More Potential Burial Sites Discovered at Rottnest Island

Twelve additional potential burial sites have been identified on Rottnest Island, linked to Aboriginal ancestry, following the initial discovery of remains earlier this month. The findings emerged during ground-penetrating radar work conducted after ancestral human remains were uncovered during excavation for a new bus stop, part of a multi-million dollar infrastructure upgrade overseen by the Rottnest Island Authority.

The discovery has halted construction work and prompted renewed calls for stronger protections of the island’s cultural heritage. Wadjemup, the Noongar name for Rottnest Island, served as an Aboriginal prison from the 19th to early 20th centuries, where more than 370 men and boys from across Western Australia are known to have died, many buried in unmarked graves.

Discovery Triggers Cultural Heritage Protections

After the remains were uncovered, work stopped immediately and an on-site archaeologist was called to assess the locate. Independent verification followed from additional specialists, after which police took custody of the remains as part of a formal investigation. Authorities have since determined the bones are historical and consistent with Aboriginal ancestry, shifting responsibility for the site to heritage protections under Western Australia’s Aboriginal Heritage Act.

The method of burial was recognised as traditional by Noongar Elders. Ground-penetrating radar work will now take place to determine if further remains are present.

Historical Context of Wadjemup

For many Aboriginal people, the discovery is both unsurprising and deeply affecting. Wadjemup was the site of historical injustices against First Nations people from across Western Australia. More than 370 men and boys are known to have died there, many buried in unmarked graves.

“It was a shock,” said Uncle George Hayden, a Whadjuk, Ballardong and Njaki Njaki man and community education coordinator with the Whadjuk Aboriginal Corporation.

Ongoing Calls for Greater Protections

Indigenous leaders have renewed calls for greater protections for Rottnest Island, emphasizing the need to safeguard burial grounds and acknowledge the brutal living conditions that led to the deaths of hundreds due to poor treatment.

The island remains one of Australia’s most significant Aboriginal heritage sites, and the recent findings have intensified discussions about how to properly care for and honor the ancestors found there.