Warning to guests holidaying on Rottnest Island between December 5 and 16 as junior leavers descend on hotspot

Police have warned young people planning to celebrate “young leavers” on Rottnest Island that they face consequences for anti-social or criminal behavior after riot police were called in to quell hundreds of unruly teenagers last year.

Police on Monday announced an increased police presence on the island this summer to deter drunken and disorderly behavior by rowdy teenagers celebrating the end of the school year.

Young Leavers is an unofficial end-of-year celebration for high school students in Years 10 and 11.

Guests holidaying on the island between 5 and 16 December this year received an email from the Rottnest Island Authority warning that they were “visiting at a time when the island had previously been subject to anti-social behavior by teenagers”.

During the incident in December last year, authorities were forced to call in riot squad following reports of hundreds of young people behaving disruptively; these included reports of several police officers being pelted with bottles.

Police issued 55 eviction notices and investigated several reported assaults, including a 40-year-old man who was allegedly pushed off his bike by a group of teenagers.

Sergeant Michael Wear, the officer in charge of Rottnest Island, warned on Monday that police would “take swift action” against the young troublemakers wreaking havoc across the island.

“We want everyone to feel safe on Rottnest Island,” he said.

“Those who think they may cause disorder will be met with tough enforcement – ​​our officers will be prepared and act quickly to keep Rottnest a safe place for everyone to enjoy.

“We ask parents to take responsibility for their children and ensure they do not engage in violent or antisocial behavior that puts themselves and others at risk.”

Local authorities will also be supported by the State Operations Command Center to monitor any real-time events.

Police Minister Reece Whitby has urged parents to talk to their children about good behaviour.

“Parents should play an active role in ensuring their children understand the importance of responsible behavior, so before heading to Rottnest Island I recommend reminding their children that their actions have consequences,” he said.

“The increased police presence sends a clear message that anti-social behavior will not be tolerated, especially during ‘school drop-outs’, and officers will be highly visible to ensure the safety of all people on the island.”

The letter sent to Rottnest Island guests warns that with the end of the school year from 5-16 December, the authority is predicting anti-social behavior, especially among teenagers who may gather in large groups and commit destructive acts.

“Rottnest Island Authority advises that this is not an approved event and we would like to inform our guests that they are aware of these conditions prior to their arrival,” the letter states.

“To ensure the safety and well-being of all visitors, you will see an increased presence of CCTV, rangers, out-of-hours police officers and security staff throughout your stay.

“Personal safety is a shared responsibility among all members of our community, including every individual who visits the island.”

Rottnest Island Authority has been contacted for comment.