What’s on Rotto

Rottnest Fast Ferries proudly supports Rottnest Island events. Adding extra services to accommodate special event times and demand. This year, the island comes alive with a diverse lineup of events that cater to every interest. From sports competitions to cultural festivals and family-friendly gatherings, there's always something happening on Rottnest Island.

See below to find out what's happening on Rotto.

 
Sculptures at Wadjemup: Yoowarl Koorl Djinang / Come Look See Exhibition
June
9
to 1 June

Sculptures at Wadjemup: Yoowarl Koorl Djinang / Come Look See Exhibition

Visit this outdoor art exhibition and enter a space of peaceful contemplation at the Wadjemup Museum Sculpture Garden.

Meaning ‘Come Look See’ in the Whadjuk Noongar language, Yoowarl Koorl Djinang is the newest outdoor art installation at the Wadjemup Museum Sculpture Garden. Each new piece is an exploration of personal stories and connections, inspired by the cultural landscapes at Wadjemup. 

The place, together with the artwork, engages visitors to take time out for a moment of quiet reflection of Wadjemup / Rottnest Island’s history, heritage, environment, and the integration of art through life. 

The exhibition of the seven new artworks presents both solo and collaborative projects by artists Beverly Iles, Alessandra Rossi and Andrea Carter, Stephen Brameld and Jay Staples, Phil Gamblen, Tom de Munk-Kerkmeer, Tania Ferrier, and Pavel Perina.  

The artworks inform visitors of the power of art as a tool for unification, and a reminder of both individuality and collectiveness. Each of the pieces are for sale. 

The Sculpture Garden is accessible to view 24/7.

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Wadjemup Wirin Bidi (Wadjemup Spiritual Journey) Exhibition
Oct
17
to 30 June

Wadjemup Wirin Bidi (Wadjemup Spiritual Journey) Exhibition

The Wadjemup Wirin Bidi (Wadjemup Spiritual Journey) Exhibition invites you to develop a deeper understanding of the Wadjemup Project as a journey of truth and remembrance.

Through a series of moving exhibits, the Wadjemup Wirin Bidi (Wadjemup Spiritual Journey) shares the stories of the island’s Aboriginal prisoners, the families who were left behind and the work being delivered through the Wadjemup Project.

Wander past poignant displays to gain a deeper understanding of the island's history, including a historical prison cell door, prisoner shackles, an audio-visual display in the theatrette, artwork displays by Julie Dowling, audio recordings played on the museum deck and more.

There is an extra departure scheduled from Rottnest Island on Saturday the 9th of November at 6:30pm to accommodate the event that day.

Please note: Entry to Wadjemup Museum is by donation. PayWave and cash donations are accepted.

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Yacht Rock: INXS Tribute
Nov
23
11:00 am11:00

Yacht Rock: INXS Tribute

Experience the vibrant energy of summer with Australia’s premier INXS tribute band, live at Hotel Rottnest.

Local sensation What You Need, featuring some of Perth’s most talented musicians, will bring all your favourite INXS hits to life on stage at Hotel Rottnest.

Gather your friends and make a day of it. Enjoy a selection of delicious food and drinks, all while soaking in the stunning coastal views that make this venue so special. Whether you’re a long-time fan of INXS or just looking for a fantastic day out, this event promises to deliver.

Doors open at 11 am, giving you plenty of time to settle in and enjoy the atmosphere before the live music kicks off. The band will keep the energy high with non-stop hits until 8 pm, ensuring a full day of entertainment and fun. Best of all, entry is free!

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Doctor Ocean Paddler
Nov
30
11:30 am11:30

Doctor Ocean Paddler

The Shaw and Partners Doctor Ocean Paddler is regarded by many as the ultimate ocean paddling race. A crossing from the famous Rottnest Island to the stunning white sands of Sorrento Beach.

The Doctor captures the ocean paddler’s imagination as no other race can. Starting in the crystal blue waters of Rottnest, paddlers ride fast moving ocean chop, whipped up by the event's namesake and nickname for the afternoon southwest wind that prevails nearly every day in summer. After 27 km of paddling, racegoers catch the final run to the beach to make a short sprint to the finish on Sorrento Beach.

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Yacht Rock: AC/DC Tribute
Dec
21
11:00 am11:00

Yacht Rock: AC/DC Tribute

Get ready to rock as The Australian AC/DC Experience takes centre stage, bringing the legendary sounds of AC/DC to life on the stunning Wadjemup / Rottnest Island.

This energetic tribute band will transport you straight to the heart of an AC/DC concert, complete with bagpipes and iconic stage props that pay homage to the band’s most infamous performances.

Make your way to Hotel Rottnest for an unforgettable day filled with high-energy rock music, delicious food, refreshing drinks, and breathtaking views. Gather your friends and family for a day of fun and entertainment that you won’t want to miss.

The event kicks off at 11 am, with live music rocking the stage until 8 pm. 

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NYE Family Fireworks
Dec
31
3:00 pm15:00

NYE Family Fireworks

There’s no better place to spend the last day of 2024, and ring in a joyful new year with friends and family.

Indulge in a leisurely day discovering the island, leading into an afternoon of entertainment tailored to the whole family. As the sun gracefully dips below the horizon of the Indian Ocean, join in commemorating this moment with a free family fireworks display over Thomson Bay at 8 pm.

This event is free to attend, but registration is required.  

Registrations opening soon. 

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Pete Murray and Eskimo Joe Live at Hotel Rottnest
Jan
12
11:00 am11:00

Pete Murray and Eskimo Joe Live at Hotel Rottnest

Get ready for an unforgettable summer experience as Hotel Rottnest presents two of Australia's most iconic musical acts.

On Sunday 12 January 2025, enjoy live performances by Pete Murray and Eskimo Joe, all set against the stunning scenery of Wadjemup / Rottnest Island. A day that promises sunshine, ocean views, and incredible live music.

Kick off the festivities from 11 am with doors, box office, bar, and food stalls all opening to welcome you. The McCredie Brothers will take the stage from 2 pm to 2:45 pm, setting the tone for a perfect afternoon. The legendary Eskimo Joe will follow, captivating the crowd from 3 pm to 4:15 pm with their greatest hits, before the soulful sounds of Pete Murray close out the day with a mesmerising set from 4:45 pm to 6 pm.

Don’t miss this exclusive chance to enjoy a day on the island with world-class entertainment.

Presented by SummerSalt and Hotel Rottnest.

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South32 Rottnest Channel Swim
Feb
22
9:00 am09:00

South32 Rottnest Channel Swim

Highly regarded worldwide as one of Western Australia’s most iconic events, the South32 Rottnest Channel Swim is a 19.7 km open water swim from Cottesloe Beach to Rottnest Island.

Be part of the action 

Will you attempt the challenge? Cross the Rottnest Channel as a team of four, pair of two, or, for the extremely dedicated, as a soloist. Regardless of the category you participate in, the South32 Rottnest Channel Swim is a team event, with all participants surrounded by a network of paddlers, skippers and support crew.

For full event details, including how to register, briefing dates and advice for training and preparation, head to the South32 Rottnest Channel Swim website.

Cheer from the sidelines

Conquering the South32 Rottnest Channel Swim is no easy feat. Be there to cheer on the swimmers and support crews as they cross the finish line and celebrate their achievement at Thomson Bay.

The best vantage points to see the participants arrive are:

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Holiday Art Workshops with Travelling T-Shirts
July
10
to 19 July

Holiday Art Workshops with Travelling T-Shirts

  • Kingstown Barracks, Mural Room (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join in a special art workshop with Travelling T-shirts this July school holidays.

You’re invited to immerse yourself in the creative atmosphere of the mural room at Kingstown Barracks with the Travelling T-shirts team.

When taking part in this special workshop, you’ll be guided to create a digital design to be printed onto a T-shirt that you’ll be able to take home as a memento of your visit. Plus, you’ll get a matching hat for free!

The 90-minute workshops take place at 11:30 am and 1:30 pm daily between 10 and 19 July. Your masterpieces will be ready for collection the day after your workshop from 11:15 am.

These sessions are suitable for children of all ages but adult supervision is required for those under 10 years of age.

Tickets are $50 per person. Bookings are essential and spaces are limited. Book now at the Travelling T-shirts website.

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2024 Brooks Running Festival
June
16
8:00 am08:00

2024 Brooks Running Festival

Whether you run for sport, competitively or for fun, the Brooks Running Festival has something for every type of runner. Explore the scenery of Rottnest while pushing yourself to reach your end goal. With track options ranging from the full 42.2km marathon, a 21.1km half marathon, 10km and 5km fun run and a 300m “Quokka Dash” kids race, everyone can participate!

This event raises funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service, who provide vital medical care and emergency services to remote and rural areas of Western Australia. The money raised through this event will help to ensure that these critical services can continue and be available to those who need them.

Don’t miss your chance to participate in this amazing opportunity and experience an unforgettable adventure. Online registrations close on Thursday 13 June at 12 noon.

Hosted by the West Australian Marathon Club, to promote the sport of distance running while raising funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

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Sunday Roast
June
2
to 15 Sept

Sunday Roast

Hotel Rottnest is bringing back Sunday Roasts

Sunday Roasts are making a return from the 2nd of June. Taking place every weekend from 12pm, enjoy a delicious roasted meal with the crew for just $32.

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ANZAC Day Services
Apr
24
to 25 Apr

ANZAC Day Services

Travel to Wadjemup / Rottnest Island for a special ANZAC service like no other. 

ANZAC Day holds a special place on the Rottnest Island calendar. With a long military history, we commemorate all who have served and continue to serve.  

Wadjemup / Rottnest Island played an important role in WWII, and there are many places of significance on the island, in addition to generations of families who have family who have served and were stationed at Rottnest Island during WWI and WWII.    

Join us to reflect and mark this important day of remembrance with services on the foreshore of Thomson Bay. Please note both services are free of charge, however registration is required.

Wednesday 24 April
5:45 pm - Dusk Service 
Thomson Lawn 
An opportunity to pay your respects on the eve of ANZAC Day, with a service conducted as the sun sets over the island. Register here .

Thursday 25 April 
6:00 am – ANZAC Day Dawn Service 
Thomson Lawn 
As the sun rises over the ocean, stand as we mark ANZAC Day and honour the dedication and sacrifice shown by all who have served and continue to serve. Register here.

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Yacht Rock Weekend - Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band
Mar
24
11:00 am11:00

Yacht Rock Weekend - Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band

Say goodbye to the summer season with a rocking live performance at Hotel Rottnest.

Dance to the sounds of Fleetwood Mac and The Eagles, played by local band, Landslide. Get your crew together and spend the day at Hotel Rottnest enjoying refreshing cocktails, good food and first-class views of Thomson Bay.

Doors open from 11am, with live music playing until 8pm.

Take our 10:00am ferry to the island and enjoy our additional late-night departure at 8:30pm.

This is a FREE event.

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Footy Fever
Mar
7
to 28 Sept

Footy Fever

Hotel Rottnest presents Footy Fever.

Catch the game while enjoying a tasty pub feed.

Hotel Rottnest presents Footy Fever - watch all the free-to-air games live, all season long.

Don’t miss the action!

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Surf's Up Wadjemup
Dec
8
to 14 June

Surf's Up Wadjemup

Discover what makes Rottnest Island a world class surfing destination at the Wadjemup Museum.

Stroll through a collection of surfboards and surfing memorabilia as you read the personal stories of the island’s surfing pioneers. The exhibit includes visual and interactive displays which offer an insight into the cultural connection between surfers and Wadjemup. An indoor surfboard also offers a great photo opportunity for visitors.

Please note: Entry to Wadjemup Museum is by donation, Paywave and cash donations are accepted.

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Sculptures at Wadjemup
June
9
to 9 June

Sculptures at Wadjemup

Yoowarl Koorl Djinang/Come Look See Exhibition

An exciting outdoor art exhibit is now on display at the Wadjemup Museum Sculpture Garden. Each artwork is representative of personal stories and connections inspired by the cultural landscapes of the island.

The Sculpture Garden is accessible 24/7, allowing visitors to take a moment to reflect on Wadjemup’s history, heritage and environment. The collection features both solo and collaborative projects by 9 different artists.

Each of the artworks are for sale.

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New Years Eve
Dec
31
8:00 am08:00

New Years Eve

There’s no better place to spend the last day of the year than Rottnest Island. Spend a relaxing day soaking up the sun and exploring the pristine beauty of the island, followed by an afternoon of fun entertainment that the whole family will love.

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Quokka Bday
Sept
18
8:00 am08:00

Quokka Bday

Join us as we welcome the newest generation of quokkas with activities all September long, from wildlife tours to photography workshops and a self-guided treasure hunt. We’re also hosting a special birthday party event on Sunday 18 September!

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