Tourism Minister Sheila McHale has opened 43 refurbished units at South Thomson on Rottnest Island, which she says means 85 per cent of the Island's 308 holiday units have now been upgraded or refurbished.
The full text of a ministerial announcement is pasted below
Business confidence in Rottnest Island continues to soar, with the Carpenter Government's $30 million investment in accommodation and infrastructure paying dividends.
Tourism Minister Sheila McHale today christened the first new ferry to the island in a decade and opened 43 refurbished units in South Thomson.
Ms McHale said Oceanic Cruises was investing $12 million in a new 200-seat ferry called 'Rottnest Spirit' and a new 300-seat vessel due to enter service in 2008.
"This major investment is a real indication of the level of private sector confidence in Rottnest and in tourism in Western Australia," Ms McHale said.
"We are entering a new era as business engages with the island and Rottnest's popularity soars."
Oceanic Cruises' owner Tim Shuttleworth said the company would focus on a high quality of service to further develop the profile and unique image of Rottnest and increase visitor numbers and repeat travellers.
"With continuous improvement and by exploring new opportunities, our input to Rottnest Island will improve the visitor experience and ensure its long-term future," Mr Shuttleworth said.
Ms McHale also unveiled 43 refurbished units in South Thomson, meaning 85 percent of the Island's 308 holiday units have now been upgraded or refurbished.
"We've also reached another milestone - all asbestos cement roofing has now been removed and replaced with colorbond," Ms McHale said.
"It also keeps us on track for the refurbishment program as set out in the Rottnest Island taskforce report to be finished in 2008."
Ms McHale said an estimated $60 million was due to be invested in Rottnest Island by the private sector.
"$6.5 million will be spent on the Quokka Arms hotel, a new Dome cafe is being built and negotiations are continuing towards a new $50 million hotel," Ms McHale said.
"Business confidence in Rottnest has never been so high and it augurs very well for the future.
"The Carpenter Government is boosting our State's tourism industry to create new jobs and opportunities for people and preserve our unique lifestyle."
