I've mentioned Heirisson Island in one of my earlier articles, but as yet have not written about the island, which I'm informed is indeed a tourist attraction, in full detail. So I find myself here again, writing another article for weekend notes.
Don't be misled by guidebooks and leaflets, although the island is worth a visit it is certainly not an all day trip. Rather it is something that could be done alongside a day's shopping in Perth's nearby city centre, as even a leisurely stroll round the entire island is not likely to take more than an hour or so.
Heirisson Island is one of the only places I've encountered so far that looks a bit wild and unkempt (unlike the perfectly cut lawns at King's Park for instance). I would suggest if you are considering a walk around the island then using some kind of bug repellent is recommended.
The main, and I suppose only attraction, is the grey kangaroos that reside in a gated area there. They can be petted but not fed. For a photography lover such as myself, there are also some nice shots to be captured there of the surrounding Swan River.
Swan River Wildlife
It took me an entire circular walk of the island before I came across a group of kangaroos right near to where I had entered the gated area, much to my annoyance (note to any other visitors, have a good look around before you start charging off in any direction). They were friendly enough to get close to and stroke but a few photos later and I was ready to leave.
Just a short walk away, along The Causeway bridge, there are a range of shops and eating places, which combined with a trip to Heirisson Island, makes for a nice, easy day. So there you have it, Heirisson Island; it's free, it's pleasant, but it's not all that exciting on its own.
