Search launched for 'Steve' the cheeky quokka on the run

The hunt is on for a rogue quokka who hitch-hiked from Rottnest Island to a Perth waste and recycling facility.

Authorities are offering a free holiday to the island for anyone who can help track down the small marsupial, who escaped on a rubbish barge.

Staff at Regional Resource Recovery Centre in Canning Vale shared a photo of the furry fella, named Steve, sparking large-scale search to find him.

"Steve was last seen at the Regional Resource Recovery Centre in Canning Vale on January 4," WA police wrote on Facebook.

"He appears to have escaped from Rottnest Island, possibly on board a rubbish barge, so we seem to be dealing with a very smart, crafty Quokka.

"Steve is described as small, cute and furry. He may use his cuteness to trick unsuspecting humans into giving him food,"

It is believed the quokka will not be taken back to the island and instead will be relocated to Perth Zoo or a wildlife park.

The Rottnest Island Authority is offering a free day trip to the island to whoever finds the Quokka.

Authorities believe the quokka will be able to survive for some time on grass and bushland around at the recycling centre.