Perth Journal, Day 05 (cont...)
It may have been difficult. I may have been huffing and puffing more than I should. But it was worth the cycle for my first encounter with a lighthouse. Wadjemup Lighthouse was built in 1896 and was a replacement for the original lighthouse on Rottnest Island. Wadjemup is the Aboriginal name for Rottnest Island. With Rotto being one of the larger islands near Fremantle and usually sighted first by ships, the lighthouse is responsible for guiding ships to the Fremantle Port and the Swan River.
When we got to the lighthouse, I was surprised to find out that despite it being a working lighthouse, tours (paid) were provided by volunteer guides. With a recent project at work and my own research on the Horsburgh Lighthouse on one of Singapore's islands, I am used to thinking of lighthouses as strategic and military sensitive property where access is forbidden. Unfortunately we didn't have the time to take the tour because we had to make sure we got back to dock in time for our return ferry. I would have loved to climb the 155 steps to the top. (Psst. Although pamphlets state that no water is sold on the island except at Thomson Bay, the friendly lighthouse guides has a secret stash of ice-cold water. Just so you know...)
After the lighthouse, we headed inland where we cycled past some really gorgeous lakes (and thankfully, flat land). The waters looked really clear but unfortunately the lakes were closed. I am so glad I switched over to Provia slide film by this point. I can't get over how gorgeous the lakes look.
One day on Rottnest Island wasn't enough, there is still so much of the island to explore. I know that this place will definitely be on my itinerary whenever I make a trip to Perth!
Your beautiful photos kinda make me miss Perth. I went up to that lighthouse, there is one big prism on the top, nice view too. The only problem for me, is that, you need to cycling trough the hills, ugh. #random fact, some said that lake is the inspiration for one of Ghibli's sen to chihiro no kamikakushi's scene.
ReplyDeleteOh lucky you! I totally agree about the cycling but I guess we have to earn those beautiful views! Thank you for that little tidbit about Ghibli, that's so cool to know!
DeleteThe lakes are so beautiful. great photos!
ReplyDeletethank you! :)
Deleteuau,this place is amazing!
ReplyDeletethe blue in your pictures is so dreamy :)
i can't take credit for that, it's the film emulsion (provia 100) and that incredible australian sky!
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