By Linda Tancs

Australia’s Rottnest Island, directly off the Perth coast, has a rich military, marine and cultural history that’s been engaging tourists these past 100 years.   With the start of World War I the Department of Defence commandeered the Island for use as an internment and prisoner of war camp from 1914 to the end of 1915.   In preparation for World War II a defense program became known as the Rottnest Island Fortress, consisting of the Oliver Hill fort, Bickley Point fort with two six-inch guns and quarters at Bickley and Army barracks at Kingstown that serve as an environmental education center today.  The island also offers four heritage trails to highlight its cultural and marine history: Bickley Battery Heritage Trail, Rottnest Ship Wrecks Heritage Trail – Land and Water, Vincent Way Heritage Trail and a self-guided Historic Buildings Trail.  Only 25 minutes away by ferry, you’ll have no excuse to miss the annual Swim Thru Rottnest in the crystal clear waters off Rotto on 3 December.