We woke feeling very refreshed and well adjusted to the two hour time difference with Queensland, before walking to the Ferry Terminal where we caught the 9am Sealink ferry across to Rottnest Island.

One of our sons took part in a charity swim from Fremantle to Rottnest Island almost five years ago. He had to conquer his terrible fear of sharks (actually, fish frighten the hell out of him too) in order to compete as part of team of 4 to swim the 20 km. We were very impressed by his fitness and courage, and after our ferry ride, even more impressed by his effort. The trip home was very choppy and I just hope it wasn’t that bad when our son swam the Rottnest Channel.

We were surprised by how many school aged children were on the island. Bikes are the main form of transport and either they brought their own on the ferry, or hired them. There were hundreds of bikers.

The place was buzzing.

We had morning tea in the bakery where I got up very close to a massive crow.

There were also a few Quokkas as well scavenging for any dropped crumbs. It’s illegal to feed them, but they obviously have been at some time.

We went on a 90 minute bus tour of the island and we traversed its 11 kilometre length and 4.5 kilometre width in air conditioned comfort. We did hop out at one point to try our luck at spotting a seal. And we did see one!!

After that big effort, we needed some lunch. While I was purchasing mine, Mick was making a friend.

There was a very cute church in the main settlement area – which had a Mediterranean feel to it. Possibly because of its colour.

We spent some more time wandering around the island before one of us needed a little ‘snooze’.

Once back in Fremantle, we headed to the Fremantle Markets to buy some cheeses and snacks for dinner on our balcony tonight, only to find that the markets were more to do with clothing and soaps etc. Luckily there was a Greek delicatessen a few blocks away.

Tomorrow we further explore Fremantle and collect our hire car before heading south.