Start of Stage One of vital landscaping on Rottnest Island

19/5/96

Stage One of much-needed landscaping has started on Rottnest Island, Tourism Minister Norman Moore said today.

Mr Moore said the State Government had provided $200,000 this financial year to address serious concerns about revegetation on the island.

The work included major landscaping around the Thomson Bay settlement, the Basin and Geordie, Longreach and Fay's Bay.

"These works will aim at improving the island's vegetation, general layout, traffic plans, street furniture, signs and public facilities," the Minister said.

"Last year's review into Rottnest Island highlighted problems including rundown accommodation and degraded and unsafe roads and cycleways.

"A further $1.2 million has been allocated for the repair of road and cycle-pedestrian ways. This includes work such as the recently completed realignment of the cycle/pedestrian access track between Geordie Bay and the Basin."

Mr Moore said an estimated 400,000 people visited the island each year. They were attracted for many reasons but above all by the special feeling that pervaded the island.

"It is important that Government work to ensure the island is properly maintained and conserved," he said.

Media contact: Anabel Gomez 321 1444