Museums and galleries
Rottnest Island Museum
Housed in the original hayshed and granary, it was built by Aboriginal prisoners in 1857. The museum provides fascinating insights and comprehensive information about the Island including history, marine wrecks, European settlement, Aboriginal prisoners, communication and recreations.
Salt Store Gallery and Exhibition Centre
Located in the centre of the Thomson Bay Settlement, the Salt Store is one of the oldest buildings on Rottnest Island.
Constructed by Aboriginal prisoners in 1868, the Salt Store was originally used to hold the bagged salt collected from two of Rottnest Island's salt lakes, ready for transportation to Fremantle.
In 1997 the limestone building was restored but still retains many of its original features.
Today, this relaxed and unconventional venue is primarily used as a gallery space and hosts a variety of interpretive displays and unique art and photography exhibitions. The Salt Store is also the meeting point for walking tours conducted by Rottnest Voluntary Guides.
The Salt Store is available to hire for individuals and groups. If you are interested in hiring the Salt Store for your next exhibition, please contact the RIA Interpretation Officer
Information for exhibitors 2010
Phone: +61 8 9372 9781 or
Email Genevieve.farrelly@rottnestisland.com
Lomas Cottage
Located on the Heritage Common, this cottage was originally built for John Lomas, an ex-convict and later ‘Imperial Pauper’ for whom the Government provided housing and provisions.
Over the years the cottage has served many different purposes. In 1997 it was restored to its original form and now serves as an exhibition space. The cottage provides interpretive information on the intriguing life of John Lomas and houses The Angelo Collection.
The 15 photographs which comprise the Angelo Collection represent some of the most significant portraits of life on Rottnest Island in the 19th Century.
The collection contains photographs of male Aboriginal prisoners engaged in a variety of activities on Rottnest Island and are perhaps the most significant and poignant photographs of their type.
Lomas Cottage is open daily from 10:45am to 12:30pm.