The Minister for Tourism, Scott Bacon, today welcomed Commonwealth endorsement of entrepreneur Simon Currant's proposed Pumphouse at St Clair development.

Mr Bacon said the Tasmanian Government was a strong supporter of sustainable tourism development around the State.

 

"I believe that any tourism development needs to be both appropriate to the area and sustainable," he said.

 

"The environmental impact of such developments  are rigorously assessed to ensure they do not  have a negative impact on their surrounds.

 

"The Pumphouse at St Clair development has already gone through an extensive assessment process, and the Tasmanian Government looks forward to the completion of this world-class development.

 

"Our tourism industry contributes a significant amount to the State's economy, supporting thousands of direct and indirect jobs and I will always be a passionate advocate for sustainable tourism developments and further investment in the sector.

 

"I believe that projects like Pumphouse at St Clair and the Government's Three Capes Track can generate significant investment opportunities and employment, as well as capitalising one of our major strengths in the tourism market - our wilderness and heritage experiences.

 

"Our natural advantages - and innovative developments like MONA, Barnbougle and Saffire - make Tasmania an ideal place for tourism operators to invest.

 

"I look forward to discussing investment opportunities and other issues affecting the sector with my colleagues at this week's Tourism Minister's Council meeting in Melbourne."