Minister warns on tough approach to schoolies week at Rotto

15/11/01
Rottnest Island is the favourite haunt of many Western Australians who go there to rest and relax and that's the way the State Government wants it to stay all year round.
State Development Minister Clive Brown has issued a stern warning to school leavers who want to mark the end of exams at Rottnest to celebrate in a way that does not disturb other visitors or endanger anyone's safety.
"Rottnest has been a popular destination for schoolies in past years and they are very welcome," Mr Brown said.
"All island visitors are required to comply with the local rules and there is no exception to this during schoolies week."
The Minister said all accommodation on the island for schoolies week - traditionally November 21 to November 29 was now fully booked.
"There is no point in students attempting to go to the island unless they have accommodation," he said.
"No-one is allowed to sleep on the beach or stay overnight unless they have booked accommodation. All visiting boats will be very carefully scrutinised."
Mr Brown said the State Government was not trying to be a killjoy, but was very concerned about the safety of students and other island users during this period and had a responsibility to do what they could to ensure all appropriate precautions were taken.
He urged parents to work with the Government to ensure their children were informed of their responsibilities while celebrating the end of exams as well as their rights.
Rottnest Island Regulations stipulate that casual residents who do not have accommodation may be evicted from the island and that will be strictly enforced this summer.
Similar strict monitoring will take place of any boats moored at Rottnest. Checks will be made to ensure that vessels are suitably and safely equipped for the number of people on board.
The Water Police will assist the Rottnest Rangers to monitor vessels and extra police will be on duty on the island during the week.
Media contact: Bev East on 9222 9699