17 JANUARY 2024
Funding Commitment for Rottnest Island's Main Jetty
The State Government has announced an investment of $10.7 million to enhance the safe and ongoing access to Rottnest Island, under the Rottnest Island Main Jetty refurbishment and upgrade project.
The State Government has announced an investment of $10.7 million to enhance the safe and ongoing access to Rottnest Island, under the Rottnest Island Main Jetty refurbishment and upgrade project.
The Hon. Rita Saffioti, Deputy Premier and Minister for Tourism made the announcement at a media event confirming the government’s $25.9 million state-wide investment to upgrade and improve key tourism sites across Western Australia.
The Main Jetty on Wadjemup / Rottnest Island is the island’s largest maritime service structure, with the barge ramp used for daily cargo operations to and from the mainland located at the base of the jetty.
The jetty is the main arterial point of entry for island visitors and where they commence their Rottnest Island experience as they disembark from ferries. It is also the sole entry and exit point for ferry operators while the barge ramp is used for commercial deliveries.
The Main Jetty works, which will ensure the operational safety of the jetty for at least 25 years, are scheduled to commence during winter 2024 and include the:
- renewal of Berths 1, 2 and 3 including sheet pile corrosion protection and bollard replacement; and
- refurbishment and pavement works for the barge landing area.
The works are part of a suite of infrastructure improvements that the State Government has funded through the marine infrastructure upgrade program over five years. To date, the program has funded the rebuilding of the Fuel Jetty, reinforcing and widening of the Main Jetty Berths 4 and 5, and construction of a new seawall in South Thomson Bay.
The government’s investment supports the aims of Rottnest Island Authority’s five-year Rottnest Island Management Plan 2023-28, which includes the key focus areas to improve the visitor experience, and upgrade and modernise the island’s existing infrastructure.