Rottnest Island Lodge, an accommodation stalwart of the island in Western Australia, has been granted approval for a $40 million redevelopment.
Part of the conditions of the approval is that recognition is shown to the site’s Indigenous heritage, with Whadjuk Noongar language to be use in naming the new hotel, as well as Whadjuk people advising the project.
The island was used as a prison for nearly 4000 Indigenous men and boys from 1838 to 1931.
The new lodge will feature 102 rooms, a cafe and restaurant with focuses on local produce, a wellness centre and two pools.
WA Tourism Minister Roger Cook said: “This is an opportunity to re-create the lodge in harmony with its outstanding natural setting, ensuring that it complements the historic built environment of the precinct, and respects the Aboriginal history of the area.
“Importantly, the conditions applied to this redevelopment will help ensure the significant heritage of the site is acknowledged.”
Explore more: rottnestisland.com
