Rottnest Island celebrates its little quokkas with a weekend of free family fun
Rottnest Island’s Little Quokka’s Big Birthday Weekend returns on September 12 and 13 with free children’s ferry travel, island admission, wildlife activities and live entertainment.
EVENTS & WHAT’S ON
Wadjemup/Rottnest Island will host two days of free family activities this weekend as the Cook Labor Government celebrates the arrival of the island’s newest quokka joeys.
Little Quokka’s Big Birthday Weekend will run from 10am to 3pm on Saturday, September 12, and Sunday, September 13, with activities taking place around the Thomson Bay settlement.
Children will receive free same-day return island admission, while ferry companies are also partnering with the Cook Labor Government to provide free travel for children. Event registrations are essential through the Rottnest Island website.gov
Families will be able to learn more about quokkas and other native wildlife through ranger activities, guided nature experiences and conservation-focused programs.
The weekend’s activities will include building native bee hotels with recycled and natural materials, creating maps of Wadjemup from found objects, taking part in a collaborative 3D quokka sculpture and exploring nature through sensory play.
The event will also feature live music, children’s shows, storytelling, yoga, mindfulness activities and interactive performances for visitors of all ages.
September is considered one of the best times to see quokka joeys as they begin emerging from their mothers’ pouches and exploring the island. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about the famous marsupials while discovering the unique plants and animals found across Wadjemup.
The celebration also offers families a chance to experience Rottnest Island during spring, when wildlife is active and conditions are well suited to outdoor activities and island exploration.
Premier and Tourism, Trade and Investment Minister Roger Cook encouraged families to attend the celebrations.
“Wadjemup/Rottnest Island is a beautiful place at this time of year, and the iconic quokka joeys abound across the island,” Mr Cook said.
“The return of Quokka’s Big Birthday Weekend celebrates the arrival of quokka joeys with two days of wildlife encounters, outdoor activities, live entertainment and hands-on fun.”
“I’d encourage families to get along to the Quokka birthday celebrations, and this is made easier through free same-day travel and island admission for kids,” he said.
The Little Quokka’s Big Birthday Weekend is free to attend, but registrations are required. Activities will be held throughout the Thomson Bay settlement across both days.
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