Story perspectives

Rottnest Island: From Prison Past to Cultural Awareness

2/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

Rottnest Island, known as Wadjemup to the Noongar people, operated as a prison for Indigenous men and boys for 93 years.
The prison closed in 1902, and the site remains a burial ground.
Today, the island attracts over 800,000 visitors annually.
Casey Kickett (Noongar guide) promotes cultural tours educating visitors about the island's past.
The Rottnest Island Authority is working to acknowledge the history through memorialization and cultural ceremonies.

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Story summary

Rottnest Island, known as Wadjemup to the Noongar people, operated as a prison for Indigenous men and boys for 93 years.
The prison closed in 1902, and the site remains a burial ground.
Today, the island attracts over 800,000 visitors annually.
Casey Kickett (Noongar guide) promotes cultural tours educating visitors about the island's past.
The Rottnest Island Authority is working to acknowledge the history through memorialization and cultural ceremonies.