
to the Annual Payment in Lieu of the
maintenance and management of the
Admission Fee which is payable by
Reserve, this fee must continue to be
owners of boats and aircraft.
progressively increased in line with
Discussion on the Annual Payment in
the increasing costs of these services.
Lieu of Admission Fee for boats and
• Being unable to limit entry into the
aircraft is contained in Part B, Chapter
Reserve could cause problems
6 - Holiday and Recreation Services
relating to risk management and
and Facilities (Section 6.11) and
other difficulties in maintaining
Chapter 7 - Marine Recreation and
control of the area.
Facilities (Section 7.3.2).
6.2.3 Recommendations
Visitors are charged an Admission Fee
for entry to the Reserve. In 2002, the fee • Annually adjust the individual
was $10.45 per adult and 55c per child Admission Fee commencing
(GST inclusive). This fee is a contribution 1st July 2003.
to the provision of public facilities and • Pursue amendment to the Rottnest
the overall management of the Island. Island Authority Act 1987 to allow the
Rottnest Island Authority to control
The Rottnest Island Authority does
entry into the Rottnest Island Reserve.
not have the power to limit entry to
the Reserve.
61
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
Part B. Management Planning

Figure 2 - Total Number of Visitors to Rottnest Island arriving by Commercial Ferry or Aircraft (1997/98 - 2001/02)

355000

350000
Visitor Numbers

345000

340000

335000

330000

325000

320000
1997/98 1998/99 1999/00 2000/01 2001/02

Figure 3 - Occupancy of Rottnest Island Accommodation per Month 1996/97-2001/02

100%

80%
Occupancy

60%

40%

20%

0%
Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

1996/97 1997/98 1998/99 1999/00 2000/01 2001/02

62
6.3 VISITOR NUMBERS AND
SEASONALITY
6.3.1 Background
Visitor Numbers
Currently some 500,000 people visit the
Island every year. Approximately
350,000 of these visitors travel to the
Island by commercial ferry or aircraft
and the remainder by private pleasure
craft. Figure 2 displays the number of
people arriving on the Island by
commercial ferry or aircraft from
1997/98 to 2001/02.
Seasonality
The visitor profile shows a marked
seasonality. This is illustrated in
accommodation booking figures that
show generally between 90 percent and
100 percent occupancy in the peak
months including December, January,
February and March; through to around
30 percent in August (Figure 3 -
Occupancy of Rottnest Island
Accommodation per Month
1996/7-2001/2). The lower number of
visitors in winter has been attributed to
the combination of the weather on the
Island and sea conditions experienced
on the ferry journey to the Island.
The Island also receives a greater number
of day-trippers in summer months.
On certain days during the peak season
there is a very high number of people on
the Island. These days include New Years
Day, the Rottnest Island Channel Swim,
and the Australia Day long weekend. This
has the potential to cause congestion
and affect the visitor experience.
6.3.2 Issues management and business turnover.
There could be some benefit from
Visitor Numbers
limiting visitor numbers in summer
Issues related to the number of Island
and increasing those in the cooler
visitors are as follows:
months, as this would allow an even
• Ferry passage data indicate that the
spread of demand on resources.
number of visitors per year has
generally increased (Figure 2 - 6.3.3 Recommendations
Total Number of Visitors to
• Undertake research on the
Rottnest Island Arriving by
relationship between Rottnest Island
Commercial Ferry or Aircraft
visitor numbers and behaviour and
(1997/98 - 2001/02).
environmental, social and economic
• Accommodation occupancy data also
impacts on Rottnest Island.
indicate that the occupancy level of
• Develop and implement plans to
Authority accommodation has
increase the number of
increased (Figure 3 - Occupancy of
accommodated visitors in the cooler
Rottnest Island Accommodation
months.
per Month 1996/97-2001/02).
• Manage activities on the Island
• The number of visitors to the Island is
commensurate with optimum
an issue as human activities have the
visitor levels.
potential to affect the Island’s natural
and social values, and there is a finite
level of resources available to support
Island operations. The level of impact
is dependent not only by the number
of visitors, but also the activities and
behaviours of those visitors.
• The Authority does not have a good
understanding of the relationship
between visitor numbers, impact on
the Island’s environment and demand
on resources. Although there is
awareness of general seasonal and
annual trends, there are limited
recorded data on visitor usage
patterns and behaviours.
Seasonality
Issues related to the seasonality of
visitors to the Island are as follows:
• Seasonality creates management
issues in relation to staff and resource
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Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
6.4 ROTTNEST ISLAND AUTHORITY
Part B. Management Planning
CORE BUSINESS
6.4.1 Background
There is no definite policy in regard to
facilities managed by the Authority and
those that are operated privately on the
Island under lease or license, but a few
general trends exist. The Authority tends
to limit itself to the supply of services and
not products. For example, the Authority
has not ventured into the long term
management of a bakery or restaurant.
The Authority is committed to the direct
management and operation of its
accommodation facilities, as well as its
environmental, educational, Ranger and
heritage management role. The
retention of the accommodation
management role is critical in order for
the Authority to maintain control over a
facility that plays a significant role in
establishing the ethos of the Island, and
to ensure equity of access to the
community.
6.4.2 Issues
Issues relevant to the Authority’s
determination to operate an Island
service or facility are as follows:
• The Authority has a commitment to
the maintenance of the Rottnest
Island visitor experience. The
Authority has an obligation to sustain
the Island’s social, cultural and
ecological environment that includes
ensuring that the needs of visitors are
met and that the visitor experience on
Rottnest Island is maintained.
64
6.4.3 Recommendations
• Assess business opportunities on a
case-by-case basis, giving priority to
the requirements to maintain control
over the Reserve, preserve the ethos,
equity and access, and sustain the
Island’s environmental and social values.
6.5 AUTHORITY ACCOMMODATION
FACILITIES
This section deals exclusively with the
operation of Authority accommodation
facilities. Private accommodation
facilities are addressed in Section 6.6.
There are three main issues related to
accommodation, which are addressed
within this Management Plan. These are
the range and style of accommodation,
the upgrading of accommodation and
the amount of accommodation
available on Rottnest Island.
6.5.1 Range and style of
accommodation
6.5.1.1 Background
Rottnest Island has a range of
accommodation types available
including villas, bungalows, cottages,
units, fibro houses, campsites, camping
cabins and the hostel. In addition to
guest accommodation, there is
residential accommodation for staff and
their families who work for the
Authority or one of the businesses on
the Island. The majority of residential
accommodation is owned and
managed by the Authority.
All visitor accommodation is contained
within the Settlement Zone of the
Island (refer Part B, Chapter 2 -
Reserve Zoning Plan and Settlement
Planning Scheme).
In accordance with the Rottnest Island
Authority Act 1987, Authority
accommodation is focussed on the
needs of families. The changing nature
and size of Western Australian families
means that the Authority needs to be
flexible in the services and facilities that
it provides. Accommodation ranges
from 4- to 8-bed units and houses.
Accommodation is of a modest, self-
catered nature.
The Authority is committed to the
provision of accommodation with
universal access features. Six units have
been renovated for ease of access for
people with mobility impairment. An
access ramp has been constructed to
provide easy access to Kingstown
Sergeants’ Mess and some dormitory
rooms at Kingstown Barracks.
6.5.1.2 Issues
Issues associated with the range and
style of Authority accommodation are
as follows:
• The existing style and range of
accommodation is an important
contributor to the Rottnest Island
ethos, and alterations to the existing
style and range could have a negative
impact on this.
• It is important that the Authority
is the major supplier of
accommodation on the Island in
order to maintain the ethos created
by this style of accommodation.
6.5.1.3 Recommendations
• Retain the existing range of
accommodation on Rottnest Island.
• Investigate designs for a Rottnest
Island style of holiday cottage in
preparation for times when existing
cottages require replacement.
6.5.2 Upgrading Accommodation
6.5.2.1 Background
As noted previously, facilities provided
within Rottnest Island accommodation
are modest. This is a consequence of the
affordable pricing charter that has been
maintained by the Authority.
Although the modest forms of
accommodation are considered
appropriate for Rottnest Island,
Authority accommodation and facilities
contained within are generally old and
in need of refurbishment. A
refurbishment program commenced in
1996, as part of a Government
commitment to upgrade the Island’s
infrastructure.
As at June 2002, 44 Bathurst units, 30
North Thomson units, 38 South
Thomson Units and 28 Caroline
Thomson camping cabins have been
refurbished under this program.
Customers have provided positive
feedback about the standard of
refurbished accommodation.
6.5.2.2 Issues
Issues associated with the standard and
upgrading of Authority accommodation
are as follows:
• A high proportion of accommodation
has not been refurbished, and there is
a clear and strong message from
customers that the existing condition
of several types of unrefurbished
accommodation is below acceptable
standards. Many units are cold in
winter with their basic facilities not
suitable for this time of year.
• The proportion of reactive
maintenance that occurs in addition
to the scheduled maintenance
program is considerable and a
significant proportion of this could be
reduced if dated and aged facilities
were refurbished or replaced.
• Of the existing un-refurbished
accommodation, there are three
areas that are highly degraded and in
need of improvement:
- Accommodation situated on Kelly St
and Abbot St (fibro houses and
bungalows). This accommodation is
in need of major maintenance to the
extent that full or partial redevelopment
may be a more cost-effective option.
- Geordie/Longreach Bay
accommodation. The condition of
Geordie/Longreach area is degraded
and uncomfortable.
- Allison camping cabins. Allison
camping cabins are highly degraded,
poorly designed and landscaped,
and lacking in appropriate facilities.
• Improved accommodation conditions
could increase visitor satisfaction and
be done in a manner that heightens
the potential for increased use.
Improvements could also incorporate
best practice environmental
standards and minimise ongoing
maintenance burdens. However,
within the current revenue earning
capacity, it remains a constant
challenge for the Authority to fund
these refurbishments at a rate
consistent with visitor expectations.
• There is a perception that the
Authority accommodation does not
provide specifically for singles and
couples. The Rottnest Island Hotel
and the Lodge have accommodation
that caters for singles and couples
but this is not the same style as
Authority accommodation.
• Rottnest Island is committed to
the provision of universal access
accommodation.
6.5.2.3 Recommendations
• Investigate the feasibility of the
redevelopment of the existing Kelly
and Abbot Street accommodation,
paying attention to environmental
and heritage sensitive construction
and operation, winter comfort
standards, and the flexibility to
provide for wider styles of use.
• Refurbish the heritage cottages
and the Geordie/Longreach units,
paying particular attention to
environmentally sensitive
construction and operation and to
winter comfort standards.
• Demolish the existing Allison cabins
and construct replacement cabins
near Caroline Thomson using the
existing Caroline Thomson cabin
model, paying particular attention to
winter comfort standards.
• Improve and enhance the universal
access features of accommodation
and visitor facilities on Rottnest Island.
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Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
6.5.3 Amount of Accommodation
Part B. Management Planning
6.5.3.1 Background
There are 322 accommodation units on
the Island, including cabins, which have
the capacity to accommodate a total of
1600 people. In addition to this there
are 50 campsites with capacity for 400
people and 326 beds in Kingstown.
This leads to a total bed capacity of
2326. When additional folding beds
hired by the Authority are considered
this brings the total potential sleeping
capacity to 3036.
Demand for Authority accommodation
well exceeds the amount available
during peak holiday periods, to the
extent that a ballot has been adopted to
allocate accommodation.
6.5.3.2 Issues
There are two primary concerns with
increasing the amount of
accommodation on the Island:
• The development of new
accommodation would increase the
number of people able to stay on the
Island at any one time, potentially
increasing demand on resources, all of
which are limited and costly to produce.
• With the current available area for
accommodation development being
the entire Settlement Zone, as specified
in the Rottnest Island Authority Act
1987, there is potential for
considerable development that would
be inconsistent with the social and
environmental values of Rottnest Island.
6.5.3.3 Recommendations
• Determine and implement a defined
building envelope within the
boundary of the Settlement Zone.
66
• Except where otherwise specified, limit
construction of accommodation on
Rottnest Island to the replacement of
existing accommodation, as necessary.
6.5.4 Allocation of Accommodation
6.5.4.1 Regular booking procedures
6.5.4.1.1 Background
The Authority operates a customer
contact centre with dedicated staff,
tailored software and booking
procedures for the sale of Authority
accommodation. Accommodation can
be booked either by phoning the
customer contact centre or in person at
the accommodation office in Fremantle
and on the Island, except for
accommodation booked during the
peak ballot periods (refer Section
6.9.4.2 of this Chapter). The Customer
Contact Centre does not take bookings
for the private accommodation
establishments on the Island, such as
the Hotel and Lodge.
Authority accommodation cannot be
booked more than a year ahead, with
the beginning of each month designated
an ‘open day’ for accommodation
bookings for that month the following
year. Reservations policies prevent the on-
selling of accommodation or the booking
of multiple units. There are also limits on
the duration of stay during peak seasons.
The Rottnest Island website allows
general information about Authority
accommodation to be obtained and for
payments to be made, and for visitors to
check availability of Authority-managed
accommodation. Facilities are not yet
available to enable on-line bookings.
6.5.4.1.2 Issues
The following are issues relevant to the
booking of Authority accommodation
on Rottnest Island:
• The software program used by the
customer contact centre (ABBS) is in
need of upgrade. Enhanced features,
particularly the introduction of a
checking and verification capacity, are
also desirable.
• On ‘open days’ for popular months,
there is congestion at both the on-site
accommodation office and the
customer contact centre.
• Further enhancement could be made
to the website to move toward on-
line reservations. Currently, visitors
can check accommodation availability
and gather information on
accommodation style and cost.
6.5.4.1.3 Recommendations
• Upgrade and improve Rottnest Island
accommodation booking software
and procedures.
• Investigate the feasibility of
introducing on-line accommodation
booking facilities.
6.5.4.2 Peak accommodation
allocation procedures
6.5.4.2.1 Background
At most times of the year,
accommodation on Rottnest Island is
popular. However, in peak times the
demand for accommodation far
outweighs availability.
Historically, these peak times have been
the summer, Easter and September/
October school holidays but they now
tend to extend into the shoulder months
of those periods. During these peak
periods accommodation is allocated
through a ballot system. This requires
that people wanting accommodation fill
in a form available in The West Australian
newspaper and on the Authority’s
website. The Authority collects ballot
forms and an independent operator
randomly allocates accommodation to
the applicants.
6.5.4.2.2 Issues
The following issues are relevant to the
present system of accommodation
allocation in peak times:
• A high degree of administration is
required to conduct the
accommodation ballot. The Authority
will investigate more cost-effective
options for administering the
accommodation ballot process for the
allocation of accommodation during
peak seasons.
• Monitoring and auditing of the ballot
process has identified this as a fair and
equitable approach to allocation of
accommodation. However, segments
of the public perceive the ballot
process to be non-transparent.
6.5.4.2.3 Recommendation
• Investigate alternative methods
to allocate accommodation during
peak periods.
6.5.5 Accommodation Charges
6.5.5.1 Background
Rottnest Island Authority charges for
accommodation vary on a seasonal
basis. The Rottnest Island Authority Act
1987 states that the supply of facilities
should not advantage any particular
person or group. In the past, the
Authority has underpriced its
accommodation as a means of achieving
affordable access to some facilities.
The Authority measures its affordability
by undertaking a comparison of the cost
of day trips or longer family holidays
on Rottnest Island with day trips and
holidays at broadly equivalent holiday
destinations in the south west of the
State. In 2001/2002 the comparative
costs of a day trip and family holiday to
Rottnest Island were 66 percent and
50 percent less expensive, respectively.
Accommodation fee increases over the
past five years have been few, and have
included two CPI increases and
increases in price on the completion of
some refurbished units. Over this same
period, pensioner concessions have also
been introduced and the Caroline
Thomson Cabins were refurbished and
leased without a price increase.
6.5.5.2 Issues
There are issues associated with the
current charge structure for Authority
accommodation:
• Analysis has revealed that the revenue
from accommodation does not cover
the full cost of providing these facilities.
• The Authority has a charter to provide
affordable accommodation options
for Western Australians who want to
holiday on Rottnest Island. The
Authority will continue to fulfil this
charter by increasing the number of
Caroline Thomson-style cabins,
providing them with heating,
maintaining them to a high standard,
and maintaining affordable pricing
structures. It will also continue to
offer discounted accommodation
during off-peak times.
• Different visitors to Rottnest Island
choose to make use of different
services and facilities and the
Authority will set prices so that the
costs of those services are paid
by the users and are not imposed
on all visitors.
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Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008

6.5.5.3 Recommendations • Charge accommodation booked

Part B. Management Planning

• Implement the schedule of
accommodation charges for
bookings taken from 1 January 2003
as described in Table 5 -
Accommodation Charges.
for off peak periods, which is not part
of a discount package, at a 20 percent
discount rate.
• Annually revise accommodation costs
and operations.

Table 5 - Accommodation Charges

Accommodation Style Accommodation Charge

1 night ($) Per night for additional nights ($)

Campsite 8 8

Cottage: refurbished, 4 bed (Gem Heritage Cottage) 315 140

Cottage: refurbished, 6 bed (Gem Heritage Cottage) 400 165

Cottage: refurbished, 8 bed 355 185

Cottage: restored, 4 bed 225 125

Cottage: restored, 6 bed 270 135

Cottage: restored, 8 bed 300 170

Villa: refurbished, with view, 4 bed 205 115

Villa: refurbished, with view, 6 bed 225 125

Villa: refurbished, with view, 8 bed 245 150

Villa: unrefurbished, with view 4 bed 180 95

Villa: unrefurbished, with view, 6 bed 205 100

Villa: unrefurbished, view 8 bed 210 110

Units: refurbished, no view, 4 bed 170 80

Unit: refurbished, no view, 6 bed 195 85

Unit: unrefurbished, no view, 4 bed 140 65

Unit: unrefurbished, no view, 6 bed 170 70

Unit: unrefurbished, no view, 8 bed 210 75

Fibros 125 40

Bungalows: 4 bed 75 35

Bungalows: 6 bed 85 35

Caroline Thomson Cabins 95 50

68
6.6 PRIVATELY OPERATED
ACCOMMODATION FACILITIES
6.6.1 Background
There are two accommodation facilities
on Rottnest Island not directly operated
by the Authority. These are the Rottnest
Island Lodge and the Rottnest Island Hotel.
6.6.2 Issues
Issues associated with the
accommodation facilities on the Island
that are not operated directly by the
Authority are as follows:
• The Rottnest Island Hotel is managed
under contract by an agent. The
Authority will consider options for the
future development of the Rottnest
Island Hotel site, in consultation with
the community. The Rottnest Island
Hotel will be redeveloped during the
life of this Management Plan.
• The Lodge is leased and operated
privately. The lease for the Lodge
extends beyond the life of this
Management Plan and is due to
expire in 2018.
• The Authority will continue to work
with the Rottnest Island Hotel and
Rottnest Island Lodge to provide
appropriate holiday accommodation
on Rottnest Island.
6.6.3 Recommendations
• Conduct a community consultation
exercise to inform the future
development of the Rottnest Island
Hotel site.
• Redevelop the Rottnest Island
Hotel facilities informed by
community consultation.
6.7 EDUCATION AND
INTERPRETATION SERVICES
6.7.1 Background
Education and interpretation are
recognised as key tools for the
management of Rottnest Island and
have a role in many of the Authority’s
diverse operations. Education and
interpretation programs focussing on
the natural environment, cultural
heritage and sustainable management
of the Island are run by the Authority.
Education and interpretation refer to
the use of information to create
awareness and understanding of
management issues and the values of
the Reserve. Education programs are
directed at formal learning groups
visiting the Island with an interest in
particular topics, while interpretation is
aimed at the general visitor who may
not have an intention to learn about
specific issues and whose main purpose
is to enjoy the Island experience.
Some interpretive methods include
guided and self-guided tours, displays,
signage, brochures and talks. More
information on these interpretation
methods and directions are contained
throughout the remaining chapters of
this Plan, relating to various areas of the
Authority’s operations.
In addition to interpretation, the
Authority implements an Education
Program that offers a range of activities,
encouraging active student involvement
and hands-on learning. The program is
centred at Kingstown Barracks which
contains accommodation and a
Discovery Centre. The program has been
developed in accordance with the State
Curriculum Framework and is aimed at
primary and secondary school students.
The Rottnest Voluntary Guides Association
are active contributors to education and
interpretation and offer free of charge
tours of various styles around the Island.
6.7.2 Issues
Issues associated with the provision
of education and interpretation
services include:
• Education and interpretation are
investments in the management and
use of Rottnest Island by future
generations of visitors.
6.7.3 Recommendation
• Continue to provide education
and interpretation activities on
Rottnest Island.
6.8 SERVICES AND ATTRACTIONS
6.8.1 Background
There are a number of visitor
attractions provided on Rottnest Island
which are used by both day-trippers
and holiday-makers.
The range of visitor attractions has been
dominated by links to the natural and
cultural environment resulting in these
attractions playing an important role in
setting the tone of behaviour and
experience of visitors on Rottnest Island.
Visitor attractions are used to increase
awareness, appreciation and
understanding of the Island’s cultural
and natural environment.
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Providers of visitor facilities and
Part B. Management Planning
attractions include the Rottnest Island
Authority, the business community and
the Rottnest Voluntary Guides
Association.
The Authority is responsible for the
interpretation of heritage sites and
environmental activities, providing a
range of tours including coach tours
and also providing of a range of facilities
including the museum, library and
Visitor and Information Centre. The
Rottnest Voluntary Guides Association
conducts free tours for visitors covering
a range of subjects and issues.
Businesses on the Island provide
essential services as well as some tours
and attractions. These businesses
operate under a lease or license
arrangement with the Authority.
Businesses on the Island are managed
under a variety of arrangements
including leases, licences and contracts.
Leases are issued to businesses that
operate in Authority premises and
generally provide their services
throughout the whole year. Licences are
issued to businesses that do not operate
in Authority premises. Traditionally,
licensed businesses have provided
summer-specific services but more
recently, some have operated outside
the peak season.
The Authority has adopted a standard
selection and appointment process for
business opportunities on the Island,
which involves public advertisement
and complies with public sector
standards.
70
There are commercial operations within
the Reserve that do not have a lease or
licence arrangement with the Authority
such as diving and fishing charters
(this is considered specifically in
Part B, Chapter 7 - Marine
Recreation and Facilities).
The Authority also recognises the need
to provide for non-English speaking
visitors, and a Language Services Policy
has been developed to ensure language
barriers do not prevent visitors enjoying
the unique Island experience. Signs on
the Island display international symbols
and bilingual staff provide language
services to visitors. To assist visitors of
non-English speaking background staff
name badges signify any second
languages spoken.
This section will address tours including
bus tours; however, the bus transport
service is addressed in Section 6.9.
6.8.2 Issues
6.8.2.1 Style and Range of
Visitor Services
Issues associated with the management
of the style and range of visitor services
on the Island include the following:
• The strong link between visitor attractions
and heritage and environmental
values means the development of
appropriate links between heritage
maintenance, environmental
management and the development
of visitor attractions is critical.
• The style and range of visitor services
contributes to the Rottnest Island
ethos. Altering this style and range
from its current interpretative,
environmental and cultural heritage
focus would compromise the
Rottnest Island ethos and alter the
visitor experience.
• The range of visitor service providers
and the range of opportunities means
there is a need for coordination and
clear direction in regard to the
development and provision of visitor
services and attractions.
• There are some identified gaps in the
current range and extent of visitor
services. Customer feedback has
advised there is a demand for an
additional takeaway food venue that
provides choice and value for money,
a ‘traditional style’ ice-cream shop
and after dark activities for youth.
There are also gaps in the
telecommunications network on the
Island while in peak seasons there is
an under-supply of bicycle racks.
6.8.2.2 Management of Businesses
Issues associated with the management
of the Island’s privately operated
businesses include the following:
• The Authority maintains control over
the Reserve, its property, lands and
surrounding waters.
• In general, it is considered that
licences have been a successful
strategy for the Authority, attracting
small business operators to the Island
who have provided an array of
activities during peak visitor periods.
• The provision of winter services
through licence arrangements may
assist the Authority to reduce the level
of seasonality by attracting a greater
number of visitors to the Island during
winter months.
• It is considered that the existing
selection process for business
opportunities on the Island is open,
transparent and appropriate to
determine the ability of a business to
deliver quality products and services
to visitors.
6.8.2.3 Tours
This section will address issues
associated with guided tours, including
coach tours (note that bus services of
the Bayseeker and Shuttle Bus are
addressed under Section 6.9 of
this Chapter):
• Guided tours increase visitor
knowledge and positively influence
behaviour. Some guided tours are
provided with the use of a bus and
some are walking based.
• Coach tours add to the number of
vehicles, but provide the only
opportunity for certain groups to
discover the outer bays of the Island.
Furthermore, coach tours are a
managed way for people to
experience the natural environment
with minimal impact.
• Coordination between the various
groups responsible for offering tours
is required to ensure an optimum
balance of products.
6.8.2.4 Visitor and Information
Centre
The Rottnest Island Visitor and
Information Centre provides
information and advice to visitors to
Rottnest Island. The following issues are
associated with provision of services by
the Visitor and Information Centre:
• The existing Visitor and Information
Centre is inadequate in terms of size,
range of services and ability to meet
peak demands. There are also some
universal access issues associated
with the Visitor and Information
Centre that need to be addressed.
• The current range of brochures
provided by the Visitor and
Information Centre is not considered
adequate interpretation tools.
• The range of merchandise sold
by the Visitor and Information
Centre is limited.
• There are opportunities to be
explored in terms of the range of
merchandise available, as well as
alternative ordering mechanisms such
as mail order and on-line ordering.
6.8.2.5 Impacts of Visitor Services
The impact of visitor services is an issue:
• The Authority has a limited
understanding of the impact of tours
and visitor attractions on the Island’s
environment, the level of influence
they have on visitors, and how they
shape visitors’ enjoyment and
understanding of the Island.
6.8.2.6 Charges for Visitor Services
and Facilities
Issues associated with the charges for
visitor services and facilities are as
follows:
• Many visitor services currently
provided do not operate on a cost-
recovery model.
• Given the provision of self-guided
free interpretative opportunities,
guided tours and services could be
sold at cost recovery rates while
maintaining a high level of access to
Island experiences.
6.8.3 Recommendations
• Develop and implement a Plan for
visitor services and attractions which
is consistent with the Island’s purpose
and based on the principles of
environmental, social and economic
sustainability.
• Provide a range of visitor services and
attractions that are available on a self-
directed, free-of-charge basis.
• Maintain and enhance the services
provided by businesses operating on
Rottnest Island.
• Provide and enhance language
services to non-English speaking
visitors.
• Develop and implement a research
program to determine the impact of
services and attractions on the
Rottnest Island environment and
its visitors.
• Develop and implement a Rottnest
Island Merchandising Plan.
• Increase the number of bicycle racks
on Rottnest Island.
• Develop and implement a
telecommunications plan.
• Determine and provide recreation
facilities targeted at youth.
• Undertake a review of charges for the
full range of tours and visitor services.
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6.9 TRANSPORT SERVICES
Part B. Management Planning
6.9.1 Range of Services
6.9.1.1 Background
This section deals only with the
passenger services that are to be
primarily for transport and are not
considered ‘tours’. Tours are addressed
in Section 6.8 of this Chapter.
The Authority operates several transport
services on the Island, which are for the
primary purpose of the carriage of
passengers. Primary services are the
Bayseeker bus service that carries people
from the Settlement to the outer bays of
the Island (refer Chart 1- Rottnest
Island Reserve), and the Shuttle Bus
that shuttles people between Thomson
and Geordie/Longreach Bay and
Kingstown. A charter bus service is
available on request. The Authority also
operates a light rail operation from
Thomson Bay to Oliver Hill.
There are two bus transport services on
the Island, not operated by the
Authority. The Department of Fisheries
conducts fishing tours for people with a
disability with the aid of their dedicated
and specially designed bus. Malibu Dive
operates a bus as part of their diving
tours offered around the Island.
As a result of the conflict between
buses, pedestrians and cyclists, the
Authority has determined not to increase
the number of bus seats available.
6.9.1.2 Issues
The existing range of bus services is
adequate to meet visitors’ current
needs. However, the following issues
are associated with the future
72
management of the range of services: The Shuttle bus is limited to the
• Should the development of Wadjemup Settlement Zone including Settlement
Hill precinct occur, there may be a main bus stop, Geordie Bay/Longreach
need for additional bus services. Bay/Fays Bay, Airport and Kingstown.
• There is a demand for the carriage of The Bayseeker bus does not travel to
large equipment around the Island West End although the coach tour does.
mainly associated with people’s
Charter buses, the Malibu Dive Bus and
recreational pursuits, for example
the Department of Fisheries universal
surfboards, but also including prams
access bus carry people to various areas
and other items. The carriage of large
of the Island.
equipment by the Island’s bus services
can compromise its primary function
6.9.2.2 Issues
of passenger alternative carriage and
Although the range of bus services is
can inconvenience passengers. The
adequate, there are issues associated
Authority will be considering the need
with the operating schedules:
to arrange for the alternative carriage
• The current Bayseeker bus schedule is
of equipment around the Island.
not adequate to meet the demands of
6.9.1.3 Recommendation visitors in peak times.
• Investigate mechanisms to improve • Of all the vehicles on Rottnest Island,
the carriage of large equipment on the buses are probably the most
bus services. visually and audibly obtrusive.
• The frequency of the bus schedule
6.9.2 Bus Route and Schedule must be managed against the conflict
between cyclists, walkers and buses
6.9.2.1 Background
as a passing bus in the Natural Zone
The Bayseeker bus service has a winter
diminishes the amenity value of the
and summer schedule with the more
outer bay experience. There is a need
frequent summer timetable offering 20-
to determine the right balance of
to 30-minute intervals between buses.
buses in terms of number and style
The Shuttle Bus runs approximately
to meet the needs of all visitors
every 30 minutes. Some additional
including walkers, riders and those
services are provided to complement
travelling on buses.
organised evening activities.
6.9.2.3 Recommendations
The Bayseeker stops include the
• Investigate alternative-powered
Settlement main bus stop, South
buses for Rottnest Island that will
Thomson, Kingstown turn-off, Porpoise
have a more positive impact on visual
Bay, Parker Point, Little Salmon Bay,
and environmental amenities.
Salmon Bay, Green Island, Strickland
• Investigate the feasibility of
Bay, Rocky Bay, Roland Smith Memorial,
the extension of the Rottnest Island
Stark Bay, City of York Bay, Little
rail service.
Parakeet Bay and Geordie Bay store.
6.9.3 Bus Charges
6.9.3.1 Background
The current charges for Bayseeker
buses, at December 2002 were $7.00
per adult and $3.50 per child.
Concessions, family passes and annual
tickets are also available. The Shuttle
bus service is free of charge.
6.9.3.2 Issues
• The operational costs of bus services
are not covered by the fees charged.
6.9.3.3 Recommendation
• Annually review and amend bus
service fees and charges.
6.10 SELF-DIRECTED RECREATION
Self-directed recreation is popular and
highly valued on Rottnest Island.
Generally this includes bicycle riding
and walking in the terrestrial
environment, and swimming, fishing
and snorkelling in the marine
environment. This section deals only
with the terrestrial recreational
activities. Refer to Part B, Chapter 7 -
Marine Recreation and Facilities,
for discussion on self-directed
marine recreation.
Rottnest Island offers exceptional scenic
views and walking tracks appreciated by
both cyclists and walkers. There is an
opportunity to further enhance the self-
directed recreational experience of
Rottnest Island through the provision of
interpretative material either in the form
of brochures or site-specific
interpretative signage.
Self directed recreation can occur over
the entire Island with the exception of
Environmental Exclusion Zones
(refer Part B, Chapter 2 - Reserve
Zoning Plan and Settlement
Planning Scheme).
6.10.1 Cycling
6.10.1.1 Background
The primary form of transport on Rottnest
Island is the bicycle. Bicycles are available
for hire on the Island year round. Visitors
are also able to transport their own
bicycles onto the Island by ferry.
There are conflicts between the various
modes of transport on the Island.
Cycling, as well as vehicular traffic, are
known to cause mortality of Island
fauna, particularly quokkas. The level of
mortality is elevated by the fact that
some cyclists ride at night without a
bicycle light. Conflicts also occur
between cyclists and pedestrians. To
minimise this conflict cycling is not
permitted in congested and popular
pedestrian areas including the mall and
the jetty.
The interpretation of the Island on a
self-directed basis is covered under
Part B, Chapter 3 - Terrestrial
Environment, and Chapter 5 -
Cultural Heritage.
6.10.1.2 Issues
Issues associated with cycling on
Rottnest Island include:
• Visitors tend to feel safe on their
bicycles on Rottnest Island,
presumably due to the small numbers
of vehicles. However, the risks of
injury are similar to risks on the
mainland. The requirement to wear a
helmet when cycling and to use a
light at night applies on Rottnest
Island. Enforcing cycling road rules is
the responsibility of the Western
Australian Police Service.
• Although cycling is popular on
Rottnest Island, there are some areas
where it is a hazard as a result of
congestion and high volumes of
people. These areas include the
Arrival and Departure Precinct,
shopping area and the Main
Passenger Jetty. This is addressed in
the Settlement Planning Scheme
where it is recommended that
mechanisms be developed and
implemented to enforce no bicycle
riding in these areas (refer Part B,
Chapter 2 - Reserve Zoning Plan
and Settlement Planning Scheme).
6.10.1.3 Recommendations
• Work with the Rottnest Island Police
to enforce the requirement for cyclists
to wear helmets on Rottnest Island.
• Work with the Rottnest Island Police
to enforce the requirement for cyclists
to use a light when cycling at night.
6.10.2 Walking
6.10.2.1 Background
Walking is an activity that is enjoyed by
people of all ages, interests and fitness
levels, and is a popular mode of
transport around the Island. Rottnest
Island offers several impressive walking
areas and a range of opportunities to
meet the needs of this diverse group.
Interpretative walks have been provided
to enhance the visitor experience.
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Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
Walkers are encouraged to use the
Part B. Management Planning
roads and existing walking tracks. A
coastal walking trail has been partially
constructed over recent years and the
Settlement Planning Scheme includes
the recommendation to extend and
enhance this trail (refer Part B, Chapter
2 - Reserve Zoning Plan and
Settlement Planning Scheme,
Section 2.5.1).
The interpretation of the Island on a
self-directed basis is covered under
Part B, Chapter 3 - Terrestrial
Environment and Chapter 5 -
Cultural Heritage.
6.10.2.2 Issues
Issues associated with walking around
Rottnest Island include:
• Viewing the Island through
formalised and maintained walking
tracks can be a low impact activity
and is encouraged by the Authority.
6.10.2.3 Recommendation
• Review and rationalise the number of
walking tracks on Rottnest Island to
minimise environmental impacts while
providing for the needs of visitors.
6.10.3 Universal Access to
Recreational Facilities
6.10.3.1 Background
The Authority recognises the principles
of universal access as being beneficial to
guiding the development of recreation
and leisure projects on the Island and
removing the barriers that prohibit an
accessible holiday experience for all
visitors. The Authority has a Disability
Services Plan for Rottnest Island which
74
guides the approach to providing
universal recreational facilities.
The Authority has been active in
providing universal access to
recreational facilities on Rottnest Island.
Beach accessible wheelchairs and
electronic scooters are currently
available, in addition to manual
wheelchairs. The Authority also has
some tour vehicles equipped with
wheelchair lifts.
The Authority’s recreational facilities are
enhanced by the Department of
Fisheries which conducts fishing clinics
for people with a disability with the aid
of a purpose-built bus.
6.10.3.2 Issues
The Rottnest Island Authority is
committed to the future maintenance
and enhancement of recreational
activities for all visitors to the Island.
6.10.3.3 Recommendations
• Implement the Rottnest Island
Authority Disability Services Plan.
• Refurbish the ramp to North
Thomson Beach to provide beach
and water access.
6.11 ROTTNEST ISLAND AERODROME
6.11.1 Background
The Authority owns and maintains the
Rottnest Island Aerodrome. The
Authority is responsible to the Civil
Aviation Authority for all matters
relating to the maintenance of facilities
and equipment used at the aerodrome.
The Rottnest Island aerodrome receives
in the region of 1000 landings per year.
The main user of the aerodrome is the
Rottnest Air Taxi who offers chartered
transport for visitors to the Island and
conducts joy flights. Other users include
air charter companies, recreational
training schools, Royal Australian
Airforce, the Royal Flying Doctor Service
and private recreational users.
People arriving on the Island in
recreational aircraft (ie. not those on a
commercial service who pay a fee for
transport) are required to pay the
Admission Fee of $10.45 per adult and
55 cents per child. There is also an
option to make an annual payment in
lieu of the Admission Fee, which is
currently $110 per aircraft. People
arriving by recreational aircraft for
which an annual payment in lieu of
Admission Fee has been paid, are not
required to pay the Admission Fee.
Commercial aircraft operators bringing
passengers to the Island are required to
collect the Admission Fee from their
passengers and remit the fees collected
to the Authority.
In addition to the Admission Fee,
owners of aircraft that land at the
aerodrome, other than those who carry
out a regular passenger or joyflight
service, are required to pay to the
Authority an Aerodrome Usage Fee.
The owner of the aircraft may make
Aerodrome Usage Fee payments on each
landing occasion which are currently set
at $22.00 for aircraft not greater than
2000kg, $33.00 for aircraft greater than
2000kg and $33.00 for a helicopter.
Alternatively, the owner of an aircraft may
choose to pay the Authority an annual
payment for Aerodrome Usage Fee.
The annual usage fee is currently
calculated:
- for aircraft with a maximum loaded
weight not greater than 2000
kilograms, by multiplying the number
of declared visits to the Island by $17;
- for aircraft with a maximum loaded
weight greater than 2000 kilograms,
by multiplying the number of
declared visits to the Island by $25;
and
- for any helicopter, irrespective of its
maximum loaded weight, by
multiplying the number of declared
visits by $25.
If the owner of the aircraft has paid the
Aerodrome Usage Fee, then a person
who is carried to the Island in that
aircraft shall be deemed to have paid
the Admission Fee.
6.11.2 Issues
Issues associated with the management
of the Rottnest Island Aerodrome include:
• The annual payment in lieu of
Admission Fee and Aerodrome Usage
Fee for aircraft has not been increased
for some years, resulting in these
being out of line with other Rottnest
Island Admission fees and with the
cost of the provision of these services.
Fees for the aerodrome must be set
within the context of the high
management cost and relatively low
usage of the aerodrome.
6.11.3 Recommendations
• Review the operation of the Rottnest
Island Aerodrome.
• Review the range of aerodrome fees.
6.12 QUALITY OF CUSTOMER
SERVICE
6.12.1 Background
It is important that all Rottnest Island staff
provide a high level of customer service.
This is critical to achieving the Authority’s
vision of ‘Rottnest: Forever Magic’.
The Authority conducts an Induction
Program and Environmental Awareness
Course aimed at familiarising staff with
topical issues. A program of training
staff in nationally accredited
telecommunications customer service
programs has also commenced.
6.12.2 Issues
Issues associated with management of
customer service include the following:
• Industry standards provide a benchmark
from which to assess customer service
and product standards.
• Uniforms are required so that all
Authority staff are identifiable to visitors.
6.12.3 Recommendations
• Provide training opportunities to
Authority staff to improve service
levels to meet industry standards and
benchmarks.
• Investigate certification under national
tourism accreditation schemes.
• Develop and introduce a new
range of Rottnest Island Authority
staff uniforms.
6.13 MARKETING
6.13.1 Background
Rottnest Island devotes limited
resources to marketing. This is largely
because of the fact that during peak
seasons, demand for accommodation
outweighs availability. In addition, the
highest proportion of visitors come from
the local market who are considered to
have a high level of awareness of the
Island. The Authority does not currently
have a formalised marketing plan.
Marketing activities conducted by the
Authority include the compilation and
distribution of brochures, the
monitoring and development of the
website, campaign marketing during
the winter months which aims to
increase accommodation occupancy
and visitor numbers, and ongoing
media activity throughout the year.
The Island is also promoted by ferry
companies who advertise regularly, and
the Business Community who take part
in seasonal marketing initiatives.
6.13.2 Issues
Issues associated with the marketing of
Rottnest Island include the following:
• The absence of a good understanding
of market segmentation, market
needs and visitor behaviour limits the
Authority in its ability to market the
Island’s services effectively.
• The absence of a formal marketing
strategy also limits the ability of the
Authority to be strategic in its
marketing activities.
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Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
• Marketing of visitor facilities and
Part B. Management Planning
attractions on the Island is as
important as marketing of
accommodation, but this aspect is
given less attention.
• It is critical that marketing of the
Island is realistic about the nature of
the Rottnest Island product in order to
manage customer expectations, limit
disillusionment and complaints about
the standard of services and facilities.
• It is critical that marketing and
promotion undertaken by Island
businesses is accurate and consistent
with the Authority’s objectives.
• A new Authority website has recently
been implemented and will be utilised
as a strategic marketing tool.
6.13.3 Recommendations
• Design and implement a market
research program to gain an
understanding of market segments
and needs.
• Develop and implement a strategic
marketing plan for Rottnest Island,
based on the outcomes of market
research.
• Work with Rottnest Island businesses
and ferry operators to improve the
compatibility of marketing campaigns
with Rottnest Island objectives.
76
6.14 ORGANISED EVENTS AND
FUNCTIONS
6.14.1 Background
Externally Organised Events
Rottnest Island is a popular location
for a range of functions and events.
Many of these are organised and
operated by external groups, using
Rottnest Island as a venue.
The Rottnest Island Regulations 1988
direct that events and functions cannot
be held within the Reserve without the
express approval of the Authority, and
preference is given to events that add to
the family holiday experience. A
function is defined as an official or
formal gathering, for example a
wedding, birthday party or conference
while an event is generally a commercial
activity of larger scale and usually
involves more people than a function,
for example a festival, sporting occasion
or contest. Several large-scale public
events are conducted annually on
Rottnest Island including the Rottnest
Island Channel Swim, Rottnest Swim-
Thru, and the Rottnest Island Marathon
and Fun Run.
The approval and management of
events and functions is guided by the
Authority’s Events Policy and is subject
to conditional approval.
In accordance with the Reserve Zoning
Plan (refer Part B, Chapter 2 - Reserve
Zoning Plan and Settlement
Planning Scheme) events and
functions are restricted to the
Settlement Zone and the Activity Nodes.
The Authority charges a non-refundable
permit fee for all organisations and
individuals wishing to hold a private
event or function on the Island. A bond
is payable for most large-scale public
functions, corporate events and private
functions of more than 50 people. If the
event attracts more than 300 people,
organisers are responsible for the
removal of event-generated waste from
the Island.
Authority Hosted Events
The Rottnest Island Authority also hosts
a number of events as entertainment
and interest for its accommodated
visitors. These include organised bands
in public areas, Christmas Carols, school
holiday programs and art displays,
among others.
6.14.2 Issues
Issues relevant to the management of
events and functions on Rottnest Island
include:
• There is a need to consider the impact
of events and functions on other
people recreating and holidaying on
the Island.
• Demands to increase the scale of
current events could contribute to
compromising the experience of
individual visitors.
• During peak periods when the Island
is congested, organised events can
add to the congestion and potential
associated impacts, therefore the
Authority prefers to support events
that have the potential to boost visitor
numbers in off peak periods and
shoulder months.
• Events on Rottnest Island should have
relevance to the Rottnest Island
environment and ethos and not
compromise the visitor experience.
• There is currently little guidance
about the type or scale of events or
functions that require approval.
• Authority-hosted programs
add considerable value to the
visitor experience.
• Events can have positive financial
benefits to the Island businesses
including the Authority.

6.14.3 Recommendations

• Determine a policy on the scale and

type of function and event
appropriate for Rottnest Island
based on considerations of social,
economic and environmental
benefits and impacts.
• Undertake a range of Rottnest Island
Authority-hosted programs to
enhance the visitor experience.

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Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
7. Marine Recreation and Facilities
7.1 INTRODUCTION
Part B. Management Planning
7.1.1 General
The marine portion of the Rottnest
Island Reserve contains a variety of
resources and facilities that make these
waters a significant attraction for
visitors. It is interesting to note that
although the Marine Reserve is a major
attraction, its management has, in the
past, been given considerably less
attention than the terrestrial realm.
This chapter deals with the management
of the many user groups and facilities
within the Marine Reserve, which are
inextricably linked to environmental
management and protection of its
natural resources. This chapter should
be read in conjunction with Part B,
Chapter 4 - Marine Environment
that details the environmental
management of the marine environment.
It is also important to acknowledge that
users of the Marine Reserve often also
make use of general land-based
facilities provided including toilets,
showers and barbeques. This group also
uses the Island’s infrastructure, for
example, the provision of water and the
disposal of rubbish, and these uses are
appropriate and encouraged.
7.1.2 Users of the Marine Reserve
The diversity of Rottnest Island’s marine
environment lends itself to a range of
users including swimmers, divers,
snorkellers, boaters, fishers and surfers.
The marine environment also has a
significant amenity and visual value to
land-based visitors and these users
78
should also be considered in regard to
the management of the Marine Reserve.
Many user groups are not mutually
exclusive, for example those who bring
private boats to Rottnest Island may also
fish and dive during their stay. The range
of users of the Marine Reserve include
members of the commercial sector, for
example charter boat operations and
commercial fishing, as well as
recreational users.
7.2 MARINE RECREATIONAL
ACTIVITIES
A range of passive recreational activities
occur in the Marine Reserve and some
of these include swimming, snorkelling,
diving and surfing. Management of
these activities are described below.
7.2.1 Background
Swimming, Diving and Snorkelling
There are numerous bays in the
Settlement and the Natural Zone which
are popular swimming locations.
People swim off the beaches and off
their boats.
Diving and snorkelling are common
recreational pursuits in the Reserve and
there are a large variety of boat-based
and shore-based diving and snorkelling
opportunities, including a diversity of
marine habitats. The Authority has
developed self-guided trails for divers
and snorkellers at Kingston Reef and
Parker Point.
Commercial diving charter operators
bring divers and snorkellers to the Reserve
on a daily basis for much of the year.
Recreational Fishing
Rottnest Island is considered to be one
of the most popular recreational fishing
locations in Western Australia and many
visitors fish during their stay. The
environmental management of fishing
activities is addressed in Part B,
Chapter 4 - Marine Environment.
Commercial fishing charters also
operate in the Reserve.
Surfing
Rottnest Island is recognised
internationally for the quality of its
surfing waves. Annual surfing events
are held at Strickland Bay and
championship surfing events have also
been staged at this location.
Personalised Powered Watercraft
Personalised powered watercraft
(eg. Jetskis) are currently permitted to
be operated within the Reserve but are
restricted in their efficiency in areas
where speed limits apply.
7.2.2 Issues
Issues relevant to marine recreation
activities in the Reserve are as follows:
Swimming, snorkelling and diving are all
popular and valued recreational
activities, and the conflicting nature of
these uses needs careful management.
Part B, Chapter 2 - Reserve Zoning
Plan and Settlement Planning
Scheme recommends the development
of a marine zoning plan to address this.
Personalised powered watercraft have
associated noise, environmental and
risk issues and are not considered
compatible with the Reserve.
7.2.3 Recommendations
• Monitor the use of Personalised
Powered Watercraft within the
boundary of the Reserve over the
peak months of 2003/2004 and
2004/2005 and determine whether
they should continue to be permitted
within the Reserve.
7.3 BOATING
7.3.1 Boating Capacity
7.3.1.1 Background
As the only developed offshore boating
destination in the region, with close
proximity to Perth, Rottnest Island is one
of the most popular destinations in the
west and southwest of Western
Australia. Facilities on the Island mean it
can also be used as an overnight
destination, which creates specific
conditions requiring consideration
and management.
Western Australia has the highest vessel
ownership per capita in the nation, and
16,000 private vessels are registered
and capable of travelling to Rottnest
Island. It is estimated that up to 150,000
visitors to the Island arrive by private
vessel annually.
Many boaters who arrive at the Reserve
and spend an extended time there,
bring with them around three to six
people. They use land-based facilities,
and make use of the natural resources
and facilities.
Boating industry figures indicate that
the number of boats in Perth is
increasing with approximately 500
private vessels purchased each month
and the number of registered boats in
Western Australia increasing by about
three percent per year and 28 percent
over the last decade. As Perth’s major
boating destination, it is assumed that
without mechanisms to manage
boating visitors, the number of boats in
the Reserve will escalate, and so will the
associated impacts discussed in Part B,
Chapter 4 - Marine Environment.
To assist in consultation and liaison, the
Authority has recently endorsed the
establishment of a Rottnest Island
Marine Issues Advisory Committee
(RIMIAC) to provide advice and
assistance on matters relating to the
recreational use and management of
the Marine Reserve.
7.3.1.2 Issues
Issues associated with the management
of boating capacity of the Marine
Reserve are as follows:
• The amount of boating activity the
Reserve can sustain is closely linked to
the behaviour of boaters. Appropriate
management of boating and
associated activities will minimise any
potential adverse impacts. However,
there will be a point when the Reserve
reaches its limit in accommodating
private boats without harmful effects
to the environmental and social
values of the Island.
• Limiting factors are sullage and
damage to marine life and impacts on
the amenity in terms of the vistas of
the bays. There are also conflicts
between boating use and diving,
swimming and snorkelling activities
that will influence boating capacity, as
will the size profile of boats.
• The sustainable boating capacity of
the Reserve is unknown; however,
monitoring data and anecdotal
evidence suggests the number of
boats on peak boating days already
affects the amenity of the Island.
• The Authority has no mechanisms to
control the number of boats
occupying the Reserve. Furthermore,
there is no model or formula available
for determining its maximum
sustainable boating capacity.
7.3.1.3 Recommendations
• Undertake research into the boating
capacity of the Rottnest Island
Marine Reserve based on social,
environmental and infrastructure
constraints.
• Investigate mechanisms to manage
the boating capacity of the Rottnest
Island Marine Reserve.
7.3.2 Boating Annual Admission Fee
7.3.2.1 Background
Visitors entering the Reserve by ferry
pay the Authority an Admission Fee, as
part of their ferry fare, which is currently
set at $10.45 per adult and 55c per
child. Those entering the Reserve by
private boat are also required to pay the
Admission Fee, but have the option of
making an annual payment in lieu of the
Admission Fee of $110 (as at 2002) and
displaying a sticker to this effect on their
vessel. This is then valid for all visitors
entering the Reserve in that vessel,
regardless of the number of people
carried, days of access or facilities used.
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The Authority provides a range of
Part B. Management Planning
facilities for recreational boats visiting
Rottnest Island including jetty berthing
facilities, barbeques, a fuelling station,
the provision and maintenance of
ablution blocks and showers, the
provision of rubbish collection and
disposal services and the provision of
bus transport services. It is
acknowledged that many facilities used
by boaters are used, to varying extents,
by other visitors to the Island.
The boating annual payment in lieu
of the Admission Fee has not been
increased in accordance with CPI
for 3 years.
7.3.2.2 Issues
Issues associated with the boating
annual payment in lieu of Admission Fee
are as follows:
• This fee is revenue to the Authority
used for the management of the
Island and its facilities. The current
annual payment is significantly
underpriced when compared with
Admission Fees paid per visit by
individuals.
• An analysis of the cost of the
provision of these services and
facilities to the boating community
versus the revenue received from
current charges has revealed that the
Authority makes a net loss. It is
considered that in a self-funding
environment, it is not sustainable for
the Authority to use revenue from
other visitors’ admission fees, and
funding from other areas, to subsidise
the activities and services of the
boating community.
80
7.3.2.3 Recommendations
• Increase the boating annual payment
in lieu of Admission Fee from
1 September 2003 to the following
GST inclusive prices:
- Vessels up to 8 metres: $121.00
- Vessels greater than 8 metres but
less than 10 metres: $137.50
- Vessels 10 metres or greater but less
than 15 metres: $165.00
- Vessels 15 metres or greater: $275.00
• Annually review the boating Annual
Payment in Lieu of Admission Fee.
* Vessel length refers to the registration length of a
vessel as defined in vessel registration papers issued
by the Western Australian Department for Planning
and Infrastructure.
7.3.3 Boating Speed Limits
7.3.3.1 Background
The Rottnest Island Regulations 1988
provide the Authority with the power to
limit the speed of any specified class or
classes of vessels in any area of the
Reserve. The Authority works with the
lead agency for boating transport and
safety, the Department for Planning and
Infrastructure, in this regard. Five-knot
speed limits apply in Thomson,
Longreach, Geordie and Parker Point,
Parakeet, Stark, Rocky, Narrowneck,
Marjorie and Porpoise Bays. Boating
accidents are reasonably frequent in the
Marine Reserve.
7.3.3.2 Issues
Management of boating speed limits
includes the following issues:
• The Reserve is a popular diving,
snorkel and swimming area, and
considering the potential for
accidents, boat speed limits should
reflect the need to ensure
precautionary vessel movements.
7.3.3.3 Recommendation
• Work with the Department for
Planning and Infrastructure to expand
the boating five-knot speed limit area
to include all bays containing
moorings and all waters within 100
metres of the shoreline.
7.4 MOORINGS
The Rottnest Island Reserve contains
licensed recreational moorings and
rental moorings. Licensed moorings are
distributed through the Settlement and
outer bays of the Island. Rental
moorings are located only in Thomson
Bay, Geordie Bay and Longreach Bay.
Compared to anchoring, moorings are
considered to have relatively low
environmental impact and are therefore
considered to be an effective
environmental management tool (refer
Chapter 4 - Marine Environment,
Section 4.6 - Mooring Damage, and
Section 4.7 - Anchor Damage).
Authority-owned moorings are rented
to private vessel owners on a short-term
basis. Permanent recreational moorings
are licensed to boat owners on an
annual basis. The demand for
recreational mooring site licences well
exceeds the availability of these facilities,
and the demand for rental moorings
exceeds availability in peak times.
7.4.1 Mooring Capacity
7.4.1.1 Background
There are 899 moorings within the
Marine Reserve, consisting of 864
recreational moorings and 35 rental
moorings. There is limited documented
information available on the level of use
of moorings but anecdotal evidence
suggests that apart from peak periods,
it is unusual for a high proportion of
moorings in the Reserve to be occupied
at any one time.
7.4.1.2 Issues
Issues associated with the number of
moorings in the Rottnest Island Reserve
include the following:
• At the broadest level, the mooring
capacity of an area is influenced by
the size of boats using the moorings -
which must be far enough apart to
avoid collisions. It is also influenced by
the need to minimise environmental
damage caused by the apparatus itself
and the need to manage the resultant
impact of boating in the Reserve.
• The Authority does not maintain
geographically positioned data on
mooring locations, which impedes its
ability to ensure appropriate distances
are maintained between moorings
and that no illegal relocation of
moorings occurs.
• There is concern that if the pattern of
mooring usage increases significantly,
the environmental and social values
of Rottnest Island will be
compromised, particularly in the
popular Settlement bays of
Thomson, Geordie and Longreach.
Any alteration to the existing
mooring policy should carefully
consider the influence that this
may have on patterns of mooring
use and subsequent social and
environmental impacts.
• Sand accretion in bays is rendering
some moorings unsuitable for a
vessel as the draft of the vessel
exceeds the depth of the water. In
such circumstances, the Authority
facilitates the re-assignment of a
suitable mooring to that licensee.
Interference with the sea bottom in
order to increase the depth of the
mooring apparatus is considered
unacceptable.
7.4.1.3 Recommendations
• Maintain the current total number of
licensed recreational moorings in the
Rottnest Island Marine Reserve.
• Employ geographical positioning
survey methods to determine and
maintain records of mooring locations.
• Prohibit people from dredging or
otherwise interfering with any area of
sea bed in the Marine Reserve.
7.4.2 Mooring Site Licences
7.4.2.1 Background
Licensed moorings are allocated and
managed in accordance with the
Authority’s 1997 Moorings Policy.
The Authority grants recreational
licences for moorings allowing a
person’s vessel to occupy a specific
mooring site. A recreational mooring
site licence has a 12-month term and
the current policy is to renew these
annually on 1 September, subject to
compliance with licence conditions. The
Authority may refuse to renew a licence
if it considers that it is in the public
interest or in the best interest of the
Reserve to do so.
Under the existing policy, only a mooring
Licensee or its ‘Authorised User’ can use
the licensed recreational mooring.
Authorised Users are people who have
been given formal approval by the
licensee of the mooring to occupy that
facility, and the Authorised User system
is administered by the Authority.
As the demand for recreational mooring
site licences well exceeds the availability
of moorings, the Authority also
operates a waitlist that allows eligible
people to register applications for a
relinquished mooring. Waitlist periods
can be up to fifteen years.
The mooring policy creates a range of
requirements regarding eligibility for a
mooring site licence. The major
requirement is that only those who own
a boat registered in Western Australia,
and who reside in Western Australia
and are on the Western Australian
electoral role are eligible for a mooring
site licence and are able to sit on the
mooring site licence waiting list. Further,
a maximum of one mooring site licence
is permitted per person.
7.4.2.2 Issues
The following are issues relevant to the
future management of Rottnest Island
recreational mooring site licences:
Allocation and Access to
Recreational Mooring Site Licences
The current policy restricts access to a
mooring to the Licensee of that
mooring and any nominated Authorised
Users. Licensees are not permitted to
moor on another person’s mooring,
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Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
unless they are an Authorised User of
Part B. Management Planning
that mooring. Boaters must be an
Authorised User of any mooring they
intend to use. Boaters who are not
Licensees or Authorised Users of a
recreational mooring are not permitted
to make use of that facility, however
rental moorings are available for hire
from the Authority. The popularity of
moorings on the Island, and the annual
licence renewal process means the
waitlist system is limited in its ability to
increase access for boaters. The current
policy has resulted in a total of only
approximately 1600 individuals having
access to a mooring on the Island.
There is strong public pressure to
increase access to moorings in the
Reserve. The boating community has
expressed strong support for a mooring
system that retains the current licensing
and Authorised User arrangements
while introducing the opportunity for
other boaters to have access to
moorings on a short term basis.
The Authority is committed to
increasing access to licensed
recreational moorings. There are several
ways that this can be achieved and the
Authority proposes to trial a system with
the support of the boating community.
This system will maintain the existing
categories of mooring users (ie.
Licensees and Authorised Users) but
increase access by extending the rights
of those users and the method of
allocation of Authorised Users as
follows, and summarised in Table 6 -
Summary of Recreational Mooring
Trial System.
82
Authorised Users. Licensees will be will retain their mooring licence and the
required by the Authority to have annual renewal policy will continue.
Authorised Users, and may continue to Allocation of moorings that become
nominate them. The terms and vacant will be from the waitlist. The
conditions of site licences will grant the annual renewal policy will also apply to
Authority the right to allocate new licensees.
Authorised Users to moorings, in order
This system will be trialed from
to ensure increased access. People may
1 September 2003. The trial will be
nominate their interest in becoming an
developed and implemented in
Authorised User without being an
consultation with a working group
associate of a Licensee. Each Authorised
including representatives of stakeholder
User may have Authorised User access
groups and in consultation with the
for several recreational moorings.
newly established Rottnest Island
Access Rights. Under the trial system, Marine Issues Advisory Committee.
Licensees and Authorised users will
There are several issues that will need to
have the right to access the moorings
be resolved in the development and
they are assigned to, and will also have
implementation of the trial. The
casual user access to all other recreational
Authority will underwrite Public Liability
moorings. This access will be subject to
Insurance for all moorings on Rottnest
conditions including having a
Island but other insurance matters,
competent operator on board at all
economic viability and administrative
times, recognising physical limitations
issues will require development.
and other conditions to be specified.
The Authority will pursue other
Licensees will have priority access to
mechanisms to increase access to
their mooring, over all other users.
recreational moorings within the
Authorised Users have priority access to
Reserve, should the trial be unsuccessful.
those moorings that they are authorised
to use, over casual users.
Charges for Recreational Mooring
Both Licensees and Authorised Users Site Licences and Authorised Access
will have the option of casual use. This All fees and charges for Licensees and
will allow people to visit friends in other Authorised Users will be based on per
bays, explore other bays, or to moor for metre of boat length.
short periods of time in Thomson or
Mooring Licensees pay an annual
Geordie Bays to obtain essentials and
recreational mooring site licence fee to
utilise facilities.
the Authority which is currently set at $55
License term and renewal process. per metre. The licence fee for the trial has
Under the trial system, existing renewal been amended to $66 per metre, or
processes and allocation of moorings $660, whichever is the greater amount.
from the waitlist will remain. Licensees
 Table 6 - Summary of Recreational Mooring Trial System

Feature Description

Access Rights of Licensees
Access Rights of Authorised Users
Nomination of Authorised Users
Allocation of relinquished moorings
License term and renewal for existing licensees
License term and renewal for new licensees
Licensees have priority access to their mooring above all others. Licensees have casual access to all other
vacant recreational moorings until such time as the Licensee or an Authorised User of that mooring
requires use of the mooring - a competent operator must remain on board during “casual” use.
Authorised Users have priority access to moorings for which they are an Authorised User, above others
who are not nominated to that mooring. The Licensee of that mooring has priority access over the
Authorised User and the Authorised User would be required to vacate the mooring should the Licensee
arrive. Authorised Users have casual access to all other vacant recreational moorings until such time as
the licensee or an Authorised User of that mooring requires use of the mooring - a competent operator
must remain on board during “casual” use.
A Licensee can nominate Authorised Users or a person can nominate themselves to the Rottnest Island
Authority. All mooring sites will be required to have Authorised Users.
From existing waitlist
12-month licence with annual renewal subject to compliance with conditions.
12-month licence with annual renewal subject to compliance with conditions.

Should the trial be unsuccessful and the
current arrangements be reinstated, the
licence fee will be set at $77 per metre,
or $770, whichever is the greater amount.
In the past, Authorised Users have not
been required to pay a fee to the
Authority for access to mooring
facilities. Authorised User fees will be
set at $33.00 per metre of vessel, with
no minimum fee, plus the applicable
Admission Fee. These fees recognise the
increased access to moorings by
Authorised Users and the flexibility
provided by the “casual user” status
afforded to Licensees and Authorised
Users. The existing annual
administration fee of $33.00 will remain.
Eligibility for Recreational
Mooring Licenses
There are two issues in relation to
the eligibility for recreational mooring
site licences:
• There is concern that some
recreational moorings are being used
for commercial operations.
• There are opportunities to improve
the methods of determining eligibility
status for a mooring site licence,
particularly in relation to vessel
ownership. The requirement to
present a ‘hull identification number’
as issued by the Department for
Planning and Infrastructure may
strengthen the Authority’s ability to
enforce the eligibility policies.
7.4.2.3 Recommendations
• Undertake a trial of a mooring system
as detailed in Table 6 - Summary of
Recreational Mooring Trial System,
in consultation with major stakeholders,
commencing September 2003, with a
view to on-going implementation.
• Pursue alternative mechanisms for
increasing access to recreational
moorings should the trial indicate
that the system detailed in Table 6 is
not feasible.
• Revise annual recreational mooring
site licence fees effective 1 September
2003 to $66.00 per metre of length
of licensed vessels or $660, which
ever is the greater amount, for the
duration of the recreational mooring
trial, and permanently thereafter
should the trial system be
implemented substantively.
• Introduce an Annual Authorised User
Fee of $33.00 per metre as at 1
September 2003.
• Maintain the Annual Administration Fee
for Authorised Users of $33 per vessel.
• Review all mooring fees annually.
• Prohibit recreational moorings from
being used for commercial gain or
being sub-let.
• Revise mooring renewal procedures
to make the presentation of a hull
identification number a prerequisite
for a mooring site licence renewal by
1 September 2004.

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Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
7.4.3 Conversion of Permanent to
Part B. Management Planning
Rental Moorings
7.4.3.1 Background
The provision of rental moorings in
addition to the recreational licensed
moorings provides a greater access of
use of mooring facilities.
Rental moorings are in high demand
with waitlists for these facilities
occurring in December and January. In
response, the Authority has aimed to
increase the number of rental moorings
available. Since late 2000 the Authority
has implemented a policy of retaining
one in every three relinquished
recreational licensed moorings in
Thomson, Geordie and Longreach Bays
for conversion to rental moorings.
This equates to about two to three
conversions each year. The selection of
relinquished moorings to convert to
rental moorings is sensitive to the need
to have rental moorings suitable for
vessels of a range of sizes.
7.4.3.2 Issues
The conversion of licensed recreational
moorings to rental moorings requires
management:
• Resuming licensed recreational
moorings for conversion to rental
moorings slows the waitlist for a
mooring site licence.
• It would not be economical for the
Authority to convert all moorings to
rental facilities as there is little
demand for these during off peak
months, and also due to the expense
related to maintaining this volume of
mooring apparatus.
84
• With the introduction of a mooring
system that provides enhanced short-
term access to licensed moorings, it is
envisaged that there will not be an
increased demand for rental moorings
in the Rottnest Island Reserve.
7.4.3.3 Recommendation
• Develop a business model for the
rental mooring business unit to
determine an optimum number of
rental moorings.
7.4.4 Rental Moorings
7.4.4.1 Background
The Authority manages beach and
offshore swing moorings which are
available for rent on an overnight basis
from 10am to 10am. These facilities can
be booked three months in advance.
The rental of swing moorings is limited
to 14 consecutive nights year round to
contribute to the distribution of access
during peak periods. Rental moorings
are established for the use of
recreational vessels only and are
charged at rates that reflect this.
The Rottnest Island Regulations 1988
permit the Authority to determine the
fee payable for rental moorings. Swing
moorings are currently charged at $22
overnight and Bathurst Beach moorings
are $11. Rental jetty pens are also
available and the Authority will
continue to provide these facilities.
7.4.4.2 Issues
Issues associated with the provision of
rental mooring facilities are as follows:
• During off peak seasons, rental
moorings are not in demand and the
14-night limit is unnecessary.
• As there is high demand for rental
moorings during peak season, greater
access to these facilities would be
generated if there was a reduction in
the maximum number of nights able
to be booked.
• The fees for rental moorings are on a
par with other mooring facilities
throughout the State. However,
based on the demand for moorings at
Rottnest Island, current prices are
below market value. This is
particularly true for peak periods of
school holidays, and particularly
Christmas and Easter.
7.4.4.3 Recommendations
• Eliminate the maximum rental period
limit for rental moorings for the off-
peak season of May to November.
• Introduce a maximum limit for rental
moorings during the accommodation
ballot periods consistent with the
maximum ballot booking periods,
from 1 July 2003.
• Increase rental swing mooring fees to
$33 per night, from 1 July 2003.
• Increase Bathurst Beach mooring fees
to $16.50 per night, from 1 July 2003.
• Annually review rental mooring prices.
7.4.5 Commercial Vessel Moorings
7.4.5.1 Background
There is a range of commercial charter
vessels operating in the Reserve. These
charter vessels, particularly diving and
fishing charters, generally operate at
specific sites that do not have moorings
available for commercial use. Some
operators use recreational moorings for
charters and therefore commercial benefit.
7.4.5.2 Issues
The following issues are relevant to the
mooring of commercial vessels in the
Marine Reserve:
• The generally large size of commercial
charter vessels and repeated
anchoring at specific sites by those
vessels creates potential for
environmental damage. Strategic
placement of moorings for
commercial charter operators may
contribute to reducing the amount of
anchoring by commercial vessels.
• Although it may be appropriate in
some circumstances for commercial
vessels to use rental mooring facilities,
the commercial nature of the operations
should be reflected in the application
of a commercial pricing scale. Such a
scale has not been established.
• The mooring policy allows for the
establishment of commercial
moorings but the establishment of
these facilities has not yet been
explored or implemented.
7.4.5.3 Recommendations
• Investigate the feasibility of
establishing a number of strategically
placed moorings dedicated for
commercial charter operations, with
the objective to establish a viable
commercial charter moorings system.
• Establish and introduce a commercial
rate for commercial operators using
rental moorings.
7.5 RENTAL PENS 7.5.3 Recommendations
7.5.1 Background • Eliminate the maximum rental period
limit for rental pens for the off-peak
The Authority has jetty and beach pens
season of May to November.
available for rental on a daily basis.
• Introduce a maximum limit for the
These can be booked three months in
rent of rental pens during the
advance, for a period of up to 14 nights.
accommodation ballot periods
Rental fees for pens are currently consistent with maximum ballot
$16.50 overnight for small pens and booking periods, from 1 July 2003.
$22 (GST inclusive) for larger pens. By • Increase charges for rental pens to
comparison, the rate for all pens $33 per night for large pens at the
(ranging from 10-18metres) at Hillary’s Fuel Jetty, and $22 per night for small
Boat Harbour is $38.50 (GST inclusive). pens at the Fuel, Hotel and Stark Jetty,
The Authority will maintain the from 1 July 2003.
provision of rental pen facilities. • Annually review rental pen prices.
7.5.2 Issues
Issues associated with the provision of
rental pen facilities include:
• Rental pens require less maintenance
than rental moorings and are
considered to be relatively benign in
terms of environmental impact.
• During off peak seasons, rental pens
are not in demand so that the
14-night limit is unnecessary.
• As there is high demand for rental
pens during peak season, greater
access to these facilities would be
generated if the maximum number of
nights able to be booked was
reduced.
• Based on a comparison of jetty pen
charges in similar localities, the
Rottnest Island pen fees are
undervalued.
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7.6 ANCHORING of diving or snorkelling experiences. 7.7.2 Issues

Part B. Management Planning

This issue is addressed in Part B,

7.6.1 Background
Many boats that do not have a
recreational mooring site licence or
Authorised User status enter the Marine
Reserve and anchor. Beach anchoring is
currently available for small vessels on
any beach outside boating-prohibited
areas which exist in small portions of
Thomson Bay, Geordie Bay, Longreach
Bay and the whole of the Basin and Little
Parakeet Bay. Anchoring is not
permitted within 50 metres of any
mooring. Drop anchoring is permitted in
areas of the Reserve.
7.6.2 Issues
Issues associated with beach
anchoring include:
• While beach anchoring opens up
access to the Island for small vessels
and those without moorings, there
are a number of concerns associated
with this activity. Beach anchor lines
present tripping hazards and can
contribute to beach erosion. Beach
anchorage areas have also been
associated with high noise levels and
antisocial behaviour that can
compromise the aesthetic appeal of
Rottnest Island bays. There are some
popular anchorages, particularly
within Thomson Bay, where the high
density of boats compound these
problems.
• Drop anchoring on the sea bed and
limestone areas causes physical and
biological damage to fauna, flora and
structures. This can also cause a visual
impact that detracts from the quality
Chapter 4 - Marine Environment.
7.6.3 Recommendations
• Provide information to boat owners
on appropriate methods of beach
anchoring.
• Investigate the feasibility of the
formalisation of beach anchoring
sites in Thomson Bay, with a view to
implementation.
7.7 JETTY MANAGEMENT
7.7.1 Background
The Rottnest Island Marine Reserve
contains seven jetties. Five of these are
in Thomson Bay: the Main Passenger
Jetty, Army Jetty, Fuel Jetty, Hotel Jetty
and Stark Jetty. Jetties are also located at
Green Island and Geordie Bay.
The most utilised jetty is the Main
Passenger Jetty where commercial ferry
operators berth, followed by the Fuel
Jetty for recreational vessels. The Main
Passenger Jetty has recently been
licensed to the Authority, allowing the
ability to control ferry schedules.
Commercial ferries that carry the
majority of visitors to the Island are
independent and privately owned.
The Army Jetty is used periodically
for landing large equipment on the
Island. The other jetties are used for
short term berthing of boats and
recreational fishing.
Issues associated with the management
of the Island jetties include the
following:
• Many of the jetties are in a poor state
of repair, are costly to maintain and
have associated risk management
issues. In particular, the Green Island
and Hotel Jetty are expected to
become unusable within the life of
this Management Plan.
• The Authority receives a very high
level of customer complaints
regarding the expense of the ferry
fares to Rottnest Island.
7.7.3 Recommendations
• Implement mechanisms to ensure
efficient and effective operation
and management of the Main
Passenger Jetty.
• Assess the feasibility of upgrading the
Hotel Jetty.
• Restore and maintain the Green
Island Jetty as a recreational fishing
area and small vessel-berthing site.
• Work with commercial ferry
companies to encourage affordable
pricing strategies for Rottnest Island
ferry tickets, accepting that the ferry
fare includes the individual Admission
Fee to the Island.

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7.8 CHARTERED COMMERCIAL
VESSELS
7.8.1 Background
Charges to Charter Vessels
Several charter and commercial
passenger vessels (often referred to as
Surveyed Passenger Vessels or SPVs)
including charter-fishing boats,
ecotourism vessels, party charters and
dive charter vessels frequently operate
within Rottnest Island’s Marine Reserve.
Under the Rottnest Island Regulations
1988 fishing or diving charter operators
make an annual payment based on
carrying capacity and the number of
visits the vessel makes to the Island, in
lieu of Admission Fees. This currently
ranges from $48 to $1 600 per annum
for the use of Rottnest Island waters.
Admission Fees for commercial vessels
were last increased in 1993.
Management of Charter Vessels
The Authority has the power to grant a
licence to any person operating a
business for recreational and holiday
facilities on the Island under the
Rottnest Island Authority Act 1987. The
Authority has never yet pursued such an
arrangement with Charter operators in
the Reserve.
7.8.2 Issues
The following issues are relevant to
the management of the chartered
commercial vessels operating in
the Reserve:
• The current system allows that charter
vessel clients pay an Admission Fee
that is in the order of 10 percent of
that paid by other daily visitors to the
Reserve. The current system of
charges has not been subject to
adjustments in line with the increase
in individual Admission Fees that have
taken place in recent years.
Furthermore, current arrangements
do not include a requirement for
commercial charter operators to
contribute financially to the
management of the Reserve.
• The Rottnest Island Regulations 1988
specify payments by fishing and
diving charters, although it is known
that there are other types of charters
operating in the Reserve.
• Licensing charter vessels may allow
the Authority to have an influence on
the operations of charter operations
in the Reserve to ensure sustainable
use of marine resources, receive
equitable revenue returns, provide
better management of the Reserve
and provide additional facilities for
charter vessel operators.
7.8.3 Recommendations
• Adjust the annual payment to the
Authority in lieu of Admission Fees for
Charter Boat operators to: $22
multiplied by the vessel’s capacity for
vessels making 14 or less entries to
the Reserve; $44 multiplied by the
vessel’s capacity for vessels making
more than 14 but less than 31 entries
into the Reserve; $66 multiplied by
the vessel’s capacity for vessels
making more than 30 and less than
45 entries into the Reserve; and $88
multiplied by the vessel’s capacity for
vessels making 45 or more entries to
the Reserve.
• Develop and implement a pricing
strategy to apply to charter vessel
fees, including annual review.
• Amend legislation to ensure that all
categories of charter vessels
operating in the Reserve are required
to collect and pay Admission Fees.
• Investigate a charter vessel
operators licence system for the
Rottnest Island Reserve.
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8. Community Involvement and Relations
8.1 COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Part B. Management Planning
8.1.1 Background
The Rottnest Island Authority is
fortunate to have a number of groups
that carry out a substantial amount of
work on a volunteer basis within the
Reserve. These include the Rottnest
Voluntary Guides Association, Winnits,
Rottnest Island Military Heritage
Working Group, Scouting Association,
Birds Australia, Carine Probus Group,
Rottnest Island Honorary Rangers, the
Australian Army Reserve, Rottnest
Island Foundation, Rottnest Society, and
many others. Rottnest Island volunteers
contribute to visitors’ enjoyment,
provide information and assist with
enhancing and conserving the Island.
Thousands of people give their time to
help maintain the Island’s natural
environment, participating in weeding,
planting, fencing, construction
programs and other projects.
The efforts of volunteers are particularly
valued in the context of the Authority’s
financial environment.
The Rottnest Voluntary Guides
Association has a daily interpretative
role on Rottnest Island that is greatly
valued by the Authority and visitors.
Some tours and activities provided by
the Guides include History of the
Settlement, Guns and Tunnels at Oliver
Hill, Pilot Boat and Pilot Service, Bird
Walks, Behind the Scenes Tour, Ghost
Mysteries and Tall Tales, Star Gazing and
West End Sunset Tours.
88
The Authority also has a number of
advisory committees that provide expert
and community advice on specific
subjects. There is currently an
Environmental Advisory Committee,
a Railway Advisory Committee and a
Marine Issues Advisory Committee.
In addition, members of staff and
residents are significant contributors to
volunteer efforts.
8.1.2 Issues
Issues associated with volunteers on
Rottnest Island include the following:
• The role of volunteers is highly valued
by the Authority, and it is recognised
that greater benefits could be
gained from volunteer groups
through appropriate management
and coordination. The Authority
retains the responsibility for quality
control in interpretation and
conservation activities.
• Advisory committees provide a forum
for the Authority to gain input from a
range of experts and representative
groups on specific issues.
8.1.3 Recommendations
• In consultation with volunteer
groups, develop and implement a
Volunteer Services Plan to clarify and
formalise the role of volunteer groups
on Rottnest Island.
• Encourage and support volunteer
groups to carry out conservation and
interpretive activities on the Island.
• Maintain the use of advisory
committees to provide advice and
guidance to the Authority on specific
issues and subjects.
8.2 COMMUNITY RELATIONS 8.2.2 Issues

8.2.1 Background Issues relevant to community relations

for the Authority include:
The Authority’s community relations
• There are opportunities to further
processes are focussed on systems to
improve the relationship between
gauge feedback from the community in
the Authority and the Western
relation to their satisfaction with the
Australian community, and to
Island. These systems include customer
enhance the role of this community in
feedback forms being placed in Island
decision making regarding Rottnest
accommodation to enable visitors to
Island’s management.
provide positive or negative feedback
on various aspects of the Island’s 8.2.3 Recommendations
services and facilities. Surveys are
• Operate a complaint handling
carried out across a random selection of
process that is visible, accessible
visitors who have stayed in Rottnest
and fair.
Island accommodation or visited the
• Review the consultation mechanisms
Island. These measure the level of
used for the development of the
satisfaction on a number of key
Rottnest Island Management Plan.
facilities. Visitors to the Island also write
or e-mail the Rottnest Island Authority
with comments and feedback.

The Authority has recently reviewed its

current system for managing customer
complaints in accordance with
Australian Standard AS 4269-1995 and
is in the process of implementing a
revised system.

Other links to the community include

various public consultation exercises
such as those conducted for the
proposed wind turbine and for input
into this Management Plan.

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9. Visitor Support Services
9.1 RANGERS
Part B. Management Planning
9.1.1 Background
Rottnest Island Rangers are appointed
under the Rottnest Island Authority
Act 1987. The Act gives Rangers powers
to enforce the Rottnest Island
Regulations 1988.
Five full-time resident Rangers are
employed on the Island. To ensure
adequate and appropriate resourcing at
peak times and certain events, the
Authority contracts security staff to
assist during these periods. Because
there are an estimated 500,000 visitors
to the Island every year, it is evident that
Rangers must be one of a number of
mechanisms to ensure compliance
with Regulations.
Two land-based vehicles, and two
sea-going vessels are provided to the
Rangers to assist in the performance of
their duties. A third small marine vessel
is available for close shore work.
In terms of compliance, Rangers adopt a
three-phase approach of education,
guidance and enforcement: educate by
giving advice on activities; offer
guidance and explanation for minor
offences; and issue infringement
notices to repeat offenders and/or when
education is not an option. In
performing their duties, Rangers seek to
maintain a high level of public contact
and visibility, with all Island visitors,
while maintaining a friendly and
approachable profile.
In addition to compliance, Rangers are
responsible for a number of other duties
90
relevant to the management of the
Rottnest Island Reserve. These include
representation on the Local Emergency
Management Committee, participation
in local emergency and incident
responses, visitor risk assessments,
advising visitors on activities and
behaviour and assistance with
educational programs. Rangers are also
involved in the planning of major
events, environmental and wildlife
management through dealing with sick
and injured wildlife, fencing, planting,
the control of pests and supervision and
coordination of the Rottnest Island
Honorary Rangers.
The Rottnest Island Honorary Ranger
program provides much necessary
support to the Ranger operation.
Rottnest Island Honorary Rangers have
a role in the observation and reporting
of activities around the Island and are
trained in public contact, environmental
issues and the Island Regulations.
9.1.2 Issues
Issues associated with Ranger services
on Rottnest Island include the following:
• Rangers are in the ideal position to
inform and guide visitors in a way that
can positively influence behaviour.
• Given the emergency response role of
Rangers, it is essential that equipment
and resources are regularly
maintained and replaced and that
staff are appropriately trained. In
particular, the Authority needs a
replacement marine vessel.
• There are many risk management
issues associated with duties
performed by Rangers.
• The high level of local knowledge
required to undertake Ranger duties
has resulted in difficulties in the
recruitment of staff to meet short
term or seasonal requirements.
• The operation of a Ranger service on a
24-hour a day, seven-day a week,
on-call basis is expensive. As a result,
the augmentation of compliance
through interpretation and
education, and through the
observation and reporting role of
Honorary Rangers, is a high priority.
9.1.3 Recommendations
• Maintain and promote a Ranger
profile based on guidance,
interpretation and a high level of
public contact with all user groups.
• Replace the Ranger 1 Marine Vessel.
• Continue to support the Honorary
Ranger Program.
• Identify and train a pool of staff who
are available to fulfil short term or
seasonal Ranger duties.
9.2 POLICE
9.2.1 Background
The Police Station is located within the
Settlement Zone and is staffed by three
full-time resident Police Officers. This
number is augmented in peak visitor
periods. Police are responsible for
general law enforcement and
investigation of offences on the Island.
The WA Police Service is also responsible
for the management and coordination
of all emergency situations including
Marine Search and Rescue incidents, and
assist in enforcing Island Regulations.
9.2.2 Issues
Issues associated with the Rottnest
Island Police Station include:
• The coordination between the Rottnest
Island Rangers and the Rottnest Island
Police provides for efficient and
effective compliance operations.
9.2.3 Recommendation
• Maintain and enhance relations with
the Rottnest Island Police.
9.3 NURSING POST
9.3.1 Background
The Department of Health operates a
Nursing Post on Rottnest Island as an
annex of the Fremantle Hospital and
Health Service. The post is staffed by
three full-time resident nurses. A
Memorandum of Understanding exists
outlining the relationship between the
Nursing Post and the Authority.
The Nursing Post is represented on the
Local Emergency Management
Committee and plays a principal role in
the response to emergencies, accidents
and illness on the Island.
The Ranger Service work closely with
the Nursing Post and provide logistical
support to their operations.
9.3.2 Issues
Issues associated with the Rottnest
Island Nursing Post include:
• Close links are required between the
Authority and the Nursing Post to
ensure that situations resulting in
accidents and incidents can be
addressed and resolved.
9.3.3 Recommendation
• Maintain and enhance relations
between the Nursing Post, as part of
the Fremantle Hospital and Health
Service, and the Authority.
9.4 RISK MANAGEMENT
9.4.1 Background
Rottnest Island is an A-class Reserve that
offers visitors the experience of a
natural environment that has inherent
risks. Rottnest Island has a diverse risk
profile with numerous natural and built
hazards that require visitors to show
appropriate caution. Effective risk
management is now recognised as
being essential in any private or public
sector organisation.
The Authority is required under the
terms of the Financial Administration
and Audit Act 1985 (Treasury
Instruction 109) to ‘ensure that there
are procedures in place for the periodic
assessment, identification and
treatment of risks inherent in the
operation of the [agency] together with
suitable risk management policies and
practices, and that these are
documented.’ Responsibility for risk
management rests with the Authority’s
Audit Committee.
The Authority has put in place policies
and procedures to manage the diverse
risks associated with the Island. These
include human risk as well as statutory
compliance risk (at least 50 pieces of
legislation apply to the Authority),
corporate governance, business and
operational risk, commercial
contractual risk, financial management
risk, human resource risk, asset and
technology risk and market, public and
political risk.
The Authority’s risk management
program includes fencing of hazardous
areas, warning signage, staff hazard
reporting, emergency response
procedures and critical incident reporting.
Island visitors are required to act
reasonably and responsibly and adult
visitors are responsible for the behaviour
of children in their care.
9.4.2 Issues
Issues associated with risk management
on Rottnest Island include the
following:
• There is an increasing culture of
litigation and courts are applying a
wide definition of negligence and
very high compensation payments.
• Rottnest Island’s relaxed ethos and
the community’s familiarity with the
Island give visitors an exaggerated
sense of security and safety,
particularly with respect to the
supervision of children.
• Given the diversity of the Island’s risk
profile, the large number of visitors to
the Island each year, and limited
resources, the management of risk
puts a heavy burden on the Authority’s
financial and human resources.
• The Authority’s obligation to protect
and conserve the natural and built
environments can conflict with
required risk treatments.
For example, extensive signage
warning of coastal hazards and
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Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
restriction of access to coastal areas is
Part B. Management Planning
considered by many visitors to
diminish their holiday experience.
• Many buildings on Rottnest Island
include asbestos material and will
require a long-term strategy for
treatment and removal.
9.4.3 Recommendations
• Review the Authority’s Risk
Management Program.
• Review and reissue the Authority’s
Risk Awareness Brochure.
• Continue the implementation of the
Rottnest Island Asbestos
Management Program.
9.5 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
9.5.1 Background
A number of emergencies and incidents
have occurred over the last five years
including plane crashes, diving related
accidents, wild fire, structural fire, vessel
sinking, chemical spill and cliff rescues.
A Local Emergency Management
Committee (which consists of the Fire
and Emergency Services Authority, WA
Police Service, Rottnest Island Authority,
Nursing Post, Fremantle Sea Rescue and
Rottnest Island Fire and Emergency
Service) oversees planning for and
management of emergency incidents
on the Island. The
Local Emergency Management
Committee has developed an
emergency response plan for a number
of potential scenarios.
92
A Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service 9.5.2 Issues
operates on the Island coordinated by
Issues associated with Emergency
the Authority’s Facilities Management
Management on Rottnest Island include:
Contractor. The Volunteer service is
• Volunteer effort is essential to the
equipped with a local fire station that
management of emergencies and
has a truck and two other vehicles.
other incidents on the Island.
The Rottnest Island Fire and Rescue
9.5.3 Recommendations
Service has direct radio contact with the
Fire and Emergency Services Authority • Maintain participation in and support
Communications Centre on the of the Local Emergency Management
mainland, enabling them to provide Committee.
situation reports, access specialist • Investigate and implement means to
advice and request specialist equipment ensure efficient fire fighting in a low
and personnel. water pressure environment.
• Progressively upgrade all buildings so
Fire is a particular threat to Rottnest
that they meet the current Buildings
Island, especially in summer because of
Code of Australia requirements in
the dryness of the area and the strong
regard to fire ratings.
winds that could rapidly spread a fire.
The Island’s susceptibility is also related
to the fact that many of the buildings do
not meet current Building Code of
Australia requirements. All the Island’s
vegetation types are prone to fire. The
low water pressure on the Island is an
issue in terms of fire fighting as the
pressure is not sufficient to meet fire-
fighting standards.
Potential fire sources include illegal
campfires, lightning strikes, illegal use
of flares, activities of holidaymakers and
day-to-day Island operations.
A Volunteer Sea Rescue Group also
services the Island.
10. Infrastructure and Utilities
10.1 INTRODUCTION
As Rottnest Island is not connected to
the mainland, utilities and services such
as power, water, sewerage systems,
waste collection and disposal are
produced and managed on the Island.
The Authority fulfils the significant role
of both a Local Council and a State
utility supplier within the bounds of the
Reserve.
An overview of the operation of utilities
and infrastructure on Rottnest Island
reveals a trend of improvement over the
last 50 years with respect to efficiency,
technology and environmental
management, limited by available
funds. Nonetheless, some problems of
past practices persist, notably a leachate
plume from the Island’s landfill site (refer
Part B, Chapter 3 - Terrestrial
Environment, Section 3.3).
The concept of sustainability is
particularly relevant in terms of these
issues. Increased environmental
management of infrastructure and
utilities, and minimising the use of
resources are issues which are relevant
both on the mainland and on Rottnest
Island, but which can be passively and
more effectively interpreted on the
Island. This chapter considers these
issues and emphasises the
interpretation of environmentally
sustainable utilities and infrastructure
on the Island that can be used to
promote sustainable living.
The restriction on water and power has
significantly influenced the range of
services and style of experience that is
provided on Rottnest Island. This has
occurred to the extent that Rottnest
Island has a distinct feel, which to a
large extent, is founded on minimal use
of resources.
10.2 POTABLE WATER
10.2.1 Potable Sources and Systems
10.2.1.1 Background
Water supply on the Island has always
been limited, as there is no natural fresh
surface water supply. In the past, there
have been times when water has had to
be brought to the Island from the
mainland to meet demands.
The water on Rottnest Island is supplied
by three main sources:
• Reverse Osmosis Desalination
Plant - Rottnest Island has been
operating with one desalination plant
since 1995. A second plant was
commissioned in January 2002.
• Groundwater Abstraction -
Groundwater from the freshwater
lens situated in the central area of the
Island is pumped by the Island’s
borefield and used as a potable water
source. The shallow freshwater lens
floats above a saline water layer with
a thick brackish zone in between.
• Rainwater Catchment - Rainwater
is collected from a 7.3ha bituminised
catchment located on the eastern
side of the Island on Mt Herschel. The
rainwater catchment is made up of
two areas, one of 5.3ha and the
other of 2ha. Only the 5.3ha
catchment is operational as the tank
servicing the 2ha southern
catchment is in need of repair.
Prior to the introduction of the second
desalination plant the relative
contribution of the three main sources
of water were: desalination 20 percent;
groundwater abstraction 70 percent;
and rainwater catchment 10 percent.
With the introduction of the second
desalination plant, the annual
expectation of relative contribution is:
desalination 74 percent; groundwater
abstraction 20 percent; and rainwater
catchment 6 percent.
Generally rainfall on Rottnest Island is
low, typically receiving less rainfall than
Perth. Over the last decade rainfall levels
have declined. For example, the average
rainfall over last 100 years was
710.5mm; the average over the last
decade was 617mm, and in 2000 it was
477.8mm. These figures illustrate
rainfall being relatively limited in terms
of the Island’s total water needs.
10.2.1.2 Issues
Borefield
Issues associated with the management
of the Island’s groundwater borefield
include the following:
• The maximum allowable yields from
groundwater abstraction were
calculated by the Department of
Environmental Protection in 1988 and
were incorporated in the licence
conditions covering the borefield.
Despite never drawing the maximum
amount of water from the borefield,
monitoring has indicated that the
aquifer has reduced in size. This is
related to the below average rainfall
of the last decade that has reduced
the natural recharge to the aquifer.
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Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
• It was previously discussed in Part B,
Part B. Management Planning
Chapter 3 - Terrestrial
Environment, that there is a lack of
definition of the relationship between
the Island’s groundwater, wetlands
and rainfall levels. It was subsequently
recommended in that chapter that
the Authority undertake research into
these relationships, to aid in the
development of sustainable
extraction conditions.
• The values of the parameters used to
develop the borefield management
plan in 1988 are no longer valid,
particularly given the significant
decline in rainfall over the last decade.
Desalination plant
Issues associated with the desalination
plants on Rottnest Island include
the following:
• Desalination is a high-energy process,
costing around three times as much
to produce potable water as the
other two sources, mainly due
to the diesel power supplies that
this process requires.
• The installation of the second
desalination plant was part of the
2001/2002 Integrated Power and
Water Supply Project for the Island.
This project coupled the second
desalination plant with the planned
introduction of a wind turbine on the
Island, providing an economic power
supply for the plant. Installation of
the wind turbine has received
Ministerial approval and Federal
Government funding.
94
Rainwater Catchment
Issues associated with the
bituminised rainwater catchment
include the following:
• Increasing the bitumen catchment
area would increase the amount of
modified environment in the area
outside the Settlement Zone and is
not seen as desirable.
• The effectiveness of the catchment is
influenced by maintenance
difficulties associated with this facility.
• The southern catchment that is
not being used may be interfering
with the freshwater seeps that exist
in its pathway.
• A system of water collection from
roofs is not in place on the Island
because of the additional
infrastructure, operational and
maintenance burden that this would
require.
10.2.1.3 Recommendations
• Operate the desalination plants as the
primary source of potable water.
• Revise the borefield management
licence conditions according to
current rainfall and define parameters
and outcomes of research between
rainfall, groundwater and wetlands,
in coordination with the Department
of Environmental Protection.
• Progressively decommission bores to
achieve a sustainable number of bores.
• Remove the southern catchment area
and rehabilitate the area of the
freshwater seeps.
• Develop and implement a bituminised
catchment maintenance program to
ensure maximum possible yield from
the remaining bituminised
catchment.
10.2.2 Infrastructure
10.2.2.1 Background
Water from all sources is collected in two
tanks located at the base of Mt Herschel.
The water collected in these tanks is
pumped to a further two tanks at the top
of Mt Herschel where it is chlorinated
and pumped to a feeder tank which
allows a gravity fed supply to the
Settlement. The water is sampled and
tested fortnightly according to Health
Department licence conditions. The
water has never been found to be non-
compliant with the licence conditions.
Potable water for outer bay facilities is
provided through a direct connection
with the borefield, from rainwater or by
transported water to these sites.
The water infrastructure network has
been developed over a period of many
years and throughout that time records
have not been fully kept and
maintained. Current procedures require
that information regarding any
infrastructure work is recorded into the
Island’s AutoCAD system.
10.2.2.2 Issues
Issues associated with the management
of the Island’s potable water
infrastructure include the following:
• The Island has a capacity to hold a
maximum of 23,000 kL of water. It
has been determined that this holding
capacity is adequate to meet the
requirements of the Island currently
and in the foreseeable future.
• Poor record-keeping practices of the
past have led to a limited knowledge
of the current water network location
 which has complicated maintenance
and repair operations.
• The water pressure on the Island is
low as the gravity fed distribution
system does not have the head of
pressure required to produce higher
pressure. This does not seem to be a
high priority issue from the
perspective of visitor facilities but is an
issue in terms of fire fighting as the
pressure is not sufficient to meet fire-
fighting standards.
10.2.2.3 Recommendation
• Map the location of the water
network system.
10.2.3 Potable Water Demand
10.2.3.1 Background
Potable water supplies on Rottnest
Island are used for drinking water,
watering Settlement vegetation
especially grass, showering and toilet
flushing, cleaning and emergency fire
control. It should be noted that up until
1995 the Island operated with a dual
water system in which potable water
was supplied to the kitchen only and salt
water was supplied to the toilets and
showers. This system was serviced by
two separate pipeline networks, which
have now been bonded together to
provide potable water to all outlets.
The demand for potable water on
Rottnest Island in 1998 was estimated
at approximately 160ML/year (Transfield
Environmental Services 1999). The
maximum possible demand has been
estimated to be 215 ML/year with full
occupancy and visitor numbers at
existing levels.
The Authority has been progressively
replacing current water fixtures with
water saving alternatives, as part of
ongoing maintenance. There is also a
long-running passive information
campaign on the Island relating to the
conservative use of water supplies.
Potable water is supplied to residential
and business properties. A water levy
is charged to in order to recover cost
of production.
10.2.3.2 Issues
Management of the demand for
potable water on Rottnest Island
include the following issues:
• Water supply on the Island is severely
limited and will never match the levels
available on the mainland.
• Demand for potable water on the
Island needs to be carefully managed
at a level that can be met on an
environmentally and economically
sustainable basis. During peak
periods Rottnest Island is close to
capacity in terms of its ability to
produce enough water to meet the
essential water needs of its visitors. A
significant portion of potable water is
used for watering lawns.
• It is generally agreed that the cost of
water production on the Island should
be provided on a cost-recovery basis.
Based on current costs and charges,
residents and businesses cover the
cost of their water use.
10.2.3.3 Recommendations
• Continue to install water-saving
devices in accommodation units.
• Investigate options to reduce the
demand on potable water for
watering lawn areas.
10.3 WASTEWATER
10.3.1 Wastewater Treatment
System and Infrastructure
10.3.1.1 Background
Wastewater is generated from
Settlement toilets, sinks and showers,
gravity fed to a number of pumping
stations and fed to the Island’s
wastewater treatment plant. The
wastewater treatment plant is a
sequential batch reactor type utilising a
biological nutrient removal process.
Maximum capacity of the treatment
plant is 800kL. The plant is operated by
the Authority through the Facilities
Management Contract and is
maintained through a fully automated
asset management plan.
The wastewater treatment process
results in greywater and biosolid.
Approximately 10 percent of the
greywater is used to reticulate the
cricket oval, while the remaining 90
percent is evaporated off. The biosolid is
sent to the landfill site and used in the
production of compost.
Monitoring bores measure the nutrient
levels in the groundwater adjacent to
the evaporation ponds located at the
Wastewater Treatment Plant. Monthly
samples are taken from effluent after
treatment and prior to discharge into
evaporation ponds. These are tested for
nutrient and microbiological levels as
required by the Department of
Environmental Protection. Grey water
used on the cricket oval is disinfected
and is monitored for microbiological
levels on a monthly basis for the
Department of Health.
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Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
There have been no non-compliance
Part B. Management Planning
issues and results have been within
guidelines set by both Departments.
10.3.1.2 Issues
Issues associated with the wastewater
treatment system on Rottnest Island
include the following:
• Through normal summer peak
periods, the wastewater treatment
plant operates at approximately
450kL per day, but there are isolated
times within peak periods where the
plant is operating close to capacity.
• Much of the Island’s wastewater pipe
network is old and poorly understood
in terms of location, and presents
difficult maintenance issues. These
result in a number of breakdowns and
a high degree of reactive
maintenance.
• In such a water-poor environment, it
would be beneficial to make better
use of greywater, with 90 percent of
this currently evaporated. Public
health and environmental impact
concerns surrounding the use of
greywater means it will need careful
management.
10.3.1.3 Recommendations
• Develop a plan to replace the
wastewater network system.
• Develop and implement plans for the
cost-effective and environmentally
sensitive use of greywater, compliant
with public health requirements.
96
10.4 SOLID WASTE
10.4.1 Sources of Waste
10.4.1.1 Background
Solid wastes include visitor and resident
domestic wastes, general litter,
recyclable wastes of glass, cardboard,
aluminium, paper, and plastic,
businesses’ putrescible wastes, green
waste from land management, the
biosolid product of the wastewater
treatment process, construction waste
and various hazardous wastes.
The majority of public waste collection
facilities are recycling stations that provide
for the separation of general wastes,
glass, aluminium, plastics and paper.
Island businesses separate recyclable
materials and putrescible wastes.
10.4.1.2 Issues
Managing the generation of wastes on
the Island involves the following issues:
• A large proportion of waste
generated on the Island comes from
products that visitors bring from the
mainland to the Island. The amount
of waste generated on the Island is
increased by highly packaged
products, non-recyclable materials
being bought to the Island and the sale
and use of non-recyclable products
through Island businesses. Authority
operations add to the waste load.
• The use of plastic bags on the Island
creates an excessive amount of waste
and is unsightly.
• Although there are several mechanisms
in place to reduce waste production,
there are further waste reduction
opportunities which could be explored.
10.4.1.3 Recommendations
• Develop and implement an
awareness campaign to discourage
visitors from bringing non-recyclable
and excessively packaged products to
Rottnest Island.
• Work with the business community
to reduce the proportion of
products supplied that are
excessively packaged.
10.4.2 Waste Treatment
10.4.2.1 Background
All waste, except for recyclable material,
construction debris and hazardous
wastes, is treated and disposed of on the
Island. After separation and bailing,
recyclable materials are removed from
the Island to a recycling facility.
Hazardous wastes are removed by barge
and sent to specialised treatment and
disposal facilities. Construction waste is
removed from the Island as required.
A high proportion of the Island’s waste
is separated for recycling and recycling
stations are situated around the Island
with visitors encouraged to separate
their waste. Rottnest Island was one of
the first public areas to have waste
recycling facilities.
The Authority is also planning to
purchase a glass crusher that will mean
glass waste can be ground and reused in
cement around the Island.
Island businesses also separate
recyclable materials, as well as
putrescible waste. This allows the
diversion of organic waste from landfill
resulting in a reduction of waste
production and protection of
groundwater. Putrescible waste is used
to produce compost. Limited resources
means the Authority is unable to
separate putrescible waste generated
from residences, and therefore this goes
to landfill.
Biosolids from wastewater treatment
and cardboard are used in the
composting process, while general
waste goes to landfill. Green waste from
land management activities is used for
brushing dune areas and the remainder
goes to landfill for use in composting.
Waste sump oil is added to the diesel
fuel used in the power plant.
Over the history of the Island’s
development it is likely that several
landfill sites have operated. The current
landfill operation is located on Forbes
Hill and is managed in accordance with
Department of Environmental
Protection licence conditions and the
Island’s Waste Management Plan.
The Authority originally had approval to
cut four landfill cells. The first cell was
cut in 1992 and capped in 1996. The
second cell, which is currently being
used, was cut in 1996. At 2002, that
landfill was approximately 65 percent
full. The first and second cells have not
been lined and leachate from the fill has
been absorbed into the Island’s
foundation. The option of a fourth cell
has now been removed.
The Department of Environmental
Protection has specified that should a
third cell be cut it should be lined.
The Authority has changed waste
management practices in order to
extend the life of the current cell and
has commissioned a consultant to
investigate all options for waste
management and determine a
strategic plan for waste management
for the future.
10.4.2.2 Issues
Rottnest Island supports and
encourages the general philosophy of
local treatment and disposal of waste.
However, there are several factors that
limit its ability to treat and dispose of all
wastes on the Island:
• Rottnest Island has a statutory and
social obligation to provide a holiday
and recreation facilities. Its size leads
to a limitation of the amount of waste
that can be disposed of before
affecting the social values of the
holiday experience and
environmental values of the Island.
• The waste burden is increased on the
Island as holiday-makers and day
visitors tend to consume a high
proportion of highly packaged
products (for example, take away
food products), putting a strain on
the capacity to treat all waste locally.
• It is critical that recycling and re-use
are key tools used to lighten the
Island’s waste production, and that
visitors are educated in waste
minimisation, recycling and reuse.
10.4.2.3 Recommendation
• Develop a waste management plan
for Rottnest Island.
10.5 ENERGY
10.5.1 Energy sources
10.5.1.1 Background
Power generation on Rottnest Island is
currently provided by five diesel and
gas-supplemented generators with a
total output of 300kW each. The diesel
distillate and LPG are brought to the
Island by barge. Diesel distillate is
pumped to a storage tank adjacent to
the power station and at the fuel farm.
Gas is also delivered by truck to
numerous individual bullets located
around the Island. In 2001, the cost of
diesel was calculated at $685,000 and
LPG $188,000, making the cost of
power generation on Rottnest Island
one of the most expensive in Australia.
Electricity is used predominantly to
desalinate, pump, and treat water for
lighting, refrigeration, cold storage and
powering the borefield operation. With
one exception, all power distribution is
underground. The exception is the
overhead line that runs from the
powerhouse to Wadjemup Hill to serve
the bore fields.
Both gas and combined solar/electric
booster hot water heating systems are
used in some of the accommodation.
LPG is used mainly for cooking and
water heating and is piped from
numerous LPG bullets underground to
many of the Island’s buildings. Some
bottled gas is still used in isolated outer-
settlement areas.
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Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
Some wood heating systems still occur
Part B. Management Planning
on the Island. Approximately 50 percent
of the heated accommodation is heated
with wood fires or pot belly stoves.
The use of biodiesel may have
environmental benefits on Rottnest
Island. A trial of a biodiesel fuelled vehicle
commenced on the Island in mid-2002.
Solar lighting has been used and trialed
on the Island. The Stark Bay and Narrow
Neck toilets are powered by solar
panels. Solar lights are currently being
trialed in front of the Rottnest Island
Hotel in Thomson Bay.
In the 1980s, two wind turbines were
installed for trial on the Island. At the
time, difficulties were experienced, but
with current technologies wind is now
considered a viable and efficient source
of energy for the Island.
The establishment of a wind turbine is
being progressed as part of the
Integrated Power and Water Supply
Project, where the turbine will generate
energy to operate the Island’s
desalination plants. As noted previously,
the establishment of a wind turbine has
received Ministerial approval and was
positively received by the Western
Australian community during a recent
community consultation process.
Federal funding has now been secured
for this project.
10.5.1.2 Issues
Issues associated with the production of
power on the Island include the following:
• There are significant risks and cost
issues associated with the high volumes
of diesel and gas which are transported
to and stored on the Island.
98
• Reliance on non-renewable sources of
fuel is unsustainable both globally and
on the local scale of Rottnest Island.
• The introduction of renewable
energies as an alternative to the
current diesel/gas system would
contribute significantly to the
sustainability ethos of Rottnest Island.
• Overhead power lines have a visual
and environmental impact where
they are located over wetlands used
heavily by migratory water birds.
Scare lines are being fixed to the
overhead power lines in an attempt to
make the power lines more obvious
to wading birds arriving at and leaving
the wetland. The effectiveness of the
scare lines will be monitored.
• The electrical wiring around the Island
is old and presents significant
maintenance issues.
• The use of wood is costly and
inefficient, and does not support the
Island’s environmental ethos; and
visitors inappropriately tend to use
local vegetation as fuel.
Consequently, the use of wood is
currently being eliminated as
documented in Part B, Chapter 3 -
Terrestrial Environment, Section
3.5 - Atmosphere.
• Solar panels appear to be an
appropriate form of alternative
power for Rottnest Island, particularly
for outer bay facilities.
• The introduction of a wind turbine
will dramatically reduce the
cost of operating the second
desalination plant.
• The cost of power production, use of
alternative energies on the Island and
endeavours to reduce the demand on
non-renewable sources, are key
messages to be communicated to the
Island’s staff, visitors, residents and
business operators.
10.5.1.3 Recommendations
• Investigate the feasibility of burying
the Wadjemup power line in an
environmentally sensitive, cost-
effective manner in coordination with
the development of Wadjemup as an
Activity Node.
• Construct a wind turbine on
Mt Herschel and monitor its impact
and efficiency.
• Assess the benefits of the
introduction of a second turbine,
based on the analysis of impacts and
efficiencies of the first wind turbine.
• Use solar panels as a source of
alternative energy on Rottnest Island,
where possible and practicable.
• Investigate the benefits of biodiesel
for Rottnest Island, with a view to its
introduction as an alternative fuel on
the Island.
• Develop and implement a program to
interpret issues associated with
power supply.
10.5.2 Power Demands
10.5.2.1 Background
Each of the generators at the power
plant has a 300kW capacity, resulting in
a maximum capacity of 1500kW,
sufficient to meet current requirements.
The plant runs most efficiently at up to
800 kW. The wind turbine will
significantly reduce the amount of
power generated by existing
infrastructure and the use of diesel.
Feeder ring capacity is adequate to cope
with current power demands, but in
parts of the Island power feeder
supplies are operating close to capacity.
Commercial businesses and residents
are metered and charged for electricity
and gas consumption.
10.5.2.2 Issues
Management of power usage on Rottnest
Island includes the following issues:
• The long-standing limitation on
power production on Rottnest Island
has significantly influenced the style
of the Settlement’s development.
Limitation on power production is a
key element contributing to the
Island’s ethos and should be
maintained.
• The high cost of power production
means the management of power
usage and demand is critical. The
Authority can further capitalise on
opportunities that exist to reduce and
better manage energy consumption
through cheaper and more efficient
energy sources.
• The proportion of power use
attributed to accommodation units is
not well understood and limits the
Authority in accounting for this
expense in accommodation charges.
Mechanisms to recover costs of
power production on Rottnest Island
will be investigated.
10.5.2.3 Recommendations
• Investigate and trial energy-saving
technologies in Rottnest Island
buildings and facilities.
• Employ appropriate passive energy
and other energy-efficient
technologies in all new
accommodation and other buildings
constructed on Rottnest Island.
10.6 ROAD AND TRACK
MAINTENANCE
10.6.1 Background
This section deals only with the
maintenance of roads and tracks. The
Settlement Planning Scheme addresses
the issues of road alignment and
rationalisation.
The road and track system on the Island
includes bituminised roads, unsealed
roads, unsealed tracks and trails for
pedestrian and bicycle access, and
firebreaks. Roads on the Island are of
two kinds: ‘gazetted roads’ (under the
Road Traffic Act 1974) and ‘local roads
and tracks’. Maintenance of gazetted
roads on Rottnest Island is the
responsibility of the Department for
Planning and Infrastructure. The
Authority values and benefits
significantly from the work of this
Department on the Island.
The Authority is responsible for the
maintenance of local roads and this is
done through the Facilities
Management Contract in accordance
with the maintenance plan for local
roads. Volunteer groups also play a
significant role in the maintenance of
the Island’s tracks.
10.6.2 Issues
Issues associated with the maintenance
of the Island’s roads and tracks include
the following:
• The dual responsibility of road
maintenance on Rottnest Island
means the efficient relationship that
has developed between the
Department for Planning and
Infrastructure and the Authority is
important and highly valued.
• There is no maintenance plan for
walking tracks and trails.
• Lack of appropriate funding and
resources limits the ability to
implement the local road
maintenance plan.
• Maintenance of walking trails, tracks
and roads should take into
consideration the requirement for
universal access. The Authority will
assess universal access requirements
in the maintenance and construction
of all roads and tracks.
10.6.3 Recommendations
• Develop and implement a
comprehensive maintenance plan for
roads and tracks.
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Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
Part C. Implementation

Part C. Implementation
1. Introduction 101
2. Legislation 102
3. Research 103
4. Resources and Funding 104
5. Implementation 105
6. Review and Public Reporting 106

100
1. Introduction

The implementation of this Plan will occur over the five-year period, from
2003-2008, and will be undertaken according to a set of predetermined
priorities, based on the availability of funding and resources.
These factors are discussed in this chapter, however priorities will
need to be reassessed as circumstances, including the availability of
resources, change.

101
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
2. Legislation
The Rottnest Island Management Plan
Part C. Implementation
1997-2002 had, as an objective,
consistency between the Management
Plan and legislation governing the
operation of the Authority. This remains
a relevant objective for the current
Management Plan. The Rottnest Island
Authority Act 1987 establishes an
Authority to control and manage
Rottnest Island. In 1995 a major review
into all aspects of the management and
operations of Rottnest Island
recommended a review of the Act. The
review of the Act was completed but
amendment to the Act is yet to occur
and will progress during the life of this
Management Plan.
102
A particular legislative issue in need of
review is the penalties for offences as
established under the Rottnest Island
Regulations 1988. In many cases
penalties are not considered to be a
deterrent, particularly in relation to
offences that are potentially life
threatening or that could cause extreme
environmental harm.
2.1 RECOMMENDATIONS
• Review and amend the Rottnest
Island Authority Act 1987.
• Annually review and amend as
appropriate the Rottnest Island
Regulations 1988.
• Review and amend penalties for
offences as established under the
Rottnest Island Regulations 1988.
3. Research
This Management Plan proposes to
undertake numerous research projects
relating to the Island. These projects
relate to the terrestrial and marine
environment, as well as to the
management of holiday and recreation
facilities. Aspects of the Island’s future
management will depend on the
outcomes of these research projects.
The Authority has been active in research
relating to biological and physical aspects
of the Island’s terrestrial environment,
however very little research has been
conducted on the social aspects of
Rottnest Island, for example, in relation
to managing recreational and holiday
programs and facilities. There is also
relatively less information available
on the management and use of the
Marine Reserve.
This Management Plan proposes
research projects that will lead the
Authority to gain a better
understanding of visitor demographics
and patterns, visitor needs, use of
marine resources and aspects of the
Island’s infrastructure as a basis for
evidence-based decision making.
There will be a need to seek formal
arrangements in relation to maintaining
intellectual property rights in relation to
research processes and outcomes.
3.1 RECOMMENDATIONS
• Develop and implement a research
program for Rottnest Island.
• Implement arrangements to ensure
maintenance of intellectual property
in relation to Rottnest Island
research projects.
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Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008

4. Resources and Funding

For many years the Authority has The Plan provides for improved financial
Part C. Implementation

struggled to generate the revenue performance in each year of operation

necessary to meet its operational needs
and maintain investment in Island
infrastructure. In the course of the
development of this Plan the Authority
has critically examined its costs, current
prices and the condition of Island assets.
As foreshadowed in recommendations
in this Plan the Authority will pursue
increased prices for a range of services.
It will also attend to its own costs over
the life of the Plan to improve efficiency.
of the Plan, improved accommodation
service, improved asset condition and
significant achievements in the
conservation of the natural and built
heritage of the Island.
4.1 RECOMMENDATION
• Continue to seek funding from
external sources, including special
grants and sponsorships, to
supplement income.

The Plan provides for significant capital

improvements by way of restoration of
heritage cottages, refurbishment of
accommodation units, construction of
additional cabins and ongoing asbestos
treatment works. The increased
revenue generated by various initiatives
provided for in the Plan meets the cost
of these works. In short, this Plan pays
for itself.

104
5. Implementation

A timeframe has been developed for the

implementation of recommendations
over the five-year period of this Plan.
This is particularly important to facilitate
the effective implementation of the
many inter-dependent
recommendations in this Plan.

Appendix 2 - Implementation,
Timelines & Responsibilities
summarises the recommendations and
implementation timeframe, and
responsibilities for the
recommendations contained in the
Rottnest Island Management Plan
2003-2008.

105
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008

6. Review and Public Reporting

The Rottnest Island Management Plan

Part C. Implementation

2003-2008 will be the subject of an

annual review to assess the level of
implementation and success of the Plan.
The need for changes in managing the
Island will be assessed on the basis of
this evaluation.

Should significant changes to the

Management Plan be required during
the five-year period of its currency,
public comment on the proposed
revisions will be sought.

The Authority reports annually in

accordance with the Financial
Administration and Audit Act 1985. The
Management Plan sets a new agenda
for the Authority and it is appropriate
that it reports to the public on its
performance against this plan, through
its Annual Report.

6.1 RECOMMENDATION

• Annually report to the public on

progress on the implementation of
the Rottnest Island Management Plan
2003-2008.

106
107
Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008
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Western Australia.’ The Marine Flora
and Fauna of Rottnest Island, Western
Australia. Edited by Wells, F.E., Walker,
D.I., Kirkman, H., and Lethbridge, R.
Western Australian Museum, Perth.
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Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008

Appendix 1. Principles Guiding the Development of the

Reserve Zoning Plan and Settlement Planning Scheme

The following principles have guided • Motorised Vehicles - Motorised

Appendix 1

the development of the Reserve Zoning vehicles will be minimal in number

Plan and Settlement Planning Scheme: and, as far as possible, unobtrusive.

• Rottnest ethos - New developments • Vistas - Important vistas will be

or facilities will be consistent with the maintained and improved.
Rottnest Island ethos/experience.
• Streetscape - Streetscape features will
• No accommodation outside the be appropriate to the area, its
Settlement area - No accommodation heritage and use.
will be established outside the
• Vegetation and wildlife - The diversity
designated Settlement area; only
and distribution of important
essential structures will be provided
vegetation forms and fauna will be
outside the Settlement area and these
recognised, preserved and enhanced.
will be minimal.
• Heritage - Links with cultural heritage
• Environmental impacts - Zones will be
and associated sites will be respected
designed to minimise environmental
and enhanced.
impacts and enhance sustainability.
• Education and Interpretation -
• Compatible Users - Zones will be
Education and interpretation will be
designed to separate incompatible
key strategies for the implementation
activities and link activities that are
of zoning plans.
compatible.
• Businesses and services -
• Cost effectiveness - The development
The Settlement Plan will provide
of the Zoning Plan and Settlement
for a suite of holiday services
Planning Scheme will aim to maximise
that contribute to the Rottnest
cost effectiveness.
Island experience and will ensure
• Appropriate use of areas and optimal location of these businesses
resources - Built and natural resources and services.
will be used appropriately to enhance
visitor experiences.

• Risk Management - Zoning and

Settlement planning will be based on
sound risk management.

• Transport/Access - Pedestrians and

cyclists will be given priority; roads
and tracks will be the minimal
number necessary to protect and
manage the Island.

110
 Appendix 2. Implementation Timelines and Responsibilities
Indicates year of commencement of implementation.
Indicates ongoing project to be implemented over the years highlighted.

Year Directorate
Sustainability 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007/8 Responsibility

1. Develop Rottnest Island as a model of sustainability. Conservation and Planning

2 . Develop and commence implementation of an interpretation strategy that allows visitors to fully appreciate and understand the values Conservation and Planning
of the Island, and which communicates its sustainable management practices.

3. Promote, demonstrate and integrate environmental technologies where they meet the social and cultural requirements Business Services
of the Island and are economically viable and relevant.

Reserve Zoning and Settlement Planning Scheme

4. Define the boundary of the Rottnest Island Reserve in terms of a series of geo-positioning data points. Conservation and Planning

5. Amend the Rottnest Island Reserve purpose to ‘for the purposes ofthe Rottnest Island Authority Act 1987’. Conservation and Planning

6. Incorporate Swan Locations 12523, 12524, 12525, 12526, 12667,10613, 10750 and 10614 into the Rottnest Island Reserve. Conservation and Planning

7. Define the Rottnest Island Settlement Zone boundary in terms of a series of geo-positioning data points. Conservation and Planning

8. Implement the Terrestrial Zones as described in Chart 3 - Terrestrial Zoning Plan that comprise the Settlement Zone, Conservation and Planning
Natural Zone, Activity Nodes and Permanent and Temporary Environmental Exclusion Zones and manage in accordance
with Table 1 - Activities and developments permitted in the Rottnest Island Terrestrial Zones.

9. Investigate the feasibility of the development of Wadjemup Hill Activity Node for the interpretation of military, maritime and environmental heritage. Conservation and Planning

10. Investigate the feasibility of the development of Oliver Hill Activity Node for the interpretation of military,maritime and environmental heritage. Conservation and Planning

11. Develop and implement a signage plan for Rottnest Island. Marketing and Communications

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 Appendix 2 Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008

112
Year Directorate
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007/8 Responsibility

12. Develop and implement a marine management strategy that promotes equity of access and opportunity for a quality experience among Conservation and Planning
recreational users of the Marine Reserve, protecting its environmental values, in coordination with the Department of Fisheries and in
consultation with relevant stakeholders.

13. Pursue restriction on commercial fishing in coordination with the Department of Fisheries. Conservation and Planning

14. Develop the Arrival and Departure Precinct to provide for a visitor-friendly experience. Business Services

15. Investigate and implement methods to improve the orientation of arriving visitors to their required first point of contact and other points Tourist Services
around the Island.

16. Establish appropriate shelter for ferry passengers in the Arrival and Departure Precinct. Business Services

17. Develop a conceptual model for a purpose-built interpretation facility on Rottnest Island. Conservation and Planning

18. Seek external funding for the establishment and operation of an interpretation facility on Rottnest Island in consultation with relevant Conservation and Planning
groups with a historical interest in the Island.

19. Develop and implement a strategy for Signal Hill to reduce erosion from trampling and to manage risk issues. Conservation and Planning

20. Maintain the Commercial Precinct to provide commercial services to enhance visitor experience, and to improve access for people with disabilities. Business Services

21. Investigate the feasibility of the construction of a vehicular route connecting the Service Precinct 6a to the Golf Club and the south side of Business Services
the Settlement to link the north and south of the Settlement, eliminating the need for vehicles to move through the core pedestrian area.

22. Investigate the feasibility of establishing an additional food outlet in the Commercial Precinct, which provides further value-for-money food Business Services
options utilising and promoting Western Australian produce.

23. Develop and implement strategies to enhance the library service. Tourist Services

24. Develop and implement strategies to enhance the museum service. Tourist Services

25. Manage the Bathurst Visitor Accommodation Precinct to provide visitor accommodation. Tourist Services

26. Provide appropriately designed beach access paths and approaches in the Bathurst Visitor Accommodation Precinct. Conservation and Planning
 Year Directorate
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007/8 Responsibility

27. Maintain and preserve the Bathurst Lighthouse and Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage without additional development. Business Services

28. Manage the North Thomson Visitor Accommodation Precinct to provide visitor accommodation. Tourist Services

29. Relocate the Hire Services Shed and the Office from the North Thomson Visitor Accommodation Precinct to the Services Precinct Business Services
or the Commercial Precinct.

30. Investigate the feasibility of relocating the Youth Hostel facility from Kingstown Barracks to the North Thomson Visitor Accommodation Precinct. Conservation and Planning

31. Manage the existing accommodation stock in the South Thomson Visitor Accommodation Precinct to provide visitor accommodation. Tourist Services

32. Continue to provide access to the beach via purpose-built designated accessways and stairs in the South Thomson Visitor Accommodation Precinct. Conservation and Planning

33. Monitor beach erosion in the South Thomson Visitor Accommodation Precinct. Conservation and Planning

34. Manage the Geordie, Longreach and Fays Bay Visitor Accommodation Precinct to provide visitor accommodation. Tourist Services

35. Review and realign roads, tracks and traffic flows in the Geordie, Longreach and Fays Bay area to improve amenity and traffic flow. Business Services

36. Improve beach access in the Geordie, Longreach and Fays Bay Visitor Accommodation Precinct. Conservation and Planning

37. Restore and rehabilitate Fays Bay headland. Conservation and Planning

38. Develop a plan for a dedicated Staff Accommodation Precinct including the relocation of staff from other precincts to this area. Business Services

39. Investigate the feasibility of the development of an additional road along the Railway Track to limit the use of Parker Point Road by vehicles. Business Services

40. Maintain and improve the use of Kingstown Barracks as an Environmental Education Centre primarily for school groups. Conservation and Planning

41. Develop a business Plan for Kingstown Barracks that capitalises on other opportunities for the use of this area and improves its economic viability. Conservation and Planning

42. Control noise, odour and visual impact around the Service and Operation Precinct. Business Services

43. Develop and implement a plan for the development of a Recreation Precinct based around the Country Club. Conservation and Planning

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 Appendix 2 Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008

114
Year Directorate
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007/8 Responsibility

44. Promote and enhance golf on Rottnest Island and undertake a feasibility study into the sustainable greening of the golf course, Tourist Services
with a view to implementation.

45. Review, rationalise and where necessary realign tracks in areas outside the Settlement Zone. Business Services

46. Extend and enhance the existing Rottnest Island coastal walk trail. Conservation and Planning

47. Restrict vehicle numbers, size and type to the minimum required to carry out necessary operations and actively encourage alternatively Business Services
powered vehicles, as replacements are required.

48. Implement an approved range of landscape materials for Rottnest Island. Business Services

49. Define and implement a furniture style for the public open spaces of the Settlement Zone and around the Island that meets customer Business Services
needs and is consistent with and sympathetic to the heritage elements of Rottnest Island.

50. Retain existing Settlement vegetation including trees, ground cover and shrubs. Conservation and Planning

51. Maintain existing canopy lines within the Settlement Zone, particularly along the ocean frontage where they are a key element of the vista. Conservation and Planning

52. Define and implement a colour scheme that maintains the character of Rottnest Island. Conservation and Planning

53. Develop and implement a lighting plan that addresses the location and style of lighting. Business Services
 Year Directorate
Terrestrial Environment 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007/8 Responsibility

54. Develop and implement a strategy for the protection and rehabilitation of coastal landforms. Conservation and Planning

55. Review and implement an interpretation program featuring the Island’s geology, landforms and soils. Conservation and Planning

56. Undertake research into the relationship between rainfall, groundwater and the wetlands of Rottnest Island. Conservation and Planning

57. Protect, preserve and interpret Barker Swamp as a primary example of the pre-disturbed condition of Rottnest Island swamps. Conservation and Planning

58. Protect, conserve and interpret Rottnest Island lakes, swamps, freshwater seeps and surrounding vegetation. Conservation and Planning

59. Monitor water and salinity levels within swamps and freshwater seeps on Rottnest Island. Conservation and Planning

60. Rehabilitate Lighthouse Swamp. Conservation and Planning

61. Rehabilitate Parakeet Swamp. Conservation and Planning

62. Rehabilitate Salmon Swamp. Conservation and Planning

63. Develop a Plan for the rehabilitation of Bulldozer and Bickley Swamps. Conservation and Planning

64. Develop and implement a Plan to interpret the rehabilitation of Rottnest Island swamps. Conservation and Planning

65. Manage the nutrient plume from Rottnest Island’s landfill to ensure minimal impact to the water quality and other values of Lake Herschel. Conservation and Planning

66. Revise and commence the implementation of plans for outer bays to minimise any negative impact on the diversity and values of Conservation and Planning
the Island’s landscape and vistas.

67. Develop and implement a Plan to effectively manage and interpret the values of the Island’s natural landscapes. Conservation and Planning

68. Develop and implement strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions on Rottnest Island in accordance with the National Greenhouse Business Services
Challenge actions

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116
Year Directorate
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007/8 Responsibility

69. Eliminate wood fires in Authority accommodation and replace them with an alternative environmentally sensitive and cost-effective Business Services
source of accommodation heating.

70. Investigate options to reduce the impact of aircraft noise. Business Services

71. Review and implement the Woodland Restoration Strategy in the context of a vegetation management strategy. Conservation and Planning

72. Assess and manage all developments on the Island to minimise possible threats to the habitats, flora and fauna of Rottnest Island. Conservation and Planning

73. Review and implement a Plan for the interpretation of the flora and fauna of Rottnest Island. Conservation and Planning

74. Develop and implement a fire management plan for Rottnest Island that recognises key ecological areas of protection, in coordination Business Services
with the Fire and Emergency Services Authority.

75. Implement an effective weed management program for Rottnest Island, based on existing procedures. Conservation and Planning

76. Implement an effective feral animal eradication program, based on existing procedures. Conservation and Planning

77. Encourage research on Island flora and fauna particularly that which contributes to the management of plant diseases on Rottnest Island. Conservation and Planning

78. Investigate the benefits of pursuing Ramsar wetland classification for Rottnest Island’s wetlands used by migratory bird species. Conservation and Planning
 Year Directorate
Marine Environment 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007/8 Responsibility

79. Implement the Rottnest Island policy on waste discharge from vessels. Conservation and Planning

80. Develop and implement a water quality monitoring program for Rottnest Island bays, to test for bacteria and nutrients. Conservation and Planning

81. Manage Island infrastructure to minimise land-based discharge of nutrients and debris into the marine environment. Business Services

82. Review the Rottnest Island fuel and oil spill Plan. Business Services

83. Investigate the provision of a waste receptor facility for liquid waste from vessels. Conservation and Planning

84. Undertake research on the impact of vessel movements on Rottnest Island’s marine habitats, particularly in relation to movement of large vessels. Conservation and Planning

85. Maintain the use of moorings in designated Rottnest Island bays as an environmental management tool. Tourist Services

86. Develop and implement a research program to monitor the level of environmental impact from the current mooring apparatus design. Conservation and Planning

87. Prohibit the anchoring of boats in the Rottnest Island Reserve on areas other than sand. Conservation and Planning

88. Develop and implement a campaign to promote environmentally benign diving techniques to divers and snorkellers in the Rottnest Island Reserve. Tourist Services

89. Develop and implement a research program to monitor fish stocks and gain an understanding of the level of recreational fishing in the Conservation and Planning
Rottnest Island Reserve.

90. Raise awareness and understanding among Island visitors of the adverse impacts of reef walking on marine habitats and species. Conservation and Planning

91. Develop and implement a strategy to reduce the occurrence of locally generated marine litter in the Rottnest Island Reserve. Conservation and Planning

92. Implement an annual program to collect litter in Rottnest Island bays. Conservation and Planning

93. Encourage research on the occurrence and extent of coral bleaching in the Rottnest Island Marine Reserve. Conservation and Planning

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 Appendix 2 Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008

118
Year Directorate
Cultural Heritage 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007/8 Responsibility

94. Compile a comprehensive inventory of Rottnest Island’s heritage assets. Conservation and Planning

95. Undertake an assessment of the condition and significance of all heritage assets on Rottnest Island. Conservation and Planning

96. Develop a priority listing of heritage restoration projects required on Rottnest Island according to condition and significance of assets. Conservation and Planning

97. Develop and implement heritage maintenance procedures, in accordance with the Burra Charter, to direct heritage maintenance Conservation and Planning
activities on Rottnest Island.

98. Develop comprehensive guidelines for the appropriate treatments for landscapes and streetscapes on Rottnest Island in order to maintain Conservation and Planning
associated heritage values.

99. Develop and implement heritage projects that can be undertaken with the aid of volunteer effort. Conservation and Planning

100. Establish a Cultural Heritage Advisory Committee reporting to the Rottnest Island Authority to provide expert advice on heritage issues. Conservation and Planning

101. Develop an Island-wide integrated heritage interpretation approach that includes business opportunities that support heritage works. Conservation and Planning

102. Revise and reissue heritage brochures to enhance the interpretative capability of this medium. Conservation and Planning

103. Develop and implement a strategy to increase the profile of Rottnest Island for heritage-focussed conferences, seminars and training events. Marketing and Communications

104. Maintain and enhance opportunities for free of charge, self-directed heritage interpretation on Rottnest Island. Conservation and Planning

105. Undertake further ground probing radar work to determine the full extent of the Aboriginal burial grounds. Business Services

106. Relocate any accommodation overlying the established area of the Aboriginal burial grounds. Business Services

107. Investigate and implement mechanisms to further interpret the Aboriginal burial grounds and other areas of Aboriginal significance. Conservation and Planning

108. Maintain and enhance relationships with Aboriginal people to further interpret the Aboriginal heritage of Rottnest Island. Conservation and Planning
 Year Directorate
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007/8 Responsibility

109. Develop and implement guidelines for the appropriate archaeological assessment and supervision of ground disturbance Conservation and Planning
and hardening work on Rottnest Island.

110. Review, assess and enhance the Rottnest Island museum collection. Conservation and Planning

111. Develop and implement a program of recording current features, operations and activities of Rottnest Island. Conservation and Planning

112. Undertake a program of recording oral accounts from persons with previous and current associations with Rottnest Island. Conservation and Planning

Holiday and Recreation Facilities

113. Annually adjust the individual Admission Fee commencing 1st July 2003. Business Services

114. Pursue amendment to the Rottnest Island Authority Act 1987 to allow the Rottnest Island Authority to control entry into the Rottnest Island Reserve. Conservation and Planning

115. Undertake research on the relationship between Rottnest Island visitor numbers and behaviour and environmental, social and economic Conservation and Planning
impacts on Rottnest Island.

116. Develop and implement plans to increase the number of accommodated visitors in the cooler months. Tourist Services

117. Manage activities on the Island commensurate with optimum visitor numbers. Marketing and Communications

118. Assess business opportunities on a case by case basis, giving priority to the requirements to maintain control over the Reserve, preserve the Business Services
ethos, equity and access, and sustain the Island’s environmental and social values.

119. Retain the existing range of accommodation on Rottnest Island. Tourist Services

120. Investigate designs for a Rottnest Island style of holiday cottage in preparation for the times when existing cottages require replacement. Tourist Services

121. Investigate the feasibility of the redevelopment of existing Kelly and Abbot Street accommodation, paying attention to environmental and Conservation and Planning
heritage sensitive construction and operation, winter comfort standards, and the flexibility to provide for wider styles of use.

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 Appendix 2 Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008

120
Year Directorate
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007/8 Responsibility

122. Refurbish the heritage cottages and the existing Geordie/Longreach units, paying particular attention to environmentally sensitive construction Business Services
and operation and to winter comfort standards.

123. Demolish the existing Allison cabins and construct replacement cabins near Caroline Thomson using the existing Caroline Thomson Business Services
cabin model, paying particular attention to winter comfort standards.

124. Improve and enhance the universal access features of accommodation and visitor facilities on Rottnest Island. Business Services

125. Determine and implement a defined building envelope within the boundary of the Settlement Zone. Conservation and Planning

126. Except as otherwise specified, limit construction of accommodation on Rottnest Island to the replacement of existing accommodation, Business Services
as necessary.

127. Upgrade and improve Rottnest Island accommodation booking software and procedures. Business Services

128. Investigate the feasibility of introducing on-line accommodation booking facilities. Marketing and Communications

129. Investigate alternative methods to allocate accommodation during peak periods. Tourist Services

130. Implement the schedule of accommodation charges for bookings taken from 1 January 2003 as described in Table 5 - Accommodation Charges. Tourist Services

131. Charge accommodation booked for off peak periods, which is not part of a discount package, at a 20 percent discount rate. Tourist Services

132. Annually revise accommodation costs and operations. Business Services

133. Conduct a community consultation exercise to inform the future development of the Rottnest Island Hotel site. Business Services

134. Redevelop the Rottnest Island Hotel facilities informed by community consultation. Business Services

135. Continue to provide education and interpretation activities on Rottnest Island. Conservation and Planning
 Year Directorate
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007/8 Responsibility

136. Develop and implement a Plan for visitor services and attractions which is consistent with the Island’s purpose and based on the principles of Conservation and Planning
environmental, social and economic sustainability.

137. Provide a range of visitor services and attractions on Rottnest Island that are available on a self-directed, free-of-charge basis. Tourist Services

138. Maintain and enhance the services provided by businesses operating on Rottnest Island. Business Services

139. Provide and enhance language services to non-English speaking visitors. Marketing and Communications

140. Develop and implement a research program to determine the impact of services and attractions on the Rottnest Island environment and its visitors. Conservation and Planning

141. Develop and implement a Rottnest Island Merchandising Plan. Marketing and Communications

142. Increase the number of bicycle racks on Rottnest Island. Business Services

143. Develop and implement a telecommunications plan. Business Services

144. Determine and provide recreation facilities targeted at youth. Conservation and Planning

145. Undertake a review of charges for the full range of tours and visitor services. Tourist Services

146. Investigate mechanisms to improve the carriage of large equipment on bus services. Tourist Services

147. Investigate alternative-powered buses for Rottnest Island that will have a more positive impact on visual and environmental amenities. Business Services

148. Investigate the feasibility of the extension of the Island rail service. Conservation and Planning

149. Annually review and amend bus service fees and charges. . Tourist Services

150. Work with the Rottnest Island Police to enforce the requirement for cyclists to wear helmets on Rottnest Island. Conservation and Planning

121
 Appendix 2 Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008

122
Year Directorate
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007/8 Responsibility

151. Work with the Rottnest Island Police to enforce the requirement for cyclists to use a light when cycling at night. Conservation and Planning

152. Review and rationalise the number of walking tracks on Rottnest Island to minimise environmental impacts while providing for the needs of visitors. Conservation and Planning

153. Implement the Rottnest Island Authority Disability Services Plan. Conservation and Planning

154. Refurbish the ramp to North Thomson Beach to provide beach and water access. Conservation and Planning

155. Review the operation of the Rottnest Island Aerodrome. Business Services

156. Review the range of aerodrome fees. Business Services

157. Provide training opportunities to Authority staff to improve service levels to meet industry standards and benchmarks. Business Services

158. Investigate certification under national tourism accreditation schemes. Tourist Services

159. Develop and introduce a new range of Rottnest Island Authority staff uniforms. Marketing and Communications

160. Design and implement a market research program to gain an understanding of market segments and needs. Marketing and Communications

161. Develop and implement a strategic marketing plan for Rottnest Island, based on the outcomes of market research. Marketing and Communications

162. Work with Rottnest Island businesses and ferry operators to improve the compatibility of marketing campaigns with Rottnest Island objectives. Marketing and Communications

163. Determine a policy on the scale and type of function and event appropriate for Rottnest Island based on considerations of social, Marketing and Communications
economic and environmental benefits and impacts.

164. Undertake a range of Rottnest Island Authority-hosted programs to enhance the visitor experience. Marketing and Communications
 Year Directorate
Marine Recreation and Facilities 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007/8 Responsibility

165. Monitor the use of Personalised Powered Watercraft within the boundary of the Reserve over the peak months of 2003/2004 and Conservation and Planning
2004/2005 and determine whether they should continue to be permitted in the Reserve.

166. Undertake research into the boating capacity of the Rottnest Island Marine Reserve based on social, environmental and infrastructure constraints. Conservation and Planning

167. Investigate mechanisms to manage the boating capacity of the Rottnest Island Marine Reserve. Tourist Services

168. Increase the boating annual payment in lieu of Admission Fee from 1 September 2003 to the following GST inclusive prices: vessels up Tourist Services
to 8 metres: $121.00; vessels greater than 8 metres but less than 10 metres: $137.50; vessels 10 metres or greater but less than
15 metres: $165.00; vessels 15 metres or greater: $275.00.

169. Annually review the boating annual payment in lieu of Admission Fee. Tourist Services

170. Work with the Department for Planning and Infrastructure to expand the boating five-knot speed limit area to include all bays containing Conservation and Planning
moorings and all waters within 100 metres of the shoreline.

171. Maintain the current total number of licensed recreational moorings in the Rottnest Island Marine Reserve. Tourist Services

172. Employ geographical positioning survey methods to determine and maintain records of mooring locations. Conservation and Planning

173. Prohibit people from dredging or otherwise interfering with any area of sea bed in the Marine Reserve. Conservation and Planning

174. Undertake a trial of a mooring system as detailed in Table 6 - Summary of Recreational Mooring Trial System, in consultation Tourist Services
with major stakeholders, commencing September 2003 with a view to ongoing implementation.

175. Pursue alternative mechanisms for increasing access to recreational moorings should the trial indicate that the system detailed in Tourist Services
Table 6 is not feasible.

176. Revise annual recreational mooring site licence fees effective 1 September 2003 to $66.00 per metre of length of licensed Tourist Services
vessels or $660, whichever is the greater amount, for the duration of the recreational mooring trial and permanently thereafter should
the trial system be implemented substantively.

177. Introduce an Annual Authorised User Fee of $33 per metre as at 1 September 2003 Tourist Services

123
 Appendix 2 Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008

124
Year Directorate
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007/8 Responsibility

178. Maintain the Annual Administration Fee for Authorised Users of $33 per vessel. Tourist Services

179. Review all mooring fees annually. Tourist Services

180. Prohibit recreational moorings from being used for commercial gain or being sub-let. Conservation and Planning

181. Revise mooring renewal procedures to make the presentation of a hull identification number a prerequisite for a mooring site licence Tourist Services
renewal by 1 September 2004.

182. Develop a business model for the rental mooring business unit to determine an optimum number of rental moorings. Tourist Services

183. Eliminate the maximum rental period limit for rental moorings for the off-peak season of May to November. Tourist Services

184. Introduce a maximum limit for rental moorings during the accommodation ballot periods, consistent with maximum ballot Tourist Services
booking periods, from 1 July 2003.

185. Increase rental swing mooring fees to $33 per night, from 1 July 2003. Tourist Services

186. Increase Bathurst Beach mooring fees to $16.50 per night, from 1 July 2003. Tourist Services

187. Annually review rental mooring prices. Tourist Services

188. Investigate the feasibility of establishing a number of strategically placed moorings dedicated for commercial charter operations, with Business Services
the objective to establish a viable commercial charter moorings system.

189. Establish and introduce a commercial rate for commercial operators using rental moorings. Business Services

190. Eliminate the maximum rental period limit for rental pens for the off-peak season of May to November. Tourist Services

191. Introduce a maximum limit for rental pens during the accommodation ballot periods, consistent with maximum ballot Tourist Services
booking periods, from 1 July 2003.

192. Increase charges for rental pens to $33 per night for large pens at the Fuel Jetty, and $22 per night for small pens at the Fuel, Hotel and Tourist Services
Stark Jetties, effective 1 July 2003.
 Year Directorate
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007/8 Responsibility

193. Annually review rental pen prices. Tourist Services

194. Provide information to boat owners on appropriate methods of beach anchoring. Conservation and Planning

195. Investigate the feasibility of the formalisation of beach anchoring sites in Thomson Bay, with a view to implementation. Tourist Services

196. Implement mechanisms to ensure efficient and effective operation and management of the Main Passenger Jetty. Business Services

197. Assess the feasibility of upgrading the Hotel Jetty. Business Services

198. Restore and maintain the Green Island Jetty as a recreational fishing area and small vessel-berthing site. Business Services

199. Work with commercial ferry companies to encourage affordable pricing strategies for Rottnest Island ferry tickets, Tourist Services
accepting that the ferry fare includes the individual Admission Fee to the Island.

200. Adjust the annual payment to the Authority in lieu of Admission Fees for Charter Boat operators to: $22 multiplied by the vessel’s capacity Business Services
for vessels making 14 or less entries to the Reserve; $44 multiplied by the vessel’s capacity for vessels making more than 14 but less than 31
entries into the Reserve; $66 multiplied by the vessel’s capacity for vessels making more than 30 and less than 45 entries into the Reserve;
and $88 multiplied by the vessel’s capacity for vessels making 45 or more entries to the Reserve.

201. Develop and implement a pricing strategy to apply to charter vessel fees, including annual review. Business Services

202. Amend legislation to ensure that all categories of charter vessels operating in the Reserve are required to collect and pay Admission Fees. Conservation and Planning

203. Investigate a charter vessel operators licence system for the Rottnest Island Reserve. Business Services

125
 Appendix 2 Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008

126
Year Directorate
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007/8 Responsibility

Community Involvement and Relations

204. In consultation with volunteer groups, develop and implement a Volunteer Services Plan to clarify and formalise the role of volunteer Tourist Services
groups on Rottnest Island.

205. Encourage and support volunteer groups to carry out conservation and interpretive activities on the Island. Conservation and Planning

206. Maintain the use of advisory committees to provide advice and guidance to the Authority on specific issues and subjects. ALL

207. Operate a complaint handling process that is visible, accessible and fair. Tourist Services

208. Review the consultation mechanisms used for the development of the Rottnest Island Management Plan. Conservation and Planning

Visitor Support Services

209. Maintain and promote a Ranger profile based on guidance, interpretation and a high level of public contact with all user groups. Conservation and Planning

210. Replace the Ranger 1 Marine Vessel. Business Services

211. Continue to support the Honorary Ranger Program. Conservation and Planning

212. Identify and train a pool of staff who are available to fill short term or seasonal Ranger duties. Business Services

213. Maintain and enhance relations with the Rottnest Island Police. Conservation and Planning

214. Maintain and enhance relations between the Nursing Post, as part of the Fremantle Hospital and Health Service, and the Authority. Conservation and Planning

215. Review the Authority’s Risk Management Program. Conservation and Planning

216. Review and reissue the Authority’s Risk Awareness Brochure. Marketing and Communications

217. Continue the implementation of the Rottnest Island Asbestos Management Program. Business Services

218. Maintain participation in and support of the Local Emergency Management Committee. Business Services

219. Investigate and implement means to ensure efficient fire fighting in a low water pressure environment. Business Services

220. Progressively upgrade all buildings so that they meet the current Buildings Code of Australia requirements in regard to fire ratings. Business Services
 Year Directorate
Utilities and Infrastructure 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007/8 Responsibility

221. Operate the desalination plants as the primary source of potable water. Business Services

222. Revise the borefield management licence conditions according to current rainfall and define parameters and outcomes of research Conservation and Planning
between rainfall, groundwater and wetlands, in coordination with the Department of Environmental Protection.

223. Progressively decommission bores to achieve a sustainable number of bores. Business Services

224. Remove the southern catchment area and rehabilitate the area of the freshwater seeps. Business Services

225. Develop and implement a bituminised catchment maintenance program to ensure maximum possible yield from the remaining Business Services
bituminised catchment.

226. Map the location of the water network system. Business Services

227. Continue to install water-saving devices in accommodation units. Business Services

228. Investigate options to reduce the demand on potable water for watering lawn areas. Business Services

229. Develop and implement a plan to replace the wastewater network system. Business Services

230. Develop and implement plans for the cost-effective and environmentally sensitive use of grey water, compliant with public health requirements. Business Services

231. Develop and implement an awareness campaign to discourage visitors from bringing non-recyclable and excessively packaged Marketing and Communications
products to Rottnest Island.

232. Work with the business community to reduce the proportion of products supplied which are excessively packaged. Business Services

233. Develop a waste management plan for Rottnest Island. Business Services

234. Investigate the feasibility of burying the Wadjemup power line in an environmentally sensitive, cost-effective manner in coordination Business Services
with the development of Wadjemup as an Activity Node.

235. Construct a wind turbine on Mt Herschel and monitor its impact and efficiency. Business Services

127
 Part B. Management Planning Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003-2008

128
Year Directorate
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007/8 Responsibility

236. Assess the benefits of the introduction of a second turbine, based on the analysis of impacts and efficiencies of the first wind turbine. Business Services

237. Use solar panels as a source of alternative power on Rottnest Island, where possible and practicable. Business Services

238. Investigate the benefits of biodiesel for Rottnest Island, with a view to is introduction as an alternative fuel on the Island. Business Services

239. Develop and implement a program to interpret issues associated with power supply. Conservation and Planning

240. Investigate and trial energy-saving technologies in Rottnest Island buildings and facilities. Business Services

241. Employ appropriate passive energy and other energy-efficient technologies in all new accommodation and other buildings Business Services
constructed on Rottnest Island.

242. Develop and implement a comprehensive maintenance plan for roads and tracks. Business Services

Implementation
243. Review and amend the Rottnest Island Authority Act 1987 Conservation and Planning

244. Annually review and amend as appropriate the Rottnest Island Regulations 1988. Conservation and Planning

245. Review and amend penalties for offences as established in the Rottnest Island Regulations 1988. Conservation and Planning

246. Develop and implement a research program for Rottnest Island. Conservation and Planning

247. Implement arrangements to ensure maintenance of intellectual property in relation to Rottnest Island research projects. Conservation and Planning

248. Continue to seek funding from external sources, including special grants and sponsorships, to supplement income. Conservation and Planning

249. Annually report to the public on progress on the implementation of the Rottnest Island Management Plan 2003 - 2008. Conservation and Planning
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Rottnest Island Authority Board Rottnest Island Management Plan

Reference Group
Ms Jennifer Archibald, Chairman
Mr Laurence O’Meara, Deputy Chairman Chair: Ms Lesley Smith, Director
Mr Joseph Merillo Conservation and Planning;
Mr Angas Hopkins Acting Chief Executive Officer
Ms Rachel Roberts from October 2002
Ms Catherine Nance
Project Manager: Ms Jo McCrea
Rottnest Island Authority Chief (Bunting), Principal Planning Officer
Executive Officer
Members:
Mr John Mitchell (to October 2002) • Mr Peter Purves, Director
Tourist Services;
• Ms Carol Shannon, Director
Business Services;
• Ms Claire Wright, Manager
Conservation;
• Ms Roxane Shadbolt, Manager
Visitor Operations,
• Mr John Richmond, Principal
Projects Officer (to August 2002).

129
Rottnest Island Authority Administration
Level 1, E Shed, Victoria Quay
Fremantle WA 6160
Postal Address
PO Box 693,
Fremantle WA 6959
Tel:(08) 9432 9300
Fax: (08) 9432 9301
Website: www.rottnest.wa.gov.au
Email: enquiries@rottnest.wa.gov.au
Published by the Rottnest Island Authority. March 2003