AOC Fieldtrip: Wadjemup (Rottnest Island)

Join us for a jam-packed island adventure to Wadjemup – Rottnest Island. Departing from B shed in Fremantle (a short walk from the Fremantle Train Station), the ferry will whisk us across to Rottnest Island (keep an eye out for gannets on the way!). After a welcome to the island from Noongar elder From there we will be a combination of on foot and by bus as we explore the island. We will scan the island’s salt lakes, seasonally home to thousands of Banded Stilt, Red-necked Stint, Ruddy Turnstone and potentially nesting Australian Fairy Tern. With a visit to West End we will cast our eyes out to the Indian Ocean, looking out for Wedge-tailed Shearwaters, Bridled Terns, and possibly whales! In between the two are opportunities to take in the rocky limestone cliffs, turquoise waters with diving Osprey, bushland home to the island’s special Red-capped Robins, Western Whistler and Singing Honeyeater larger than their mainland cousins!

You will undoubtedly meet the world’s most cheerful animal – the smiley Quokka, as well as potentially encounter other non-bird wildlife on the island, including Bottlenose dolphins, Australian Sea Lions and cheeky King Skinks.

WHAT'S INCLUDED:

Return ferry ticket to and from Rottnest Island (departing B Shed, Fremantle at 9:00am)

Indigenous Introduction to Wadjemup

Bus charter around the island

Lunch

Guided experience of Wadjemup's coastlines, lakes and bushland.

WHAT TO BRING:

Binoculars

Hat and sun-protective clothing

Sunscreen

Walking shoes

Water bottle

Snacks

ACCESS:

This fieldtrip will incorporate a mix of bus, ferry and walking. Although the ferry crossing is usually calm, please take suitable precautions if you are susceptible to seasickness under mild conditions.

The itinerary will include a substantial component of walking (approximately 8km over the whole day) as we explore the islands various habitats, on sandy and sealed roads. Please consider in advance if this will be suitable for you.