Rottnest Island

Rottnest Island ({{coor dm|32|00|S|115|36|E|region:AU-WA_type:city(0)}}) is an island located 9 nautical miles off the coast of Western Australia, near Fremantle. The island is 11 kilometres long, 4.5 kilometres at its widest point and the land area measures 19 km². It is a popular weekend holiday location for both locals and visitors. Approximately 500,000 people visit Rottnest Island every year. The Western Australian vernacular diminutive for "Rottnest Island" is "Rotto".

Science

Due to its early discovery and description by explorers, and its isolation from the mainland - Rottnest has had a vital role to play in understanding aspects of south west western australian ecology. At various times state and federal government scientists have been able to research a range of phenomenon on the island and then make comparisons with mainland issues. A significant number of books and papers have been written about Rottnest and its flora and fauna.

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