The Tasmanian Government has praised the commitment of tourism
operators David and Rachel Gunton for their impressive re-vamp of the iconic
Bruny Island Hotel.

The Premier, Lara Giddings, and the Minister for Tourism, Scott
Bacon, today launched the re-furbished Hotel Bruny at Alonnah which was
originally built in the 1930s.

 

Ms Giddings said David and Rachel have shown a commitment to
capitalising on the key drawcards for visitors to Tasmania by investing in a
business offering dining and accommodation on one of our most visited
islands.

 

"Last year around 76,000 people from interstate and overseas
came to Bruny Island with around 22,400 staying overnight," Ms Giddings
said.

 

"An important part of the experience for those visitors was the
island's magnificent beaches, bushwalks and local
produce.

 

"Increasing the accommodation choice and dining experiences will
help to encourage more visitors to stay longer in this part of our beautiful
state.

 

"Through the Hotel Bruny, David and Rachel are looking to
enhance that experience by providing a welcoming place for visitors, which
showcases local produce on the new menu using the skills of renowned chef Joff
Jennings.

 

"From the stunning scenery outside, to the local produce on the
table, visitors to the hotel can indulge themselves in the very best that
Tasmania has to offer."

 

The Minister for Tourism, Scott Bacon, said the refurbished
Hotel would complement the many fine experiences on offer on Bruny
Island.

 

"These include the beaches, the natural areas and a range of
attractions and tours like Rob Pennicott's Bruny Island Cruise, Bruny Island
Cheese Company, Inala Nature Tours, Get Shucked Oysters, Bruny Island Berry
Farm, HIBA and Bruny island Premium Wines," he
said.

 

"David and Rachel's passion for tourism, hospitality and Bruny
Island is renowned.

 

"It has earned their business five state tourism awards since
2007, and David the 2009 Tourism Minister's Young Achiever
Award.

 

"They have shown they're commitment to investing in the
infrastructure of Bruny Island, to help develop the island's tourism potential
even further, and I wish them all the best for the now re-launched Bruny
Hotel."