Record seasonal tourist intake on Rottnest

27/11/93

More than 70,000 people visited Rottnest Island this winter, the highest seasonal intake since the 1987 America's Cup.

Tourism Minister Colin Barnett said a Rottnest Island Authority survey showed that visitor numbers from July to October this year almost equalled figures recorded during the tourist boom experienced in Western Australia at the time of the America's Cup Challenge.

The figures represented a 30 per cent increase over last winter when about 54,000 people visited the island.

The Minister said the increase was mainly due to good weather, competitive rates from ferry companies and the authority's off-peak marketing campaign offering discount accommodation packages.

Independent surveys also showed an increase in the number of interstate and overseas visitors to the island.

The number of people to stay overnight on the island also increased this winter and surpassed the occupancy rate of mid-1987.   Seventy-nine per cent of the island's available accommodation was occupied this winter, compared with 70 per cent occupancy in 1987.

"While the authority welcomes the increase in visitor numbers, it is conscious of the need to protect the island's fragile environment," Mr Barnett said.

"Strict environmental management will ensure that Rottnest Island will remain an all-year-round destination for holidaymakers without jeopardising the unique charm and natural attractions."

Media contact:  Carolyn Vicars 222 9699