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There has recently been some changes to our education program and activities offered. Find out more about the products currently offered from the pages below. Rottnest Island Authority is working hard to develop new curriculum-linked activities and welcomes your feedback and suggestions.
To make your planning experience easier and less stressful, we have outlined a step by step process to guide you through your journey:
Step One: Plan your island activities
View the Educational Tours and Activities and Curriculum-linked Self-Guided Activities tabs above for a complete list of island activities and tours. There are activity kits available for hire for Self-Guided Activities.
Step Two: Arrange venues and accommodation
When planning your school excursion or camp, it's smart to first check that your required accommodation and venues (visit the tabs above) will be available during your excursion dates. Accommodation can now be booked up to 18 months in advance.
Step Three: Arrange transport to the Island
Transfers across to Rottnest Island can be booked through one of the two ferry operators. Rottnest Island ferry companies provide transfers to the island from Perth City, North Fremantle (Rous Head), Fremantle (Victoria Quay) and Hillarys Boat Harbour in Perth’s north. Rottnest ferries take approximately 25 minutes from Fremantle, 45 minutes from Hillarys Boat Harbour, or 90 minutes from Perth's Barrack Street Jetty.
Don't forget to ask about group discounts for school groups.
To learn more about ferry travel to Rottnest Island, download the Ferry Travel Fact Sheet.
Step Four: Arrange catering
Kids need energy to keep their bodies and minds active! Whether it is a self prepared meal or catered options that are delivered to you, there are a number of different providers available on Rottnest Island. For full list and contact details, download the Catering Factsheet.
Handy Extras
- View the Resources and Downloads tab above to view educational resources
- Download our Guide to Safety on Rottnest Island
- Download the Rottnest Island Certificate of Currency
- Download your free Rottnest Island smartphone app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and expand your self-guided experience today. This free app consists of a range self-guided tours including walking, cycling and snorkelling. Discover and learn about the
Self-Guided Activities
Our range of curriculum self-guided activities allows you more freedom when planning your excursion. The flexibility of these activities mean you can tailor your itinerary to best suit your group.
Self guided activity kits are available for hire at a daily rate and are complete with all the equipment and information needed for the facilitator to conduct the activities themselves. Included in each kit is background information, a running sheet and all the equipment required to conduct the activity.
Full downloadable information about self-guided activities available below and form available here (print-friendly version).
Adventure Challenge Foot Race
Provide the opportunity for participants to build positive relationships with their peers by working as part of a small team while developing their awareness of Rottnest Island’s environment and history. In this quiz-based activity, teams will need to explore the Settlement area using signage and prior knowledge to provide informed answers to the questions provided.
Location: Main Settlement.
For teachers: 50 mins. Years 6-12. Runs effectively with 10-30 people.
Curriculum links: HPE, S&E
Beach Clean Up
Do your part for Rottnest Island by doing some community service. By participating in a beach clean up you are helping us collect information about the type of debris which washes up or is left on our beaches. This information is then reported to a national registry as part of the Tangaroa Blue Ocean Care Society.
Location: A beach of your choice.
For teachers: For as long as you like and suitable for any age and any size group.
Curriculum links: Science, S&E, Maths, Sustainability
Tidal Treasures
Comb the beach to discover hidden treasures left behind by the retreating waves and beach goers. Participants will develop their knowledge of coastal and marine ecosystems and the special features and adaptations of their organisms that live within or get washed up on them.
Location: A beach of your choice.
For teachers: 50 mins. Years 3-12. Runs effectively with 10-30 people
Curriculum links: Science, SP, S&E
Curious Quokkas
Use scientific investigative techniques to develop a greater understanding of quokka behaviour and habitat. Search for, observe, record and discuss where quokkas live, what they eat and how they spend their day.
Location: Kingstown or the Settlement.
For teachers: 50 mins. Years 3-10. Runs effectively with 10-30 people
Curriculum links: S&E, Science
The Seasons of Wadjemup
Learn about the six Noongar seasons and the significance of the flora and fauna during each as well as their traditional uses. Students conduct an acknowledgement of country ceremony and complete a quiz and puzzle at the newly refurbished Season Shelter.
Location: Six Seasons Shelter.
For teachers: 60 mins. Years 5-8. Runs effectively with 10-25 students
Curriculum links: Geography, Science, History, Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islanders Histories & Cultures
Museum visit
Housed in the Discover Rottnest Island's fascinating natural and cultural heritage at the Rottnest Island museum, located in the Settlement. Opening hours are from 11.00am - 3.00pm. Group bookings essential. Max 30 people. Other times may be available by special arrangement at the time of booking.
P: +61 (0) 448 175 081 E: education@rottnestisland.com
W: rottnestisland.com/education
Useful websites to assist in self-guided activities on Rottnest
- www.wildlife.rottnestisland.com - For those who are interested in teaching students about Rottnest Island's unique and intriguing wildlife, please feel free to use our NEW wildlife website as an educational tool. All content on this website is free for schools to use for education purposes.
- www.everytrail.com - Rottnest Island Authority has established two walking trails on the smartphone application Everytrail.com. These include:
- Colonial Buildings of Thomson Bay with an informative history of the Aboriginal history and colonial buildings of the settlement area on a 4.5km walk.
- Experience Rottnest Island that identifies a number of 'things to see and do' on this amazing Island that is only a short distance from Perth and Fremantle cities.
- www.geocaching.com - Rottnest Island Authority has established a number of geocaches within the Rottnest Island reserve that complement the suite of existing finds placed by other caching enthusiasts. Rottnest Islander cahces are informative and provide a further insight into the Island's environmental and historical attributes. Download the application on your smart phone or log into geocaching.com and view online.
Rottnest Island Water and Renewable Energy Nexus Mobile App (WREN)
- www.rottnestisland.com/sustainability - View Rottnest Island's renewable power generation in real time with Hydro Tasmania's NEW Rottnest Island Water and Renewable Energy Nexus project mobile phone app.
This app will take you on a journey through the exciting renewable energy scheme that is making Rottnest Island more self-sufficient and sustainable. Use the app to explore the Island, visit the solar farm and wind turbine and discover ways to reduce your ecological footprint. Don't forget to look out for the educational signs dotted across the Island!
Download for your iPhone or Android today!
Tours By Request
Bickley Battery Walk
Explore the Kingstown Barracks and the site of the 6-inch guns that made up the Bickley Battery. Students will learn how the battery operated and its role as an integral part of the defence of the Port of Fremantle during World War II. The battery was part of the overall military establishment on Rottnest Island which included the 9.2inch guns at Oliver Hill and the observation post and that radio and radar facilities at the Wadjemup Lighthouse.
Meeting Location: Kingstown Barracks
Duration: 1 hour
Behind the Scenes Tour by Bicycle
At the height of summer there are several thousand visitors on the Island. Throughout the whole year there is an average of about 1900 people visiting Rottnest every day. All of the services for these people must be dealt with in a special way due to the Island's isolation from the mainland.
Discover how the Island's essential services especially water, electricity (wind, sun and diesel) and waste water are provided as well as other essential services.
Meeting Location: To be arranged
Duration: 1.5 hours
ADAMS Services
Need to move a group from one place to another? Bus transfers can be booked for easy transport around the Island. Please contact reservations@goadams.com.au
Ghosts, Myths & Legends (Evening Tour)
Take the spooky journey with the voluntary guides and prepare to hear some thrilling tales about many of Rottnest Island's mysterious past identities.
Meeting Location: Salt Store
Duration: 1 hour
Oliver Hill Gun and Tunnels
Visit the massive 9.2inch diameter gun on Oliver Hill and tour the underground tunnels to experience Rottnest Island during World War II. A guide will ensure an educational journey.
Meeting Location: Oliver Hill
Duration: 50 minutes
Pioneers and Prisoners
Retrace the footsteps of our early inhabitants as we take you on a journey to learn about Rottnest Island in the 1800s. You will be taken on a guided walk through the historic Thomson Bay Settlement to discover the Island's rich heritage, incorporating both Aboriginal and European history.
Meeting Location: Salt Store
Duration: 50 minutes
Reefs, Wrecks and Daring Sailors
Pilots were stationed on Rottnest Island between 1838 and 1903 to guide ships safely around the Island's dangerous reefs. This tour incorporates the pilot crew accommodation, the boathouse and a replica pilot boat.
Meeting Location: Salt Store
Duration: 50 minutes
Stargazing (Evening Tour)
Walk to the Vlamingh Lookout where a myriad of stars can be seen. Learn about planets, stars and constellations. Times are subject to change throughout the year and will be confirmed on booking.
Meeting Location: Salt Store
Duration: 50 minutes
The Changing Face of Rottnest
This tour highlights past vegetation changes on Rottnest Island over 3 eras since the Island was first explored by Europeans, including the plants that have dominated the landscape since settlement in 1831. The vegetation restoration programs that have been implemented in the period 1963 to 2005 are examined. Plantings of trees, shrubs and sedges, and the strategies for their protection, are observed and evaluated.
This tour is conducted using bicycles and on foot, covering several kilometres. The tour concludes at the Island's plant nursery where students examine plant propagation and where they can complete an evaluation exercise.
Meeting Location: Salt Store
Duration: 2 hours
Twilight Tales (Evening Tour)
Step back in time and learn about the secrets of some of Rottnest Island's early inhabitants. This evening walking tour is full of stories to surprise and intrigue you! Times are subject to change throughout the year.
Meeting Location: Salt Store
Duration: 50 minutes
Wadjemup Lighthouse
Discover what goes on within the walls of a real working lighthouse and experience the breathtaking 360° views from the top.
Meeting Location: Wadjemup Lighthouse
Duration: 30 minutes
Whitecaps & Wilderness Walk
Learn more about Rottnest Island's unique environment, vegetation, animals, birds and marine environment. On this guided walk, students will explore parts of the Island's south side, from Parker Point to Little Salmon Bay, while learning about the magical coastline and hardy flora and fauna of this area, including the iconic osprey.
Meeting Location: Parker Point (Bus or Cycle to Parker Point)
Duration: 50 minutes
Download the Guided Tours Fact Sheet, or view the Education Services Price List
See more tours and activities available on Rottnest Island.
Looking for more to do?
- Experience Perth offers an in-depth profile on Rottnest Island and identifies a number of ‘things to see and do’ on this amazing Island that is only a short distance from Perth and Fremantle cities. http://www.experienceperth.com/destinations/rottnest-island
- Download your free Rottnest Island smartphone app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and expand your self-guided experience today. This free app consists of a range self-guided tours including walking, cycling and snorkelling. You will discover the complex history and stories of Rottnest Island, from Aboriginal occupation to over 100 years of tourism and everything in between including European settlement, agricultural industry, military installations and the continual change of becoming a sustainable tourism destination
- Over 50 geocaches are placed within the Rottnest Island reserve. Rottnest Islander caches are informative and provide a further insight into the Island’s environmental and historical attributes. Download the application on your smart phone or log into geocaching.com and view on line.
Venue Hire
Want to run your own activities but are looking for that perfect venue? Whatever size your group is, there is something that will suit your every need.
The Kingstown precinct offers a range of different venues for hire to suit any sized group and need.
Activity Rooms
Activity Rooms with kitchenette facilities are also available for hire at Kingstown. These are well equipped to host your quiz, movie or games nights or any other exciting activities you can come up with! These are available for day or evening use and times and prices are available on application.
P: 9432 9118 E: groups@rottnestisland.com
W: www.rottnestisland.com/education
Main Hall and Kitchenette: Room 120
Located within the Barracks building itself, the Main Hall is suitable for larger groups of 100-150 people. It is close to the dining hall and is ideal for games nights or performances.
P: 9432 9118 E: groups@rottnestisland.com
W: www.rottnestisland.com/education
Video Room: Room 110
Also located within the main Barracks building, the Video Room is suitable for smaller groups of 15-30 people. Smaller group activities are ideal in this room.
P: 9432 9118 E: groups@rottnestisland.com
W: www.rottnestisland.com/education
REA Building Kitchen and Lounge: Room 100
A fully equipped kitchen is available for your school's personal use with adjoining lounge for relaxing or reviewing the day's activities.
P: 9432 9118 E: groups@rottnestisland.com
W: www.rottnestisland.com/education
Peacock Inn: Room 200
Located between the Barracks and Governors Circle, this facility can cater for groups of 25-40 people. It is an appropriate venue for classroom activities or quiz nights.
P: 9432 9118 E: groups@rottnestisland.com
W: www.rottnestisland.com/education
FOR A LARGER VENUE CLOSER TO THE SETTLEMENT
Picture Hall: Room 130
A large venue closer to the main settlement, the Picture Hall can be used for movie nights upon request and has ample space for lectures or to carry out other activities.
P: 0412 442 683 E: paul@broomemovies.com.au
Resources and Downloads
Make your learning experience richer. Following are a list of publications about the Island’s Aboriginal history, heritage, colonial buildings, birdlife and terrestrial environment that will help you on your way. There are also a list of websites and lesson suggestions for teachers and camp leaders.
Publications
Rottnest Island – It’s our Heritage by RIA
Rottnest Island allows a number of layers of Western Australian history to be appreciated in the one area, including colonial, Aboriginal, maritime, military, recreational and social heritage. This publication is intended to provide a ‘snapshot’ of the significant historic value of the Island from first discovery by Dutch navigators to current day.
This RIA Publication is available for purchase either on the Island from the Visitor Centre or by post by completing a purchasing request form
Rottnest Island is referred to as Wadjemup by traditional Aboriginal people from the Noongar language group. As custodians of the land the Whadjuk people have strong spiritual connections to Wadjemup and it remains significant to the Aboriginal community today. This publication aims to tell the ‘untold’ story of many Aboriginal men and boys imprisoned on the Island during the 93 years it operated as a prison, while acknowledging the traditional and contemporary connection Aboriginal people have with Wadjemup. It is also a major step toward reconciliation for the Island.
This RIA Publication is available for purchase either on the Island from the Visitor Centre or by post by completing a purchasing request form.
This publication provides a description of the history of the buildings of the Thomson Bay settlement on Rottnest Island and their architecture. All constructed in the 19th century and primarily of limestone, with the exception of some minor 20th century brick or timber-framed additions, the buildings – most of which are still standing today - provide visitors a step back in time to discover elements of the island’s history and industry. This publication explains what each of the building’s purpose was and what they are now used for.
This RIA Publication is available for purchase either on the Island from the Visitor Centre or by post by completing a purchasing request form.
Rottnest Island provides an idyllic escape from the hectic routine of life on the mainland – and not just for humans. A combination of distinct habitats, lack of predators and minimal human development has enabled many species of birds, mammals, insects and reptiles to prosper on the Island. Birds in particular, have benefited greatly from this isolation. This publication, written in partnership with Birds Australia, describes the main habitats on Rottnest Island – including the coast, salt lakes, heath, woodlands and settlement - and introduces 54 bird species which live on or regularly visit the Island.
This RIA Publication is available for purchase either on the Island from the Visitor Centre or by post by completing a purchasing request form.
The Dutch explorer Willem de Vlamingh described Rottnest Island as a ‘terrestrial paradise’ when he visited it in 1696. He described an island covered in dense woodland with rich wildlife. Since then, human impact has drastically altered the natural features of the terrestrial environment. This publication explores the Island’s weather conditions, geographical history, vegetation, flora and fauna including an overview of its mammals, reptiles and bird species. The provisions of water, power and waste management are also discussed.
This RIA Publication is available for purchase either on the Island from the Visitor Centre or by post by completing a purchasing request form.
Coastal Plants is a guide to the plants that grow along the Perth coastline and on the islands between Dongara and Dunsborough. There are descriptions of over 130 plant species, from seagrasses to the beautiful Boronia alata, from the mangroves of the Abrolhos islands to invasive Arum Lilies, from the giant Tuart eucalyptus to beach spinifexes. Each description yields a wealth of detail on the habits and peculiarities of not only the plants, but also some of the animal life that is associated with them.
Superbly illustrated with line drawings and watercolour paintings of each species, Coastal Plants is an important reference work on this diverse group of plants.
Fifty Years Afloat by Hugh Cameron
Fifty Years Afloat details the Rottnest and Swan River ferry boats and the men who ran them. Hugh Cameron’s interesting and well-written account of his experience in small vessels, particularly ferries in Western Australia, and on dredges in Queensland, makes a welcome addition to the published material dealing with aspects of local maritime history.
Far From Home by Neville Green and Susan Moon
'Far From Home' identifies more than 3600 Aboriginal prisoners who served time on Rottnest Island. Some were associated with historic events such as the Battle of Pinjarra (1834), the Flying Foam massacre (1868), the Jandamarra uprising in the Kimberley (1892-94) and the Forrest River massacre (1926). Some travelled with the explorers John Forrest and Francis Gregory, and others, while on parole, severed on the frontiers as police assistants, pearl divers and guides for the telegraph surveys.
Accompanying the biographical listing of prisoners is a historical account of the Rottnest establishment and prison life, describing the experiences of men who were separated from their families and sent to a cold and deary island off the coast of Western Australia. For more than 370 it was a one-way journey, and today, denied the recognition they deserve, they lie in unmarked graves far from home.
Gone to Rottnest by Trea Wiltshire
Rottnest Island has iconic status for Western Australians, who have always valued it for its relaxed atmosphere and unspoiled simplicity. Gone to Rottnest tells the story of the island, tracing its transformation from a place of imprisonment to a favourite holiday destination. Trea Wiltshire celebrates the natural history and simple pleasures of the island—biking and snorkelling, diving and bird watching. Readers are introduced to the birds that will share their stretch of beach, the vegetation they will ride through when exploring the island, the fish they may catch, and the migrating whales and playful dolphins of the Indian Ocean.
Guidebook to the Geology of Rottnest Island by Phillip E Playford
Guidebook to the Geology of Rottnest Island by Philip E Playford provides a detailed account of the geology of Rottnest Island, as well as being a handy field guide to key geological localities. It will be of interest not only to professional geologists, but also to teachers, students, and members of the general public who wish to learn something about the geology while holidaying on the island.
Jack’s Island by Norman Jorgensen
Jack’s family is based on Rottnest Island during WWII while his father helps build an airfield. Jack and his best friend Banjo have the run of the island and a remarkable knack for getting into trouble — but as Jack says, ‘I’m not that bad, I just get caught a lot!’ Dafty, a simple but loveable young boy, dotes on Banjo and Jack. When Dafty seeks revenge against the local schoolmaster for a punishment inflicted on Banjo, life suddenly becomes more serious. This poignant, multi-layered text offers young readers a valuable insight into life in Australia during the war.
Teaching notes are also available.
Rottnest Island by Sally Keady, Illustrated by Patricia Negus
This 69 page book covers every aspect of beautiful Rottnest Island, Western Australia’s favourite holiday place. It is an informative travel guide, history book and nature guide all rolled into one easy to read book for people of all ages. More than 100 beautiful watercolour illustrations by well known Western Australian artist, Patricia Negus perfectly captures the relaxed holiday feeling, the wide variety of animals and plants and the historic buildings of the Island. A stunning gift or souvenir for all lovers of ‘Rotto’.
Wonders of Western Waters: The Marine Life of South-Western Australia by DEC
Western Australia's temperate waters are alive with amazing and diverse marine life. There are leafy sea dragons resembling pieces of floating seaweed, brightly coloured sea slugs that feed on corals, crabs with pieces of algae and sponge growing on their backs for camouflage, and colourful cuttlefish that can change colour and texture in an instant.Wonders of Western Waters: The Marine Life of South-Western Australia contains descriptions and photographs, of many marine inhabitants, and gives an insight into their natural history and relationships with other plants and animals in their ecosystems.
Written and photographed by two of WA's leading underwater photographers, Sue Morrison and Ann Storrie, Wonders of Western Waters: The Marine Life of South-Western Australia is a must for divers, snorkellers and anyone with an interest in our wonderful marine life.