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Rottnest Island: $40 million revamp of Lodge site given green light

Peter DevlinThe West Australian
A multi-million dollar world-class resort set to revamp Rottnest Island has been given the green light by the State Government.
Camera IconA multi-million dollar world-class resort set to revamp Rottnest Island has been given the green light by the State Government. Credit: Supplied

A multimillion dollar world-class resort set to revamp Rottnest Island has been given the green light by the State Government.

The $40 million redevelopment of the existing Rottnest Lodge, currently leased by Karma Group, will include 46 new rooms overlooking Garden Lake and 56 refurbished rooms in the Boys Reformatory buildings.

The hotel is expected to become the new “heart” of the island and will add new buildings while upgrading the existing complex.

The plans also include food and beverage outlets boasting a restaurant with a focus on Western Australian produce, cafe with alfresco seating for 70, gelato bar, a wellness centre with six treatment rooms, community space, two pools and service areas.

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The proposal has been conditionally approved after a public consultation period in September and October, with work to begin mid-next year and completion set for 2025.

Artists impression of the Rottnest Lodge redevelopment.
Camera IconArtists impression of the Rottnest Lodge redevelopment. Credit: Unknown/Supplied

As part of the approval the developer is required to create an Aboriginal heritage management plan for the site, and the hotel must be named using Whadjuk Noongar language.

Newly minted Tourism Minister Roger Cook said the proposal would breathe new life into the Rottnest Lodge site.

“This is an opportunity to re-create the Lodge in harmony with its outstanding natural setting, ensuring that it complements the historic built environment of the precinct, and respects the Aboriginal history of the area,” Mr Cook said.

“Importantly, the conditions applied to this redevelopment will help ensure the significant heritage of the site is acknowledged.

“It is important for Wadjemup to embrace its future with deep respect for the past.”

In May, the State Government announced Place Development Australia, GPA Pty Ltd and Pendulum Group would take over the Lodge site lease, which was adjusted to exclude sensitive areas such as The Quod, from the Karma Group.

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