06 April 2025

Fremantle - Rottnest Island

Fremantle is the largest port in Western Australia. It serves the region and Perth, a city of 2 million inhabitants just inland. I feel drawn to Perth. My father flew here for his company in the 1960‘s to help evaluate the potential of the iron ore deposits in the region. 


But we have only a day here, and there is much to see. Fremantle itself has a lot of history. Rottnest Island, a 30 minute boat ride from land, is a popular vacation destination as well as home to the rare quokka, a small marsupial found in nature only on this island. 

We opt for the island. On our arrival, we rent a couple of bikes and set off. 




The island is relatively flat, though there are a few ascents that require energy to climb. There are no autos. Just bicycles, occasional buses, and park ranger trucks. The vegetation is mostly sparse, though thicker patches of trees and shrubs provide homes for birds and quokkas. 



The rocky shoreline is broken up by frequent sandy coves. The accompanying coral reefs invite snorkeling and diving. Many coves provide boat anchorages for visitors. It is Sunday. The beaches seem packed. 


The sun has been shining on us all day, and has taken a toll. We stop at Parakeet Cove for a needed swim.  Then back on the bikes to finish our tour. 

On our return, the bike shop agent told me they rented 800 bicycles for the day, just under half of the 2000 they have available. 

We are pleased with our 25 km loop around the island. We will sleep well tonight. 


Tomorrow is a sea day. 

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