News Archives
News posts from 2010
BSPVES Increase Benefits Tourism
Posted on Tuesday, 29 June 2010 | Permalink
The Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania says the increase in the Bass Strait Passenger Vehicle Equalisation Scheme will benefit tourism and the Tasmanian economy.
TICT Chief Executive Officer Daniel Hanna said today the CPI increase in the BSPVES provided certainty for the industry and ferry users and helped maintain Tasmania’s competitiveness with other Australian destinations for road travelers.
“The Tasmanian tourism industry argued long and hard in 2007 for an increase in the Bass Strait passenger vehicle rebate and for it to be linked to inflation to avoid it falling behind cost increases as it had over the previous decade. It was strongly welcomed by the Tasmanian tourism industry when the Australian Government delivered on their commitment in 2008,” Mr Hanna said.
“The increase in the rebate for motor vehicles from 1 July – the third increase in a row – continues to make ferry transport a viable alternative for many travelers and Tasmania as an attractive option for motor vehicle tourists.
“The BSPVES is vital for the Tasmanian regional economy and it is an example of a highly effective program that achieves real benefits. The Tasmanian tourism industry congratulates the Australian Government for their ongoing commitment to this vital program for Tasmania.
“There is no doubt that Tasmania’s tourism industry benefited enormously from the introduction of the Spirit of Tasmania ferries and continues to do so. The Tasmanian Government investment in the vessels, combined with the rebate provided by the Australian Government, is a great example of a federal-state partnership.
We know that passengers arriving via sea stay in Tasmania longer, spend more when they are here and travel more widely which ensures they benefit the whole economy,” Mr Hanna said.
Budget Underlines Tourism's Importance to Tasmania's Economy
Posted on Thursday, 17 June 2010 | Permalink
The Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania says today’s State Budget recognised the importance of tourism to the economy.
TICT Chief Executive Daniel Hanna said the Budget delivered on the Government’s key election funding commitments for tourism marketing and events promotion.
Funding for tourism marketing and events promotion has received an additional $7.5 million a year for the next four years.
Total funding for tourism – including funding for Tourism Tasmania – increased from $23.193 million to $30.724 million in 2010-11. Over the four years the additional funding includes $20 million for tourism marketing, $6 million for the Events Attraction Program, $1 million for International and National Arts Events, and $1.4m for the annual MONA FOMA event.
“This is a good outcome for the tourism industry and a reversal of the trend of recent years. It means tourism funding is back on a sustainable path,” Mr Hanna said.
“The budget recognises that Tasmania’s economic health and recovery depend very much on tourism which continues to be one of the State’s major success stories in generating investment and jobs growth. Tourism now generates over $2.2 billion a year in spending and supports over 25,000 jobs. Previous studies have shown that Tasmania’s economy is more reliant on tourism than any other state in the nation, with the highest share of Gross State Product and employment.
The Budget forecast 2.25% economic growth and the creation of 15,000 jobs for 2010-11 and includes the promised cuts to land tax costing the Government $28 million. The Budget is also going to return to surplus sooner than previously anticipated.
“With the funding included in this Budget over the next four years, tourism will be well-placed to continue to play its role as a major generator of jobs and investment. Tasmania will be better placed to compete with other destinations for visitors as the world emerges from the ravages of the Global Financial Crisis,” Mr Hanna said.
Mr Hanna said the TICT also welcomed the allocation of $12.8 million funding for the development of an iconic multi-day walk on the Tasman Peninsula, the Three Capes Track. The Australian Government has also committed $12.5 million to the project, with the private sector funding the remainder of the $33 million development.
KPMG has calculated that the Tasmanian economy could benefit by up to $188 million per annum and 1563 jobs through increased day walk visitors as a result of the development of the Three Capes Track.
Importantly, the report also found that the Tasman Peninsula economy could benefit by up to $43.75 million annually and 323 jobs.
Mr Hanna said the new Track would be a major drawcard and add to Tasmania’s international reputation for world-class wilderness experiences. Tasmania will also be better placed to compete with other world class walking destinations like New Zealand.
“Our parks and wilderness areas are a vital part of the Tasmanian brand so we also welcome the Government’s provision of an extra $4 million a year for four years to the Parks and Wildlife Service for additional staff and bushfire protection,” Mr Hanna said.
Tourism leads recovery, but more investment needed
Posted on Wednesday, 16 June 2010 | Permalink
The latest Tasmanian Visitor Survey figures underline the importance of continued investment in the industry, TICT Chief Executive Officer Daniel Hanna said today.
Mr Hanna said that after a difficult December quarter visitor numbers had bounced back strongly during the first three months of the year against the national trend.
“Total visitor expenditure in Tasmania grew by 8 per cent in the year to the end of March and now contributes $1.53 billion to the State’s economy. Not only is the total number of visitors up on the same time last year, but they are staying longer and spending more,” Mr Hanna said.
“The fantastic growth in sea arrivals demonstrates the value of State Government investment in the TT-Line’s Spirits of Tasmania and the importance of the Federal Government’s Bass Strait Passenger Vehicle Equalisation Scheme.
Mr Hanna said that the TVS figures also showed that the number of visitors to regions like the north-west and east coast had also grown, providing much needed jobs in regional communities.
“The figures show that tourism is continuing to deliver revenue and jobs growth to the Tasmanian economy during a difficult time and is leading Tasmania’s economic recovery,’ Mr Hanna said.
“However, while the figures overall are good, there are still some weak areas such as a decline in holiday and overseas visitors, the lack of growth in the number of air passengers and a drop visitors from NSW and Queensland which we need to address.
“What this indicates is that the Tasmanian Government needs to deliver on all election commitments in tomorrow’s Budget to keep tourism growing to stimulate investment and jobs,” Mr Hanna said.
Snapshots 11th June
Posted on Friday, 11 June 2010 | Permalink
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In this edition:
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Last chance to register for the Tasmanian Tourism Conference
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Outstanding Contribution by an Individual
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TICT Mates Rates
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A long weekend of Lumina razzamatazz
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Global Eco Asia-Pacific Tourism Conference
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New Tourism Accreditations
Registrations for the Tasmanian Tourism Conference close on Friday 25th June. Book now to avoid missing this great chance to Explore, unwind, engage and taste!
This award recognises the extraordinary personal and professional achievement and contribution by an individual over many years to the Australian, and particularly the Tasmanian tourism industry.
TICT Mates rates are special discounts offered by tourism accredited operators to one another. These deals encourage operators to experience other products throughout Tasmania, developing beneficial relationships with other operators and exploring ways to work collaboratively and offer support.
Snapshots 28th May 2010
Posted on Monday, 31 May 2010 | Permalink
In this edition:
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The Hon Dr Barry Jones to speak at the Tasmanian Tourism Conference
- Princes Wharf Work to Begin
- People's Choice Award - Quarterly Nominees
- Tasmanian Travel & Leisure Expo
- Free Event Development Workshops
- Promotion Opportunity with VisitVineyards and RACT
- New Tourism Accreditations
The Hon Dr Barry Jones OA to speak at the Tasmanian Tourism Conference
July 6th Country Club Tasmania
The TICT is pleased to announce the program of speakers for the 2010 Tasmanian Tourism Conference. Following the theme “Explore, unwind, engage and taste – The Tasmanian Experience”, delegates will be treated to presentations on the cornerstones of the Tasmanian brand; nature, history and heritage, arts and culture, plus food and wine.
Presently the chair of the Port Arthur Historic Site Management Authority, but with many a political, scholastic and literary feather in his cap, the Hon Dr Barry Jones OA will be delivering insights into the opportunities of heritage tourism. He will share his thoughts on how to capitalise on these, and what visitors look for in a heritage experience. He will also be updating the industry on what is happening at the Port Arthur Historic Site and what the proposed world heritage listing of the convict sites could do for Tasmania.
For full conference program details please visit the TICT website.
Princes Wharf Work to Begin
The Premier, David Bartlett, today announced the re-development of Hobart’s Princes Wharf Shed 1 will start in the next few weeks. The works will occur in two separate stages, so as not to interrupt iconic Tasmanian events such as Mona Foma and the Taste.
Stage One will start in early June and be completed by September, with the second stage taking place from early April to late August next year. The format for this year’s Taste Festival will be exactly the same as in previous years before the festival begins its new format in 2011.
“I’ve always seen the Hobart waterfront as one of Tasmania’s special social and cultural hubs, especially in the summer months “This is the next big step towards enhancing that vision,” Mr Bartlett said.
More information on the Princes Wharf Renewal is on the website: http://www2.treasury.tas.gov.au/princeswharf/
People's Choice Award - Quarterly Nominees
Congratulations to the following tourism businesses that are the quarterly, regional nominees for the People’s Choice Award:
Totally South Tourism Cornwall Cottage
Northern Tasmania Development Longford Boutique Accommodation
Cradle Coast Authority Aldermere Estate
These nominees now become finalists for the Annual People’s Choice Award announced at the Tasmanian Tourism Awards Gala Presentation Dinner in November of this year.
The People's Choice Award recognises tourism accredited businesses that have excelled in their commitment to a professional, customer focused approach and excellence in service. The People’s Choice nominees are selected on a quarterly basis based on visitors' feedback received from Tourism Industry Council Tasmania's customer survey forms.
Tasmanian Travel & Leisure Expo
September 10th – 12th Hobart City Hall
The Tasmanian Travel and Leisure Expo is on again in Hobart. This year's event will build on the success of last year, with more than 3,000 people expected to attend. The expo aims to encourage intrastate travel by local residents, through showcasing the amazing holiday experiences that can be found in our own backyard.
This year the expo will kick off Friday night, with a cocktail party for tourism businesses and industry representatives, opened by Lord Mayor Rob Valentine.
The Tasmanian Travel and Leisure Expo is a great opportunity for the Tasmanian Tourism industry to showcase their products to residents from the Hobart and Southern Tasmania region. If you would like to become an exhibitor, or perhaps share a booth with similar experiences, please email:
Anne McVilly at the Tasmanian Travel & Information Centre anne.mcvilly@hobarttravelcentre.com
Free Event Development Workshops
Events Tasmanian will be hosting free event development workshops focussing on the theme “Greening Events”. Topics covered will include how to address service providers, waste reduction, green event design and programming, looking at creativity and audience development as well as how to introduce innovative and engaging solutions.
The workshops will be presented by Gillian Minervini, the Creative Director/Producer of events for the City of Sydney, one of the largest producers of free public events in Australia. Workshops are suitable for employees of Local and State Government or agencies involved in events, and Event Managers or coordinators of public events and festivals.
The Greening Events workshops are free for Tasmanian event organisers with morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea provided.
Launceston Wednesday 2 June, 9.30am – 4.30pm
Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery
Hobart Friday 4 June, 9.30am - 4.30pm
Wrest Point Conference Centre
For more information please visit the website on
To register your place in the workshop call Heidi at Events Tasmania on 6233 5946.
Promotion Opportunity with VisitVineyards and RACT
Tasmanian wine and food is the focus of a new regional tourism initiative from RACT and national online culinary guide VisitVineyards.com
“VisitVineyards.com Wine & Food Selections for RACT” will be promoted extensively through the well-established and high profile Show Your Card & Save (SYCS) program on a dedicated, exclusive website. The SYCS program has been demonstrated to increase sales, generate new business and raise awareness. It’s also very easy to implement.
A sister program is also being developed for RACV’s two million members, many of them potential visitors to Tasmania, giving local producers access to an even larger audience whilst still promoting locally.
In addition to considerable print and online marketing through RACT and VisitVineyards.com (all done for you) there will be additional editorial and promotional opportunities to raise awareness of your products, not just in Tasmania but nationally as well.
Interested? Vineyards, microbreweries, restaurants, food producers, sellers and provedores are now being invited to join this brand new program. Opportunities are limited in each region by business type, participating in this program will give participating suppliers a competitive edge.
For details go to www.VisitVineyards.com/ract-partners
or contact Charles Lewis - charleslewis@visitvineyards.com or phone 6248 4476
New Tourism Accreditations
Congratulations to the following businesses that have recently achieved tourism accreditation:
Collins Cap Cottage is situated on a 660 acre property and is 600 metres above sea level, and is associated with Collins Cap Ceramics, the pottery gallery and studio.
Red Feather Inn is a charming place to relax, share and enjoy.The property is comprised of historic sandstone buildings, located in Hadspen.
Rocky Hills Retreat is located just 2 kilometers up a gravelly dirt driveway, however it feels like a million miles away. Rocky Hills Retreat's vista of Great Oyster Bay bounded by Freycinet Peninsula and Maria Island provides the perfect backdrop for ultimate relaxation.
Tas Huandao Travel is a Tasmanian travel company catering to Asian travellers.
The Tassie Dining Card is a dining discount card developed especially for tourists to Tasmania. The Tassie Dining Card comes with a 36 page Tassie Dining Guide. This Guide lists the venues that accept the Tassie Dining Card in approx 50 suburbs, cities and towns across the state.
Tranquilles is located at beautiful Port Sorell. Luxury accommodation units are complimented by a licensed cafe and art gallery, perfect for a short break escape.
A complete list of accredited operators is available on the TICT website . This can be referred to when recommending other quality tourism accredited businesses to visitors.
Australian Tourism Accrediation Program
The Australian Tourism Accreditation Program is an important initiative of the Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania. The program is designed to raise the professionalism of the industry through the implementation of business management practices and standards.
Snapshots 14 May
Posted on Tuesday, 25 May 2010 | Permalink
2010 Tasmanian Tourism Conference Registrations now open!
Explore, unwind, engage and taste – The Tasmanian Experience
Registrations are now open for the 2010 Tasmanian Tourism Conference. This industry event is an invaluable experience for all tourism operators, offering informative presentations, new product displays and networking opportunities in a relaxed environment. Registration forms can be downloaded from the TICT website.
Delegates will be inspired by local nature-based business success stories 'Pennicott Wilderness Journeys' and 'The Maria Island Walk', and then enthralled by Mark Fraser, Curator of MONA, who will give industry a sneak peek into the marvels of the Museum of Old and New Art.
There are still spaces available to exhibit at the conference; don’t miss this great opportunity to promote your product to tourism operators from around the state in one convenient location. An exhibitor prospectus can be downloaded from the TICT website.
For more conference announcements – Stay glued to the TICT website.
For further information please contact the TICT on 6224 1930 or info@tict.com.au
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By Cassandra Smith
Industry Services Coordinator
Simon Currant inaugural chairman of new Tourism Quality Council of Australia
Simon Currant has been endorsed by state and federal tourism ministers as the inaugural chairman of the new Tourism Quality Council of Australia. The announcement was made at the Tourism Ministerial Council Meeting held in Canberra on April 30.
The Tourism Quality Council of Australia will strive to improve the quality of tourism offerings nation-wide by ensuring a consistent customer experience through a national accreditation and promotional framework.
The TICT Chairman and Tourism Tasmania board member said he is pleased to take on the role because a reputation for consistent quality of customer experience is so essential to tourism.
“I believe that this will be brilliant for Australian tourism from both a national and international perspective. It will help improve the quality of the tourism experience across the country and give visitors and domestic traveller's certainty and confidence when planning and booking their travel,”
“Tasmania is recognised nationally as a leader in this area and being able to take this into a national sphere is one of the reasons I accepted this role,” Mr Currant said.
The Tasmanian Minister for Tourism, Michelle O’Byrne has congratulated Mr Currant on the appointment.
“This appointment recognises the great work of Mr Currant and the Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania in the area of tourism accreditation and acknowledges Tasmania’s strong performance in this area,” Ms O’Byrne said.
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By Cassandra Smith
Industry Services Coordinator
TICT AGM and Board Election
The Tourism Industry Council Tasmania held their AGM and subsequent election of directors on Tuesday the 4th of May. New additions to the board include;
Stuart Nettlefold
Stuart has recently taken over the position of CEO at Business Events Tasmania (formerly the Tasmanian Convention Bureau). He has agreed to continue to represent this organisation as part of the Associations College of the TICT Board.
Mark Wilsdon
Mark has over 25 years experience in the tourism and hospitality sector and has operated and headed up several successful restaurants as a chef and owner. He signed on at Moorilla as Hospitality Operations Manager in 2004, and after facilitating a restructure of management in 2006 he took on the role of Business Manager. He now supports all business operations from a strategic position as a member of the Executive while monitoring commercial operating efficiencies and investigating further opportunities for MONA.
Clint Walker
Clint is a professional tourism operator, and has been completely 'submersed' in the tourism industry for 13 years. He has served on the North West Coast Zone Marketing group since its inception, and is a strong supporter of the accreditation program. For the last nine years he has been a managing partner of a successful accommodation business called 'Stanley Seaview Inn' (ex Dovecote Motel & Restaurant) and three years ago, he created another new business in Stanley, called 'Horizon Deluxe Apartments'.
The TICT welcome the newly appointed board members and look forward to their fresh views and contribution to the strategic direction of tourism.
For a full listing of TICT board members please visit the TICT website .
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By Cassandra Smith
Industry Services Coordinator
Lumina Shines in Regional Areas
Lumina – A Winter of Festivals is in full swing, with many of the upcoming events held in, and celebrating, Tasmania’s regional destinations. Beyond aiming to attract visitors to regional areas, these events provide an opportunity for communities to be actively involved in showcasing their local culture and heritage.
Featuring during May, the upcoming festivals and events include; The Tasmanian Heritage Festival: Deco to Digital – Our 20th Century Heritage, From France to Freycinet, Picnic at Ross and the Batman Bridge Festival, all offering a splice of local flavour sure to delight.
For a full listing of all Lumina events please pick up a copy of the promotional calendar at Tasmanian Visitor Information Centres and Australia Post outlets, or visit the website www.luminatasmania.com.
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By Cassandra Smith
Industry Services Coordinator
Tourism’s TOP 10 Industry Performers
The TICT receives over 3,000 customer feedback survey forms each year. This process is very important to accredited businesses as it gives them recognition of a high level of service and ideas for improvements from a customer perspective.
To further reward businesses who demonstrate a commitment to service excellence, and to help visitors to plan a quality Tasmanian experience the TICT is planning to release a list of the TOP 10 performing tourism providers in each region. This will be judged on the quality of written comments and consistency of forms received and will be updated each quarter.
Look out for further announcements in future editions of ‘Snapshots’ and on the TICT website www.tict.com.au .
Will your business be in the TOP 10?
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By Cassandra Smith
Industry Services Coordinator
New Accreditations
Congratulations to the following businesses that have recently achieved tourism accreditation:
Eagle Peaks at Freycinet is a small accommodation complex designed specifically to blend into its coastal bush setting, overlooking the Freycinet Penninsula and Great Oyster Bay.
Ross Motel is situated on the riverfront of the Macquarie River, this unique 4-star motel features deluxe motel units housed in Georgian style cottages.
The Big Blue Retreat is a unique cape cod style house situated in a stunning location 100 metres from Garden Island Sands Beach.
Woodbridge Hill Hideaway where your cabin is hidden from the view of everything... but the view.
A complete list of accredited operators is available on the TICT website . This can be referred to when recommending other quality tourism accredited businesses to visitors.
Three Capes Track Needed for Tourism and Jobs
Posted on Monday, 24 May 2010 | Permalink
The Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania says the Three Capes Track will unequivocally increase visitor numbers and benefit both the Tasman Peninsula as well as the broader Tasmanian economy.
TICT Chief Executive Daniel Hanna said today that the tourism industry considered this project to be the highest priority to better place Tasmania to compete with other nature based destinations like New Zealand.
“The research recently conducted on our behalf by KPMG highlighted that the Three Capes Track would deliver between $90 million to $190million in additional visitor expenditure each year to Tasmania; with a substantial proportion of this on the Tasman Peninsula.
“The project will also create lasting jobs, up to 1560 statewide and up to 320 on the Tasman Peninsula. Combined with the possibility of the World Heritage listing of the Port Arthur Historic Site, this could be exciting times for the Tasman Peninsula.
“The KPMG study estimated that by 2017 the Track will attract between 56,040 and 86,690 additional day visitors a year to the Tasman Peninsula above any normal growth in the market. It is the additional day visitors attracted to the region by the Three Capes Track that will provide the largest proportion of the economic benefits.
“Extra day visitors will stay overnight on the Tasman peninsula and spend money in a range of businesses. This means that the benefits will flow to retailers, suppliers, cafes, restaurants, accommodation, and tour operators. Quite literally every butcher, baker and candlestick maker on the Tasman Peninsula is poised to benefit from the Three Capes Track.
Mr Hanna said that Tasmania needed to develop new products to meet changing visitor demands, remain competitive and to attract return visitors.
“We need to provide new experiences that work in with the time that visitors have available and the type of experience they are seeking. It is important to provide a full range of options to all kinds of different visitors and locals alike.
Mr Hanna said there was still strong interest in the highly regarded Overland Track, but that this track was close to capacity and visitors were looking for something new.
“One of the reasons for the proposal for a new iconic track is to take some of the pressure off our more popular walks.
“The Three Capes track will be an entirely different bushwalking experience to anything else currently available in Tasmania, with spectacular coastal views, and will allow Tasmania to compete for market share with our major competitor New Zealand.
The Federal Government has allocated $12.5 million and the State Government $12.8 million to develop the track and the private sector will also contribute $8 million to the $33.5 million development.
Mr Hanna said the Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service had a well deserved reputation for the management of Tasmania’s iconic walking tracks like the Overland Track; balancing the desire of people to experience the wilderness with the need to protect the pristine environment.
“A lot of research has gone into the development of this concept including detailed studies and track surveys to provide information about route alignment, track construction methods, flora and fauna values, threatened species, erosion and weed and phytophthora management so the TICT is confident that it will strengthen Tasmania’s reputation for iconic bushwalks,” Mr Hanna said.
Snapshots: 30 April 2010
Posted on Wednesday, 12 May 2010 | Permalink
INDUSTRY WELCOMES REAPPOINTMENT OF TOURISM MINISTER
The Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania today welcomed the reappointment of Michelle O’Byrne as Tourism Minister Read On
TOURISM INDUSTRY WELCOMES THREE CAPES TRACK SUPPORT
The Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania has called on the new State Government to move quickly to start work on development of the Three Capes Track on the Tasman Peninsula Read On
2010 TASMANIAN TOURISM CONFERENCE
Explore, unwind, engage and taste - The Tasmanian Experience
It is with great pleasure that the Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania announce the launch of this years’ conference, to be held at the Country Club Tasmania on the 6th of July. The theme “Explore, unwind, engage and taste” centres on the strengths of the Tasmanian tourism experience, emphasising the elements of our state that captivate visitors – natural wonders, historical icons, cultural heritage and delicious produce.
Conference attendees will have the opportunity to hear informative and engaging speakers and industry professionals who have successfully navigated the development and promotion of tourism businesses focussed in these areas. Stay tuned for speaker announcements.
Registrations for the conference open on May 10
There are still spaces available to exhibit at the conference; don’t miss this great opportunity to promote your product to tourism operators from around the state in one convenient location. An exhibitor prospectus can be downloaded from the TICT website.
For registration details and speaker announcements – Head to the TICT website http://www.tict.com.au/events/tasmanian-tourism-conference/
For further information about the Tasmanian Tourism Conference, including sponsorship opportunities, please contact Cassandra Smith on 6224 1930 or cassandra.smith@tict.com.au
TRAVELWAYS ONLINE
Tasmanian Travelways is now available online with a live booking system for accommodation, tours and attractions. Since its launch in February this year, www.travelways.com.au has become increasingly popular, with bookings now rolling in for many of the 180+ operators that are currently opted in as distributors.
Tasmanian Travelways has invested heavily in search engine optimisation to ensure that the site is viewed as regularly as possible in order to create maximum bookings for tourism providers.
For those businesses that are yet to opt in and utilise www.travelways.com.au as a distribution channel, the process is extremely easy and costs you nothing!
For further information please contact Vicki Hewton, Sales Manager on (03) 6336 7275 or info@travelways.com.au
EVENTS TASMANIA GRANT PROGRAM 2011
Events Tasmania offers a range of funding and development opportunities to encourage and assist event organisers to stage their event in Tasmania in 2011.
The deadline for the 2011 Events Tasmania Grant Program is fast approaching. Applications close on Friday 14 May 2010 at 5pm.
For more information visit www.eventstasmania.com and lodge your application online.
NEW ACCREDITATIONS
Congratulations to the following businesses that have recently achieved tourism accreditation:
Devonport Holiday Village is situated on 8 acres of gardens and trees, close to town, Spirit of Tasmania Ferry and airport. The perfect base for your caravan or camping holiday.
Sainty's Coaches are a reliable and affordable transport provider located in Launceston.
Tastrips and Austrips is a licensed Travel Agency dedicated to arranging group travel to all famous Australian icons.
Sails on Port Sorell are unique and modern, boutique studio apartments, together with a stunning villa situated in Port Sorell on the North West Coast of Tasmania.
TASMANIAN ACCREDITED OPERATORS
A complete list of accredited operators is available on the TICT website here. This can be referred to when recommending other quality tourism accredited businesses to visitors.
TOURISM INDUSTRY WELCOMES THREE CAPES TRACK SUPPORT
Posted on Thursday, 22 April 2010 | Permalink
The Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania has called on the new State Government to move quickly to start work on development of the Three Capes Track on the Tasman Peninsula.
TICT Chief Executive Daniel Hanna said comments today by Prime Minister Kevin Rudd at the Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) symposium in Hobart today confirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to develop the track.
Mr Rudd told ATEC that he had visited Cradle Mountain and Freycinet while on a holiday in Tasmania over the summer and that the Three Capes Track, to which the Federal Government has allocated $12.5 million infrastructure funding, would be a great development.
“During the election campaign the Labor Party also committed $12.8 million in funds to match the Commonwealth’s commitment,” Mr Hanna said.
Mr Hanna said the private sector would also contribute $8 million to the $33.5 million development.
“The development of infrastructure is a proper role for governments and will lead to the creation of a new iconic multi-day walk on the Tasman Peninsula that will strengthen Tasmania’s place in the global experience seeker market,” Mr Hanna said.
“The TICT is confident there is strong demand for new iconic bushwalking experiences. Recent research conducted by KPMG highlighted that the Three Capes Track would deliver an additional $90m-$190m in visitor expenditure each year to Tasmania and many hundreds of additional jobs.
“As the Prime Minister noted, Tasmania already has the reputation as Australia’s premier bushwalking destination, but we need to develop new products to meet changing visitor demands, remain competitive and to attract return visitors,” Mr Hanna said.
“We need to provide new experiences that work in with the time that visitors have available and the type of experience they are seeking.
Mr Hanna said there was still strong interest in the highly regarded Overland Track, but that this track was close to capacity and visitors were looking for something new.
“The Three Capes track will be an entirely different bushwalking experience to anything else currently available in Tasmania, with spectacular coastal views – it will allow Tasmania to compete for market share with our major competitor – New Zealand.
“Now we have a new Government, the Minister has been appointed and the Track has the support of the Federal Government, it is time to push on with construction so the state and the Tasman Peninsula can start to reap the benefits,” Mr Hanna said.
Industry Welcomes Reappointment of Tourism Minister
Posted on Thursday, 22 April 2010 | Permalink
The Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania today welcomed the reappointment of Michelle O’Byrne as Tourism Minister.
TICT Chief Executive Daniel Hanna said today the industry was pleased with the performance of Ms O’Byrne as Minister for Tourism in the previous Government and welcomed her re-appointment.
“Michelle has a good understanding of the issues confronting tourism and is a strong supporter of our strategic direction.
“During the election campaign there was little separating the three political parties on their commitments to Tourism and the industry therefore has reason to be confident about the future. We will be working with all parties to ensure they continue to support the commitments they made during the election campaign,” Mr Hanna said.
The commitments included:
• A new Protocol Agreement and joint strategic business plan.
• To make tourism a high profile government activity and a key role in Cabinet
• To provide appropriate and sustainable funding for tourism in particular marketing and events.
“Both major political parties also committed to invest in the development of the Three Capes Track on the Tasman Peninsula,” Mr Hanna said.
“Tourism is facing a difficult operating environment with strong competition and ongoing global economic uncertainty and this is why Tourism needs to continue to be an importance focus of government and of all political parties,” Mr Hanna said.
Time for People to Decide on Waterfront Future
Posted on Tuesday, 13 April 2010 | Permalink
The Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania says people need to decide whether or not they want a vibrant Hobart waterfront.
TICT Chief Executive Daniel Hanna said today the unacceptable noise restrictions and limits on how late waterfront events could run were symptomatic of attitudes towards redevelopment of the whole waterfront area.
“Hobart is the gateway to the State and the waterfront, including Princes Wharf, is a vital part of the attraction. People come to Hobart then tour other regions. If we damage the vibrancy and excitement of the waterfront then we risk damaging tourism for the whole state,” Mr Hanna said.
“The Tasmanian community also enjoys and makes use of the Hobart waterfront as participants and patrons of venues and major events and the proposed restrictions will impinge on their enjoyment.
“The irony is that while there is a push for more public space on the waterfront, the festivals and events that get the greatest public attendance are now going to be subjected to unacceptable controls.
“It’s time for people to decide: do they want a vibrant Hobart waterfront with festivals, events and activity; or a bland and banal area where no-one can raise their voice for fear of complaints by a handful of residents?
“We should be doing more to make the waterfront a tourism precinct and drawcard, not putting in place further conditions that will restrict all businesses and events.
Mr Hanna said the TICT supported the redevelopment of Princes Wharf No 1 to better cater for events, festivals and conventions.
The industry is also pushing to open up further sites around the waterfront for tourism-related developments.
“For example, the Tasmanian tourism industry believes Princes Wharf No. 2 has enormous tourism potential as a multi-purpose site, incorporating tourism and retail with permanent public access to an important part of under-used Hobart waterfront.
“However, it is pointless building better facilities and venues unless people consciously decide they want the waterfront to be a vibrant and exciting precinct,’ Mr Hanna said.
2010 Election Commitments by Party Against the TICT Platform
Posted on Thursday, 18 March 2010 | Permalink
The Tourism Industry Council Tasmania (TICT) has taken an active role during the 2010 Tasmanian State Election campaign on behalf of the industry. The TICT finalised a document in early December that outlined the key tourism commitments being sought at the State Election. This was sent to Labor, Liberal and the Greens and included three key tourism commitments and two tourism infrastructure commitments. Michelle O’Byrne, Jeremy Rockliff and Cassy O’Connor subsequently made presentations to the TICT Board in February to respond to the TICT document.
Since that time, each party has released a range of tourism policies and attached for your consideration is a link to the comparison document of these policies prepared by the TICT. While a politically active organisation, the TICT does not directly advocate for any political party and this information is provided to help you determine the policies that will best serve your business, your local area, your industry, and the state as a whole.
The Comparison Document outlines in detail the following summary points (click the link to view uploads/file/TICT/2010%20Election%20Comparison.pdf ):
- Table 1, page 1 – the policy commitments from each party against the five elements of the TICT platform;
- Table 1, page 2 – the other tourism relevant commitments from each party (note that not every policy sent to the TICT by each party has been included. Specifically, roads/transport commitments and those commitments where tourism is considered secondary have not been included. This has been applied consistently); and
- Table 2, page 3 – the ongoing tourism and events funding commitments that reflect the funding that Tourism Tasmania will have available to undertake its responsibilities.
Whatever the outcome of the election on Saturday, the tourism industry can be certain that each party has adequately considered the needs of tourism in developing its policy platform. With challenging times ahead for tourism, the commitment of the new Tasmanian Government after March 20 will be very important.
Daniel Hanna
CEO, Tourism Industry Council Tasmania
Tourism Industry Welcomes Labor Investment in Three Capes Track
Posted on Friday, 5 March 2010 | Permalink
The Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania today welcomed the Federal Government commitment of $12.5 million and the State Labor Government commitment of $12.8 million to establish the Three Capes Track.
TICT chief executive officer Daniel Hanna said the level of funding will bring huge benefits to both the Tasman Peninsula and Tasmanian economies.
“This is exactly what is required to continue to develop iconic, destination tourism experiences for Tasmania,” Mr Hanna said.
“This project will also be a great example of a public/private partnership, involving the private sector and the Federal and State Governments.
“We believe that Tasmania will start to benefit in a major way if the construction of the Track can be completed over the next three years, even sooner as sections are upgraded and opened.
“The TICT’s own report, prepared by KPMG, showed that a fully-developed Three Capes Track will deliver up to $190 million annually and 1500-plus jobs to the Tasmanian economy.
“The Three Capes Track, full-developed, will transform the Tasman National Park as a destination for day walking through increased promotion, exposure and improvements in day walk tracks and facilities.”
The Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania released the Three Capes Track Economic Impact of Additional Day Walk Visitors report last week (see attachment).
Mr Hanna said the proposed Three Capes Track would be a five night/six day walking experience on the Tasman Peninsula taking in Cape Raoul, Cape Pillar and Cape Hauy.
“The KPMG report found that the Tasmanian economy could benefit by up to $188 million per annum and 1563 jobs by 2017 through increased day walk visitors as a result of the development of the Three Capes Track.
“Importantly, the report also found that the Tasman Peninsula economy would benefit by up to $43.75 million annually and 323 jobs.
“The Three Capes Track would also deliver massive benefits to Tasmanian tourism and the Tasmanian economy.
“The development of a second iconic multi-day walk (in addition to the Overland Track at Cradle Mountain) in Tasmania would:
• significantly add to the Tasmanian brand
• better place Tasmania as an iconic walking destination to compete with destinations like New Zealand
• provide an alternative experience for the many visitors that have already experienced the Overland Track and Cradle Mountain/Lake St. Clair National Park
• provide increased year round walking opportunities due to the more favourable climate on the Tasman Peninsula
• increase the profile of the stunning coastal environment of the Tasman National Park
TASMANIA WINS THREE NATIONAL AWARDS
Posted on Monday, 1 March 2010 | Permalink
TASMANIA WINS THREE NATIONAL AWARDS
Eco-Tourism, Luxury, Clean & Green – Tasmanian Tourism Icons
26 February 2009
Three Tasmanian tourism businesses – all featuring iconic elements of the State’s industry – have won National Qantas Australian Tourism Awards. The Tasmanian winners and their categories are:
• Bruny Island Cruises – Ecotourism
• Pure Tasmania – Marketing
• Avalon Coastal Retreat – Deluxe Accommodation
The National awards were presented at the Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart tonight, hosted by the National Tourism Alliance and presented by Qantas, Tourism Australia and Tourism Tasmania.
Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania chief executive officer Daniel Hanna said for Tasmania to win three of the 27 categories was an outstanding achievement.
“This is the best result ever by the Tasmanian tourism industry, and highlights the national significance of our best tourism products.
“It is especially pleasing that the categories that Tasmania has excelled in reflect the Tasmanian brand.
“To be recognised as having the best marketing campaign, best eco-tourism experience and best deluxe accommodation demonstrates that Tasmania is a destination that punches above its weight in niche markets and high end tourism experiences,” Mr Hanna said.
“Bruny Island Cruises has been an eco-tourism leader both in Tasmania and nationally for many years.
“Rob Pennicott and his team have an outstanding product, which has championed Tasmania’s wilderness, and delivered with impeccable environmental credentials.
“Avalon Coastal Retreat is perhaps small in scale, but its quality and sense of style is huge.
“The Tasmanian-designed ‘glasshouse’ of the East Coast draws visitors looking for that special experience back time and time again.
“The Pure Tasmania marketing campaign – featuring iconic destinations such as Cradle Mountain, Strahan and the Freycinet Peninsula – has promoted Federal’s outstanding stable of regional tourism products to the advantage of the entire industry.
“The national awards clearly show that the Tasmanian tourism industry has grown up. Our tourism experiences and products are amongst Australia’s very best and can confidently grace the world stage.”
Three Capes Track to deliver economic boom
Posted on Tuesday, 23 February 2010 | Permalink
Tasman Peninsula & Tasmanian Economy and Jobs Boosted
A fully-developed Three Capes Track is set to deliver up to $190 million annually and 1500-plus jobs to the Tasmanian economy, according to a new economic impact study looking at the impact of additional day walkers that the Track would bring.
The Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania today released the Three Capes Track Economic Impact of Additional Day Walk Visitors report, prepared by KPMG.
TICT chief executive officer Daniel Hanna said the proposed Three Capes Track would be a five night/six day walking experience on the Tasman Peninsula taking in Cape Raoul, Cape Pillar and Cape Hauy.
“The Three Capes Track, full-developed, will transform the Tasman National Park as a destination for day walking through increased promotion, exposure and improvements in day walk tracks and facilities,’ Mr Hanna said.
“This phenomenon occurred at Cradle Mountain where the reputation of the Overland Track has made the area a hub for day walking with over 200,000 visitors per year.
“The KPMG report found that the Tasmanian economy could benefit by up to $188 million per annum and 1563 jobs by 2017 through increased day walk visitors as a result of the development of the Three Capes Track.
“Importantly, the report also found that the Tasman Peninsula economy would benefit by up to $43.75 million annually and 323 jobs.
“This report delivers proof of how important the Three Capes Track could be to the Tasman Peninsula, which already has one great tourist attraction at Port Arthur but needs another iconic tourist experience.
“A new iconic multi-day walk would attract large numbers of additional interstate and overseas visitors to the area and increase visitor nights and visitor spending substantially.
“The big winners would be the many small service based businesses on the Tasman Peninsula.
“The project would bring wealth and massive job opportunities to help the Tasman Peninsula economy to grow.
“The Three Capes Track would also deliver massive benefits to Tasmanian tourism and the Tasmanian economy.
“The development of a second iconic multi-day walk (in addition to the Overland Track) in Tasmania would:
- significantly add to the Tasmanian brand
- better place Tasmania as an iconic walking destination to compete with destinations like New Zealand
- provide an alternative experience for the many visitors that have already experienced the Overland Track and Cradle Mountain/Lake St. Clair National Park
- provide increased year round walking opportunities due to the more favourable climate on the Tasman Peninsula
- increase the profile of the stunning coastal environment of the Tasman National Park
The impacts outlined in the KPMG report are in addition to the 2008 report by Syneca Consulting which measured the economic impact of overnight walkers on the Three Capes Track.
The Syneca report found spending in Tasmania of $19.7m per annum and an additional 334 jobs; and $3.1m in addition spending on the Tasman Peninsula and the creation of 70 jobs.
Mr Hanna said the Three Capes Track report outlined visitor number impacts on the Tasman Peninsula, including:
- Conservative scenario – 14,702 international tourists and 41,338 interstate tourists, totalling 56,040 ADDITIONAL visitors annually
- Optimistic scenario – 22,744 international visitors and 63,952 interstate visitors, totalling 86,696 ADDITIONAL visitors
“This report highlights why all Tasmanian political parties should see this project as a priority infrastructure development that would benefit Tasmania, in particular the Tasman Peninsula,” Mr Hanna said.
The Tasman Peninsula (from Tasmanian Visitor Survey June 2009) currently welcomes 55,292 international visitors and 167,780 interstate visitors, totalling 223,072 visitors annually.
