rottnest island

RottnestIslandManagement Plan 2003-2008

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1

Foreword 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 12

Government Bodies

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

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

References 108

CHARTS

Chart 1 Rottnest Island Reserve 5

Chart 2 Unvested Lands on Rottnest Island 9

Chart 3 Terrestrial Zoning Scheme 21

Chart 4 Settlement Planning Scheme 24

FIGURES

Figure 1 4

Rottnest Island Authority Organisation Structure

Figure 2 62

Total Number of Visitors to Rottnest Island Arriving by

Commercial Ferry or Aircraft (1997/98 - 2001/2)

Figure 3 62

Occupancy of Rottnest Island Accommodation per Month

1996/97 - 2001/2)

TABLES

Table 1 Activities and Developments Permitted in 20

the Rottnest Island Terrestrial Zones

Table 2 Rottnest Island Landscaping Materials 30

Table 3 Rottnest Island Vegetation Types 38

Table 4 Marine Habitats of Rottnest Island 42

Table 5 Accommodation Charges 68

Table 6 Summary of Recreational Mooring Trial System 83

APPENDICES

Appendix 1 110

Principles Guiding the Development of the

Reserve Zoning Plan and Settlement Planning Scheme

Appendix 2 111

Implementation Timelines and Responsibilities

Acknowledgements 129

Table of Contents

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Rottnest Island is fondly regarded as a

special place by the many Western

Australians, and visitors from interstate

and overseas, who go there for the day,

or an extended stay.

There are a lot of different reasons why

people visit Rottnest Island. These

include relaxing in a coastal setting;

enjoying its scenic natural beauty;

taking part in a special event; carrying

out a research project or participating in

a conservation initiative. These

different areas of interest reflect the

wide range of people who enjoy

Rottnest Island’s facilities and services,

and who want to ensure it is effectively

managed into the future.

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

organisations and the public sector.

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.

I would like to acknowledge the Board

Members and staff of the Rottnest

Island Authority, for their vision and

commitment in guiding the

development of the Plan through

various stages, to its completion.

I would also like to thank each person

and organisation that responded to the

Draft Management Plan. Your active

participation has enabled a Plan to be

produced that will serve the broader

community well over the next five years.

The Hon. Clive Brown MLA

Minister for Tourism

Foreword

3

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

Part A. Background

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1.1 BRIEF DESCRIPTION

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

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;

• 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.

1. Introduction

Figure 1: Rottnest Island Authority Organisation Structure

Chief Executive Officer

DirectorTourist Services

DirectorBusiness Services

DirectorConservation and Planning

Environment

Planning and Projects

Heritage

Risk Management

Ranger Services

Education and Interpretation Services

Visitor Services

Accommodation Services

Mooring Services

Contract Management

Lease Management

Finance

Human Resources

Information Services

Marketing and Communications

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1.3 ROTTNEST ISLAND

STRATEGIC PLAN

The Authority operates under the

guidance of its Strategic Plan which

incorporates the organisation’s vision,

mission, goal and strategies. This


(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.

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 RottnestIsland Authority Act 1987 (the Act) areframed in the expectation that theAuthority is self-sufficient. In otherwords, sufficient revenue is to begenerated from operations to meetexpenses. The organisation’s financialresults are reported in Annual Reports.

Financial pressures experienced by theAuthority over many years have causedloans to be raised that are now in theprocess of being repaid. These loanrepayments have added to the financialpressures and losses in recent years.

1.5 STATUTORY BASIS AND TERM OF THE ROTTNEST ISLANDMANAGEMENT PLAN

The Act directs that the Rottnest IslandAuthority control and manage theIsland in accordance with a ManagementPlan. The Management Plan is a gazettedstatutory document that directs theAuthority in its management over aperiod of five years.

The Act directs the Authority to revieweach Management Plan in terms of itsability to meet the statutory purposes ofthe Reserve, no later than five yearsafter its approval. Based on the reviewof the Plan, the Authority may determineto reinstate the existing Plan withoutamendment, amend the existing Plan, ordevelop a new Management Plan.

A review of the Rottnest IslandManagement Plan 1997-2002 indicatedthat the development of a newManagement Plan was required.

In accordance with the Act, the RottnestIsland Management Plan 2003-2008contains a statement of policies and asummary of the operationsrecommended to be undertaken.

7

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


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.

2. Development of the Plan

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The Rottnest Island Management Plan

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.

Part B is the core of the Management

Plan. In Part B, the Island’s management

has been divided into Chapters of:

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. 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.

Part C provides the framework for

implementation of the Plan including

funding, resourcing, priorities,

responsibilities, timeframes, reporting

and monitoring of progress.

3. Format of the Plan

9

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).


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.’

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.

4. Definition of the Area

Chart 2: Unvested Lands on Rottnest Island

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There are numerous State, National and

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.

• 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.

5. Policy Context

11

• 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

STATE POLICY

Key state policies that influence

Rottnest Island operations include:

• Western Australian Sustainability

Strategy. In response to the

international and national direction to

consider sustainability as a driving

issue for all operations, the

Department of Premier and Cabinet’s

State Sustainability Unit (SSU) is in the

process of developing a State

Sustainability Strategy for Western

Australia. The Draft Sustainability

Strategy was released for public

comment in September 2002. The

Authority will operate in accordance

with the policies and principles and

other guidelines determined in the

resultant State Sustainability Strategy.

• Nature Based Tourism Strategy 1997.

The Nature Based Tourism Strategy

1997 is the result of a joint effort by

the tourism industry, the Western

Australian Tourism Commission and

the Department of Conservation and

Land Management. The Strategy

provides the framework for the

development of an industry that will

deliver long term and wide ranging

benefits to Western Australians and

visitors through nature based tourism

opportunities. As a destination for

nature based activities, the Authority

is guided by this Strategy.

• Western Australian Volunteering

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

between the government and the

volunteering community. The

compact is currently being developed

in consultation with the community.

The compact will support the value of

volunteers and encourage volunteering

in Western Australia. Many volunteer

groups are active contributors to the

management of Rottnest Island. The

compact will guide the Authority in its

continued effort to embrace and

enhance the contribution of

volunteers to the Island.

• State Commitment to a New and

Just Relationship between the

Government of Western Australia

and Aboriginal Western Australians.

In October 2001 the Chair of the

ATSIC State Council and the Western

Australian Premier signed a

Statement of Commitment to a new

and just relationship between the

Government of Western Australia

and Aboriginal Western Australians.

The Statement of Commitment sets

out an agreed set of principles and a

process for improving the relationship

between and the delivery of

government services to Aboriginal

people in Western Australia.

• State Disability Services Act 1993.

The State Disability Services Act 1993

requires State Government public

authorities to have a Disability Services

Plan and to report on the implementation

of the Plan’s access initiatives each

year in their Annual Reports.

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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 PLANNINGAND INFRASTRUCTURE

The Department for Planning and

Infrastructure plays a significant role in

both the terrestrial and marine portions

of the Rottnest Island Reserve.


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

to coordinate the management of

marine pollution incidents.


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.


POLICE SERVICE

The Western Australian Police Service isresponsible for the application of anumber of Acts, including the Police Act1892, on Rottnest Island. The WesternAustralian Police Service is the leadagency in the enforcement of law andemergency management procedures onRottnest Island and its waters. ThePolice Service operates a station on theIsland staffed by resident Police Officers.

6.4 DEPARTMENT OFENVIRONMENT, WATER ANDCATCHMENT PROTECTION

The State Government is creating a newintegrated environmental protectionand natural resource managementagency for Western Australia. TheDepartment of Environment, Water andCatchment Protection will be formed bythe amalgamation of the Department ofEnvironmental Protection, the Waterand Rivers Commission and the KeepAustralia Beautiful Council.

This new Department will controlmarine and terrestrial pollution andprovide advice to the Minister for theEnvironment on issues relating toprotection of the environment.

Several Rottnest Island operations such asthe water supply, wastewater treatmentand the landfill site operate under licenceagreement with the Department ofEnvironmental Protection and the Waterand Rivers Commission, which will nowbe with the Department of Environment,Water and Catchment Protection. ThisDepartment will also be responsible forensuring the protection and conservationof the Island’s groundwater resources.

6. Roles and Responsibilities of Western AustralianGovernment Bodies

13

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.


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.

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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.

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.

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

Part B. Management Planning

15

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1.1 GENERAL

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:


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.

1.2 ROTTNEST ISLAND AS A MODEL

OF SUSTAINABILITY

The elements of sustainability have

always been a dominant factor in the

management of Rottnest Island. The

development of this Plan has allowed

the Authority to formalise its

commitment to sustainability and

demonstrate the relevance of this

concept to Rottnest Island.

Sustainability is the concept that seeks

to integrate short- and long-term

economic, social and environmental

effects in all decision making. For

Rottnest Island sustainability means that

the Authority will control and manage

the Island in a way that ensures that its

resources and experiences are available

for future generations. This

interpretation has generated the

following drivers of the

recommendations contained within this

Management Plan.

Maintenance of the Rottnest Island

social experience

The social value of Rottnest Island is well

understood by the Authority. This social

value is often called the "Rottnest Island

ethos" and can be described in terms of

the self-directed, simple, nature-based

and family-oriented experience, very

much dependent on a high degree of

natural amenity and space. It is also

heavily based on the management

practices of the Authority that have

promoted a high level of access to the

Island for Western Australians.

The maintenance and protection

of the Rottnest Island experience

is an important aspect of achieving

sustainability, and the objective to

maintain this social experience has led

to recommendations in this Plan.

These recommendations are based

on specified limits to further

development, maintaining the current

style and range of services and facilities,

and improvements that retain the

essential elements of the Rottnest ethos

and provide a quality holiday and

recreation experience.

Protection of the NaturalEnvironment and Heritage Asset Rottnest Island is an A-class Reserve

with many significant and valuable

terrestrial and marine resources. It also

has highly significant cultural heritage

values that reflect the many facets of

Western Australia’s development. The

continued management, repair and

enhancement of these resources is a

fundamental goal of sustainability and

a key focus of this Plan.

Precautionary Management ofCapacity The Island’s resources are more

constrained than on the mainland and

there are complexities, expenses and

potential impacts associated with the

use of these resources. Furthermore, the

sustainable level of use of Island

resources is not well defined. These

factors combine to justify the

implementation of a precautionary

approach to the management and use

of resources such as power, water and

space, and to the exploration of

methods to manage the impact of

Island visitors.

1. Introduction

17

Generation of Viable Economic

Environment The Rottnest Island Authority faces

financial pressures that constrain and

limit its operations. During the life of the

Plan the Authority will seek to improve

its operations, increase its revenue and

continue to meet its obligations to

provide affordable family holiday

services and conserve the natural and

built environment.

Management of Seasonality of VisitorsThe highly seasonal nature of activity

and business on Rottnest Island has


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 Sustainabilitythrough InterpretationThe 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.

1.2.1 Recommendations

• Develop Rottnest Island as a model

of sustainability.

• Develop and commence

implementation of an

interpretation strategy that allows

visitors to fully appreciate and

understand the values of the Island,

and which communicates its

sustainable management practices.

• Promote, demonstrate and

integrate environmental

technologies where they meet the

social and cultural requirements of

the Island and are economically

viable and relevant.

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2.1 INTRODUCTION

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.

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.


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.


• 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. Reserve Zoning Plan and Settlement Planning Scheme

19

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


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.

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Environmental Exclusion Zone,

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.

Environmental Exclusion Zone,

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.

Temporary Environmental Exclusion

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.

Activity Settlement Zone Natural Zone Activity Nodes Environmental EnvironmentalExclusion Zone, Exclusion Zone,

Permanent Temporary

Public Access1 Yes Yes Yes No No

Escorted Access2 Yes Yes Yes Special4 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 Functions3 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.

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

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2.3.2.2 SignageEffective signage is a key form ofinformation for visitors but can alsonegatively impact on the Island’samenity. There are numerous signs onRottnest Island both within theSettlement Zone and the Natural Zone.There is a need to rationalise signageand investigate other mechanisms ofdisseminating information to visitors.

2.3.2.3 Recommendations• Define the Rottnest Island Settlement

Zone boundary in terms of a series ofgeo-positioning data points.

• Implement the Terrestrial Zones asdescribed in Chart 3 - TerrestrialZoning Plan that comprise theSettlement Zone, Natural Zone,Activity Nodes and Permanent andTemporary Environmental ExclusionZones, and manage in accordancewith Table 1 - Activities andDevelopment Permitted in theRottnest Island Terrestrial Zones.

• Investigate the feasibility of thedevelopment of Wadjemup Hill ActivityNode for the interpretation of military,maritime and environmental heritage.

• Investigate the feasibility of thedevelopment of Oliver Hill ActivityNode for the interpretation of military,maritime and environmental heritage.

• Develop and implement a signageplan for Rottnest Island.

2.3.3 Marine Management Strategy

The marine portion of the Reservecontains many features of conservationand social value. This results in it being ahighly popular recreation area, used fora wide variety of recreational pursuits.There is a need to manage the Reserveto ensure that conflicts betweenrecreational pursuits are addressed and

that environmental values are protected.

Current forms of management of theMarine Reserve include (refer Chart 1-Rottnest Island Reserve):• Fishing regulations gazetted under

the Fishing Resources ManagementAct 1994 (refer Part A, Chapter 6 -Roles and Responsibilities ofWestern Australian GovernmentBodies), including: - Two no-fishing zones within themarine portion of the Reserve:Kingston Reef and Parker Point Reef;

- Speargun prohibition within aportion of the Reserve;

- Commercial Western Rock Lobsterfishing prohibition within a portionof the Reserve;

- Other recreational fishingregulations that are developed,implemented and enforced by theDepartment of Fisheries.

• Portions of Thomson Bay, GeordieBay, Longreach Bay, Marjorie Bay andall of Little Parakeet Bay and the Basinzoned for no anchoring, no boatingand no daylight fishing.

These management measures aredesigned to protect natural values ofthe marine environment, but are lesseffective at protecting social values ofthe Reserve. Furthermore, the Authorityis concerned about the health of themarine environment given the level ofactivity that occurs in the Reserve. TheAuthority wishes to review the currentmarine management regime andinvestigate the need to implementfurther measures to protect the Reserve.

The Authority is committed to maximisingequity of access and opportunity for aquality experience among recreationalusers of the Reserve, while protecting its

environmental values. This objective willbe pursued through the development ofa marine management strategy, whichmay involve the development ofregulations under the Fish ManagementAct 1994. The marine managementstrategy will be pursued in coordinationwith the Department of Fisheries and inconsultation with relevant stakeholders.

Commercial fishing within the Reserve isinconsistent with its explicit legislatedpurpose, of ‘public recreation.’

2.3.3.1 Recommendations • Develop and implement a marine

management strategy that promotesequity of access and opportunity for aquality experience amongrecreational users of the MarineReserve, protecting its environmentalvalues, in coordination with theDepartment of Fisheries and inconsultation with relevant stakeholders.

• Pursue restrictions on commercialfishing in coordination with theDepartment of Fisheries.

2.4 SETTLEMENT PLANNING SCHEME

The Settlement Planning Scheme islimited to the boundary of theSettlement Zone and is based on a seriesof precincts that are separated accordingto core function. The precincts areillustrated in Chart 4 - SettlementPlanning 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)

23

For each precinct, this Plan provides adescription of the area, documentsissues associated with the managementof the area and makes recommendationsfor management.

2.4.1 Arrival and Departure Precinct

2.4.1.1 DescriptionThe Arrival and Departure Precinct isthat part of the Settlement Zone thatincludes the first contacts both visuallyand physically, for visitors to the Island.The ‘arrival’ sequence and how it hasevolved is very much a part of theRottnest Island experience. Thedeparture sequence is also significant.

Key elements of this precinct are theMain Passenger Jetty, Visitor andInformation Centre, AccommodationOffice and the seawall. This precinct alsoincludes the vacant land on the westernside of Colebatch Avenue, betweenHenderson Avenue and Forrest Avenue.

Two of the Settlement’s most prominentlandscape features also fall within thebounds of the Precinct: Signal Hill andthe hill south of the Tearooms. Thesetwo features provide natural landscapebreathing spaces.

Buildings and lands in this precinct willbe reserved for facilities and servicesthat support the arrival function. As theprecinct contains the primary point ofarrival to and departure from the Island,the landscape and materials used here‘set the scene’ and should thereafter beemployed consistently throughout thearea 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.

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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


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.


• 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.


enhance the museum service.

2.4.3 Bathurst VisitorAccommodation Precinct

2.4.3.1 DescriptionThe 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 IssuesSeveral 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.

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2.4.4 North Thomson

2.4.4.1 DescriptionThe North Thomson VisitorAccommodation Precinct contains aparticularly high number of heritage sites.Perhaps the most significant of these isthe area of Vincent Way, including boththe cottages and the road above theseawall that have been recognised as theoldest intact streetscape in Australia.

The front row of villas at North Thomsonis one of the first visible elements of theIsland’s landscape. The 1920s bungalowsexist in a refurbished state side by sidewith 50s-era buildings and an array ofbrick cottages. Most of the brickcottages have been recently upgraded.This precinct contains the earliest familyaccommodation in the Settlement. Theearly beachfront villas represent the bestinterpretation of the modern holidayexperience in terms of facility and form.

Curved, meandering roads lead holiday-makers through the precinct, and theretention of this random approach andpermeability is desirable. The visualprominence of this precinct requiresthat it be considered within the contextof the surrounding environment withcareful integration of the landscape andits cultural and historical values.

This precinct also contains the highlysignificant Aboriginal burial groundsestablished during the period in whichthe Island was an Aboriginal Prison (referPart B, Chapter 5 - Cultural Heritage).

The camping ground and two areas ofcamping cabins are also located withinthe North Thomson VisitorAccommodation Precinct.

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.


• Manage the North Thomson Visitor



• 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.


• Manage the existing accommodation

stock in the South Thomson Visitor



• Continue to provide access to

the beach via purpose-built

designated accessways and stairs

in the South Thomson Visitor


• Monitor beach erosion in the

South Thomson Visitor


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2.4.6 Geordie, Longreach

and Fays Bay Visitor

Accommodation Precinct

2.4.6.1 DescriptionGeordie, Longreach and Fays Bay VisitorAccommodation Precinct provides aunique style of accommodation, and allunits have an exceptional outlook. Theaccommodation here is constructedvery close to the shoreline. A bus servicecaters for visitor movement.

2.4.6.2 Issues Management of the Geordie,Longreach and Fays Bay VisitorAccommodation Precinct includes thefollowing issues: • Geordie, Longreach and Fays Bay

accommodation requiresrefurbishment. This is addressed underPart B, Chapter 6 - Holiday andRecreation Services and Facilities.

• The design of roads in this area has led to inconsistent trafficmovement patterns.

• Beach access is a critical managementissue 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 Precinctto provide visitor accommodation.

• Review and realign roads, tracks andtraffic flows in the Geordie,Longreach and Fays Bay VisitorAccommodation Precinct to improveamenity and traffic flow.

• Improve beach access in the Geordie,Longreach and Fays Bay VisitorAccommodation 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.


• Develop a Plan for a dedicated Staff

Accommodation Precinct including

the relocation of staff from other

precincts to this area.


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.

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2.4.8.2 Issues


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.


• 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.

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.

29

2.4.10.2 Issues


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.


• 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 BackgroundRoads 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 IssuesIssues 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


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.


• 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.

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2.6 LANDSCAPE MATERIALS

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.

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.


• 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.

Function Landscape Material

Roadways Black bitumen

Cycle/pedestrian ways Black bitumen; stabilised crushed limestone/sand

Pathways Soft black bitumen; stabilised crushed limestone/sand

Paved areas Unit format ‘Rottnest Crete’; Limestone paving slabs

Landscaping walls Limestone and/or rendered brick in painted in Rottnest Island ochres

Activity spaces Grass, reticulated, woodchipped, sand

Fences Timber post and rail; Timber post and rail and wire mesh where required for animal exclusion

Table 2 - Rottnest Island Landscaping Materials

31

2.8 SETTLEMENT VEGETATION

2.8.1 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.


• 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.

2.9 COLOUR

2.9.1 Background

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.


• Define and implement a colour

scheme that maintains the character

of Rottnest Island.

2.10 LIGHTING

2.10.1 Background

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


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.


• Develop and implement a lighting

plan that addresses location and

style of lighting.

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3.1 INTRODUCTION

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.

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.

3. Terrestrial Environment

33

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 Planand 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.


• 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.

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Most of the swamps have been affected

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


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

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

GroundwaterIssues 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 WaterIssues 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.


• 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

35

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 CharacterUnit: 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 CharacterUnit: 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


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.

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• The addition of natural or built

landscape elements that are not

consistent with the landscape

characteristic may adversely affect the

value of the various Character Units.


• 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

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


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


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.



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

37

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 theRottnest Island Authority Act 1987, allof Rottnest Island’s indigenous flora andfauna are protected by the WildlifeConservation Act 1950.

3.6.2 Terrestrial Habitats

Terrestrial areas of Rottnest Island havebeen classified into six distinct habitattypes described below.

Coastal habitatThe coastal habitats of Rottnest Islandare characterised by resilient vegetationthat acts to stabilise dunes and protectareas further inland. Coastal areas arethe most exposed on the Island and arealso popular destinations for visitors.The combination of visitors and weather extremes places pressure oncoastal habitats.

Woodland habitatWoodland species, including RottnestIsland Pine, Tea Tree and SummerScented Wattle, once covered two-thirds of the Island. Historical evidenceof this includes Vlamingh’s observationsand aerial photographs taken since 1941.

The coverage of woodland on the Islandis now considerably less. There are

several factors likely to have contributedto the decline in woodland areasincluding sheep grazing, settlementdevelopment, fire, timber cutting forfirewood and construction purposesand quokkas grazing on regeneratedareas. A 20-year Woodland RestorationStrategy is in its fifth year ofimplementation on Rottnest Island. Thiswill shortly be revised to improve theresult 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 habitatAlthough 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.

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Relationship between Habitats and

the Reserve Zoning Plan

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

rehabilitation areas and sensitive bird

breeding sites, in order to minimise

negative impacts from associated

activities (refer Part B, Chapter 2 -


Planning Scheme). The Zoning Plan also

minimises activities in the sensitive areas

of the Natural Zone by the establishment

of Medium Use Activity Nodes.

3.6.3 Terrestrial Flora

The range of vegetation types on the

Island is described in 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.

Table 3 - Rottnest Island Vegetation Types

39

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.

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Butterflies

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 otherarthropodsLittle 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.

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 andfauna have value on Rottnest Island:• Quokkas and White Striped Mastiff

Bats are highly valued as the tworemaining terrestrial mammals ofRottnest Island.

• Rottnest Island contains manyexamples of diverged fauna subspeciesas a result of the Island’s isolation.

• Remnant woodland habitats representthe original dominant vegetation typeat the period of settlement.

• Rottnest Island provides habitat forseveral uncommon, rare or significantfauna species - Swamps and freshwater seepsprovide the only remaining habitatson the Island for three frog speciesand some lizard species.

- Melaleuca sp. woodlands of the Islandare an important habitat for severalisolated populations of Red CappedRobins and Golden Whistlers, whichare now absent from the SwanCoastal Plain and Garden Island.

- Internationally protected breedingsites for migratory bird species occuraround the Island including thecoastal and wetland areas that arepossibly worthy of internationalRamsar Wetland status. Migratorybird species are protected underinternational agreements applicableto Rottnest Island.

• Stromatolites represent the earliestrecord of life on earth, dating fromsome 3,500 million years ago.

• Coastal vegetation stabilises dunesystems and protects against erosion.

• The ability of wildlife to be viewedand appreciated at distances closerthan on the mainland due to thehistory of human contact is animportant aspect of visitor enjoyment.

41

3.6.6 Issues


of Rottnest Island’s terrestrial habitats,

flora and fauna include:

• Threatened and endangered species

inhabit Rottnest Island.

• Habitat management is critical to the

preservation of the Island’s unique

and rare fauna and flora species.

• Any future development that does

not pay due regard to the terrestrial

floral and faunal values of Rottnest

Island could threaten important

species by either modifying or

removing their habitats.

• Rehabilitation of the Island’s swamps

and the restoration of woodlands are

critical elements in the reversal of

human impacts on the Island.

• Management of quokkas with

respect to the woodland restoration

program is critical.

• A woodland restoration program

intended to restore the relative

distribution of vegetation on the

Island prior to human habitation will

reduce the present coverage of other

vegetation types.

• Heavy human use of a particular area

or habitat type may make those areas

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

and sensitive areas is a threat to the

Island’s habitat and property values.

• Erosion processes threaten the coastal

habitat value of Rottnest Island as

many important flora and fauna

occur in this area.

• Weed species have the potential to

out-compete native species within all

habitat types.

• Some pest species, particularly silver

gulls and ravens, diminish the visitor

experience while others may compete

with native Rottnest Island species.

• Rottnest Island’s environment

provides an opportunity to increase

the awareness and appreciation of

flora, fauna and their habitats.


• Review and implement the Woodland

Restoration Strategy, in the context of

a vegetation management strategy.

• Assess and manage all developments

on the Island to minimise possible

threats to the habitats, flora and

fauna of Rottnest Island.

• Review and implement a plan for the

interpretation of the flora and fauna

of Rottnest Island.

• Develop and implement a fire

management plan for Rottnest Island

that recognises key ecological areas of

protection, in coordination with the

Fire and Emergency Services Authority.

• Implement an effective weed

management program for Rottnest

Island, based on existing procedures.

• Implement an effective feral animal

eradication program, based on

existing procedures.

• Encourage research on Island flora

and fauna, particularly that which

contributes to the management of

plant diseases on Rottnest Island.

• Investigate the benefits of pursuing

Ramsar wetland classification for

Rottnest Island wetlands used by

migratory bird species.

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4.1 INTRODUCTION

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).

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 -


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.

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.

4. Marine Environment

Habitat Type Dominant Plant Species % Area

1. Sand Sparse seagrasses (Posidonia spp., Heterozostera, Halophila) 20

2. Seagrass Amphibolis spp. dominant, Posidonia spp. subdominant 7

3. Seagrass (1) Posidonia ostenfeldii, Posidonia coriacea, Amphibolus griffithii 3

4. Seagrass (2) Posidonia australis 1

5. Mixed seagrass and reef Amphibolus spp, Ecklonia, Sargassum, Algal turf 10

6. Reef Ecklonia, Sargassum, Algal turf, Amphibolis antarctica, Thalassondendron 45

7. Intertidal platform Algal turf, Sargassum 4

8. Reef wash Sargassum, Ecklonia, Algal Turf 9

These habitat types are described in more detail on the following pages.

Table 4: Marine Habitats of Rottnest Island

43

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

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(southern coast near Salmon Point)

(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

algal polygon behaviour and fish

cleaning stations - areas where fish visit

to have their scales cleaned by other fish.

4.2.3 Marine Flora

A total of 355 species of marine plants

have been identified in the waters

surrounding Rottnest Island (Huisman

and Walker 1990). Included in this are

eight species of seagrass, 54 species of

green algae, 71 species of brown algae

and 222 of red algae (Rottnest Island

Authority, 1995).

Biogeographically, the marine flora of

Rottnest Island has a different

distributional pattern to the fauna.

Almost two-thirds of the algae are

temperate species and 17 percent are

endemic to Rottnest Island. In contrast

to the fauna, only 3 percent of the flora

are Indo-west Pacific and 11 percent are

warm temperate species. The distinct

change from the western end to the

eastern end of Rottnest Island (as

displayed by the fauna) is not evident in

the algae either. It has been speculated

that this is due to the much shorter lives

of the propagules of algae in

comparison with the planktonic larvae

of animals (Hoffman, 1987).

The dominant seagrass species belong

to the genera Posidonia and Amphibolis.

These are large southern Australian

seagrasses capable of forming extensive

stable meadows. The remaining smaller

species colonise more readily, but they

are less stable in a stressed high-energy

environment (Wells et al., 1993a; Wells

et al., 1993b). Rottnest Island has a

notably high level of seagrass diversity.

Storm-tossed seagrass dominates Island

beaches in winter. Decaying seagrass is

recognised as an important contributor

to the ecosystem as it provides habitat

for a variety of insects and food for fish.

4.3 VALUES

The values of the marine environment

of Rottnest Island are many and include:

• There is a unique mixture of tropical

and temperate fauna and flora

species, with a prominent component

of endemic Western Australian species.

• The Island has the southern-most

occurring assemblages of tropical corals

in the State and possibly the nation.

• The Island is the southernmost

location of the coral species and

genera: Pocillopora damicornis,

Porites, Alveopora and Acropora; and

two ahermatypic Tubastereai species.

• There is a particularly diverse coral mix

in the areas of Kitson Point to Nancy

Cove and Parker Point to Salmon Point.

• Reef and seagrass habitats support

marine fauna and flora by providing

sites for breeding, spawning, feeding

and shelter and in particular is home

to juveniles of marine species.

• Coral reef habitats in particular are

important for the maintenance of

tropical fauna at high latitude.

• Reef, seagrass and shipwrecks have

social value in that they provide

popular sites for recreational activities.

• Marine habitats support recreational

and commercial fisheries through the

provision of breeding and nursery

sites and habitats for species targeted

by these groups.

45

• 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 vesselsA 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.

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Left unmanaged, the impact of liquid

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 spillsFuel 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

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 impactsThere 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.


• 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.

47


• Undertake research on the impact ofvessel movements on Rottnest Island’smarine habitats, particularly inrelation to movement of large vessels.

4.6 MOORING DAMAGE

4.6.1 Issues

There are 899 moorings within theMarine Reserve. The original unregulatedmoorings at Rottnest Island were of adesign that resulted in the creation of ahigh number of scour circles, from 30 to 300m2 in area around the anchorpoint. It is estimated that this resulted inthe loss of 18 percent of seagrass fromRocky Bay from 1941-1982, and afurther 13 percent from 1981-1992(Hastings et al., 1995).

Moorings are now subject to standardenvironmental criteria set by theAuthority (Rottnest Island MooringPolicy, 1997). This includes ensuringthat the bottom apparatus cannot move and that the riser chain does notscour the seafloor. Mooring licenseesare required to have their mooringassessed annually, against criteria, by amooring contractor.

Environmental management issuesassociated with the moorings locatedwithin the Marine Reserve include: • It is recognised that moorings cause

less environmental impact than thealternative of repeated anchoring.The provision of mooring facilities inthe Reserve reduces the amount ofanchoring and is considered anenvironmental management tool.However, it must be recognised thatdespite the improvement in design,moorings may still have some level ofimpact on the sea bottom

environment, particularly whenlocated over sensitive habitats.

• The level of impact of the current

mooring design on the marine

habitats of Rottnest Island has not

been assessed.


• Maintain the use of moorings in

designated Rottnest Island bays as an

environmental management tool.

• Develop and implement a research

program to monitor the level of

environmental impact from the

current mooring apparatus design.

4.7 ANCHOR DAMAGE

4.7.1 Issues

Both drop anchoring and beach

anchoring are permitted in the Reserve.

Beach anchoring is not considered to be

a major issue in terms of environmental

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.

However, anchoring does occur in non-

sand areas as a consequence of lack of

skill, poor visibility or disregard for the

Guide. Accepting that the Marine Act

1982 allows that anchorage may occur

anywhere in the event of an emergency,

the Authority will pursue increased

protection from anchoring by making it

an offence to anchor on areas other

than sand.

Commercial diving and fishing charter

vessels regularly anchor within the

Reserve and there is concern about the

impact of repeated anchoring by these

vessels at popular sites. This issue is


Marine Recreation and Facilities.


• Prohibit the anchoring of boats in

the Rottnest Island Reserve on areas

other than sand.

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4.8 PHYSICAL DAMAGE FROM

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.


• Develop and implement a

campaign to promote

environmentally benign diving

techniques to divers and snorkellers

in the Rottnest Island Reserve.

4.9 FISHING

4.9.1 Issues

Recreational fishing

Recreational fishing is a popular pursuit

in the Marine Reserve. For some,

recreational fishing is the primary

reason for entering the Reserve,

generally on a day trip basis. For others,

recreational fishing is one of the many

pursuits enjoyed while holidaying on

the Island.

Several forms of recreational fishing

occur in the Reserve including line

fishing, spearfishing, craypotting and

abalone fishing. As considered in Part

B, Chapter 2 - Reserve Zoning Plan

and Settlement Planning Scheme,

recreational fishing in the Reserve is

subject to management controls

administered by the Department

of Fisheries.

The level of fishing pressure within the

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.

Commercial fishing

A commercial fishing exclusion zone

occurs within the marine portion of the

Reserve, applying to net fishing and

Western Rock Lobster fishing.

The extent of the commercial exclusion

zone means that there are areas within

the Reserve where commercial fishing is

permitted and occurs.

Allowing commercial fishing to occur

within the Reserve is inconsistent with

the explicit legislated purpose of the

Reserve being for ‘public recreation’.

Part B, Chapter 2 - Reserve Zoning

Plan and Settlement Planning

Scheme recommends prohibition of

commercial fishing within the Reserve.



program to monitor fish stocks and

gain an understanding of the level of

recreational fishing in the Rottnest

Island Reserve.

49

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.


• 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.


• Develop and implement a strategy to

reduce the occurrence of locally

generated marine litter in the


• 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.


• Encourage research on the

occurrence and extent of coral

bleaching in the Rottnest Island

Marine Reserve.

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5.1 INTRODUCTION

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.

A brief summary of the colonial history

of Rottnest Island is as follows

(Considine, Griffiths and Richards, 1994):

Pre 6500 years ago

Aboriginal occupation.

1658 - 1829

European exploration.

1829 - 1838

European settlement, pastoral, fishing

and salt gathering.

1838 - 1844

Aboriginal prison, farming, pastoral and

salt gathering.

1844 - 1849

Aboriginal prison and pilot service,

farming, pastoral and salt gathering.

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.

Rottnest Island’s cultural heritage is an

important element of the visitor

experience and Rottnest Island product,

and is highly valued by the Authority.

The Authority has commissioned studies

into the significance and management

of cultural and natural heritage and has

produced Conservation Plans for

Thomson Bay Settlement, Kingstown

Barracks, Governors’ Summer

Residence and an Interpretation Plan for

the Thomson Bay Settlement.

In addition to these studies, an audit of

the built heritage items of Rottnest Island

both within and outside the Settlement

Zone was undertaken in 2002.

5. Cultural Heritage

51

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 IslandReserve). 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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system was established with a signal

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.

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.

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The Reformatory closed in 1901. Since1909 the Reformatory buildings havebeen used as holiday accommodation,operated as part of the Lodge.

5.2.6 Governors’ Residence

In 1848 Governor Fitzgerald expressedan interest in residing on Rottnest Islandso it became the exclusive summerretreat for successive Governors andtheir friends.

Superintendent Vincent’s house wasoriginally used as the Governors’ Housebut in 1861 Vincent began work on apurpose-built summer residence for theGovernor overlooking Thomson Bay.

The 1912/1913 summer was the lasttime the Governor used the Governor’sHouse on Rottnest Island as a summerresidence. It was later converted to flatsand used by holiday-makers. Today, it ispart of the Rottnest Island Hotel.

5.2.7 Recreation Island

From 1902 ferries carried excursioniststo Rottnest Island on Sundays. Duringthese times visitors and prisoners werekept well apart.

The first public jetty was built in 1906 tothe south of Thomson Bay Settlement,where the Army Jetty stands today. Untilthen passengers and cargo were broughtashore by a lighter. A tram track was laidfrom the Jetty to Thomson Bay Settlementand horse drawn trams were used to carryvisitors and goods. The trams were laterreplaced by motor vehicles in 1925 andmost of the tracks were removed andrelocated to the Perth Zoo. Some smallportions 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.

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In 1934 the Western Australian Premier

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.

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.

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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.

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Character unit and Landscape• The unique aesthetic quality and

character of the Island has beenformed by the combination of variouslandscape features and elementsincluding the Settlement layout,topography, buildings and theplanting stock.

• Several individual sub-components ofthe Settlement collectively form asignificant streetscape, townscape orcultural environment including:- The seafront cottages, seawall andsalt store group;

- The lighthouse and keeper’squarters group;

- The timber bungalow group;- The museum, native prison, chapeland reform school group;

- The unifying planting groups andavenues.

• Strong historical vistas within theSettlement Zone have been createdby the combination of treelinedavenues, stone constructionbuildings, the sea wall and views ofthe water.

• The Settlement contains numerouslandscape elements of historical valueincluding: - Some roads and tracks established inthe 19th century which are still inuse today.

- Vincent Way, identified as the oldestintact streetscape in Australia.

- The largely exotic landscape of theSettlement, resulting from rigorousplanting programs from 1908onwards. The natural landscapenow also has highly valued socialand aesthetic qualities.

• There is a high level of authenticity oflandscape and streetscape as a resultof the lack of infill and modifications.

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’,

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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 HillBattery, which have particularhistoric significance as an authenticexample of such guns in situ. There ispossibly one other exampleworldwide of an authentic 9.2-inchgun battery with guns in situ.

• Apart from individual built structuresat Kingstown Barracks, the collectionof buildings and other structuresforms a significant culturalenvironment of streetscapes andsettings, which contributes to theoverall aesthetic character andunderstanding of the place.

• Kingstown Barracks has socialheritage value connected with the ex-service men and women of the placewhere they lived and worked duringthe period of occupation before,during and after World War II, andalso to those internees held onRottnest Island during war periods.

• Kingstown Barracks is valued by thecommunity for demonstrating atangible link with World War II.

Vistas• There are numerous historical cultural

vistas contained within theKingstown areas which have been akey part of its landscape sinceconstruction, including:- The vistas of the commander’sresidence, the officers mess and theclock tower of the main Barracksfrom Thomson Bay.

- The vista along the road to the mainentry of Kingstown Barracks thatunfolds gradually as the maincomplex of buildings is approached.

- Vistas along the road from the drycanteen toward to the NCO andgunners’ cottages (Governors’ Circle)which are flanked by plantings.

5.3.6 Western Australian SocialHeritage 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.

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5.3.7 Moveable Heritage Items and

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.

5.4 ISSUES

Resourcing the management of a

heritage estate


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 conditionIssues 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.

59

Aboriginal Heritage


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


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 -


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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Today as history

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.

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 allheritage assets on Rottnest Island.

• Develop a priority listing of heritagerestoration projects required onRottnest Island according to conditionand significance of assets.

• Develop and implement heritagemaintenance procedures, inaccordance with the Burra Charter(refer Part A, Chapter 5 - PolicyContext, Section 5.2), to directheritage maintenance activities onRottnest 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.

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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.’


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

ENTRY TO THE RESERVE

6.2.1 Background

This section refers to the individual

Admission Fee only and does not refer

to the Annual Payment in Lieu of the

Admission Fee which is payable by

owners of boats and aircraft.

Discussion on the Annual Payment in

Lieu of Admission Fee for boats and

aircraft is contained in Part B, Chapter

6 - Holiday and Recreation Services

and Facilities (Section 6.11) and

Chapter 7 - Marine Recreation and

Facilities (Section 7.3.2).

Visitors are charged an Admission Fee

for entry to the Reserve. In 2002, the fee

was $10.45 per adult and 55c per child

(GST inclusive). This fee is a contribution

to the provision of public facilities and

the overall management of the Island.

The Rottnest Island Authority does

not have the power to limit entry to

the Reserve.

6.2.2 Issues

Issues associated with the Rottnest

Island Admission Fee and entry into the

Reserve are as follows:

• As the Admission Fee provides to the

Authority funds necessary for the

maintenance and management of the

Reserve, this fee must continue to be

progressively increased in line with

the increasing costs of these services.

• Being unable to limit entry into the

Reserve could cause problems

relating to risk management and

other difficulties in maintaining

control of the area.


• Annually adjust the individual

Admission Fee commencing

1st July 2003.

• Pursue amendment to the Rottnest

Island Authority Act 1987 to allow the

Rottnest Island Authority to control

entry into the Rottnest Island Reserve.

6. Holiday and Recreation Services and Facilities

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320000

325000

330000

335000

340000

345000

350000

355000

2001/022000/011999/001998/991997/98

Vis

ito

r N

um

ber

s

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

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

2001/022000/011999/001998/991997/981996/97

JunMayAprMarFebJanDecNovOctSepAugJul

Occ

up

ancy

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

63

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

Visitor Numbers

Issues related to the number of Island

visitors are as follows:

• Ferry passage data indicate that the

number of visitors per year has

generally increased (Figure 2 -

Total Number of Visitors to

Rottnest Island Arriving by

Commercial Ferry or Aircraft

(1997/98 - 2001/02).

• Accommodation occupancy data also

indicate that the occupancy level of

Authority accommodation has

increased (Figure 3 - Occupancy of

Rottnest Island Accommodation

per Month 1996/97-2001/02).

• The number of visitors to the Island is

an issue as human activities have the

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

management and business turnover.

There could be some benefit from

limiting visitor numbers in summer

and increasing those in the cooler

months, as this would allow an even

spread of demand on resources.


• Undertake research on the

relationship between Rottnest Island

visitor numbers and behaviour and


impacts on Rottnest Island.

• Develop and implement plans to

increase the number of

accommodated visitors in the cooler

months.

• Manage activities on the Island

commensurate with optimum

visitor levels.

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6.4 ROTTNEST ISLAND AUTHORITY

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.


• 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 SettlementPlanning 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.

65


• 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.



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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6.5.3 Amount of Accommodation

6.5.3.1 BackgroundThere 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 IssuesThere 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.

• 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.


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

67

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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• Implement the schedule of

accommodation charges for

bookings taken from 1 January 2003

as described in Table 5 -

Accommodation Charges.

• Charge accommodation booked

for off peak periods, which is not part

of a discount package, at a 20 percent

discount rate.

• Annually revise accommodation costs

and operations.

Accommodation Style Accommodation Charge1 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



Villa: refurbished, with view, 4 bed 205 115



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



Fibros 125 40

Bungalows: 4 bed 75 35

Bungalows: 6 bed 85 35

Caroline Thomson Cabins 95 50

Table 5 - Accommodation Charges

69

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


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


• 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.


• 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.


• 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

attractions include the Rottnest Island

Authority, the business community and

the Rottnest Voluntary Guides

Association.


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.

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


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


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.

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• 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 ToursThis 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 InformationCentreThe 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.


• Develop and implement a Plan for

visitor services and attractions which

is consistent with the Island’s purpose

and based on the principles of


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.


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.


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

6.9.1 Range of Services

6.9.1.1 BackgroundThis 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- RottnestIsland 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 IssuesThe existing range of bus services is

adequate to meet visitors’ current

needs. However, the following issues

are associated with the future

management of the range of services:

• Should the development of Wadjemup

Hill precinct occur, there may be a

need for additional bus services.

• There is a demand for the carriage of

large equipment around the Island

mainly associated with people’s

recreational pursuits, for example

surfboards, but also including prams

and other items. The carriage of large

equipment by the Island’s bus services

can compromise its primary function

of passenger alternative carriage and

can inconvenience passengers. The

Authority will be considering the need

to arrange for the alternative carriage

of equipment around the Island.


• Investigate mechanisms to improve

the carriage of large equipment on

bus services.

6.9.2 Bus Route and Schedule

6.9.2.1 Background

The Bayseeker bus service has a winter

and summer schedule with the more

frequent summer timetable offering 20-

to 30-minute intervals between buses.

The Shuttle Bus runs approximately

every 30 minutes. Some additional

services are provided to complement

organised evening activities.

The Bayseeker stops include the

Settlement main bus stop, South

Thomson, Kingstown turn-off, Porpoise

Bay, Parker Point, Little Salmon Bay,

Salmon Bay, Green Island, Strickland

Bay, Rocky Bay, Roland Smith Memorial,

Stark Bay, City of York Bay, Little

Parakeet Bay and Geordie Bay store.

The Shuttle bus is limited to the

Settlement Zone including Settlement

main bus stop, Geordie Bay/Longreach

Bay/Fays Bay, Airport and Kingstown.

The Bayseeker bus does not travel to

West End although the coach tour does.

Charter buses, the Malibu Dive Bus and

the Department of Fisheries universal

access bus carry people to various areas

of the Island.

6.9.2.2 Issues

Although the range of bus services is

adequate, there are issues associated

with the operating schedules:

• The current Bayseeker bus schedule is

not adequate to meet the demands of

visitors in peak times.

• Of all the vehicles on Rottnest Island,

the buses are probably the most

visually and audibly obtrusive.

• The frequency of the bus schedule

must be managed against the conflict

between cyclists, walkers and buses

as a passing bus in the Natural Zone

diminishes the amenity value of the

outer bay experience. There is a need

to determine the right balance of

buses in terms of number and style

to meet the needs of all visitors

including walkers, riders and those

travelling on buses.


• Investigate alternative-powered

buses for Rottnest Island that will

have a more positive impact on visual

and environmental amenities.


the extension of the Rottnest Island

rail service.

73

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.


• 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).


• 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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Walkers are encouraged to use the

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


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.


• 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 BackgroundThe 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

guides the approach to providing

universal recreational facilities.

The Authority has been active inproviding universal access torecreational facilities on Rottnest Island.Beach accessible wheelchairs andelectronic scooters are currentlyavailable, in addition to manualwheelchairs. The Authority also hassome tour vehicles equipped withwheelchair lifts.

The Authority’s recreational facilities areenhanced by the Department ofFisheries which conducts fishing clinicsfor people with a disability with the aidof a purpose-built bus.

6.10.3.2 IssuesThe Rottnest Island Authority iscommitted to the future maintenanceand enhancement of recreationalactivities 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 theRottnest Island Aerodrome. TheAuthority is responsible to the CivilAviation Authority for all mattersrelating to the maintenance of facilitiesand equipment used at the aerodrome.The Rottnest Island aerodrome receivesin the region of 1000 landings per year.The main user of the aerodrome is the

Rottnest Air Taxi who offers charteredtransport for visitors to the Island andconducts joy flights. Other users includeair charter companies, recreationaltraining schools, Royal AustralianAirforce, the Royal Flying Doctor Serviceand 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.

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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


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.


• 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.


• 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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• Marketing of visitor facilities and

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.


• 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.

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.

77

• 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.


• 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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7.1 INTRODUCTION

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 Environmentthat 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

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 RECREATIONALACTIVITIES

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 SnorkellingThere 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 FishingRottnest 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.

SurfingRottnest 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 WatercraftPersonalised 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 ZoningPlan and Settlement PlanningScheme 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. Marine Recreation and Facilities

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• 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


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.


• 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

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.


• 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, andconsidering the potential foraccidents, boat speed limits should

reflect the need to ensureprecautionary 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, andSection 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

81

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


• 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.


• 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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unless they are an Authorised User of

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 MooringTrial System.

Authorised Users. Licensees will be

required by the Authority to have

Authorised Users, and may continue to

nominate them. The terms and

conditions of site licences will grant the

Authority the right to allocate

Authorised Users to moorings, in order

to ensure increased access. People may

nominate their interest in becoming an

Authorised User without being an

associate of a Licensee. Each Authorised

User may have Authorised User access

for several recreational moorings.

Access Rights. Under the trial system,

Licensees and Authorised users will

have the right to access the moorings

they are assigned to, and will also have

casual user access to all other recreational

moorings. This access will be subject to

conditions including having a

competent operator on board at all

times, recognising physical limitations

and other conditions to be specified.

Licensees will have priority access to

their mooring, over all other users.

Authorised Users have priority access to

those moorings that they are authorised

to use, over casual users.

Both Licensees and Authorised Users

will have the option of casual use. This

will allow people to visit friends in other

bays, explore other bays, or to moor for

short periods of time in Thomson or

Geordie Bays to obtain essentials and

utilise facilities.

License term and renewal process.

Under the trial system, existing renewal

processes and allocation of moorings

from the waitlist will remain. Licensees

will retain their mooring licence and the

annual renewal policy will continue.

Allocation of moorings that become

vacant will be from the waitlist. The

annual renewal policy will also apply to

new licensees.

This system will be trialed from

1 September 2003. The trial will be

developed and implemented in

consultation with a working group

including representatives of stakeholder

groups and in consultation with the

newly established Rottnest Island

Marine Issues Advisory Committee.

There are several issues that will need to

be resolved in the development and

implementation of the trial. The

Authority will underwrite Public Liability

Insurance for all moorings on Rottnest

Island but other insurance matters,

economic viability and administrative

issues will require development.

The Authority will pursue other

mechanisms to increase access to

recreational moorings within the

Reserve, should the trial be unsuccessful.

Charges for Recreational Mooring

Site Licences and Authorised Access

All fees and charges for Licensees and

Authorised Users will be based on per

metre of boat length.

Mooring Licensees pay an annual

recreational mooring site licence fee to

the Authority which is currently set at $55

per metre. The licence fee for the trial has

been amended to $66 per metre, or

$660, whichever is the greater amount.

83

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 eligibilitystatus for a mooring site licence,particularly in relation to vesselownership. The requirement topresent a ‘hull identification number’as issued by the Department forPlanning and Infrastructure maystrengthen the Authority’s ability toenforce the eligibility policies.

7.4.2.3 Recommendations • Undertake a trial of a mooring system

as detailed in Table 6 - Summary ofRecreational Mooring Trial System,in consultation with major stakeholders,commencing September 2003, with aview to on-going implementation.

• Pursue alternative mechanisms forincreasing access to recreationalmoorings should the trial indicatethat the system detailed in Table 6 isnot 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.

Feature Description

Access Rights of 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.

Access Rights of Authorised Users 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.

Nomination of Authorised Users 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.

Allocation of relinquished moorings From existing waitlist

License term and renewal for existing licensees 12-month licence with annual renewal subject to compliance with conditions.

License term and renewal for new licensees 12-month licence with annual renewal subject to compliance with conditions.

Table 6 - Summary of Recreational Mooring Trial System

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7.4.3 Conversion of Permanent to

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.

• With the introduction of a mooringsystem that provides enhanced short-term access to licensed moorings, it isenvisaged that there will not be anincreased demand for rental mooringsin the Rottnest Island Reserve.

7.4.3.3 Recommendation• Develop a business model for the

rental mooring business unit todetermine an optimum number ofrental moorings.

7.4.4 Rental Moorings

7.4.4.1 BackgroundThe Authority manages beach andoffshore swing moorings which areavailable for rent on an overnight basisfrom 10am to 10am. These facilities canbe booked three months in advance.

The rental of swing moorings is limitedto 14 consecutive nights year round tocontribute to the distribution of accessduring peak periods. Rental mooringsare established for the use ofrecreational vessels only and arecharged at rates that reflect this.

The Rottnest Island Regulations 1988permit the Authority to determine thefee payable for rental moorings. Swingmoorings are currently charged at $22overnight and Bathurst Beach mooringsare $11. Rental jetty pens are alsoavailable and the Authority willcontinue to provide these facilities.

7.4.4.2 IssuesIssues associated with the provision ofrental mooring facilities are as follows:• During off peak seasons, rental

moorings are not in demand and the14-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.


• 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.

85

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.



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

7.5.1 Background

The Authority has jetty and beach pens

available for rental on a daily basis.

These can be booked three months in

advance, for a period of up to 14 nights.

Rental fees for pens are currently

$16.50 overnight for small pens and

$22 (GST inclusive) for larger pens. By

comparison, the rate for all pens

(ranging from 10-18metres) at Hillary’s

Boat Harbour is $38.50 (GST inclusive).

The Authority will maintain the

provision of rental pen facilities.

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.


• Eliminate the maximum rental period

limit for rental pens for the off-peak

season of May to November.

• Introduce a maximum limit for the

rent of rental pens during the

accommodation ballot periods

consistent with maximum ballot

booking periods, from 1 July 2003.

• 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 Stark Jetty,

from 1 July 2003.

• Annually review rental pen prices.

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7.6 ANCHORING

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

of diving or snorkelling experiences.

This issue is addressed in Part B,

Chapter 4 - Marine Environment.


• Provide information to boat owners

on appropriate methods of beach

anchoring.


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.

7.7.2 Issues


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.


• 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.

87

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.


• 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


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8.1 COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

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.

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.


• 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. Community Involvement and Relations

89

8.2 COMMUNITY RELATIONS

8.2.1 Background

The Authority’s community relations

processes are focussed on systems to

gauge feedback from the community in

relation to their satisfaction with the

Island. These systems include customer

feedback forms being placed in Island

accommodation to enable visitors to

provide positive or negative feedback

on various aspects of the Island’s

services and facilities. Surveys are

carried out across a random selection of

visitors who have stayed in Rottnest

Island accommodation or visited the

Island. These measure the level of

satisfaction on a number of key

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.

8.2.2 Issues

Issues relevant to community relations

for the Authority include:

• There are opportunities to further

improve the relationship between

the Authority and the Western

Australian community, and to

enhance the role of this community in

decision making regarding Rottnest

Island’s management.


• Operate a complaint handling

process that is visible, accessible

and fair.

• Review the consultation mechanisms

used for the development of the

Rottnest Island Management Plan.

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9.1 RANGERS

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

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.


• 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. Visitor Support Services

91

9.2.2 Issues


Island Police Station include:

• The coordination between the Rottnest

Island Rangers and the Rottnest Island

Police provides for efficient and

effective compliance operations.


• 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


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.


• 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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restriction of access to coastal areas is

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.


• 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.

A Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service

operates on the Island coordinated by

the Authority’s Facilities Management

Contractor. The Volunteer service is

equipped with a local fire station that

has a truck and two other vehicles.

The Rottnest Island Fire and Rescue

Service has direct radio contact with the

Fire and Emergency Services Authority

Communications Centre on the

mainland, enabling them to provide

situation reports, access specialist

advice and request specialist equipment

and personnel.

Fire is a particular threat to Rottnest

Island, especially in summer because of

the dryness of the area and the strong

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.

9.5.2 Issues

Issues associated with Emergency

Management on Rottnest Island include:

• Volunteer effort is essential to the

management of emergencies and

other incidents on the Island.


• Maintain participation in and support

of the Local Emergency Management

Committee.

• Investigate and implement means to

ensure efficient fire fighting in a low

water pressure environment.

• Progressively upgrade all buildings so

that they meet the current Buildings

Code of Australia requirements in

regard to fire ratings.

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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


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


of the Island’s groundwater borefield


• 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.

10. Infrastructure and Utilities

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• It was previously discussed in Part B,

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.

Rainwater CatchmentIssues associated with the

bituminised rainwater catchment


• 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


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 knowledgeof the current water network location

95

which has complicated maintenanceand repair operations.

• The water pressure on the Island islow as the gravity fed distributionsystem does not have the head ofpressure required to produce higherpressure. This does not seem to be ahigh priority issue from theperspective of visitor facilities but is anissue in terms of fire fighting as thepressure 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 BackgroundPotable water supplies on RottnestIsland are used for drinking water,watering Settlement vegetationespecially grass, showering and toiletflushing, cleaning and emergency firecontrol. It should be noted that up until1995 the Island operated with a dualwater system in which potable waterwas supplied to the kitchen only and saltwater was supplied to the toilets andshowers. This system was serviced bytwo separate pipeline networks, whichhave now been bonded together toprovide potable water to all outlets.

The demand for potable water onRottnest Island in 1998 was estimatedat approximately 160ML/year (TransfieldEnvironmental Services 1999). Themaximum possible demand has beenestimated to be 215 ML/year with fulloccupancy and visitor numbers atexisting levels.

The Authority has been progressivelyreplacing current water fixtures withwater saving alternatives, as part ofongoing maintenance. There is also along-running passive informationcampaign on the Island relating to theconservative use of water supplies.

Potable water is supplied to residentialand business properties. A water levy is charged to in order to recover cost of production.

10.2.3.2 IssuesManagement of the demand forpotable water on Rottnest Islandinclude the following issues:• Water supply on the Island is severely

limited and will never match the levelsavailable on the mainland.

• Demand for potable water on theIsland needs to be carefully managedat a level that can be met on anenvironmentally and economicallysustainable basis. During peakperiods Rottnest Island is close tocapacity in terms of its ability toproduce enough water to meet theessential water needs of its visitors. Asignificant portion of potable water isused for watering lawns.

• It is generally agreed that the cost ofwater production on the Island shouldbe provided on a cost-recovery basis.Based on current costs and charges,residents and businesses cover thecost 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 forwatering lawn areas.

10.3 WASTEWATER

10.3.1 Wastewater TreatmentSystem and Infrastructure

10.3.1.1 BackgroundWastewater is generated fromSettlement toilets, sinks and showers,gravity fed to a number of pumpingstations and fed to the Island’swastewater treatment plant. Thewastewater treatment plant is asequential batch reactor type utilising abiological nutrient removal process.Maximum capacity of the treatmentplant is 800kL. The plant is operated bythe Authority through the FacilitiesManagement Contract and ismaintained through a fully automatedasset management plan.

The wastewater treatment processresults in greywater and biosolid.Approximately 10 percent of thegreywater is used to reticulate thecricket oval, while the remaining 90percent is evaporated off. The biosolid issent to the landfill site and used in theproduction of compost.

Monitoring bores measure the nutrientlevels in the groundwater adjacent tothe evaporation ponds located at theWastewater Treatment Plant. Monthlysamples are taken from effluent aftertreatment and prior to discharge intoevaporation ponds. These are tested fornutrient and microbiological levels asrequired by the Department ofEnvironmental Protection. Grey waterused on the cricket oval is disinfectedand is monitored for microbiologicallevels on a monthly basis for theDepartment of Health.

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There have been no non-complianceissues and results have been withinguidelines set by both Departments.

10.3.1.2 Issues

Issues associated with the wastewater

treatment system on Rottnest Island


• 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.


• 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.

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.


• 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

97

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.


• 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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Some wood heating systems still occuron the Island. Approximately 50 percentof the heated accommodation is heatedwith wood fires or pot belly stoves.

The use of biodiesel may haveenvironmental benefits on RottnestIsland. A trial of a biodiesel fuelled vehiclecommenced on the Island in mid-2002.

Solar lighting has been used and trialedon the Island. The Stark Bay and NarrowNeck toilets are powered by solarpanels. Solar lights are currently beingtrialed in front of the Rottnest IslandHotel in Thomson Bay.

In the 1980s, two wind turbines wereinstalled for trial on the Island. At thetime, difficulties were experienced, butwith current technologies wind is nowconsidered a viable and efficient sourceof energy for the Island.

The establishment of a wind turbine isbeing progressed as part of theIntegrated Power and Water SupplyProject, where the turbine will generateenergy to operate the Island’sdesalination plants. As noted previously,the establishment of a wind turbine hasreceived Ministerial approval and waspositively received by the WesternAustralian community during a recentcommunity consultation process.Federal funding has now been securedfor this project.

10.5.1.2 IssuesIssues associated with the production ofpower on the Island include the following:• There are significant risks and cost

issues associated with the high volumesof diesel and gas which are transportedto and stored on the Island.

• 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.


• 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.

99

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.


• 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.


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.



comprehensive maintenance plan for

roads and tracks.

1. Introduction 101

2. Legislation 102

3. Research 103

4. Resources and Funding 104

5. Implementation 105

6. Review and Public Reporting 106

Part C. Implementation

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101

The implementation of this Plan will occur over the five-year period, from2003-2008, and will be undertaken according to a set of predeterminedpriorities, 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 ofresources, change.

1. Introduction

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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.

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.

2. Legislation

103

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


program for Rottnest Island.

• Implement arrangements to ensure

maintenance of intellectual property

in relation to Rottnest Island

research projects.

3. Research

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For many years the Authority has

struggled to generate the revenue

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.

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.

The Plan provides for improved financial

performance in each year of operation

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.

4. Resources and Funding

104

105

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


2003-2008.

5. Implementation

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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.

6. Review and Public Reporting

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108

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Western Australian Naturalist 20: 169-

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Bunn, S. E. and Edwards, D. H. H.

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Ecology 35: 261-265.

Chappell, J. (1983). ‘A revised sea level

record for the last 300,000 years from

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99-101.

Chris Antill Planning and Urban Design

and Ove Arup and Partners (1995).

‘Rottnest Island Local Traffic

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Churchill, D. M. (1960). ‘Large

Quaternary Changes in the Vegetation

on Rottnest Island.’ Western Australia

Nature 7(6): 160-166.

Commonwealth Department of Tourism

(1994). ‘National Ecotourism Strategy.’

Commonwealth of Australia.

Considine and Griffiths Architects Pty

Ltd and Online Richards Consultants

(1994). ‘Thomson Bay Settlement

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Considine and Griffiths Architects Pty

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(1995). ‘Chronological History of

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Australian Museum, Perth.

Wells, F.E., Walker, D.I., Kirkman, H. and

Lethbridge, R. (eds) (1993b). The

Marine Flora and Fauna of Rottnest

Island, Western Australia, Vol 2,

Western Australian Museum, Perth.

Wells, F. E. and Walker, D. I. (1993).

‘Introduction to the Marine

Environment of Rottnest Island,

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.

Williams, A. A. E. (1997). ‘The

butterflies (Lepidoptera) of Garden and

Rottnest Islands, Western Australia.’

Australian Entomologist, 24: 27-34.

White, B. J. and Edminston, R. J. (1974).

‘The Vegetation of Rottnest.’

Unpublished report by the Forest

Department for the Rottnest Island Board.

Ro

ttn

est I

slan

d M

anag

emen

t Pla

n 2

003-

2008

A

pp

end

ix 1

110

The following principles have guided

the development of the Reserve Zoning

Plan and Settlement Planning Scheme:

• Rottnest ethos - New developments

or facilities will be consistent with the

Rottnest Island ethos/experience.

• No accommodation outside the

Settlement area - No accommodation

will be established outside the

designated Settlement area; only

essential structures will be provided

outside the Settlement area and these

will be minimal.

• Environmental impacts - Zones will be

designed to minimise environmental

impacts and enhance sustainability.

• Compatible Users - Zones will be

designed to separate incompatible

activities and link activities that are

compatible.

• Cost effectiveness - The development

of the Zoning Plan and Settlement

Planning Scheme will aim to maximise

cost effectiveness.

• Appropriate use of areas and

resources - Built and natural resources

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.

• Motorised Vehicles - Motorised

vehicles will be minimal in number

and, as far as possible, unobtrusive.

• Vistas - Important vistas will be

maintained and improved.

• Streetscape - Streetscape features will

be appropriate to the area, its

heritage and use.

• Vegetation and wildlife - The diversity

and distribution of important

vegetation forms and fauna will be

recognised, preserved and enhanced.

• Heritage - Links with cultural heritage

and associated sites will be respected

and enhanced.

• Education and Interpretation -

Education and interpretation will be

key strategies for the implementation

of zoning plans.

• Businesses and services -

The Settlement Plan will provide

for a suite of holiday services

that contribute to the Rottnest

Island experience and will ensure

optimal location of these businesses

and services.

Appendix 1. Principles Guiding the Development of the Reserve Zoning Plan and Settlement Planning Scheme

111

Indi

cate

s yea

r of c

omm

ence

men

t of i

mpl

emen

tatio

n.

Indi

cate

s ong

oing

pro

ject

to b

e im

plem

ente

d ov

er th

e ye

ars h

ighl

ight

ed.

Year

Dir

ecto

rate

20

0320

0420

0520

0620

07/8

Res

po

nsi

bili

tySu

stai

nabi

lity

1. D

evel

op R

ottn

est I

slan

d as

a m

odel

of s

usta

inab

ility

.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

2. D

evel

op a

nd c

omm

ence

impl

emen

tatio

n of

an

inte

rpre

tatio

n st

rate

gy th

at a

llow

s vis

itors

to fu

lly a

ppre

ciat

e an

d un

ders

tand

the

valu

es

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ngof

the

Isla

nd, a

nd w

hich

com

mun

icat

es it

s sus

tain

able

man

agem

ent p

ract

ices

.

3. P

rom

ote,

dem

onst

rate

and

inte

grat

e en

viro

nmen

tal t

echn

olog

ies w

here

they

mee

t the

soci

al a

nd c

ultu

ral r

equi

rem

ents

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

sof

the

Isla

nd a

nd a

re e

cono

mic

ally

via

ble

and

rele

vant

.

Rese

rve

Zoni

ng a

nd S

ettle

men

t Pla

nnin

g Sc

hem

e4.

Def

ine

the

boun

dary

of t

he R

ottn

est I

slan

d Re

serv

e in

term

s of a

serie

s of g

eo-p

ositi

onin

g da

ta p

oint

s.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

5. A

men

d th

e Ro

ttne

st Is

land

Res

erve

pur

pose

to ‘f

or th

e pu

rpos

es o

fthe

Rot

tnes

t Isl

and

Aut

horit

y A

ct 1

987’

.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

6. In

corp

orat

e Sw

an L

ocat

ions

125

23, 1

2524

, 125

25, 1

2526

, 126

67,1

0613

, 107

50 a

nd 1

0614

into

the

Rott

nest

Isla

nd R

eser

ve.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

7. D

efin

e th

e Ro

ttne

st Is

land

Set

tlem

ent Z

one

boun

dary

in te

rms o

f a se

ries o

f geo

-pos

ition

ing

data

poi

nts.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

8. Im

plem

ent t

he Te

rres

tria

l Zon

es a

s des

crib

ed in

Ch

art 3

- Te

rres

tria

lZo

nin

g P

lan

that

com

pris

e th

e Se

ttle

men

t Zon

e,C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

Nat

ural

Zon

e, A

ctiv

ity N

odes

and

Per

man

ent a

nd Te

mpo

rary

Env

ironm

enta

l Exc

lusi

on Z

ones

and

man

age

in a

ccor

danc

e w

ith T

able

1 -

Act

ivit

ies a

nd

dev

elo

pm

ents

per

mit

ted

in th

e R

ott

nes

t Isl

and

Ter

rest

rial

Zo

nes

.

9. In

vest

igat

e th

e fe

asib

ility

of t

he d

evel

opm

ent o

f Wad

jem

up H

ill A

ctiv

ity N

ode

for t

he in

terp

reta

tion

of m

ilita

ry, m

ariti

me

and

envi

ronm

enta

l her

itage

.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

10. I

nves

tigat

e th

e fe

asib

ility

of t

he d

evel

opm

ent o

f Oliv

er H

ill A

ctiv

ity N

ode

for t

he in

terp

reta

tion

of m

ilita

ry,m

ariti

me

and

envi

ronm

enta

l her

itage

. C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

11. D

evel

op a

nd im

plem

ent a

sign

age

plan

for R

ottn

est I

slan

d.

Mar

ketin

g an

d C

omm

unic

atio

ns

App

endi

x 2

. Im

plem

enta

tion

Tim

elin

es a

nd R

espo

nsib

ilitie

s

Ro

ttn

est I

slan

d M

anag

emen

t Pla

n 2

003-

2008

A

pp

end

ix 2

112

Year

Dir

ecto

rate

20

0320

0420

0520

0620

07/8

Res

po

nsi

bili

ty

12. D

evel

op a

nd im

plem

ent a

mar

ine

man

agem

ent s

trat

egy

that

pro

mot

es e

quity

of a

cces

s and

opp

ortu

nity

for a

qua

lity

expe

rienc

e am

ong

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ngre

crea

tiona

l use

rs o

f the

Mar

ine

Rese

rve,

pro

tect

ing

its e

nviro

nmen

tal v

alue

s, in

coo

rdin

atio

n w

ith th

e D

epar

tmen

t of F

ishe

ries a

nd in

co

nsul

tatio

n w

ith re

leva

nt st

akeh

olde

rs.

13. P

ursu

e re

stric

tion

on c

omm

erci

al fi

shin

g in

coo

rdin

atio

n w

ith th

e D

epar

tmen

t of F

ishe

ries.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

14. D

evel

op th

e A

rriv

al a

nd D

epar

ture

Pre

cinc

t to

prov

ide

for a

vis

itor-

frie

ndly

exp

erie

nce.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

15. I

nves

tigat

e an

d im

plem

ent m

etho

ds to

impr

ove

the

orie

ntat

ion

of a

rriv

ing

visi

tors

to th

eir r

equi

red

first

poi

nt o

f con

tact

and

oth

er p

oint

s To

uris

t Ser

vice

sar

ound

the

Isla

nd.

16. E

stab

lish

appr

opria

te sh

elte

r for

ferr

y pa

ssen

gers

in th

e A

rriv

al a

nd D

epar

ture

Pre

cinc

t.Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

17. D

evel

op a

con

cept

ual m

odel

for a

pur

pose

-bui

lt in

terp

reta

tion

faci

lity

on R

ottn

est I

slan

d.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

18. S

eek

exte

rnal

fund

ing

for t

he e

stab

lishm

ent a

nd o

pera

tion

of a

n in

terp

reta

tion

faci

lity

on R

ottn

est I

slan

d in

con

sulta

tion

with

rele

vant

C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

grou

ps w

ith a

his

toric

al in

tere

st in

the

Isla

nd.

19. D

evel

op a

nd im

plem

ent a

stra

tegy

for S

igna

l Hill

to re

duce

ero

sion

from

tram

plin

g an

d to

man

age

risk

issu

es.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

20. M

aint

ain

the

Com

mer

cial

Pre

cinc

t to

prov

ide

com

mer

cial

serv

ices

to e

nhan

ce v

isito

r exp

erie

nce,

and

to im

prov

e ac

cess

for p

eopl

e w

ith d

isabi

litie

s.Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

21. I

nves

tigat

e th

e fe

asib

ility

of t

he c

onst

ruct

ion

of a

veh

icul

ar ro

ute

conn

ectin

g th

e Se

rvic

e Pr

ecin

ct 6

a to

the

Gol

f Clu

b an

d th

e so

uth

side

of

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

sth

e Se

ttle

men

t to

link

the

nort

h an

d so

uth

of th

e Se

ttle

men

t, e

limin

atin

g th

e ne

ed fo

r veh

icle

s to

mov

e th

roug

h th

e co

re p

edes

tria

n ar

ea.

22. I

nves

tigat

e th

e fe

asib

ility

of e

stab

lishi

ng a

n ad

ditio

nal f

ood

outle

t in

the

Com

mer

cial

Pre

cinc

t, w

hich

pro

vide

s fur

ther

val

ue-f

or-m

oney

food

Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

optio

ns u

tilis

ing

and

prom

otin

g W

este

rn A

ustr

alia

n pr

oduc

e.

23. D

evel

op a

nd im

plem

ent s

trat

egie

s to

enha

nce

the

libra

ry se

rvic

e.To

uris

t Ser

vice

s

24. D

evel

op a

nd im

plem

ent s

trat

egie

s to

enha

nce

the

mus

eum

serv

ice.

Tour

ist S

ervi

ces

25. M

anag

e th

e Ba

thur

st V

isito

r Acc

omm

odat

ion

Prec

inct

to p

rovi

de v

isito

r acc

omm

odat

ion.

To

uris

t Ser

vice

s

26. P

rovi

de a

ppro

pria

tely

des

igne

d be

ach

acce

ss p

aths

and

app

roac

hes i

n th

e Ba

thur

st V

isito

r Acc

omm

odat

ion

Prec

inct

. C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

113

Year

Dir

ecto

rate

20

0320

0420

0520

0620

07/8

Res

po

nsi

bili

ty

27. M

aint

ain

and

pres

erve

the

Bath

urst

Lig

htho

use

and

Ligh

thou

se K

eepe

r’s C

otta

ge w

ithou

t add

ition

al d

evel

opm

ent.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

28. M

anag

e th

e N

orth

Tho

mso

n V

isito

r Acc

omm

odat

ion

Prec

inct

to p

rovi

de v

isito

r acc

omm

odat

ion.

Tour

ist S

ervi

ces

29. R

eloc

ate

the

Hire

Ser

vice

s She

d an

d th

e O

ffic

e fr

om th

e N

orth

Tho

mso

n V

isito

r Acc

omm

odat

ion

Prec

inct

to th

e Se

rvic

es P

reci

nct

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

sor

the

Com

mer

cial

Pre

cinc

t.

30. I

nves

tigat

e th

e fe

asib

ility

of r

eloc

atin

g th

e Yo

uth

Hos

tel f

acili

ty fr

om K

ings

tow

n Ba

rrac

ks to

the

Nor

th T

hom

son

Visi

tor A

ccom

mod

atio

n Pr

ecin

ct.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

31. M

anag

e th

e ex

istin

g ac

com

mod

atio

n st

ock

in th

e So

uth

Thom

son

Vis

itor A

ccom

mod

atio

n Pr

ecin

ct to

pro

vide

vis

itor a

ccom

mod

atio

n.To

uris

t Ser

vice

s

32. C

ontin

ue to

pro

vide

acc

ess t

o th

e be

ach

via

purp

ose-

built

des

igna

ted

acce

ssw

ays a

nd st

airs

in th

e So

uth

Thom

son

Visi

tor A

ccom

mod

atio

n Pr

ecin

ct.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

33. M

onito

r bea

ch e

rosi

on in

the

Sout

h Th

omso

n V

isito

r Acc

omm

odat

ion

Prec

inct

.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

34. M

anag

e th

e G

eord

ie, L

ongr

each

and

Fay

s Bay

Vis

itor A

ccom

mod

atio

n Pr

ecin

ct to

pro

vide

vis

itor a

ccom

mod

atio

n.To

uris

t Ser

vice

s

35. R

evie

w a

nd re

alig

n ro

ads,

trac

ks a

nd tr

affic

flow

s in

the

Geo

rdie

, Lon

grea

ch a

nd F

ays B

ay a

rea

to im

prov

e am

enity

and

traf

fic fl

ow.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

36. I

mpr

ove

beac

h ac

cess

in th

e G

eord

ie, L

ongr

each

and

Fay

s Bay

Vis

itor A

ccom

mod

atio

n Pr

ecin

ct.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

37. R

esto

re a

nd re

habi

litat

e Fa

ys B

ay h

eadl

and.

C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

38. D

evel

op a

pla

n fo

r a d

edic

ated

Sta

ff A

ccom

mod

atio

n Pr

ecin

ct in

clud

ing

the

relo

catio

n of

staf

f fro

m o

ther

pre

cinc

ts to

this

area

. Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

39. I

nves

tigat

e th

e fe

asib

ility

of t

he d

evel

opm

ent o

f an

addi

tiona

l roa

d al

ong

the

Railw

ay T

rack

to li

mit

the

use

of P

arke

r Poi

nt R

oad

by v

ehic

les.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

40. M

aint

ain

and

impr

ove

the

use

of K

ings

tow

n Ba

rrac

ks a

s an

Envi

ronm

enta

l Edu

catio

n C

entr

e pr

imar

ily fo

r sch

ool g

roup

s.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

41. D

evel

op a

bus

ines

s Pla

n fo

r Kin

gsto

wn

Barr

acks

that

cap

italis

es o

n ot

hero

ppor

tuni

ties f

or th

e us

e of

this

area

and

impr

oves

its e

cono

mic

via

bilit

y.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

42. C

ontr

ol n

oise

, odo

ur a

nd v

isua

l im

pact

aro

und

the

Serv

ice

and

Ope

ratio

n Pr

ecin

ct.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

43. D

evel

op a

nd im

plem

ent a

pla

n fo

r the

dev

elop

men

t of a

Rec

reat

ion

Prec

inct

bas

ed a

roun

d th

e C

ount

ry C

lub.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

Ro

ttn

est I

slan

d M

anag

emen

t Pla

n 2

003-

2008

A

pp

end

ix 2

114

Year

Dir

ecto

rate

20

0320

0420

0520

0620

07/8

Res

po

nsi

bili

ty

44. P

rom

ote

and

enha

nce

golf

on R

ottn

est I

slan

d an

d un

dert

ake

a fe

asib

ility

stud

y in

to th

e su

stai

nabl

e gr

eeni

ng o

f the

gol

f cou

rse,

Tour

ist S

ervi

ces

with

a v

iew

to im

plem

enta

tion.

45. R

evie

w, r

atio

nalis

e an

d w

here

nec

essa

ry re

alig

n tr

acks

in a

reas

out

side

the

Sett

lem

ent Z

one.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

46. E

xten

d an

d en

hanc

e th

e ex

istin

g Ro

ttne

st Is

land

coa

stal

wal

k tr

ail.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

47. R

estr

ict v

ehic

le n

umbe

rs, s

ize

and

type

to th

e m

inim

um re

quire

d to

car

ry o

ut n

eces

sary

ope

ratio

ns a

nd a

ctiv

ely

enco

urag

e al

tern

ativ

ely

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

spo

wer

ed v

ehic

les,

as r

epla

cem

ents

are

requ

ired.

48. I

mpl

emen

t an

appr

oved

rang

e of

land

scap

e m

ater

ials

for R

ottn

est I

sland

.Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

49. D

efin

e an

d im

plem

ent a

furn

iture

styl

e fo

r the

pub

lic o

pen

spac

es o

f the

Set

tlem

ent Z

one

and

arou

nd th

e Is

land

that

mee

ts c

usto

mer

Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

need

s and

is c

onsi

sten

t with

and

sym

path

etic

to th

e he

ritag

e el

emen

ts o

f Rot

tnes

t Isl

and.

50. R

etai

n ex

istin

g Se

ttle

men

t veg

etat

ion

incl

udin

g tr

ees,

gro

und

cove

r and

shru

bs.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

51. M

aint

ain

exis

ting

cano

py li

nes w

ithin

the

Sett

lem

ent Z

one,

par

ticul

arly

alo

ng th

e oc

ean

fron

tage

whe

re th

ey a

re a

key

ele

men

t of t

he v

ista

.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

52. D

efin

e an

d im

plem

ent a

col

our s

chem

e th

at m

aint

ains

the

char

acte

r of R

ottn

est I

slan

d.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

53. D

evel

op a

nd im

plem

ent a

ligh

ting

plan

that

add

ress

es th

e lo

catio

n an

d st

yle

of li

ghtin

g.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

115

Year

Dir

ecto

rate

20

0320

0420

0520

0620

07/8

Res

po

nsi

bili

tyTe

rres

tria

l Env

ironm

ent

54. D

evel

op a

nd im

plem

ent a

stra

tegy

for t

he p

rote

ctio

n an

d re

habi

litat

ion

of c

oast

al la

ndfo

rms.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

55. R

evie

w a

nd im

plem

ent a

n in

terp

reta

tion

prog

ram

feat

urin

g th

e Is

land

’s ge

olog

y, la

ndfo

rms a

nd so

ils.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

56. U

nder

take

rese

arch

into

the

rela

tions

hip

betw

een

rain

fall,

gro

undw

ater

and

the

wet

land

s of R

ottn

est I

slan

d.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

57. P

rote

ct, p

rese

rve

and

inte

rpre

t Bar

ker S

wam

p as

a p

rimar

y ex

ampl

e of

the

pre-

dist

urbe

d co

nditi

on o

f Rot

tnes

t Isla

nd sw

amps

. C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

58. P

rote

ct, c

onse

rve

and

inte

rpre

t Rot

tnes

t Isl

and

lake

s, sw

amps

, fre

shw

ater

seep

s and

surr

ound

ing

vege

tatio

n.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

59. M

onito

r wat

er a

nd sa

linity

leve

ls w

ithin

swam

ps a

nd fr

eshw

ater

seep

s on

Rott

nest

Isla

nd.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

60. R

ehab

ilita

te L

ight

hous

e Sw

amp.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

61. R

ehab

ilita

te P

arak

eet S

wam

p.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

62. R

ehab

ilita

te S

alm

on S

wam

p.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

63. D

evel

op a

Pla

n fo

r the

reha

bilit

atio

n of

Bul

ldoz

er a

nd B

ickl

ey S

wam

ps.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

64. D

evel

op a

nd im

plem

ent a

Pla

n to

inte

rpre

t the

reha

bilit

atio

n of

Rot

tnes

t Isl

and

swam

ps.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

65. M

anag

e th

e nu

trie

nt p

lum

e fr

om R

ottn

est I

slan

d’s l

andf

ill to

ens

ure

min

imal

impa

ct to

the

wat

er q

ualit

y an

d ot

her v

alue

s of L

ake

Her

sche

l. C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

66. R

evis

e an

d co

mm

ence

the

impl

emen

tatio

n of

pla

ns fo

r out

er b

ays t

o m

inim

ise

any

nega

tive

impa

ct o

n th

e di

vers

ity a

nd v

alue

s of

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ngth

e Is

land

’s la

ndsc

ape

and

vist

as.

67. D

evel

op a

nd im

plem

ent a

Pla

n to

eff

ectiv

ely

man

age

and

inte

rpre

t the

val

ues o

f the

Isla

nd’s

natu

ral l

ands

cape

s.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

68. D

evel

op a

nd im

plem

ent s

trat

egie

s to

redu

ce g

reen

hous

e ga

s em

issi

ons o

n Ro

ttne

st Is

land

in a

ccor

danc

e w

ith th

e N

atio

nal G

reen

hous

eBu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

Cha

lleng

e ac

tions

Ro

ttn

est I

slan

d M

anag

emen

t Pla

n 2

003-

2008

A

pp

end

ix 2

116

Year

Dir

ecto

rate

20

0320

0420

0520

0620

07/8

Res

po

nsi

bili

ty

69. E

limin

ate

woo

d fir

es in

Aut

horit

y ac

com

mod

atio

n an

d re

plac

e th

em w

ith a

n al

tern

ativ

e en

viro

nmen

tally

sens

itive

and

cos

t-ef

fect

ive

Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

sour

ce o

f acc

omm

odat

ion

heat

ing.

70. I

nves

tigat

e op

tions

to re

duce

the

impa

ct o

f airc

raft

noi

se.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

71. R

evie

w a

nd im

plem

ent t

he W

oodl

and

Rest

orat

ion

Stra

tegy

in th

e co

ntex

t of a

veg

etat

ion

man

agem

ent s

trat

egy.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

72. A

sses

s and

man

age

all d

evel

opm

ents

on

the

Isla

nd to

min

imis

e po

ssib

le th

reat

s to

the

habi

tats

, flo

ra a

nd fa

una

of R

ottn

est I

slan

d.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

73. R

evie

w a

nd im

plem

ent a

Pla

n fo

r the

inte

rpre

tatio

n of

the

flora

and

faun

a of

Rot

tnes

t Isl

and.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

74. D

evel

op a

nd im

plem

ent a

fire

man

agem

ent p

lan

for R

ottn

est I

slan

d th

at re

cogn

ises

key

eco

logi

cal a

reas

of p

rote

ctio

n, in

coo

rdin

atio

n Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

with

the

Fire

and

Em

erge

ncy

Serv

ices

Aut

horit

y.

75. I

mpl

emen

t an

effe

ctiv

e w

eed

man

agem

ent p

rogr

am fo

r Rot

tnes

t Isl

and,

bas

ed o

n ex

istin

g pr

oced

ures

.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

76. I

mpl

emen

t an

effe

ctiv

e fe

ral a

nim

al e

radi

catio

n pr

ogra

m, b

ased

on

exis

ting

proc

edur

es.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

77. E

ncou

rage

rese

arch

on

Isla

nd fl

ora

and

faun

a pa

rtic

ular

ly th

at w

hich

con

trib

utes

to th

e m

anag

emen

t of p

lant

dis

ease

s on

Rott

nest

Isla

nd.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

78. I

nves

tigat

e th

e be

nefit

s of p

ursu

ing

Ram

sar w

etla

nd c

lass

ifica

tion

for R

ottn

est I

slan

d’s w

etla

nds u

sed

by m

igra

tory

bird

spec

ies.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

117

Year

Dir

ecto

rate

20

0320

0420

0520

0620

07/8

Res

po

nsi

bili

tyM

arin

e En

viro

nmen

t79

. Im

plem

ent t

he R

ottn

est I

slan

d po

licy

on w

aste

dis

char

ge fr

om v

esse

ls.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

80. D

evel

op a

nd im

plem

ent a

wat

er q

ualit

y m

onito

ring

prog

ram

for R

ottn

est I

slan

d ba

ys, t

o te

st fo

r bac

teria

and

nut

rient

s.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

81. M

anag

e Is

land

infr

astr

uctu

re to

min

imis

e la

nd-b

ased

dis

char

ge o

f nut

rient

s and

deb

ris in

to th

e m

arin

e en

viro

nmen

t.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

82. R

evie

w th

e Ro

ttne

st Is

land

fuel

and

oil

spill

Pla

n.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

83. I

nves

tigat

e th

e pr

ovis

ion

of a

was

te re

cept

or fa

cilit

y fo

r liq

uid

was

te fr

om v

esse

ls.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

84. U

nder

take

rese

arch

on

the

impa

ct o

f ves

sel m

ovem

ents

on

Rott

nest

Isla

nd’s

mar

ine

habi

tats

, par

ticul

arly

in re

latio

n to

mov

emen

t of l

arge

ves

sels

.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

85. M

aint

ain

the

use

of m

oorin

gs in

des

igna

ted

Rott

nest

Isla

nd b

ays a

s an

envi

ronm

enta

l man

agem

ent t

ool.

Tour

ist S

ervi

ces

86. D

evel

op a

nd im

plem

ent a

rese

arch

pro

gram

to m

onito

r the

leve

l of e

nviro

nmen

tal i

mpa

ct fr

om th

e cu

rren

t moo

ring

appa

ratu

s des

ign.

C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

87. P

rohi

bit t

he a

ncho

ring

of b

oats

in th

e Ro

ttne

st Is

land

Res

erve

on

area

s oth

er th

an sa

nd.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

88. D

evel

op a

nd im

plem

ent a

cam

paig

n to

pro

mot

e en

viro

nmen

tally

ben

ign

divi

ng te

chni

ques

to d

iver

s and

snor

kelle

rs in

the

Rott

nest

Isla

nd R

eser

ve.

Tour

ist S

ervi

ces

89. D

evel

op a

nd im

plem

ent a

rese

arch

pro

gram

to m

onito

r fis

h st

ocks

and

gai

n an

und

erst

andi

ng o

f the

leve

l of r

ecre

atio

nal f

ishi

ng in

the

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ngRo

ttne

st Is

land

Res

erve

.

90. R

aise

aw

aren

ess a

nd u

nder

stan

ding

am

ong

Isla

nd v

isito

rs o

f the

adv

erse

impa

cts o

f ree

f wal

king

on

mar

ine

habi

tats

and

spec

ies.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

91. D

evel

op a

nd im

plem

ent a

stra

tegy

to re

duce

the

occu

rren

ce o

f loc

ally

gen

erat

ed m

arin

e lit

ter i

n th

e Ro

ttne

st Is

land

Res

erve

.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

92. I

mpl

emen

t an

annu

al p

rogr

am to

col

lect

litt

er in

Rot

tnes

t Isl

and

bays

. C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

93. E

ncou

rage

rese

arch

on

the

occu

rren

ce a

nd e

xten

t of c

oral

ble

achi

ng in

the

Rott

nest

Isla

nd M

arin

e Re

serv

e.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

Ro

ttn

est I

slan

d M

anag

emen

t Pla

n 2

003-

2008

A

pp

end

ix 2

118

Year

Dir

ecto

rate

20

0320

0420

0520

0620

07/8

Res

po

nsi

bili

tyC

ultu

ral H

erita

ge94

. Com

pile

a c

ompr

ehen

sive

inve

ntor

y of

Rot

tnes

t Isl

and’

s her

itage

ass

ets.

C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

95. U

nder

take

an

asse

ssm

ent o

f the

con

ditio

n an

d si

gnifi

canc

e of

all

herit

age

asse

ts o

n Ro

ttne

st Is

land

.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

96. D

evel

op a

prio

rity

listin

g of

her

itage

rest

orat

ion

proj

ects

requ

ired

on R

ottn

est I

slan

d ac

cord

ing

to c

ondi

tion

and

sign

ifica

nce

of a

sset

s.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

97. D

evel

op a

nd im

plem

ent h

erita

ge m

aint

enan

ce p

roce

dure

s, in

acc

orda

nce

with

the

Burr

a C

hart

er,

to d

irect

her

itage

mai

nten

ance

C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

activ

ities

on

Rott

nest

Isla

nd.

98. D

evel

op c

ompr

ehen

sive

gui

delin

es fo

r the

app

ropr

iate

trea

tmen

ts fo

r lan

dsca

pes a

nd st

reet

scap

es o

n Ro

ttne

st Is

land

in o

rder

to m

aint

ain

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ngas

soci

ated

her

itage

val

ues.

99. D

evel

op a

nd im

plem

ent h

erita

ge p

roje

cts t

hat c

an b

e un

dert

aken

with

the

aid

of v

olun

teer

eff

ort.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

100.

Est

ablis

h a

Cul

tura

l Her

itage

Adv

isor

y C

omm

ittee

repo

rtin

g to

the

Rott

nest

Isla

nd A

utho

rity

to p

rovi

de e

xper

t adv

ice

on h

erita

ge is

sues

. C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

101.

Dev

elop

an

Isla

nd-w

ide

inte

grat

ed h

erita

ge in

terp

reta

tion

appr

oach

that

incl

udes

bus

ines

s opp

ortu

nitie

s tha

t sup

port

her

itage

wor

ks.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

102.

Rev

ise

and

reis

sue

herit

age

broc

hure

s to

enha

nce

the

inte

rpre

tativ

e ca

pabi

lity

of th

is m

ediu

m.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

103.

Dev

elop

and

impl

emen

t a st

rate

gy to

incr

ease

the

prof

ile o

f Rot

tnes

t Isla

nd fo

r her

itage

-foc

usse

d co

nfer

ence

s, se

min

ars a

nd tr

aini

ng e

vent

s.M

arke

ting

and

Com

mun

icat

ions

104.

Mai

ntai

n an

d en

hanc

e op

port

uniti

es fo

r fre

e of

cha

rge,

self-

dire

cted

her

itage

inte

rpre

tatio

n on

Rot

tnes

t Isl

and.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

105.

Und

erta

ke fu

rthe

r gro

und

prob

ing

rada

r wor

k to

det

erm

ine

the

full

exte

nt o

f the

Abo

rigin

al b

uria

l gro

unds

. Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

106.

Rel

ocat

e an

y ac

com

mod

atio

n ov

erly

ing

the

esta

blis

hed

area

of t

he A

borig

inal

bur

ial g

roun

ds.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

107.

Inve

stig

ate

and

impl

emen

t mec

hani

sms t

o fu

rthe

r int

erpr

et th

e A

borig

inal

bur

ial g

roun

ds a

nd o

ther

are

as o

f Abo

rigin

al si

gnifi

canc

e.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

108.

Mai

ntai

n an

d en

hanc

e re

latio

nshi

ps w

ith A

borig

inal

peo

ple

to fu

rthe

r int

erpr

et th

e A

borig

inal

her

itage

of R

ottn

est I

slan

d.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

119

Year

Dir

ecto

rate

20

0320

0420

0520

0620

07/8

Res

po

nsi

bili

ty

109.

Dev

elop

and

impl

emen

t gui

delin

es fo

r the

app

ropr

iate

arc

haeo

logi

cal a

sses

smen

t and

supe

rvis

ion

of g

roun

d di

stur

banc

e C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

and

hard

enin

g w

ork

on R

ottn

est I

slan

d.

110.

Rev

iew

, ass

ess a

nd e

nhan

ce th

e Ro

ttne

st Is

land

mus

eum

col

lect

ion.

C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

111.

Dev

elop

and

impl

emen

t a p

rogr

am o

f rec

ordi

ng c

urre

nt fe

atur

es, o

pera

tions

and

act

iviti

es o

f Rot

tnes

t Isl

and.

C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

112.

Und

erta

ke a

pro

gram

of r

ecor

ding

ora

l acc

ount

s fro

m p

erso

ns w

ith p

revi

ous a

nd c

urre

nt a

ssoc

iatio

ns w

ith R

ottn

est I

slan

d.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

Hol

iday

and

Rec

reat

ion

Faci

litie

s11

3. A

nnua

lly a

djus

t the

indi

vidu

al A

dmiss

ion

Fee

com

men

cing

1st

July

200

3.Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

114.

Pur

sue

amen

dmen

t to

the

Rott

nest

Isla

nd A

utho

rity A

ct 1

987

to a

llow

the

Rott

nest

Isla

nd A

utho

rity t

o co

ntro

l ent

ry in

to th

e Ro

ttne

st Is

land

Res

erve

.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

115.

Und

erta

ke re

sear

ch o

n th

e re

latio

nshi

p be

twee

n Ro

ttne

st Is

land

vis

itor n

umbe

rs a

nd b

ehav

iour

and

env

ironm

enta

l, so

cial

and

eco

nom

ic

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ngim

pact

s on

Rott

nest

Isla

nd.

116.

Dev

elop

and

impl

emen

t pla

ns to

incr

ease

the

num

ber o

f acc

omm

odat

ed v

isito

rs in

the

cool

er m

onth

s.

Tour

ist S

ervi

ces

117.

Man

age

activ

ities

on

the

Isla

nd c

omm

ensu

rate

with

opt

imum

vis

itor n

umbe

rs.

Mar

ketin

g an

d C

omm

unic

atio

ns

118.

Ass

ess b

usin

ess o

ppor

tuni

ties o

n a

case

by

case

bas

is, g

ivin

g pr

iorit

y to

the

requ

irem

ents

to m

aint

ain

cont

rol o

ver t

he R

eser

ve, p

rese

rve

the

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

set

hos,

equ

ity a

nd a

cces

s, a

nd su

stai

n th

e Is

land

’s en

viro

nmen

tal a

nd so

cial

val

ues.

119.

Ret

ain

the

exis

ting

rang

e of

acc

omm

odat

ion

on R

ottn

est I

slan

d.To

uris

t Ser

vice

s

120.

Inve

stig

ate

desi

gns f

or a

Rot

tnes

t Isl

and

styl

e of

hol

iday

cot

tage

in p

repa

ratio

n fo

r the

tim

es w

hen

exis

ting

cott

ages

requ

ire re

plac

emen

t.To

uris

t Ser

vice

s

121.

Inve

stig

ate

the

feas

ibili

ty o

f the

rede

velo

pmen

t of

exis

ting

Kel

ly a

nd A

bbot

Str

eet a

ccom

mod

atio

n, p

ayin

g at

tent

ion

to e

nviro

nmen

tal a

nd

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

nghe

ritag

e se

nsiti

ve c

onst

ruct

ion

and

oper

atio

n, w

inte

r com

fort

stan

dard

s, a

nd th

e fle

xibi

lity

to p

rovi

de fo

r wid

er st

yles

of u

se.

Ro

ttn

est I

slan

d M

anag

emen

t Pla

n 2

003-

2008

A

pp

end

ix 2

120

Year

Dir

ecto

rate

20

0320

0420

0520

0620

07/8

Res

po

nsi

bili

ty

122.

Ref

urbi

sh th

e he

ritag

e co

ttag

es a

nd th

e ex

istin

g G

eord

ie/L

ongr

each

uni

ts, p

ayin

g pa

rtic

ular

att

entio

n to

env

ironm

enta

lly se

nsiti

ve co

nstr

uctio

n Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

and

oper

atio

n an

d to

win

ter c

omfo

rt st

anda

rds.

123.

Dem

olis

h th

e ex

istin

g A

lliso

n ca

bins

and

con

stru

ct re

plac

emen

t cab

ins n

ear C

arol

ine

Thom

son

usin

g th

e ex

istin

g C

arol

ine

Thom

son

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

sca

bin

mod

el, p

ayin

g pa

rtic

ular

att

entio

n to

win

ter c

omfo

rt st

anda

rds.

124.

Impr

ove

and

enha

nce

the

univ

ersa

l acc

ess f

eatu

res o

f acc

omm

odat

ion

and

visi

tor f

acili

ties o

n Ro

ttne

st Is

land

.Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

125.

Det

erm

ine

and

impl

emen

t a d

efin

ed b

uild

ing

enve

lope

with

in th

e b

ound

ary

of th

e Se

ttle

men

t Zon

e.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

126.

Exc

ept a

s oth

erw

ise

spec

ified

, lim

it co

nstr

uctio

n of

acc

omm

odat

ion

on R

ottn

est I

slan

d to

the

repl

acem

ent o

f exi

stin

g ac

com

mod

atio

n,

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

sas

nec

essa

ry.

127.

Upg

rade

and

impr

ove

Rott

nest

Isla

nd a

ccom

mod

atio

n bo

okin

g so

ftw

are

and

proc

edur

es.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

128.

Inve

stig

ate

the

feas

ibili

ty o

f int

rodu

cing

on-

line

acco

mm

odat

ion

book

ing

faci

litie

s.M

arke

ting

and

Com

mun

icat

ions

129.

Inve

stig

ate

alte

rnat

ive

met

hods

to a

lloca

te a

ccom

mod

atio

n du

ring

peak

per

iods

.To

uris

t Ser

vice

s

130.

Impl

emen

t the

sche

dule

of a

ccom

mod

atio

n ch

arge

s for

boo

king

s tak

en fr

om 1

Janu

ary 2

003

as d

escr

ibed

in Ta

ble

5 - A

ccom

mod

atio

n Ch

arge

s. To

uris

t Ser

vice

s

131.

Cha

rge

acco

mm

odat

ion

book

ed fo

r off

pea

k pe

riods

, whi

ch is

not

par

t of a

dis

coun

t pac

kage

, at a

20

perc

ent d

isco

unt r

ate.

Tour

ist S

ervi

ces

132.

Ann

ually

revi

se a

ccom

mod

atio

n co

sts a

nd o

pera

tions

.Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

133.

Con

duct

a c

omm

unity

con

sulta

tion

exer

cise

to in

form

the

futu

re d

evel

opm

ent o

f the

Rot

tnes

t Isl

and

Hot

el si

te.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

134.

Red

evel

op th

e Ro

ttne

st Is

land

Hot

el fa

cilit

ies i

nfor

med

by

com

mun

ity c

onsu

ltatio

n.Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

135.

Con

tinue

to p

rovi

de e

duca

tion

and

inte

rpre

tatio

n ac

tiviti

es o

n Ro

ttne

st Is

land

.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

121

Year

Dir

ecto

rate

20

0320

0420

0520

0620

07/8

Res

po

nsi

bili

ty

136.

Dev

elop

and

impl

emen

t a P

lan

for v

isito

r ser

vice

s and

att

ract

ions

whi

ch is

con

sist

ent w

ith th

e Is

land

’s pu

rpos

e an

d ba

sed

on th

e pr

inci

ples

of

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ngen

viro

nmen

tal,

soci

al a

nd e

cono

mic

sust

aina

bilit

y.

137.

Pro

vide

a ra

nge

of v

isito

r ser

vice

s and

att

ract

ions

on

Rott

nest

Isla

nd th

at a

re a

vaila

ble

on a

self-

dire

cted

, fre

e-of

-cha

rge

basi

s.

Tour

ist S

ervi

ces

138.

Mai

ntai

n an

d en

hanc

e th

e se

rvic

es p

rovi

ded

by b

usin

esse

s ope

ratin

g on

Rot

tnes

t Isl

and.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

139.

Pro

vide

and

enh

ance

lang

uage

serv

ices

to n

on-E

nglis

h sp

eaki

ng v

isito

rs.

Mar

ketin

g an

d C

omm

unic

atio

ns

140.

Dev

elop

and

impl

emen

t a re

sear

ch p

rogr

am to

det

erm

ine

the

impa

ct o

f ser

vice

s and

att

ract

ions

on

the

Rott

nest

Isla

nd e

nviro

nmen

t and

its v

isito

rs.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

141.

Dev

elop

and

impl

emen

t a R

ottn

est I

slan

d M

erch

andi

sing

Pla

n.

Mar

ketin

g an

d C

omm

unic

atio

ns

142.

Incr

ease

the

num

ber o

f bic

ycle

rack

s on

Rott

nest

Isla

nd.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

143.

Dev

elop

and

impl

emen

t a te

leco

mm

unic

atio

ns p

lan.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

144.

Det

erm

ine

and

prov

ide

recr

eatio

n fa

cilit

ies t

arge

ted

at y

outh

. C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

145.

Und

erta

ke a

revi

ew o

f cha

rges

for t

he fu

ll ra

nge

of to

urs a

nd v

isito

r ser

vice

s.To

uris

t Ser

vice

s

146.

Inve

stig

ate

mec

hani

sms t

o im

prov

e th

e ca

rria

ge o

f lar

ge e

quip

men

t on

bus s

ervi

ces.

Tour

ist S

ervi

ces

147.

Inve

stig

ate

alte

rnat

ive-

pow

ered

bus

es fo

r Rot

tnes

t Isl

and

that

will

hav

e a

mor

e po

sitiv

e im

pact

on

visu

al a

nd e

nviro

nmen

tal a

men

ities

. Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

148.

Inve

stig

ate

the

feas

ibili

ty o

f the

ext

ensi

on o

f the

Isla

nd ra

il se

rvic

e.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

149.

Ann

ually

revi

ew a

nd a

men

d bu

s ser

vice

fees

and

cha

rges

. .To

uris

t Ser

vice

s

150.

Wor

k w

ith th

e Ro

ttne

st Is

land

Pol

ice

to e

nfor

ce th

e re

quire

men

t for

cyc

lists

to w

ear h

elm

ets o

n Ro

ttne

st Is

land

.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

Ro

ttn

est I

slan

d M

anag

emen

t Pla

n 2

003-

2008

A

pp

end

ix 2

122

Year

Dir

ecto

rate

20

0320

0420

0520

0620

07/8

Res

po

nsi

bili

ty

151.

Wor

k w

ith th

e Ro

ttne

st Is

land

Pol

ice

to e

nfor

ce th

e re

quire

men

t for

cyc

lists

to u

se a

ligh

t whe

n cy

clin

g at

nig

ht.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

152.

Rev

iew

and

ratio

nalis

e th

e nu

mbe

r of w

alki

ng tr

acks

on

Rott

nest

Isla

nd to

min

imise

env

ironm

enta

l impa

cts w

hile

pro

vidi

ng fo

r the

nee

ds o

f visi

tors

.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

153.

Impl

emen

t the

Rot

tnes

t Isl

and

Aut

horit

y D

isab

ility

Ser

vice

s Pla

n.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

154.

Ref

urbi

sh th

e ra

mp

to N

orth

Tho

mso

n Be

ach

to p

rovi

de b

each

and

wat

er a

cces

s.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

155.

Rev

iew

the

oper

atio

n of

the

Rott

nest

Isla

nd A

erod

rom

e.Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

156.

Rev

iew

the

rang

e of

aer

odro

me

fees

.Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

157.

Pro

vide

trai

ning

opp

ortu

nitie

s to

Aut

horit

y st

aff t

o im

prov

e se

rvic

e le

vels

to m

eet i

ndus

try

stan

dard

s and

ben

chm

arks

.Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

158.

Inve

stig

ate

cert

ifica

tion

unde

r nat

iona

l tou

rism

acc

redi

tatio

n sc

hem

es.

Tour

ist S

ervi

ces

159.

Dev

elop

and

intr

oduc

e a

new

rang

e of

Rot

tnes

t Isl

and

Aut

horit

y st

aff u

nifo

rms.

Mar

ketin

g an

d C

omm

unic

atio

ns

160.

Des

ign

and

impl

emen

t a m

arke

t res

earc

h pr

ogra

m to

gai

n an

und

erst

andi

ng o

f mar

ket s

egm

ents

and

nee

ds.

Mar

ketin

g an

d C

omm

unic

atio

ns

161.

Dev

elop

and

impl

emen

t a st

rate

gic

mar

ketin

g pl

an fo

r Rot

tnes

t Isl

and,

bas

ed o

n th

e ou

tcom

es o

f mar

ket r

esea

rch.

Mar

ketin

g an

d C

omm

unic

atio

ns

162.

Wor

k w

ith R

ottn

est I

sland

bus

ines

ses a

nd fe

rry

oper

ator

s to

impr

ove

the

com

patib

ility

of m

arke

ting

cam

paig

ns w

ith R

ottn

est I

sland

obj

ectiv

es.

Mar

ketin

g an

d C

omm

unic

atio

ns

163.

Det

erm

ine

a po

licy

on th

e sc

ale

and

type

of f

unct

ion

and

even

t app

ropr

iate

for R

ottn

est I

slan

d ba

sed

on c

onsi

dera

tions

of s

ocia

l,M

arke

ting

and

Com

mun

icat

ions

econ

omic

and

env

ironm

enta

l ben

efits

and

impa

cts.

164.

Und

erta

ke a

rang

e of

Rot

tnes

t Isl

and

Aut

horit

y-ho

sted

pro

gram

s to

enha

nce

the

visi

tor e

xper

ienc

e.M

arke

ting

and

Com

mun

icat

ions

123

Year

Dir

ecto

rate

20

0320

0420

0520

0620

07/8

Res

po

nsi

bili

tyM

arin

e Re

crea

tion

and

Faci

litie

s16

5. M

onito

r the

use

of P

erso

nalis

ed P

ower

ed W

ater

craf

t with

in th

e bo

unda

ry o

f the

Res

erve

ove

r the

pea

k m

onth

s of 2

003/

2004

and

C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

2004

/200

5 an

d de

term

ine

whe

ther

they

shou

ld c

ontin

ue to

be

perm

itted

in th

e Re

serv

e.

166.

Und

erta

ke re

sear

ch in

to th

e bo

atin

g ca

paci

ty o

f the

Rot

tnes

t Isla

nd M

arin

e Re

serv

e ba

sed

on so

cial

, env

ironm

enta

l and

infr

astr

uctu

re c

onst

rain

ts.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

167.

Inve

stig

ate

mec

hani

sms t

o m

anag

e th

e bo

atin

g ca

paci

ty o

f the

Rot

tnes

t Isl

and

Mar

ine

Rese

rve.

To

uris

t Ser

vice

s

168.

Incr

ease

the

boat

ing

annu

al p

aym

ent i

n lie

u of

Adm

issi

on F

ee fr

om 1

Sep

tem

ber 2

003

to th

e fo

llow

ing

GST

incl

usiv

e pr

ices

: ves

sels

up

Tour

ist S

ervi

ces

to 8

met

res:

$12

1.00

; ves

sels

gre

ater

than

8 m

etre

s but

less

than

10

met

res:

$13

7.50

; ves

sels

10

met

res o

r gre

ater

but

less

than

15

met

res:

$16

5.00

; ves

sels

15

met

res o

r gre

ater

: $27

5.00

.

169.

Ann

ually

revi

ew th

e bo

atin

g an

nual

pay

men

t in

lieu

of A

dmis

sion

Fee

. To

uris

t Ser

vice

s

170.

Wor

k w

ith th

e D

epar

tmen

t for

Pla

nnin

g an

d In

fras

truc

ture

to e

xpan

d th

e bo

atin

g fiv

e-kn

ot sp

eed

limit

area

to in

clud

e al

l bay

s con

tain

ing

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ngm

oorin

gs a

nd a

ll w

ater

s with

in 1

00 m

etre

s of t

he sh

orel

ine.

171.

Mai

ntai

n th

e cu

rren

t tot

al n

umbe

r of l

icen

sed

recr

eatio

nal m

oorin

gs in

the

Rott

nest

Isla

nd M

arin

e Re

serv

e.To

uris

t Ser

vice

s

172.

Em

ploy

geo

grap

hica

l pos

ition

ing

surv

ey m

etho

ds to

det

erm

ine

and

mai

ntai

n re

cord

s of m

oorin

g lo

catio

ns.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

173.

Pro

hibi

t peo

ple

from

dre

dgin

g or

oth

erw

ise

inte

rfer

ing

with

any

are

a of

sea

bed

in th

e M

arin

e Re

serv

e.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

174.

Und

erta

ke a

tria

l of a

moo

ring

syst

em a

s det

aile

d in

Tab

le 6

- Su

mm

ary

of R

ecre

atio

nal

Mo

ori

ng

Tri

al S

yste

m, i

n co

nsul

tatio

n To

uris

t Ser

vice

sw

ith m

ajor

stak

ehol

ders

, com

men

cing

Sep

tem

ber 2

003

with

a v

iew

to o

ngoi

ng im

plem

enta

tion.

175.

Pur

sue

alte

rnat

ive

mec

hani

sms f

or in

crea

sing

acc

ess t

o re

crea

tiona

l moo

rings

shou

ld th

e tr

ial i

ndic

ate

that

the

syst

em d

etai

led

in

Tour

ist S

ervi

ces

Tab

le 6

is n

ot fe

asib

le.

176.

Rev

ise

annu

al re

crea

tiona

l moo

ring

site

lice

nce

fees

eff

ectiv

e 1

Sept

embe

r 200

3 to

$66

.00

per m

etre

of l

engt

h of

lice

nsed

To

uris

t Ser

vice

sve

ssel

s or $

660,

whi

chev

er is

the

grea

ter a

mou

nt, f

or th

e du

ratio

n of

the

recr

eatio

nal m

oorin

g tr

ial a

nd p

erm

anen

tly th

erea

fter

shou

ld

the

tria

l sys

tem

be

impl

emen

ted

subs

tant

ivel

y.

177.

Intr

oduc

e an

Ann

ual A

utho

rised

Use

r Fee

of $

33 p

er m

etre

as a

t 1 S

epte

mbe

r 200

3 To

uris

t Ser

vice

s

Ro

ttn

est I

slan

d M

anag

emen

t Pla

n 2

003-

2008

A

pp

end

ix 2

124

Year

Dir

ecto

rate

20

0320

0420

0520

0620

07/8

Res

po

nsi

bili

ty

178.

Mai

ntai

n th

e A

nnua

l Adm

inis

trat

ion

Fee

for A

utho

rised

Use

rs o

f $33

per

ves

sel.

Tour

ist S

ervi

ces

179.

Rev

iew

all

moo

ring

fees

ann

ually

. To

uris

t Ser

vice

s

180.

Pro

hibi

t rec

reat

iona

l moo

rings

from

bei

ng u

sed

for c

omm

erci

al g

ain

or b

eing

sub-

let.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

181.

Rev

ise

moo

ring

rene

wal

pro

cedu

res t

o m

ake

the

pres

enta

tion

of a

hul

l ide

ntifi

catio

n nu

mbe

r a p

rere

quis

ite fo

r a m

oorin

g si

te li

cenc

e To

uris

t Ser

vice

sre

new

al b

y 1

Sept

embe

r 200

4.

182.

Dev

elop

a b

usin

ess m

odel

for t

he re

ntal

moo

ring

busi

ness

uni

t to

dete

rmin

e an

opt

imum

num

ber o

f ren

tal m

oorin

gs.

Tour

ist S

ervi

ces

183.

Elim

inat

e th

e m

axim

um re

ntal

per

iod

limit

for r

enta

l moo

rings

for t

he o

ff-p

eak

seas

on o

f May

to N

ovem

ber.

Tour

ist S

ervi

ces

184.

Intr

oduc

e a

max

imum

lim

it fo

r ren

tal m

oorin

gs d

urin

g th

e ac

com

mod

atio

n ba

llot p

erio

ds, c

onsi

sten

t with

max

imum

bal

lot

Tour

ist S

ervi

ces

book

ing

perio

ds, f

rom

1 Ju

ly 2

003.

185.

Incr

ease

rent

al sw

ing

moo

ring

fees

to $

33 p

er n

ight

, fro

m 1

July

200

3.To

uris

t Ser

vice

s

186.

Incr

ease

Bat

hurs

t Bea

ch m

oorin

g fe

es to

$16

.50

per n

ight

, fro

m 1

July

200

3.To

uris

t Ser

vice

s

187.

Ann

ually

revi

ew re

ntal

moo

ring

pric

es.

Tour

ist S

ervi

ces

188.

Inve

stig

ate

the

feas

ibili

ty o

f est

ablis

hing

a n

umbe

r of s

trat

egic

ally

pla

ced

moo

rings

ded

icat

ed fo

r com

mer

cial

cha

rter

ope

ratio

ns, w

ithBu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

the

obje

ctiv

e to

est

ablis

h a

viab

le c

omm

erci

al c

hart

er m

oorin

gs sy

stem

.

189.

Est

ablis

h an

d in

trod

uce

a co

mm

erci

al ra

te fo

r com

mer

cial

ope

rato

rs u

sing

rent

al m

oorin

gs.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

190.

Elim

inat

e th

e m

axim

um re

ntal

per

iod

limit

for r

enta

l pen

s for

the

off-

peak

seas

on o

f May

to N

ovem

ber.

Tour

ist S

ervi

ces

191.

Intr

oduc

e a

max

imum

lim

it fo

r ren

tal p

ens d

urin

g th

e ac

com

mod

atio

n ba

llot p

erio

ds, c

onsi

sten

t with

max

imum

bal

lot

Tour

ist S

ervi

ces

book

ing

perio

ds, f

rom

1 Ju

ly 2

003.

192.

Incr

ease

cha

rges

for r

enta

l pen

s to

$33

per n

ight

for l

arge

pen

s at t

he F

uel J

etty

, and

$22

per

nig

ht fo

r sm

all p

ens a

t the

Fue

l, H

otel

and

To

uris

t Ser

vice

sSt

ark

Jett

ies,

eff

ectiv

e 1

July

200

3.

125

Year

Dir

ecto

rate

20

0320

0420

0520

0620

07/8

Res

po

nsi

bili

ty

193.

Ann

ually

revi

ew re

ntal

pen

pric

es.

Tour

ist S

ervi

ces

194.

Pro

vide

info

rmat

ion

to b

oat o

wne

rs o

n ap

prop

riate

met

hods

of b

each

anc

horin

g.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

195.

Inve

stig

ate

the

feas

ibili

ty o

f the

form

alis

atio

n of

bea

ch a

ncho

ring

site

s in

Thom

son

Bay,

with

a v

iew

to im

plem

enta

tion.

To

uris

t Ser

vice

s

196.

Impl

emen

t mec

hani

sms t

o en

sure

eff

icie

nt a

nd e

ffec

tive

oper

atio

n an

d m

anag

emen

t of t

he M

ain

Pass

enge

r Jet

ty.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

197.

Ass

ess t

he fe

asib

ility

of u

pgra

ding

the

Hot

el Je

tty.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

198.

Res

tore

and

mai

ntai

n th

e G

reen

Isla

nd Je

tty

as a

recr

eatio

nal f

ishi

ng a

rea

and

smal

l ves

sel-b

erth

ing

site

. Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

199.

Wor

k w

ith c

omm

erci

al fe

rry

com

pani

es to

enc

oura

ge a

ffor

dabl

e pr

icin

g st

rate

gies

for R

ottn

est I

slan

d fe

rry

ticke

ts,

Tour

ist S

ervi

ces

acce

ptin

g th

at th

e fe

rry

fare

incl

udes

the

indi

vidu

al A

dmis

sion

Fee

to th

e Is

land

.

200.

Adj

ust t

he a

nnua

l pay

men

t to

the

Aut

horit

y in

lieu

of A

dmis

sion

Fee

s for

Cha

rter

Boa

t ope

rato

rs to

: $22

mul

tiplie

d by

the

vess

el’s

capa

city

Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

for v

esse

ls m

akin

g 14

or l

ess e

ntrie

s to

the

Rese

rve;

$44

mul

tiplie

d by

the

vess

el’s

capa

city

for v

esse

ls m

akin

g m

ore

than

14

but l

ess t

han

31

entr

ies i

nto

the

Rese

rve;

$66

mul

tiplie

d by

the

vess

el’s

capa

city

for v

esse

ls m

akin

g m

ore

than

30

and

less

than

45

entr

ies i

nto

the

Rese

rve;

an

d $8

8 m

ultip

lied

by th

e ve

ssel

’s ca

paci

ty fo

r ves

sels

mak

ing

45 o

r mor

e en

trie

s to

the

Rese

rve.

201.

Dev

elop

and

impl

emen

t a p

ricin

g st

rate

gy to

app

ly to

cha

rter

ves

sel f

ees,

incl

udin

g an

nual

revi

ew.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

202.

Am

end

legi

slat

ion

to e

nsur

e th

at a

ll ca

tego

ries o

f cha

rter

ves

sels

ope

ratin

g in

the

Rese

rve

are

requ

ired

to c

olle

ct a

nd p

ay A

dmis

sion

Fee

s.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

203.

Inve

stig

ate

a ch

arte

r ves

sel o

pera

tors

lice

nce

syst

em fo

r the

Rot

tnes

t Isl

and

Rese

rve.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

Ro

ttn

est I

slan

d M

anag

emen

t Pla

n 2

003-

2008

A

pp

end

ix 2

126

Year

Dir

ecto

rate

20

0320

0420

0520

0620

07/8

Res

po

nsi

bili

ty

Com

mun

ity In

volv

emen

t and

Rel

atio

ns20

4. In

con

sulta

tion

with

vol

unte

er g

roup

s, d

evel

op a

nd im

plem

ent a

Vol

unte

er S

ervi

ces P

lan

to c

larif

y an

d fo

rmal

ise

the

role

of v

olun

teer

To

uris

t Ser

vice

sgr

oups

on

Rott

nest

Isla

nd.

205.

Enc

oura

ge a

nd su

ppor

t vol

unte

er g

roup

s to

carr

y ou

t con

serv

atio

n an

d in

terp

retiv

e ac

tiviti

es o

n th

e Is

land

.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

206.

Mai

ntai

n th

e us

e of

adv

isor

y co

mm

ittee

s to

prov

ide

advi

ce a

nd g

uida

nce

to th

e A

utho

rity

on sp

ecifi

c is

sues

and

subj

ects

. A

LL

207.

Ope

rate

a c

ompl

aint

han

dlin

g pr

oces

s tha

t is v

isib

le, a

cces

sibl

e an

d fa

ir.

Tour

ist S

ervi

ces

208.

Rev

iew

the

cons

ulta

tion

mec

hani

sms u

sed

for t

he d

evel

opm

ent o

f the

Rot

tnes

t Isl

and

Man

agem

ent P

lan.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

Vis

itor S

uppo

rt S

ervi

ces

209.

Mai

ntai

n an

d pr

omot

e a

Rang

er p

rofil

e ba

sed

on g

uida

nce,

inte

rpre

tatio

n an

d a

high

leve

l of p

ublic

con

tact

with

all

user

gro

ups.

C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

210.

Rep

lace

the

Rang

er 1

Mar

ine

Vess

el.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

211.

Con

tinue

to su

ppor

t the

Hon

orar

y Ra

nger

Pro

gram

.C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

212.

Iden

tify

and

trai

n a

pool

of s

taff

who

are

ava

ilabl

e to

fill

shor

t ter

m o

r sea

sona

l Ran

ger d

utie

s.Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

213.

Mai

ntai

n an

d en

hanc

e re

latio

ns w

ith th

e Ro

ttne

st Is

land

Pol

ice.

C

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

214.

Mai

ntai

n an

d en

hanc

e re

latio

ns b

etw

een

the

Nur

sing

Pos

t, a

s par

t of t

he F

rem

antle

Hos

pita

l and

Hea

lth S

ervi

ce, a

nd th

e A

utho

rity.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

215.

Rev

iew

the

Aut

horit

y’s R

isk

Man

agem

ent P

rogr

am.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

216.

Rev

iew

and

reis

sue

the

Aut

horit

y’s R

isk

Aw

aren

ess B

roch

ure.

M

arke

ting

and

Com

mun

icat

ions

217.

Con

tinue

the

impl

emen

tatio

n of

the

Rott

nest

Isla

nd A

sbes

tos M

anag

emen

t Pro

gram

. Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

218.

Mai

ntai

n pa

rtic

ipat

ion

in a

nd su

ppor

t of t

he L

ocal

Em

erge

ncy

Man

agem

ent C

omm

ittee

.Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

219.

Inve

stig

ate

and

impl

emen

t mea

ns to

ens

ure

effic

ient

fire

figh

ting

in a

low

wat

er p

ress

ure

envi

ronm

ent.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

220.

Pro

gres

sive

ly u

pgra

de a

ll bu

ildin

gs so

that

they

mee

t the

cur

rent

Bui

ldin

gs C

ode

of A

ustr

alia

requ

irem

ents

in re

gard

to fi

re ra

tings

.Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

127

Year

Dir

ecto

rate

20

0320

0420

0520

0620

07/8

Res

po

nsi

bili

tyU

tiliti

es a

nd In

fras

truc

ture

221.

Ope

rate

the

desa

linat

ion

plan

ts a

s the

prim

ary

sour

ce o

f pot

able

wat

er.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

222.

Rev

ise

the

bore

field

man

agem

ent l

icen

ce c

ondi

tions

acc

ordi

ng to

cur

rent

rain

fall

and

defin

e pa

ram

eter

s and

out

com

es o

f res

earc

hC

onse

rvat

ion

and

Plan

ning

betw

een

rain

fall,

gro

undw

ater

and

wet

land

s, in

coo

rdin

atio

n w

ith th

e D

epar

tmen

t of E

nviro

nmen

tal P

rote

ctio

n.

223.

Pro

gres

sivel

y dec

omm

issio

n bo

res t

o ac

hiev

e a

sust

aina

ble

num

ber o

f bor

es.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

224.

Rem

ove

the

sout

hern

cat

chm

ent a

rea

and

reha

bilit

ate

the

area

of t

he fr

eshw

ater

seep

s.Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

225.

Dev

elop

and

impl

emen

t a b

itum

inis

ed c

atch

men

t mai

nten

ance

pro

gram

to e

nsur

e m

axim

um p

ossi

ble

yiel

d fr

om th

e re

mai

ning

Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

bitu

min

ised

cat

chm

ent.

226.

Map

the

loca

tion

of th

e w

ater

net

wor

k sy

stem

.Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

227.

Con

tinue

to in

stal

l wat

er-s

avin

g de

vice

s in

acco

mm

odat

ion

units

.Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

228.

Inve

stig

ate

optio

ns to

redu

ce th

e de

man

d on

pot

able

wat

er fo

r wat

erin

g la

wn

area

s.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

229.

Dev

elop

and

impl

emen

t a p

lan

to re

plac

e th

e w

aste

wat

er n

etw

ork

syst

em.

Busi

ness

Ser

vice

s

230.

Dev

elop

and

impl

emen

t pla

ns fo

r the

cost

-eff

ectiv

e an

d en

viro

nmen

tally

sens

itive

use

of g

rey

wat

er, c

ompl

iant

with

pub

lic h

ealth

requ

irem

ents

.Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

231.

Dev

elop

and

impl

emen

t an

awar

enes

s cam

paig

n to

dis

cour

age

visi

tors

from

brin

ging

non

-rec

ycla

ble

and

exce

ssiv

ely

pack

aged

M

arke

ting

and

Com

mun

icat

ions

prod

ucts

to R

ottn

est I

slan

d.

232.

Wor

k w

ith th

e bu

sine

ss c

omm

unity

to re

duce

the

prop

ortio

n of

pro

duct

s sup

plie

d w

hich

are

exc

essi

vely

pac

kage

d.Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

233.

Dev

elop

a w

aste

man

agem

ent p

lan

for R

ottn

est I

slan

d.Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

234.

Inve

stig

ate

the

feas

ibili

ty o

f bur

ying

the

Wad

jem

up p

ower

line

in a

n en

viro

nmen

tally

sens

itive

, cos

t-ef

fect

ive

man

ner i

n co

ordi

natio

n Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

with

the

deve

lopm

ent o

f Wad

jem

up a

s an

Act

ivity

Nod

e.

235.

Con

stru

ct a

win

d tu

rbin

e on

Mt H

ersc

hel a

nd m

onito

r its

impa

ct a

nd e

ffic

ienc

y.Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

Ro

ttn

est I

slan

d M

anag

emen

t Pla

n 2

003-

2008

Pa

rt B

. Man

agem

ent P

lan

nin

g

128

Year

Dir

ecto

rate

20

0320

0420

0520

0620

07/8

Res

po

nsi

bili

ty

236.

Ass

ess t

he b

enef

its o

f the

intr

oduc

tion

of a

seco

nd tu

rbin

e, b

ased

on

the

anal

ysis

of i

mpa

cts a

nd e

ffic

ienc

ies o

f the

firs

t win

d tu

rbin

e.Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

237.

Use

sola

r pan

els a

s a so

urce

of a

ltern

ativ

e po

wer

on

Rott

nest

Isla

nd, w

here

pos

sibl

e an

d pr

actic

able

. Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

238.

Inve

stig

ate

the

bene

fits o

f bio

dies

el fo

r Rot

tnes

t Isl

and,

with

a v

iew

to is

intr

oduc

tion

as a

n al

tern

ativ

e fu

el o

n th

e Is

land

. Bu

sine

ss S

ervi

ces

239.

Dev

elop

and

impl

emen

t a p

rogr

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anni

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248.

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ually

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Man

agem

ent P

lan

2003

- 20

08.

Con

serv

atio

n an

d Pl

anni

ng

129

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Rottnest Island Authority Board

Ms Jennifer Archibald, Chairman

Mr Laurence O’Meara, Deputy Chairman

Mr Joseph Merillo

Mr Angas Hopkins

Ms Rachel Roberts

Ms Catherine Nance

Rottnest Island Authority Chief

Executive Officer

Mr John Mitchell (to October 2002)


Reference Group

Chair: Ms Lesley Smith, Director

Conservation and Planning;

Acting Chief Executive Officer

from October 2002

Project Manager: Ms Jo McCrea

(Bunting), Principal Planning Officer

Members:

• 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).

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: [email protected]

Published by the Rottnest Island Authority. March 2003

rottnest island

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