The Hodgman Liberal Government is delivering on its promise to transform Tasmania into the environmental tourism capital of the world.
I am pleased to announce that I have accepted recommendations from the Expressions Of Interest (EOI) Assessment Panel that four additional projects proceed to the next stage of the EOI process.
These projects are:
In order for these projects to proceed they will require minor amendments to the management plans for the relevant national park within which they fall. These amendments will be undertaken in accordance with the statutory process which will include formal public consultation.
The first management plan amendment process to be initiated is for the Narawntapu National Park.
The change to the Narawntapu National Park management plan updates the previous management plan which was produced in 2000.
A minor alteration to the Narawntapu National Park management plan is proposed, to maintain use of the full length of Bakers Beach by horse riders, once the new link trail is in place. For many years horse riding has been taking place on Bakers Beach under authority, with strict conditions to avoid impacts on shorebirds. Expanded horse riding in the park, by both commercial and private parties, would continue to be managed under conditions to protect environmental values.
Public input is now sought on the Narawntapu National Park Draft Management Plan 2015, with comment closing on 16 December, 2015. The draft plan can be viewed on the PWS website at www.parks.tas.gov.au and copies obtained from Service Tasmania shops in Hobart, Launceston and Devonport.
Details of proposed amendments to the Tasman and Freycinet National Park management plans will be advertised in the coming months as drafting for the amendment of those plans is finalised.
These project proposals are great examples of the opportunities we have for new tourism experiences in Tasmania and what we can achieve through leveraging our natural assets.
The EOI process represents an opportunity to attract up to $70 million worth of investment and the creation of up to 300 jobs.
The Net Economic Return to the State is estimated at nearly $30 million per annum.
The Government remains absolutely committed to the proper protection of natural and cultural heritage within our parks and reserves.
We are getting on with the job of delivering our long-term plan for Tasmania, by expanding the range of recreational and tourism experiences within our parks that will help us grow our tourism industry together with jobs in particular for those in our regional communities.
Details of all projects progressing through the EOI process are available on the Coordinator General’s website at www.cg.tas.gov.au