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Coronavirus crisis: Tourism Minister Paul Papalia declares Rotto ‘open for business’ as thousands book holidays

Joe SpagnoloThe West Australian
Rex the mascot with Annika (5) and Nicholas (7) Montgomery.
Camera IconRex the mascot with Annika (5) and Nicholas (7) Montgomery. Credit: Daniel Wilkins/The Sunday Times

Tourism Minister Paul Papalia has proclaimed Rottnest Island “open for business”, saying thousands of West Australians had already booked to holiday in the home of the quokka.

Mr Papalia said 2210 bookings had been made since the re-opening of the island was announced just over a week ago.

“It’s fully open and ready to go,” Mr Papalia said.

“I’d encourage people — if you have been here before, come back. If you haven’t been, come and see what all the fuss is about.

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Passengers wait to board the Sealink to Rottnest.
Camera IconPassengers wait to board the Sealink to Rottnest. Credit: Daniel Wilkins/The Sunday Times

“It’s a beautiful place to stay.”

The island has been shut off to the general public during the COVID-19 pandemic, used as a quarantine zone.

There were about 400 people who were quarantined on the island over the closure period.

With interstate and international borders still shut, the WA Government is encouraging West Australians to holiday in their home state.

Passengers wait to board the Sealink to Rottnest.
Camera IconPassengers wait to board the Sealink to Rottnest. Credit: Daniel Wilkins/The Sunday Times

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