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Programmed Partners with Wadjemup Rottnest Island for an Enhanced Summer Experience

Jan 13, 2025

Wadjemup Rottnest Island is set to shine this summer with a range of exciting new tourism experiences and essential infrastructure upgrades. The island’s transformation, supported by Programmed Facility Management, promises to make it an even more desirable destination for tourists. Minister for Tourism, Hon Rita Saffiotti MLA, was on hand to unveil these new offerings and celebrate the efforts of all involved, including Programmed, whose contribution has been pivotal in ensuring the island’s continued success.

This summer, Wadjemup Rottnest Island introduces five new tourism experiences, each designed to enhance visitors’ enjoyment of the island’s natural beauty and vibrant history. Among the new offerings are full-day guided cycling adventures through Laura the Explorer Bike Tours, traditional sailing experiences aboard one of Australia’s last operating pearl luggers with Willie Creek Pearl Lugger Cruises, beachside wellness programs featuring yoga and mindfulness sessions from Evolve in You, practical beach safety education with Surf Life Saving WA, and a new hiking trails app from the WA Parks Foundation.

Photo: L-R (Gary Monaghan, Island Operations Manager & Hon. Rita Saffioti MLA)

Tourism Minister Rita Saffiotti expressed her excitement for the upcoming summer season:


“This summer promises to be an exciting time at Rottnest Island, with new experiences and improved facilities catering to all visitors – from adventure seekers to those simply wanting to relax and unwind. The diverse range of new activities demonstrates our commitment to expanding the island’s offerings to enhance the visitor experience.”

In addition to these new activities, Programmed’s involvement in upgrading Wadjemup Rottnest Island’s accommodation facilities has helped elevate the guest experience. PFM played a key role in the successful refurbishment of 51 self-contained units at Geordie Bay. These upgrades were completed just ahead of the school holiday season, offering a fresh, modern space for visitors to enjoy. The refurbishment, completed by a dedicated team of over 60 tradespeople in record time, included a full overhaul of kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, and plumbing, alongside new safety features and landscaping enhancements.

Minister Saffiotti acknowledged the importance of these developments, saying:


“The completion of major infrastructure projects, including the Geordie Bay accommodation refurbishment and Main Jetty upgrades, ensures we can continue to provide high-quality experiences for the hundreds of thousands of visitors who choose Rottnest Island as their holiday destination.”

Programmed’s efforts are not limited to the physical upgrades of the island. The housekeeping team has consistently maintained excellence, meeting 15 key performance indicators over the past five months. This ensures that as visitor numbers rise, the standard of cleanliness and service remains top-notch, providing guests with a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Along with accommodation upgrades, the completion of the Main Jetty renovations ensures safe and efficient access for visitors arriving by ferry. The jetty upgrade is set to provide reliable access for many years to come. Additionally, with the return of the late-night ferry service, guests now have even more time to enjoy everything Rottnest has to offer, from the new activities to the newly refurbished units and upgraded amenities.

With these exciting upgrades and new offerings, Minister Saffiotti summed up the future of Rottnest Island perfectly:


“With late-night ferry services and new food and beverage offerings at The Lodge Wadjemup, visitors will have even more opportunities to experience everything Rottnest Island has to offer this summer.”

Programmed’s ongoing commitment to safety, quality, and exceptional service has contributed significantly to Rottnest Island’s ability to offer an unforgettable visitor experience. From the refurbishment of guest accommodations to the continuous improvements in housekeeping, Programmed is proud to be part of the team helping to shape the island’s success this summer.

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