Into The War Bunker

During World War 2, Rottnest Island was used as a fortitude, protecting the Western Australian coastline. Oliver Hill, a central landmark on Rottnest, stands as a testament to this wartime past, offering visitors a chance to explore remnants of military history and delve into a time capsule of a bygone era.

The most prominent feature at Oliver Hill are the 9.2 inch guns with the firepower capable of launching armour piercing shells over 28 kilometers away. On an affordable tour completely run by volunteers who collect money to conserve the remnants, venture down into the intricate network of tunnels that once houses the gun’s engine room and ammunition supply. Let us tell you something, this isn’t just some old little shack either. While in these tunnels, put yourself in the position of an ANZAC with the logistics involved in operating these powerful weapons, and the constant vigilance required during wartime.

Your tour will guide you through a deeper historical understanding with insightful commentary, historical context, and answer any questions you might have about the Oliver Hill site and its role in World War II. You might even get to go inside the gun itself and hear the stories of the brave men who lost their hearing in the act of training to protect Australia.

Exploring remarkably intact Oliver Hill site is a journey through time. It's a chance to connect with the past, appreciate the island's multifaceted history, and gain a deeper understanding of the world we live in today. Best yet, accessing here is simply by bike or bus and makes for a great way to escape the heat during the middle of the day. Last tours of the day start at 2PM.