The Minister for Tourism, Scott Bacon, has congratulated Derwent Valley businesses and community members involved in the three-day Tiger Trail Festival, which begins today.

Mr Bacon said the event capitalises on the international exposure received through the movie The Hunter, along with the district's ties to the Tasmanian Tiger.

"One of Tasmania's strengths is our close-knit communities, and I am always pleased to see local businesses and community groups join together to highlight what is unique about their particular area," he said.

"Creating a festival that celebrates the Derwent Valley's connections to the Tasmanian Tiger while showcasing the region's many attractions is a great way to encourage people to visit the region.

"Over the next couple of days, we'll see 30 events at 25 venues- events that will give people the chance to partake of some of the Derwent Valley's fine food and wine and learn more about the region through tours of the area."

Mr Bacon said the event had been strongly supported by local businesses, the Derwent Valley Council and the new Regional Tourism Organisation, Destination Southern Tasmania.

"Cooperative marketing plans that make the most of Tasmania's regional strengths will be one of the key benefits to emerge from our new regional tourism approach, and I'm pleased to see Destination Southern Tasmania get behind this fantastic event," he said.

"For Tasmanians who have never been to the Derwent Valley, I'd encourage them to head to the region this weekend and spend some time enjoying the activities on offer for the Tiger Trail Festival."

The Tiger Trail Festival runs until Sunday with events in Plenty, Bushy Park, Westerway, Fentonbury, Ellendale, National Park, Maydena, Strathgordon and Hayes. Further information is available through the festival website: www.tigertrailfestival.com.au