WAPlanned settlement
Rottnest Island
Farming, imprisonment, defence and tourism successively shaped the island settlement.
1831Permanent colonial settlement began at Thomson Bay
WHAT STARTED IT
Swan River colonists built farms and buildings at Thomson Bay before the island became a prison and forced-labour camp from 1838.
WHAT SUSTAINED IT
A pilot station, wartime batteries and holiday accommodation followed; recreation became the dominant use from the early 1900s.
TURNING POINTS
1831Permanent colonial settlement began at Thomson Bay
1900sA pilot station, wartime batteries and holiday accommodation followed; recreation became the dominant use from the early 1900s.
WHAT IT DOES NOW
A protected holiday island and ferry destination managed for recreation, conservation and difficult colonial heritage.