Rottnest Island.
Camera IconRottnest Island. Credit: Supplied/UIG via Getty Images

State Government announces free entry to Rottnest Island for children this summer

Staff WriterFremantle Gazette

CHILDREN will be admitted to Rottnest Island for free after midday, until dusk, from January 1 to 31, the State Government announced on Wednesday (December 13).

Rotto from Day to Dusk will also see adults pay half price admission fees of $9.

The commencement of a third ferry provider and new timetabling means visitors can stay on the island later, with the last ferry departing at 8pm.

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To encourage families and visitors to stay later in the evening, the Settlement Mall will also be transformed into a lively space – with picnic tables and live music, on Saturday nights.

The discount is extended to visitors landing in the reserve after 12pm by ferry, chartered boats and the general boating community on day trips.

Tourism Minister Paul Papalia.
Camera IconTourism Minister Paul Papalia. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

“With about seven per cent of visitors travelling after midday in summer, there are always seats available on the afternoon ferries travelling to Rottnest.

“We want to use this as an opportunity to encourage visitors to leave later and stay longer into the evening.

“Recent value for money initiatives by ferry providers, island businesses and the State Government have already seen a 29 per cent increase in ferry travel to the island in November compared with the same period last year.

“Rotto from Day to Dusk builds on recent initiatives which have made a trip to Rottnest Island more affordable and accessible.

“We’re committed to continually improving accessibility, affordability and the quality of what is on offer on Rottnest Island.”

For more information, visit http://www.rottnestisland.com

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