Walk Wadjemup - The Hike Collective
Hike Collective

Wadjemup Bidi Discovery Project

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Lead with purpose. Walk with meaning.

Discover the trails of Wadjemup in a new way — with story, spirit, and sustainability.

The Wadjemup Bidi Discovery Project is a collaborative initiative delivered by The Hike Collective in partnership with the Rottnest Foundation, and proudly supported by the State Government through the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries.

Through a combination of guided hikes, cultural immersion, environmental stewardship, and leadership development, this project invites you to walk with purpose on Wadjemup (Rottnest Island).

Whether you’re discovering the island’s ancient trails for the first time or stepping into a leadership role as a hiking guide, you’ll be part of a community helping to protect and share the cultural and natural stories of this iconic place — now and for future generations.

Walk Wadjemup. Lead Wadjemup

Join us on the trails of Wadjemup for a powerful hiking experience that blends guided cultural walks with the chance to grow into a trail leader. Whether you’re here to walk with purpose or step into guiding with confidence, this is your invitation to connect with Country, community, and yourself.

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Walk Wadjemup

A Cultural Hiking Experience

Step onto the trails of Wadjemup and journey through land, story, and sustainability. Walk Wadjemup is a series of fully guided hiking weekends designed to connect you with the island’s ancient landscapes, living Noongar culture, and delicate ecosystems — one step at a time.

Each hiking experience includes:

  • Guided walks along the spectacular Wadjemup Bidi trail network

  • Cultural interpretation and ceremonies led by Noongar Elder, Nev Collard

  • Conservation activities and education around trail care

  • Group experiences grounded in respect, reflection, and reconnection

Choose one of the 2025 weekends:

30 August | 20 September | 18 October | 8 November

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Lead Wadjemup

A Guide Training Pathway

If you’re passionate about the outdoors and want to give back to community and Country, Lead Wadjemup is your path to becoming a hiking guide — with purpose.

This hands-on training program offers a leadership development experience for volunteers who want to:

  • Build trail guiding skills

  • Learn group management, navigation, and safety

  • Engage in cultural education and environmental awareness

  • Become part of a movement for inclusive and sustainable hiking in WA

You’ll learn by doing — shadowing experienced guides, and participating in guided hikes.

At the end of your journey, you’ll walk away with:

  • Skills aligned to the Australian Adventure Activity Standards (AAAS)

  • Practical experience and mentoring

  • A pathway to becoming a volunteer or career guide

What our guests are saying

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore our FAQs for quick answers, and if you have more questions, don't hesitate to reach out—we're here to help!


  • Who can join Walk Wadjemup?

    Walk Wadjemup is designed for everyone — from first-time hikers to seasoned walkers. It’s inclusive of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. You don’t need any hiking experience, just a spirit of curiosity and connection.

  • How much does Walk Wadjemup cost?

    Thanks to support from the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries, Walk Wadjemup is offered at the highly subsidised rate of just $25 per person. This small fee helps us deliver a quality, inclusive experience while keeping it accessible to all

  • How difficult are the hikes of Rottnest Wadjemup?

    The trails are beginner-friendly, and we are focussing on easy, family-friendly walks. Walks vary between 5km and 7km, and are paced for accessibility and enjoyment — not speed. Expect a relaxed, guided pace with regular stops for storytelling, connection, and conservation activities. Each hike is suitable for beginners with a basic level of fitness.

  • Where do we meet on the day?

    Meeting locations will be shared with registered participants via email one week before the event. All hikes begin and end near the Rottnest Island settlement area for easy access.

  • Can I attend more than one Walk Wadjemup event?

    Absolutely! While each weekend follows a similar structure, every walk offers a unique trail, story, and experience. You’re welcome to book multiple dates.

  • Will there be cultural protocols I should be aware of?

    Yes — cultural respect is central to the experience. You’ll be guided through appropriate behaviour during ceremonies and storytelling moments, including when to observe quietly and how to engage respectfully. We ask all participants to approach the day with open hearts and cultural humility.

  • Do I need to complete Lead Wadjemup to become a hiking guide?

    Lead Wadjemup is an excellent starting point, but it’s not the only path to becoming a guide. For those who complete the program, we offer ongoing opportunities for development, mentorship, and progression into formal guiding roles with The Hike Collective or our partners.

  • How do I cancel or transfer my booking?

    You can cancel up to 7 days before your scheduled event for a full refund. If you need to transfer your booking to another date, just email us — we’re happy to help if spots are available.

Acknowledgement of Country

The Hike Collective acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the country on which our Australian business is located and operates, and recognise and celebrate their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to Elders past and present and thank them for protecting Country since time immemorial.

 

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