Quokkas!

This is a quokka, and not a large rat as the Dutch who discovered Rottnest Island thought. Quokkas are marsupials that hop around like little kangaroos. They only live on Rottnest Island, are abundant due to the complete absence of foxes and have little fear of humans - even entering the guest cottages in search of treats. Rottnest Island was originally used as a penal colony for aborigines, a salt mine (from the inland lakes) and as a Governor's retreat, but is now purely a tourist destination. While most people rent bikes and toil their way around the island, we were lazy and took the bus. We saw about four different beaches, stopped for a mid-afternoon gelati, beer and museum break in the village, and did lots of snorkelling (even Mom!). Dad was most impressed with his new prescription mask (think about it, Chris!).