Our Board

Rockingham Tourism ASSOCIATION

Connecting Tourism, Building Opportunity

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See What’s Coming

Join the Future of Rockingham Tourism

Together, we’re shaping the future of one of Western Australia’s most vibrant coastal destinations. The Rockingham Tourism Association brings together operators, businesses, and community partners to grow our visitor economy, promote unique local experiences, and strengthen Rockingham’s place on the tourism map. With 70+ years of advocacy, connections, and results, we’re proud to be the voice of tourism in our region — and we invite you to be part of the journey.

Our Purpose:

We create unforgettable visitor experiences, uplift our community, and showcase the best of our beautiful part of the world.

Our Governance & Board

Tourism is about people, places, and experiences — and the same spirit runs through the Rockingham Tourism Association’s leadership. Behind the scenes, a dedicated volunteer Board helps steer our direction, bringing together local operators, business owners, and community voices to keep Rockingham at the heart of WA’s visitor story.

What the Board Does

The Board isn’t just about meetings and minutes — it’s about vision. From championing new ideas to strengthening industry connections, our Board members shape the big picture of where Rockingham tourism is heading. They work closely with our members, staff, and volunteers to:

Advocate for our industry at all levels of government
Promote Rockingham as a must-visit destination
Support local operators and small businesses
Build partnerships that put our region on the map

Our Framework

While we keep things vibrant and people-focused, we’re also grounded in solid governance. The Association is guided by its Constitution and policies to ensure we remain transparent, accountable, and effective.

Local Leaders, Local Passion

Our Board is made up of people who live and work right here in Rockingham. They understand the challenges of running a small business, the opportunities of our coastal location, and the value of attracting visitors. That means every decision is grounded in local knowledge and driven by the passion to see our community thrive.

Driving Tourism Development

The Board plays a hands-on role in shaping Rockingham’s tourism development. From backing new visitor experiences to guiding investment in local events and infrastructure, their focus is always on growth that benefits both visitors and the community. With their direction, the Association continues to open doors, build partnerships, and keep Rockingham front of mind as a must-visit destination.

Our Members, Our Strength

The Rockingham Tourism Association is powered by a diverse network of tourism operators, local businesses, event organisers, and service providers. Together, they shape the visitor experience, share their expertise, and showcase the best of Rockingham.

From unique attractions and coastal adventures to hospitality, retail, and professional services, our members are the face of our tourism community. Their passion and commitment help drive local tourism forward — and you can be part of it.

Membership Offers

Become a Member

We are always looking for new, dynamic board members.

Tourism Achievements in Recent Years

Over the past five years, the Rockingham Tourism Association has been at the heart of local growth. We’ve launched destination marketing campaigns, created strong partnerships with business and government, and driven visitor numbers that support local jobs. Our voice has ensured tourism remains a key focus in regional development, keeping Rockingham front and centre as a vibrant coastal destination.

Why Tourism Matters

Tourism isn’t just about visitors — it’s about community. Every new guest means more support for local businesses, more jobs, and more investment in Rockingham. The RTA champions this cause, working to make sure our region benefits from tourism in real, lasting ways. Together, we make Rockingham a place people love to visit, and locals are proud to call home.

Standing Strong for Tourism

In recent years, we’ve advocated for major projects, strengthened local events, and amplified the unique Rockingham experience. Whether it’s securing funding, promoting our coastal lifestyle, or providing direct support to businesses, the RTA has been the consistent champion for tourism. Our work ensures Rockingham isn’t just a stop on the map — it’s a destination of choice.

A Brief History

1959 – 1999

Tourism in Rockingham has roots going back over a century, with early visitors arriving as campers along the coastline during summer. Until 1934, camping was common at what are now Bell and Churchill Parks at Point Peron and Safety Bay. The iconic Rockingham Hotel played a central role in local tourism, offering visitors a relaxing seaside escape with fishing, swimming, scenic walks, tennis and bowls. It wasn’t just a stay – it was a full holiday experience.

During the warmer months, pleasure boats brought in crowds from Perth and Fremantle, and a special picnic train ran from Jarrahdale once or twice a year. The excitement of racing from the hotel to catch the last boat or train became part of Rockingham folklore.

Uniquely, the Rockingham Hotel sat just outside the 30-mile radius from Perth – meaning it could serve drinks on Sundays when Perth hotels were closed. This made Rockingham a popular weekend destination for locals seeking sun, sea and a social drink.

Birth of the Rockingham Tourist Bureau

In the late 1950s, tourism promotion took a formal step forward with the creation of a Tourist Authority, later becoming the Rockingham Tourist Bureau. The founding committee included:

– President: Dave Dvoretsky
– Vice President: Norman Snow
– Secretary: Frank Daw
– Treasurer: Colin Alp
– Committee Members: Bob Maxwell (Father of the current Vice-President), Frank Brown

The first office opened on Rockingham Road in premises operated by Landells Estate Agents and Builders, with Dave Dvoretsky also acting as Director. Government funding was secured on a 2:1 basis, enabling the employment of a full-time manager. A formal constitution was introduced in 1974.

Key Projects and Community Efforts

Among the Bureau’s early initiatives were:

– Tourist Maps: Creating maps highlighting local attractions and routes such as Serpentine to Rockingham.
– Phone Directory Campaign: A decades-long campaign to get Rockingham included in the Perth metropolitan telephone directory to avoid costly trunk call charges – a major issue for local businesses at the time.

Despite the passage of time, some challenges – like regional infrastructure and communications – remained unresolved for years.

VisitRockingham.com.au

Events and Evolution (1960s–1985)

In the 1960s, Silver Sands Carnivals became a key feature of Rockingham’s event calendar. Held in early March, often during a long weekend, the first official carnival took place in March 1962. Visitors enjoyed a wide variety of entertainment including bowls, yachting, golf, football, basketball, and Highland music. The opening event, led by Shire President Mr. Alf Powell, became a cherished community celebration.

One of the most notable attractions initiated by the Tourist Bureau was a railway engine placed in Churchill Park in 1965. It remained a favourite tourist spot until its removal in 1972 due to poor condition, despite local disappointment over losing such a distinctive feature.

Another highlight of the 1960s was the popularity of parachute jumping, initially held opposite the hotel and later at Warnbro. Silver Sands Carnivals continued strong through the decade and into the 1970s, featuring sandcastle competitions, marching girl contests, beauty pageants like Miss Sunshine Beach Girls, and even unique events like wheelbarrow races and bike riding competitions.

In 1970, a re-enactment of Captain Cook’s 1770 landing became a major event, complete with a barge arrival and welcome from Premier David Brand and local leaders, drawing a large crowd of spectators.

Dave Dvoretsky remained president until 1971, followed by Arthur Hillgrove, Laurie Smith, J. Blissett, and T. Glover. The Bureau’s secretaries/managers over the years included Dale Kerferd, Barbara Lees, and E.F. Mac Cullam, among others. Mr. R.R. (Bob) Maxwell’s name appeared frequently in reports, showcasing his enduring support.

From the 1960s to the 1980s, the Bureau tirelessly advocated for the Rockingham District. They lobbied council on matters such as repairing the Palm Beach Jetty (1967), installing gas barbecues in parks, improving signage, and organising events to attract more tourists.

Archival footage held by the Rockingham Museum captures the popularity of these community events, with large crowds gathering at the beach and Rockingham Oval.

In February 1980, the Bureau closed its original office, and the Council established a new Information Centre on council property. A revitalised Tourist Authority opened in 1985 in Library Hall on Kent Street, Rockingham Beach – the beginning of the Bureau as we know it today.

Be a Tourism Leader

If you’re already a member and want to play a bigger role in shaping the future of Rockingham’s tourism, consider stepping up to join our Board. It’s a rewarding way to contribute your skills, share your ideas, and help guide the direction of our Association. We welcome members from all sectors – accommodation, hospitality, tours, and local business – to get involved. Connect with us today to find out how you can nominate and be part of the leadership team.

Join Our Board

Connect with the team driving Rockingham Tourism

Tourism is the industry of happiness - connecting people, places, and possibilities.

It’s more than travel. It’s the shared smiles between visitors and locals, the pride of showcasing unique destinations, and the opportunities it creates for businesses and communities alike. Every journey enriches not only the traveller, but also the places they visit, weaving connections that support livelihoods, celebrate culture, and build lasting memories.

Become a Member

Rockingham is a vibrant city with a range of attractions and activities to enjoy. Whether you're visiting for a day or a week, there's something for everyone.