TICT Quarterly - Spring 2023

QUARTERLY SPRING | 2023 | ISSUE 12

TOURISM INDUSTRY COUNCIL TASMANIA

INDUSTRY ACHIEVEMENTS & OUTLOOK

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SPIRIT OF TASMANIA: A NEW ERA OF SEA TRAVEL

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POLICY SNAPSHOT: EMISSION REDUCTION INITIATIVE, 2030 STRATEGY; TOURISM WORKFORCE

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TASSIE’S TOP TOURISM TOWNS: QUEESNTOWN WINS GOLD ON THE NATIONAL STAGE

The Podcast Series for Tasmanian tourism operators and industry professionals.

More than 100 Bite Size Conversations with our best and brightest, the influential and the inspiring in Tasmanian tourism.

Listen in the car, at the desk, in the shower, walking the dog…

Wherever and whenever suits you.

Best of all, they’re 100% FREE Stream from www.tict.com.au Or search for ‘Talking Tourism’ wherever you get your Podcasts.

Talking Tourism is an initiative of

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WELCOME: FROM TICT

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TOURISM TASMANIA: WHAT TASMANIAN TOURISM BUSINESSES CAN EXPECT FROM THE SEASON AHEAD

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2023 LEADERSHIP LUNCHEON SERIES: DIALOGUE, COLLECTIVE, IN FOCUS, BLEND

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ANOTHER YEAR, ANOTHER TOURISM CONFERENCE: POSITIVE IMPACT 2

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SPIRIT OF TASMANIA: A NEW ERA OF SEA TRAVEL

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POSITIVE IMPACT: A NEW APPROACH FOR OUR VISITOR ECONOMY

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POLICY WATCH: EMISSIONS REDUCTION

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OUR INDUSTRY IS OUR PEOPLE: WORKFORCE STRATEGY

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2023 TASSIE’S TOP TOURISM TOWNS

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MEET YOUR NEW TICT BOARD DIRECTORS

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MEET THE TICT TEAM: HANNAH LANG

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TASSIE TOURISM AMBASSADOR PROGRAM

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CONTENTS

Cover – The Candlestick Cape Hauy. Photo credit: Jason Charles Hill

To advertise in the next TICT Quarterly or for editorial enquiries contact info@tict.com.au 1

WELCOME: FROM TICT

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t’s my pleasure to present the Spring 2023 edition of the TICT Quarterly designed to update you on everything that has been happening in our industry.

It’s been nearly three months since I started with the TICT and my time has been spent getting out to our regions, meeting with key partners, and working with Government to deliver our new 2030 Visitor Economy Strategy.

I’ve heard from many of you that it’s been a quieter winter when compared to the past few years with demand similar to that experienced in 2019. With borders reopening, and Aussies heading overseas during the cooler months, this perhaps was not unexpected. But what it has highlighted is that as an industry we need to be prepared about what to expect going into next winter.

This is even more important, in the wake of the announcement that Dark Mofo will be in a reduced format in 2024. Not only is the festival much loved – it’s a demand generator during our quieter months. However, it is important that it’s set up for success for the future and with challenge comes opportunity.

The TICT wants to work with Government, including Tourism Tasmania and Events Tasmania, to deliver a dedicated strategy to drive demand next winter.

This may include looking at our existing winter festivals and how they might be expanded, other opportunities to attract new events to the state, as

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Amy Hills at the 2023 Tasmanian Tourism Conference

well as working with airlines to promote travel to Tasmania.

Industry will do its bit by ensuring it offers unique and winter-based experiences and offers. We are also calling on the Government to allocate additional funding to support events and demand generation for next year’s winter period.

At the same time, we are looking to the longer term, and it was critical to the TICT that our new 2030 Visitor Economy Strategy was released accompanied by new funding. That’s why we warmly welcomed the Premier’s commitment of $12 million over three years so we can get moving on delivering action. If you haven’t read the Strategy yet, I would encourage you to do so by visiting Tourism Tasmania’s website.

In August, TICT delivered yet another successful tourism conference which brought many areas of the 2030 Strategy to life. We also launched our Emissions Reduction Initiative and since then more than 60 operators have jumped on board to be involved in understanding their emissions and taking steps to reduce them.

We will be opening further rounds, so stay tuned if you are not yet involved.

In the meantime, the TICT will be focusing its advocacy on the areas of; • Workforce – attraction, retention, development, and training.

• Ensuring major infrastructure projects get delivered as promised by Governments.

• Ensuring we are ready for the arrival of the new Spirit of Tasmania ferries.

• Driving programs to achieve our ambition of being a destination for climate conscious travel.

• Advocating for demand generation and access capacity to keep our industry thriving.

I’m looking forward to meeting many more of you as we work together into the future.

Here’s to a busy and successful summer period.

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And finally, we’re heading into Awards season and again we’ve had a strong field of submissions. This year we’ll be holding finalist announcement events in Launceston, the east coast and Hobart, and our Gala in November will be a celebration of the extraordinary.

Amy and husband, Peter, at Spring Beach in Orford

Amy Hills, CEO TICT

Amy and son, Hudson, at Spring Beach in Orford 3

WHAT TASMANIAN TOURISM BUSINESSES CAN EXPECT FOR THE SEASON AHEAD

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pring is officially here.

Tourism Tasmania’s Sarah Clark provides an update on current market trends and what you can do to get prepared for the season ahead.

Last year Tasmania experienced a record tourist season, primarily driven by domestic and local travellers following the reopening of borders and built-up demand for travel. As many Tasmanian businesses will have experienced, this winter saw visitor numbers and spending start to stabilise and soften as expected, as consumer confidence in international travel increased and domestic travellers head overseas.

While Australians have begun to head overseas again, confidence in inbound international travel also presents opportunity for our state. We are already starting to experience the return of international visitors to the state, currently making up 12% of visitation numbers.

Singapore visitor numbers have fully recovered to 2019 levels, with the US and UK not far behind. However, China and Hong Kong, two of Tasmania’s largest international markets are well behind. With Australia now added to China’s ‘Approved Destination Status’ list in August, it is expected that traveller numbers from this region will slowly return over the coming 12 months.

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Views of Mt Roland. Photo credit: Jason Charles Hill

Increased direct flight services between Auckland and Hobart with Air New Zealand means that Tasmania is also seeing growth in demand from our neighbouring country. This route has seen our state welcome over 35,000 travellers since it commenced, including around 6 per cent of North American visitors, providing one stop to Tasmania via Auckland from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Vancouver, Dallas, Chicago and New York.

Closer to home, across our domestic airline partners, we are starting to see growth in capacity and frequency of flights into Tasmania over spring and summer. With the introduction of new daily Rex flights between Melbourne and Hobart in August, and the soon to be launched Bonza

Gold Coast to Launceston route in November, there is now even more choice for domestic and international travellers to visit our state.

However, it’s important to remember we are still in an interesting travel recovery period. While forward bookings are looking positive over the next 3-6 months, we are in a very competitive travel landscape both domestically and internationally.

The latest Tasmanian Visitor Survey (TVS) data shows that 66% of travellers considered sustainability when they were considering Tasmania as a holiday destination, which then rose to 81% during their trip. Tasmania has a real opportunity to continue to position itself as a sustainable travel destination. The 2030 Visitor Economy Strategy is focused on how we can manage tourism growth to protect what makes Tasmania special, and make a positive impact for our environment, prosperity, and way of life.

For those who are not familiar with this strategy yet, we encourage you to visit the Tourism Tasmania website to understand the opportunities for your business and our state.

Another significant pandemicdriven trend is the transition to a more digitally connected traveller experience. The Discover Tasmania app, which launched in May alongside the Off Season campaign, has already seen more than

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A shift in consumer travel trends postpandemic, presents a unique opportunity for Tasmania. Not only are travellers staying longer, but we are also seeing more and more travellers seeking rich and authentic experiences and are shifting to prioritise travel with purpose.

Cape Wickham Lighthouse. Photo credit: Emilie Ristevski

Salamanca Market. Photo credit: Tourism Australia

21,900 downloads. This digital tool, populated through the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW), provides a curated list of experiences tailored to our visitors’ location and interest, providing more leads directly to businesses. If you haven’t already, you can create a free ATDW profile, or update your existing one at www.atdwonline.com.au.

Looking forward to the season ahead, Tourism Tasmania is gearing up to launch the latest Come Down For Air

brand campaign in October.

This will continue to position Tasmania’s cultural branding approach and positive agenda, to distinguish our state as a year-round destination and gain a competitive edge within the travel market.

Tourism Tasmania will be hitting the road at the end of October and early November, hosting Pre-Season Industry Updates around the state to discuss the latest market outlook, what to expect for the upcoming season and how 5

South Coast Track. Photo credit: Matty Eaton

to leverage the Come Down For Air campaign in your own businesses.

The update will also provide an introduction into our evolving consumer segmentation, and discuss the major digital transformation being undertaken by ATDW, along with tips on how you can maximise the ATDW platform to engage with customers. Details around when pre-season industry updates are on in your region and how to register can be found on www. tourismtasmania.com.au.

We hope to see you there.

Sarah Clark CEO, Tourism Tasmania

Van Bone. Photo credit: Tourism Australia 6

‘GAME CHANGER’ – DIALOGUE TOURISM + BUSINESS LUNCHEON Stadiums Tasmania, and Grant O’Brien – Chair, Tourism Tasmania.

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o kick-off the 2023 Leadership Luncheon Series, we held the 11th annual Dialogue Tourism + Business Luncheon, with thanks to Hobart Airport.

Appropriately themed as the ‘Game Changer’, this years’ Dialogue brought together 250 Tasmanian tourism operators, business community representatives, and government leaders to talk all things AFL and the Macquarie Point Stadium Precinct

All-in-all, it was another successful Dialogue Luncheon, and certainly paved the way for a lot of the community discussion that has followed in recent months.

Hosted by the team at PW1 with a delicious three-course meal by Pristine Catering, guests heard from CEO of the AFL, Gill McLachlan as well as Tasmanian Premier, Jeremy Rockliff.

This was Gill’s first major address to a Tasmanian tourism and business audience on the Tasmanian AFL License and growing the value of AFL tourism to the state. Alongside this, was a keynote address from the Premier, outlining his vision for elevating stadia infrastructure at both ends of the state, and the tourism and urban renewal potential of a sports and entertainment precinct at Macquarie Point.

Guests were then treated to a Q&A session discussing the benefits a team would have on Tasmania with an expert panel; Sally Darke – Chair, Tasmanian Community Fund, Michael Malouf – Chair,

Chair TICT, Daniel Leesong, with Grant O’Brien and Sarah Clark of Tourism Tasmania. Photo credit: Alastair Bett Photography

Premier Jeremy Rockliff at the Dialogue Luncheon. Photo credit: Alastair Bett Photography

AFL CEO, Gill McLachlan delivering keynote presentation. Photo credit: Alastair Bett Photography 7

TOURISM COLLECTIVE: ‘EMBRACE EQUITY’

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eld on Friday 3 March at the Franklin Wharf Function Centre, this year marked the fifth Tourism Collective.

Selling out in less than 24 hours, 180 men and women secured a seat to enjoy a fantastic afternoon exploring the theme for International Women’s Day 2023 – Embrace Equity – with two special guest speakers.

We could have easily sold 400 tickets to this event, which just goes to show the passion and dedication of our tourism leaders and representatives as they strive for true gender equality in our industry.

First up to the lectern was Jill Skromanis - diversity and inclusion and organisational development specialist, coach, and mentor. Jill provided an entertaining and educational presentation about the breakdown of gender equality within Australian workplaces, how we can all promote and support diversity and inclusion at work, and why we need to change the narrative to one that truly values diversity.

To round out the afternoon, the Managing Director of Moo Brew, Lauren Sheppard, spoke about her personal journey and the barriers she’s faced to get to where and who she is now.

It’s safe to say, Tasmania is

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so incredibly lucky to have Lauren at the helm of our state’s largest independent craft brewery. Especially, since our beer industry is currently experiencing rapid growth, with more breweries per capita than any other state in Australia.

Lauren shared with the audience her love and passion for Tassie products, people, and places. Despite growing up thinking she wanted to be a lawyer, Lauren quickly realised this wasn’t for her and decided to focus on her strengths – business and finance. While she admitted never thinking she’d ever wind up working in the beer industry, she told audience how important it is to believe in the value in your skills, be open to being ambitious and to have a broad skill set that can be applied to multiple industries.

It has also become a tradition of the Tourism Collective to raise funds for Dress for Success Hobart – a notfor-profit organisation with the mission to empower women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire, and the development tools to help them thrive in work and in life.

The team at Dress for Success, which is mostly made up of volunteers, do an extraordinary job at transforming the lives of young girls and women every day, and it was an honour to have raised more than $4,500 for the organisation.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to making the 2023 Tourism Collective an almighty success. We can’t wait until next year – our goal is to make the event even bigger!

TICT Tourism Collective Lunch at Franklin Wharf Function Centre. Photo credit: Alastair Bett Photography

IN FOCUS LUNCHEON: NORTHERN OUTLOOK

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On the afternoon of Tuesday 28 March, we brought together more than 80 Tasmanian tourism operators and industry stakeholders in the heart of Launceston for the ‘Northern Outlook’.

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ach year, we hold an ‘In Focus’ event which alternates between the North-West and East Coasts of Tasmania, bringing the industry’s leadership and focus to a regional part of our state.

Archana Brammall, Co-Owner Tatler Lane by Sweet Brew. Photo credit: Aaron, Co-owner of Tatler Lane

We had no other than Adele Labine-Romain as our special guest speaker, who shared a highly insightful and comprehensive presentation about the tourism industry’s recovery from COVID-19 and the future of the industry specific to northern Tasmania.

Adele is one of Australia’s foremost tourism policy and strategic analysts, having worked in senior roles for Tourism Australia, the Tourism & Transport Forum, and now at Deloitte Access Economics.

Northern Outlook Luncheon at Tatler Lane by Sweet Brew. Photo credit: Aaron, Co-owner of Tatler Lane

We were spoilt with amazing hospitality by the team at Tatler Lane

by Sweet Brew, as well as tech support from VJAM.

Guests at the Northern Outlook Luncheon. Photo credit: Aaron, Co-owner of Tatler Lane 9

BLEND WINE + TOURISM

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ednesday 5 July marked the fifth annual BLEND Wine + Tourism Event, in collaboration between TICT and Wine Tasmania BLEND is all about bringing the tourism and wine sectors together to grow connections and progress our shared vision for Tasmania to become Australia’s premium wine destination.

It’s no secret that wine makes a great pairing with tourism.

Wine and food are one of the most powerful motivators for visitors considering Tasmania as a holiday destination.

Chester Osborn, d’Arenberg, delivering guest speech at BLEND Lunch.

Photo credit: Tessa Astbury, Wine Tasmania

Wine tourism’s foundations in agricultural areas encourages the dispersal of visitors across regional Tasmania and reinforces our brand strengths in the authenticity of people and place.

This years’ BLEND event kicked off with a practical workshop from the CEO of Brand Tasmania, Todd Babiak, and Coach & Consultant from Digital Dandy, Jen Murnaghan. Together, they delved into Tasmanian brand values and storytelling as well as digital marketing tools and information for time-poor wine and tourism businesses.

Following the workshop was the lunch portion of the day – which is not your regular lunch set-up! What sets BLEND apart from other events in our calendar, is that 10

Todd Babiak, CEO Brand Tasmania, delivering BLEND Workshop.

Photo credit: Tessa Astbury, Wine Tasmania

each table is hosted by a local wine producer who get to showcase their incredible wines. This year, we were spoilt by the quality and calibre of our table hosts, which included: Frogmore Creek, Freycinet Wines, Delamere Vineyard, Pressing Matters, Bangor Vineyard Shed, and Charles Reuben Estate.

To top things off, we had Chester Osborn from

d’Arenberg join us for a highly entertaining and colourful guest speech. The event also coincided nicely with our recently launched Wine Tourism module in our Tassie Ambassador Program. You can check it out here: https:// tassietourismambassador. com.au.

We couldn’t not give a special shoutout to the team at The Lounge by Frogmore Creek for their wonderful hospitality!

dine in with the great outdoors.

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Come and say

australia.com Tasmania

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ANOTHER YEAR, ANOTHER TASSIE TOURISM CONFERENCE!

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his year, the Positive Impact 2 Conference saw more than 400 delegates from across Tasmania (as well as interstate) descend on Launceston in the heart of winter to continue the conversation on what truly sustainable and outstanding tourism means for our visitors, businesses, and those who call Tasmania home.

We kicked things off with a bang with an entire day of intensive workshops focussed on professional development across a myriad of relevant topics, including regenerative tourism; digital marketing; leadership; advocacy and media; artificial intelligence (AI); agritourism; Aboriginal cultural competency; understanding your customer journey; and tourism strategy development.

Hosted by the teams at The Boathouse Centre and Peppers Silo, delegates were truly spoilt and shown exactly why Launceston was named a UNESCO City of Gastronomy.

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Tamar RAVE Networking Event at Turner Stillhouse and Tamar Ridge. Photo credit: Alastair Bett Photography

We say this every year, but the Tasmanian Tourism Conference truly brings together the very best in the business. The passion, expertise, and inspiration our workshop presenters and guest speakers exude and pass on to the delegates is second-to-none, and their influence on the state’s tourism and hospitality industries is profound.

What better way to wind down from a busy day than to network under the stars over fine food and wine and entertainment? More than 150 delegates gathered at Turner Stillhouse and Tamar Ridge Wines for what we coined the ‘Tamar RAVE’ – a fun-filled

night of connection and celebration.

Thanks to our Transport Partner, McDermott’s Coaches, everyone arrive at the venue with their RAVE kits on, ready to eat, drink, and dance the night away.

The venue was beautifully lit up by the team at VJAM and everyone was treated to a surprise fire dancer performance by Super Silly Us Circus. The team at Hubert & Dan served everyone endless rounds of delicious food, and this paired beautifully with the array of Three Cuts Gin drinks, Tamar Ridge wines, and Moo Brew beers on offer.

SPRING | 2023 | ISSUE 12 Conference Day 1 at Peppers Silo Hotel and The Boathouse Centre. Photo credit: Alastair Bett Photography

All in all, it was a wonderful evening and the perfect opportunity for people to connect and network among friends and colleagues.

After a well-deserved sleep, and a freshly brewed barista coffee at the Country Club, the business sessions day was upon us. For the next eight hours, the audience (of more than 320 people by the way) were captivated by the

knowledge and inspiration of a very talented group of local and interstate guest speakers.

The topics ranged from the newly launched 2030 Visitor Economy Strategy and the importance of accessible tourism, to Australia’s Leading Futurist, first-hand stories and professional journeys in Tassie tourism, and making your positive impact count.

The day didn’t stop there, as everyone chose two afternoon breakout sessions covering international markets, accessibility, the TICT

Emission Reduction Initiative, a Spirit of Tasmania update on the new ferries, AI, and the Tasmanian workforce.

To round out the day, everyone rallied together for the final session where we heard all about Tasmanian marketing, a story of entrepreneurialism, and an inspiring presentation from Mindy Woods – a proud First National woman and restaurateur.

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Conference Day 2 at Country Club Tasmania. Photo credit: Alastair Bett Photography

As the clock struck 5:05pm, that was the official end of the 2023 Tasmanian Tourism Conference – and boy what a success it was.

Tasmania’s tourism industry leads the nation in many ways, and our Conference is recognised as one of Australia’s premier tourism events. It takes an army of people working together to make the Conference the best possible experience, and TICT has been blown away by all the positive feedback received.

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A post-event survey of Conference delegates outlined that: • 99% of respondents believe the format and program met their expectations, of which 75% said their expectations were exceeded.

• 96% of respondents said the overall experience met their expectations, of which 63% said their expectations were exceeded.

• 95% of respondents said the value for money met their expectations, of which 57% said their expectations were exceeded.

It is a priority of TICT to continue to ensure the Conference remains relevant and beneficial for you for many more years to come. We’ve taken all feedback on board, and we look forward to seeing you again in 2024.

HYPE has forged a niche position in the tourism, hospitality and event space. From one-stop-shop content creation to producing live events and more. If you want to be seen with standout assets for your experience, HYPE has you covered. HYPE is the preferred production partner for over 30 award winning tourism operators throughout Tasmania.

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Tasmania’s Production Company {That’s us!}.

Check out why there’s hype about HYPE.

hypetv.com.au 15

SPIRIT OF TASMANIA – A NEW ERA OF SEA TRAVEL

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pirit of Tasmania, operated by Tasmanian-based TT-Line Company, is on the cusp of an exciting new era. With two purposebuilt vessels currently under construction in Finland, the experience of passengers and freight clients on board this iconic ferry will be dramatically transformed.

Connecting the island state of Tasmania with mainland Australia, Spirit of Tasmania is one of Australia’s most iconic travel experiences and a vital connection for passengers, passenger vehicles and freight across Bass Strait.

Currently, the twin ships Spirit of Tasmania I and Spirit of Tasmania II operate overnight sailings across Bass Strait between Geelong in Victoria’s south-west and Devonport on Tasmania’s north-west coast.

The Company also operates additional day sailings to meet the heightened demand during the peak season from September to April.

Transporting more than 450,000 passengers annually, Spirit of Tasmania is widely recognised for its contribution to the Australian tourism industry and its role in fostering Australia’s economic development through its top-tier passenger and freight services.

Much of the Company’s success can be attributed to the leadership of the

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Company’s CEO and Managing Director, Bernard Dwyer who has been with Spirit of Tasmania since 2014. Under his leadership, the Company achieved record passenger numbers in 2018/19; navigated the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic; and initiated the significant relocation of the Company’s Victorian port from the state’s capital city of Melbourne to the coastal city of Geelong, a move spanning 70km.

However, the most noteworthy and transformative development is the commissioning of two new purpose-built vessels due for delivery in 2024 set to replace the current fleet.

Mr Dwyer describes the new vessels as a game-changer for the Company and the state of Tasmania.

“The new ships, while sharing a similar roll-on/roll-off design to our current vessels, will boast substantially larger

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as crucial infrastructure for the next 25 to 30 years.

Environmental considerations are central to their design, including the installation of dual-fuel engines. This allows the Company to easily meet current statutory targets by running on LNG and diesel, with the flexibility to introduce new biofuels as they become available.”

capacity for passengers, passenger vehicles and freight.”

“Demand for our service remains high and is continuing to grow. These new vessels will significantly enhance our Company’s ability to meet the needs of our passengers and freight clients, particularly those travelling with high vehicles.”

“We’re incredibly excited about these new ships, and not just about the increased size, but also the design and build quality, and the new

amenities that passengers will be able to enjoy on board.”

“The ship design will integrate seamlessly with the three-level access ramp at our terminal in Geelong, and a new three-level access ramp to be installed in Devonport in 2024.

This innovation will enable simultaneous boarding and disembarking of passenger vehicles and freight vehicles, reducing our time in port and increasing operational efficiency.”

The eagerly awaited new vessels, Spirit of Tasmania IV and Spirit of Tasmania V, are scheduled for delivery in 2024, heralding a new era for Spirit of Tasmania and the state of Tasmania. Find out more at newships. spiritoftasmania.com.au

“In terms of sustainability, the new vessels will serve 17

POSITIVE IMPACT: A NEW APPROACH FOR OUR VISITOR ECONOMY

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ourism Tasmania provides an update on how the Tasmanian 2030 Visitor Economy Strategy works across government and looking to the future.

The visitor economy is important to Tasmania and Tasmanians. It supports a year-round industry with benefits flowing beyond tourism and economic growth in many of our smaller communities. It provides jobs for many Tasmanians, often the first job for younger Tasmanians.

The launch of the Tasmanian 2030 Visitor Economy Strategy at the TICT’s Tourism Conference in August was a significant milestone. It is an important plan that sets the collective long-term vision for the state, ensuring a strong future for the tourism industry and Tasmanian community.

Beyond just a vision for the state, the strategy is a roadmap for how Tasmania will achieve ambitious goals that will not only deliver a positive economic contribution to the state, but also strengthen communities and workforce, and protect environmental assets.

Developed collaboratively with Tasmania’s tourism and hospitality sector and government, The 2030 Visitor Economy Strategy sets the values and principles that guide future decision-making

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Blue Derby Pods Ride. Photo credit: Tourism Australia

to ensure we continue to grow our visitor economy sustainably so that it continues to contribute to Tasmania’s prosperity. It is a whole-systems strategy to be delivered in shorter-term action plans – the first of these is the three-year action plan can be found on the Tourism Tasmania website.

The strategy has been developed and informed by visitation growth forecasts, the current and future domestic and global economic context, an understanding of our destination’s strengths and challenges and the trends shaping global consumer travel into the future.

To achieve our goals and ambitions, everyone must play their part. That is why the three-year action plan was published with

clear accountabilities and commitment to the delivery of priority actions.

The visitor economy crosses the interests of multiple areas of government which is why five cross-agency working groups have been established to focus on progressing the strategic actions required to achieve: 1. Environmental sustainability by embracing Tasmania’s net zero emissions future by supporting tourism and hospitality operators to actively engage in emissions reduction activities, sustainability practices and the circular economy.

2. Infrastructure planning and investment to respond to and manage growth. This includes

SPRING | 2023 | ISSUE 12 Osteria Vista. Photo credit: Samuel Shelley

developing and implementing a tenyear infrastructure plan for Tasmania’s visitor economy that prioritises and costs investment by all levels of government to facilitate sustainable growth across the state benefitting locals and visitors.

3. Growing visitor’s contribution to Tasmania to directly invest in the conservation and management of our protected areas and infrastructure in our local communities.

4. Driving demand through a strategic and coordinated approach including enhancing Tasmania’s appeal as a winter destination and attracting year-round growth

Southern Sea Ventures. Photo credit: Tourism Australia

through destination marketing for visitors and international students, events and business events and relevant infrastructure investment.

5. Attracting and retaining a skilled and available workforce by making training and workforce participation opportunities available for Tasmanians of all ages and backgrounds wanting to participate in a growing visitor economy.

The strategy’s governance is through the joint industry and government T21 Steering Committee and the Premier’s Visitor Economy Advisory Council (or PVEAC) led

by Tourism Tasmania with representatives from across government, the TICT, THA, Brand Tasmania, and

Tasmania’s Heritage Council.

These groups meet regularly to discuss, provide input and direction, and track progress of priority actions.

In recognition of the industry’s contribution to the economy, the Tasmanian Government committed $12 million in new funding over three years to back immediate priorities outlined in the Strategy.

This includes boosting the workforce, attracting business events to Tasmania, a 10-year infrastructure plan and stimulating more private investment in tourism products.

To learn more about the strategy and the opportunities for your business and our state, we encourage you to visit the Tourism Tasmania website.

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MU CLEVER + ENDURING ARCHITECTURE EST. TASMANIA 2011

WWW.CUMULUS.STUDIO

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POLICY WATCH: EMISSIONS REDUCTION

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Mt Olympus from Lake St Clair, Overland Track. Photo credit: Blake Lisk

oin us in our quest to be a leading destination for climate conscious travel.

In setting our 2030 Strategy for how industry will evolve over the coming years, we have set a bold ambition – for Tasmania to become a leading destination in climate conscious travel.

The state, our industry and the community now very clearly recognise the importance of acting decisively to reduce our emissions footprint so that we can protect Tasmania’s most critical asset – our natural environment.

To support this priority, the TICT has in recent years committed itself to helping industry figure out how to lower its emissions and adopt more sustainable practices.

Last year, as part of our efforts

to better understand the overall emissions footprint of our tourism industry, the TICT supported 30 tourism businesses to undertake a carbon audit pilot program via a Tasmanian carbon consultancy.

Working with a carbon accountant, business analyst and carbon consultant, the 30 businesses examined their energy usage and regular business activities to identify opportunities to reduce emissions and cut costs at the same time.

The results of the pilot program were telling. The majority of overall emissions – 79% on average, in fact - come from the supply chain, where businesses traditionally thought they had little control. This means that in shifting the dial on emissions reduction, we as an industry need to really focus our efforts

on supply chain analysis and management.

Through the pilot, we found that if operators could reduce their Scope 3 emissions by working with the top 20 suppliers in their supply chains it would cover 89% of the overall supply chain. Taking this further, if each of those top 20 suppliers were able to reduce the footprint by 10%, that would result in an approximate 9% reduction for pilot program participants.

This brings us to where we are today, rolling out a TICT Emissions Reduction Initiative as part of a broader $1.5 million Tasmanian Government program to support businesses in the tourism and hospitality industries to lower their emissions. With thanks to $300,000 from the Department of State Growth, the TICT is 21

com.au/emissions-reduction) or contacting our Carbon Action Advisor, Lauren at E: lauren. cameron@tict.com.au or P: (03) 6231 2244.

SUSTAINABILITY IN ACTION: COMPASS HUT

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Compass Hut

Compass Hut

working with industry to reduce barriers to emission reduction activities, and to support industry to act.

We know – and appreciate – that for most tourism businesses it just isn’t feasible in the current climate to take on the costs and time investment associated with carbon accounting and auditing. And so, as part of this initiative, we are connecting those businesses with a solution that we see as affordable, accessible and easy to implement.

We are fully funding the cost of guiding interested operators through a five-stage climate action program called the ERC Protocol, which helps businesses to calculate their approximate carbon footprint

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and then develop an action plan to reduce those emissions and transition to renewable energy over time.

For those businesses that are larger or that have already taken significant steps towards decarbonisation, we are supporting them to begin integrating carbon accounting into their business so that it becomes a sustained habit over time, with thanks to our program partner Sumday.

At the same time, we will advocate for enhanced policy measures that support industry’s longer-term ambitions,.

You can find out more about our ongoing Emissions Reduction Initiative by visiting the TICT website (www.tict.

orne of a desire to promote selfsufficiency and sustainability, Compass Hut is a 100% offgrid, boutique Tiny House accommodation business on Tassie’s north west coast, co-founded by sisters Kylie and Tamika Bell.

From its inception, the EcoStar accredited accommodation venture has endeavoured to use the tiny home experience as a means of championing sustainable, passive solar design and ecotourism in the accommodation space.

“This means that the tiny homes were designed and built to suit the temperate (coastal), northwest Tassie climate; to help maintain a comfortable room temperature, which in turn reduces the need for additional heating or cooling, along with other sustainable built and technological solutions incorporated into the designs,” explains Kylie.

“Tamika and I, with our passions for architecture/design, tourism and sustainability, saw Compass Hut as the opportunity to explore our ideas in a transportable, built form. We endeavoured to design and craft ‘hut’ experiences that could be a vehicle to explore

SPRING | 2023 | ISSUE 12 Kia Ora Hut, Overland Track. Photo credit: Blake Lisk

these concepts through. As well as advocate for the above within the ecotourism space, and sharing the experience with travellers locally, nationally and globally.”

“In our journey so far, some aspects have evolved out of being a case of necessity: for example, we weren’t able to connect the first tiny house to the mains electricity, so we were forced to think outside the square. So we partnered with a local solar specialist and co-designed a hybrid, off-grid solution for our first tiny home, ‘Barnhaus’. During COVID lock-down (when we began designing Arc Pavilion), we took the opportunity to evolve the hybrid, off-grid system further; which incorporates Tesla’s ‘off-grid’ Powerwall, which had been newly released around that time”.

The off grid tiny homes are

a shining example of what tourism businesses can be capable of, with sustainability initiatives and features visible to guests from the moment they arrive.

With strategically placed notes with gentle instructions on how to separate waste and sustainability aspects, and a standing invitation to freely use any herbs, fruit and vegetables from the garden, Compass Hut invites guests to participate in the journey during their stay.

The tiny homes each harvest their own power via a hybrid, off-grid solar and battery storage systems, collect their own rainwater, use waterless split-system compost toilets, and recycle all waste in an environmentally sustainable manner. Windows are doubleglazed, and the buildings face direct North for optimum solar passive design.

Agritourism and carbon accounting are also now a part of their business model – the latter since the business participated in a TICT-funded pilot program last year that saw Tasmanian tourism businesses work with a carbon accounting firm to measure their emissions properly.

“Since that pilot, carbon accounting now informs every decision going forward in lowering our environmental footprint – and it’s also a brand positioning tool that we use to communicate to guests,” said Kylie.

23

OUR INDUSTRY IS OUR PEOPLE: WORKFORCE STRATEGY

I

n September, our national body, the Australian Tourism Industry Council (ATIC), conducted its annual Tourism Staff and Skills survey. More than 900 tourism operators across Australia, including more than 100 here in Tasmania, provided feedback on their workforce challenges. This data is particularly important to both ATIC and the TICT to help us better advocate to state and national governments about necessary policy change and funding priorities.

Nationally, tourism businesses reported critical shortages in: • Casual staff for events, charters, and peak periods such as long weekends.

• Seasonal staff for peak seasons.

• Specialist staff: chefs, managers, marketers, supervisors, activity specialists and tour guides.

• Tourism skills: customer service, food & beverage, guiding, housekeeping cleaning.

Here in Tasmania, more than 20 per cent of respondents highlighted severe shortages in critical specialist staff like chefs, pilots, engineers followed by seasonal staff for peak seasons, which many highlighted resulted in increased workload on remaining staff and owners as well as increased stress.

Respondents suggested more marketing to attract Australian workers to tourism

24

The Tasmanian Whisky Experience. Image credit: Tourism Australia

and hospitality careers as well as regional and seasonal jobs, reduced complexity and faster visa processing, tax, social security and other incentives to encourage Australians to work additional hours especially during peak periods in regional areas, along with more rental housing in our regions.

Making our industry a career of choice and eliminating barriers to participation are key priorities of the TICT and this summer, thanks to a funding from Australian Government’s Choose Tourism Grants program, you’ll be seeing a marketing program roll out which includes stories and case studies about the types of careers you can have in tourism and hospitality. Funding will also be spent working with the Beacon Foundation as part of its program in schools.

Collaboration is more important than ever before, and that’s

why the TICT and Tasmanian Hospitality Association, are part of an industry led Tasmanian Tourism and Hospitality Workforce Advisory Committee (TTHWAC) to recommend workforce strategies and priorities to Government.

This group held its inaugural meeting in August, examining data and setting its priorities.

We have a real chance to enact change and have our voices heard, and we look forward to updating you on our progress in the next edition.

And finally, we know that the lack of availability of housing, especially in our regions, is impacting the availability of workforce. The TICT will be working to ensure the industry has a voice in the Tasmanian Government’s newly announced strategic regional partnerships – an initiative designed to plan for a region’s needs and requirements – and continue coming up with industry led solutions.

2023 TASSIE’S TOP TOURISM TOWNS

A

SPRING | 2023 | ISSUE 12

nd Queenstown wins on the national stage!

Throughout March to May this year, eight towns in all corners of our wonderful state competed against each other for the coveted title of Tassie’s Top Tourism Towns for 2023.

The finalists were: Coles Bay, Devonport, Glenorchy, Low Head, Queenstown, Richmond, Stanley, and Strahan.

The competition is an initiative run by the TICT to give all Tasmanian towns an opportunity to showcase what makes their special part of Tassie an incredible visitor experience.

Each entrant produced fantastic written submissions which included a short video exploring the sights and sounds of their town and local region, along with an accompanying editorial and itinerary detailing what visitors can do over a couple of days visiting their town.

The Tasmanian public then had their say, with more than 3000 people voting for their top towns.

The towns were split into three categories based on their population sizes, where their submissions were then judged by an expert panel.

he Top Tourism Town Award T for populations over 5,000. he Small Tourism Town T Award for populations under 5,000, but greater than 1,500. he Tiny Tourism Town Award T for populations under 1,500.

In the Tiny Town category, it was a race between four towns, but Stanley came out with the Gold. Whereas, in the Small and Top Town categories it was a twohorse race, with Queenstown claiming Gold in the Small category and Devonport in the Top. Stanley, Queenstown, and Devonport were then

re-judged alongside their mainland counterparts to determine Australia’s Top Tourism Towns which was announced just two weeks before this edition of the Quarterly was published.

And it was it this ceremony at Parliament House in Canberra, that Queenstown was crowned Australia’s Top Small Tourism Town for 2023! Up against tough competition, including Airlie Beach, Sorrento, and Cooper Pedy, it was Queenstown’s heritage, charm and vibrance that shone through.

Queenstown offers an unforgettable experience for travellers. It has rich heritage, 25

is home to a vibrant arts precinct, century-old steam train, and breathtaking views.

Our regional towns in Tasmania have a true sense of community and play such a crucial role in our state’s visitor economy, and for Queenstown to take out Gold on the national stage just shows how well we do things in Tasmania.

Low Head, Tasmania

We’d also like to congratulate Tiny Town Finalist, Stanley, and Top Town Finalist, Devonport. Despite not having placed in their respective categories, they represented Tasmania so proudly.

COLES BAY – FINALIST, TASSIE’S TOP TINY TOURISM TOWN.

Devonport, Tasmania

If sound of the sea breaking over lichen covered rocks, the sight of clear water lapping serene white sandy beaches, and the fresh scent of salty air is what you are seeking, while relaxing with fresh oysters and local wine, then visit Coles Bay! Whatever your pace, the rugged Freycinet Peninsula‘s scenic bays and beaches, will motivate you to become one with the stillness or shake-itup with activities for all levels of fitness and energy. The majestic pink granite Hazards towering over Coles Bay inspire life-lasting memories every couple will want to recreate again and again.

DEVONPORT – WINNER, TASSIE’S TOP TOURISM TOWN.

Richmond, Tasmania 26

Known as the gateway to the Apple Isle, Devonport, Tasmania’s third largest city is situated on the extraordinary North-West Coast, living

GLENORCHY – FINALIST, TASSIE’S TOP TOURISM TOWN. Discover the enchanting City of Glenorchy in Southern Tasmania, a captivating destination that strikes the perfect balance between thrilling adventures, familyfriendly experiences, and serene self-drive touring opportunities. Located in close proximity to Hobart, Glenorchy is the ideal base for exploring the southern regions of Tasmania, offering visitors easy access to worldclass attractions including MONA, the My State Bank Arena, home to the mighty Jack Jumpers, and stunning natural landscapes from the timtumili minanya /Derwent River to the majesty of kunanyi/Mount Wellington.

Stanley, Tasmania

SPRING | 2023 | ISSUE 12

lightly by the sea and beautiful Mersey River. The city boasts a brand-new waterfront precinct and plenty of parklands to explore. Central to the Cradle Country region, Devonport is a great base with an abundance of day trips within reach. The city is ideally suited to families with endless walking and cycling tracks to get around and see all the attractions. There are many reasons to stay, experience and share the passion and pride locals have for their city.

Coles Bay, Tasmania

LOW HEAD – FINALIST, TASSIE’S TOP TINY TOURISM TOWN. For those who like to “go off the beaten track” you will find Low Head located on a windswept peninsula 40 minutes north of Launceston where the Tamar finds its way to Bass Strait.

Glenorchy, Tasmania 27

From shipwrecks, to pilots, penguins, beaches and lighthouses, Low Head is a place where history and nature collide and where good times and memories are made. Find your own way to Tasmania’s hidden gem, just simply follow the light to the end of the road.

QUEENSTOWN – WINNER, TASSIE’S TOP SMALL TOWN, AND AUSTRALIA’S TOP SMALL TOURISM TOWN. Queenstown, a remote West Coast town in Tasmania, offers an unforgettable experience for adventurous travellers.

Once one of the richest mining towns in the world, Queenstown is now home to a vibrant arts precinct, century-old steam train, and breathtaking mountain views. Visitors can explore the town’s history through murals, museums, and art galleries, while thrill-seekers discover mountain bike tracks, bouldering fields and access to many of Tasmania’s unique rainforest hikes. The town’s biennial Unconformity Festival showcases all genres of artists, performers, and storytellers. While the journey to Queenstown may be challenging, it’s worth the wait to experience this Tasmanian gem.

RICHMOND – FINALIST, TASSIE’S TOP SMALL TOURISM TOWN. Nestled in Tasmania’s Coal River Valley region, Richmond is a charming historic town located just 25 minutes from Hobart. It is known for its stunning Georgian architecture, picturesque natural surroundings and rich cultural heritage. Visitors to

Strahan, Tasmania

Richmond can explore the well-preserved sandstone buildings, including Australia’s oldest bridge still in use today, and immerse themselves in the town’s fascinating history.

Foodies will delight in the region’s world-class local produce, including awardwinning wines, artisanal cheeses, chocolates and delicious seasonal fruits.

Surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, Richmond is the perfect destination for a relaxing day trip or weekend getaway in Tasmania’s stunning countryside.

STANLEY – WINNER, TASSIE’S TOP TINY TOURISM TOWN, AND FINALIST, AUSTRALIA’S TOP SMALL TOURISM TOWN. Nestled at the base of the Nut, a cooled lava pond from an extinct volcanic plug, lies the charming town of Stanley.

Its historic cottages create a picturesque frame around the town’s two stunning beaches.

On a scenic peninsula in Bass Strait, it boasts some of the

cleanest air in the world, thanks to the roaring forties.

The town offers Tasmania’s finest culinary delights, from locally caught seafood to Cape Grim Beef and locally grown produce. As you gaze at this breathtaking landscape, the hero is the ancient land itself. Stanley is a small haven that packs a powerful punch.

STRAHAN – FINALIST, TASSIE’S TOP TINY TOURISM TOWN. The iconic port on the banks of Macquarie Harbour is home to Strahan, nestled between the Southern Ocean and gateway to lutruwita/ Tasmania’s Wilderness World Heritage area.

The journey to the West Coast will take you through some of the most unique rainforests on the planet, while the stories of convicts, pioneers, innovation, intense determination, and environmental activism are just some of the layers that await you in Strahan, just outside your comfort zone.

NATIONAL PARK

SPRING | 2023 | ISSUE 12

Southwest

Pierre Destribats

Get away from the crowds and visit the Southwest National Park.

If you are planning an overnight walk, scan this code to register.

Buy your annual, daily or holiday Parks Pass online at passes.parks.tas.gov.au

MEET YOUR NEW TICT BOARD DIRECTORS

A

t its core, TICT provides a strategic direction and united voice for the sustainable development and growth of the Tasmanian tourism industry, and advocates and influences policy decisions on behalf of the industry.

A large part of this work is facilitated by our Board.

Directors are appointed to a two-year term on behalf of industry sectors broadly representative of the Tasmanian tourism industry and visitor economy.

Directors are elected in a Non-Executive capacity and volunteer their time for the betterment of our state’s tourism industry.

Earlier this year, at the May Board Meeting and AGM, TICT welcomed four new Directors (you can check them out below!).

We also farewelled three Directors, and TICT would like to sincerely thank Liz Frankham, Bianca Welsh, and Tim Parsons for their hard-work and dedication to the Board and the influence they’ve had on the tourism industry. We would also like to congratulate those who were re-appointed, including Daniel Leesong as Chair, Clint Walker as Treasurer and Rob Pennicott as Deputy Chair, as well as congratulating Simon McDermott on his appointment to Deputy Chair.

30

SHERALEE DAVIES

SAM REID

CEO, Wine Tasmania

Managing Director, Du Cane Brewery Co, and Director Willie Smith’s

Sheralee Davies – or the “Wine Queen” as her email signature points out – has been at the helm of Wine Tasmania since 2010.

Wine Tasmania is the peak representative body for Tasmanian wine producers, working together to build Tasmania’s reputation as a cool climate wine region like no other on the planet.

Tasmania’s wine sector is a major tourism drawcard, with 300,000 people and 25% of all visitors to our beautiful island state visiting a cellar door in 2022 – not to mention the amount of local wine consumed at restaurants and bars.

After having served on the TICT Board several years ago, we are thrilled to welcome Sheralee back to the Board table.

Sam Reid is the Co-Founder and Managing Director of Du Cane Brewery Co. in Launceston. The 1500-squaremetre, multi-million-dollar development is Launceston’s largest hospitality-specific offering.

Named after and inspired by walking the Du Cane Range in Tasmania, the business has an unbreakable bond with the environment. Sustainability and supporting local are at the core of the business, as well as creating tasty beers for everyone to enjoy.

Tasmania is an iconic destination for agritourism and food experiences, and with Launceston recently receiving the UNESCO City of Gastronomy designation, Sam and the team at Du Cane are excited about working with other northern Tasmanian visitor experiences to further cement this reputation.

MARK WHITNELL

BRONWYN WILD

Director of Hotel Operations Tasmania, NRMA Parks & Resorts

President, Caravanning Tasmania, and Managing Director, BIG4 Launceston Holiday Park

Mark Whitnell is the Director of Hotel Operations Tasmania for NRMA Expeditions.

NRMA Expeditions is one of the largest and fastestgrowing holders of tourism assets across Australia, and has recently entered the Tasmanian tourism industry with the acquisition of some of our state’s most iconic destinations, including Freycinet Lodge, Cradle Mountain Hotel, Pumphouse Point, Strahan Village and Gordon River Cruises.

Mark has had an extensive career within Tasmania’s tourism and hospitality industries, including being Executive Hotel Manager at Country Club Tasmania, Operations Manager at The Strahan Village, and General Manager at Cradle Mountain Chateau. He has recently returned to Tasmania after stints with the Iconic Royal Mail Hotel in Victoria and the boutique hotel group Spicer’s Hotels and Resorts.

Bronwyn is the President of Caravanning Tasmania, which serves as the representative division for association members in Tasmania. In this role she is responsible for bringing the industry together, representing the interests of the members, fostering industry collaboration and advocating for the development and growth of the caravanning sector within Tasmania.

Furthermore, Bronwyn serves as the Managing Director of BIG4 Launceston Holiday Park – a conveniently situated holiday park offering a diverse range of self-contained accommodation options and on-site facilities that caters to many visitors.

Tasmania stands out as one of the premier destinations for caravanning enthusiasts, with the sector playing a significant role in the state’s economy. Our exceptional attractions, including accessible wilderness and nature-based experiences, rich cultural heritage,

We thought it would be a great opportunity for everyone to get to know our new TICT Board Directors on a deeper level, so we thought what better way to do this than ask some of our infamous ‘Big 7 Questions’ that feature in every Talking Tourism Podcast episode. Check out their answers below!

SHERALEE DAVIES

SPRING | 2023 | ISSUE 12

and top-notch food and beverages, provide distinct competitive advantages that firmly establish Tassie as a must-visit holiday spot.

What is your favourite spot in Tasmania and why? “I have so many favourite places around Tasmania for differing reasons, it’s such a diverse and beautiful island. If I had to choose just one, Stanley is probably the place I’ve visited most over the past 13 years.

The drive there, popping into the many towns along the way and always with a stop at Christmas Hills, is as enjoyable as the place itself. The Nut and dramatic scenery, shellfilled beaches to yourself, day trips to takayna / Tarkine, Edge of the World and Dip Falls, wildlife, fresh seafood, old school hamburgers, supplies from the local providore, welcoming people and a great community. Not very many local vineyards, but it’s easy to find an array of local wines to enjoy while you’re there.”

When you arrive at your travel destination, what is your drink of choice? “A glass of Tassie fizz – sparkling rosé if it’s on offer.”

31

TICT Directors at the 2023 Board Retreat in Stanley

SAM REID What is your favourite travel destination anywhere in the world? “I’d say somewhere I haven’t been before! But one place I’d definitely go back to is Tuscany, Italy. It was amazing to see all the small / micro producers making such a diverse range of high-quality produce.”

You’re walking the Overland Track for 5 days with 3 other people – anyone in the world, famous or not famous, dead or alive – who would you go with and why?

“Jim Morrison (lead singer from The Doors) because I was obsessed with him as a young fella and I’d like to try and understand what was going through his mind. My wife, because we don’t get to spend enough time together, plus she’s already done it and could help guide us through.

And Yvon Chouinard (founder of Patagonia) – I’m reading 32

his autobiography / business manual at the moment because I like what the brand stands for and he sounds like an interesting guy and I’d like to hear more about his journey.”

MARK WHITNELL Curried Tasmanian Scallops – are they a culinary delight or a culinary crime? “In all seriousness, for me I think they can be a culinary delight if the curry flavour is subtle in order to allow the scallops to be the true hero.”

What is your favourite spot in Tasmania and why? “I have the great privilege of driving around this beautiful state for work, but I especially love the east coast of Tasmania and the Hazards Mountain range.”

BRONWYN WILD Someone is coming to Tasmania for the first time, and they ask you what is

the one thing they must experience while they’re here – what do you suggest?

“A winery tour through the Tamar Valley.”

You’re walking the Overland Track for 5 days with 3 other people – anyone in the world, famous or not famous, dead or alive – who would you go with and why? “I would choose David Attenborough to accompany us for his captivating narration skills. Additionally, I would invite my mother, who has a knack for ensuring everyone’s happiness and comfort, as mothers do. Lastly, my husband would be an idea choice due to his fantastic sense of humour which would keep the trip lighthearted.

Moreover, his loud voice would conveniently mask my heavy breathing during the inclines.”

MEET THE TICT TEAM: HANNAH LANG

T

Hannah joins the TICT with a wealth of background in the Tourism and Hospitality sectors, having previously worked for Tourism Tasmania, Voyages Ayers Rock and Dunk Island Resorts, The Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel, Zeps Café and Vaucluse Agriculture.

Experience across these workplaces has given Hannah a vast range of skills across many areas including Front of House, Sales and Marketing, HR, WHS, Food and Beverage, HACCP and Bookkeeping. Hannah is excited to be back amongst the Tourism Industry, based in Ross with her partner and two children. She’s always had a love for living in small country towns!

FUN FACTS ABOUT HANNAH • Favourite travel destination: Too many to choose …Scotland, Ireland, Switzerland, Canada.

• Most unique work memory: Working at the Sounds of Silence dinner, Ayers Rock.

• Most satisfying work memory: Groups Coordinator at The Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel – large groups, lots of people, lots of requirements, a lot of coordinating, a busy and rewarding job. Some groups just to name a few;

SPRING | 2023 | ISSUE 12

his edition, we would like to introduce you to Hannah Lang, TICT’s Quality Tourism Advisor.

Cirque du Soleil, Australian Cricket Team, Falls Festival, Mrs Browns Boys.

• Favourite place in Tasmania: Tomahawk.

HANNAHS ROLE AT TICT: The Australian Tourism Industry Council (ATIC) received funding from Austrade to assist with increasing the number of Quality Tourism Accredited Businesses (QTAB) nationwide.

As the sole Tasmanian licensee to deliver the Australian Quality Tourism Framework (through which businesses become accredited), Hannah is working with Tasmanian businesses to help them understand and take part in the framework.

Department of State Growth • You become eligible to enter the Tasmanian Tourism Awards • Complimentary access to ReviewPro – a one stop shop for online reviews • Discounted tickets to TICT events and the ability to attend workshops for free or low cost.

• Plus many more benefits can be found here However, the offer doesn’t stop there…

If you are an operator within the Tasmanian tourism industry and are not yet accredited, to enrol please contact Hannah.

If you are an existing QTAB or QTAB-Sustainable business, you can further your accreditation and enrol in any sector module. These include: Star Ratings; Accessible Tourism; EcoStar Accreditation, Digital Distribution and more.

Details can be found here.

The QTAB program is a nationally recognised certification which provides many benefits, including; • You can apply for road signage through the

We highly encourage you to contact Hannah should you be interested in taking part or if you any queries: Email hannah. lang@tict.com.au or Phone 0439 404 985.

33

TASSIE TOURISM AMBASSADOR PROGRAM

Bangor Vineyard Shed. Photo credit: Tourism Australia

A

re you a Tassie Tourism Ambassador?

More and more Tasmanians are signing up – so don’t miss out.

the skills to offer a great visitor experience and local knowledge to tell the story of the region.

It makes sense for our team members and staff to be ambassadors and advocates for our local regions – so we’ve developed a free and simple program to create a local army of ambassadors!

The objective is simple – to increase regional dispersal by inspiring and empowering staff working in customer facing businesses to provide a positive experience to every visitor.

The Tassie Tourism Ambassador Program has been created as a way to equip your tourism and hospitality staff as well as interested locals with 34

We know that if visitors are greeted at every touchpoint during their visit with a warm welcome and genuine interaction, they will have a positive experience. In turn, those positive experiences lead to advocates for our state and positive word of mouth, and hopefully repeat customers!

The TICT’s very own, Larni Davies, is leading the program in partnership with our Regional Tourism Organisations and so far, seven modules have been released, including a dedicated Wine Tourism module (created in partnership with Wine Tasmania).

SPRING | 2023 | ISSUE 12 Tall Timbers 4wd Adventure Tours. Photo credit: Tourism Australia

People are voting with their feet, with nearly 748 people having completed the modules – 64 alone for the Far North West module which is our newest addition. Next up is Hobart & Surrounds, so stay tuned!

If you want to learn more about the program and how you might use it in your business, please visit: https:// tassietourismambassador. com.au/about/.

West Coast Wilderness Railway. Photo credit: Tourism Australia

35

Locally Expert, Globally Connected.

Knight Frank have been Tasmania’s leading Hotel and Tourism brokers for the last 30 years, and we continue to carry the endorsements from both TICT and THA. Sold

Shamrock Hotel, Hobart

Sold

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Ross Motel, Ross

Abel Tasman Motor Inn, Young Town Hamptons on the Bay, Rocky Hills Leased

Valley Sports Bar, New Norfolk

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Tarkine Wilderness Lodge, Meunna Welcome Stranger Hotel, Hobart

To discuss any of the above transactions in further detail or the value of your property in the current market, please contact one of our statewide hotel, tourism and leisure consultants.

Scott Newton John Blacklow Matthew Wallace Tom Balcombe

Sold

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Harpers on the Beach, White Beach Entally Lodge, Hadspen

Grosvenor Crt Apartments, Sandy Bay National Park Hotel, National Park

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Scamander Beach Resort, Scamander

Heartlands Hotel, Gretna Sold

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Leased

Sunrise Motel, Devonport

Quamby Estate, Hagley Sold

Grand Vue Private Hotel, Battery Point Murchison Lodge, Somerset

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Cornelian Bay Boathouse, New Town

Rosevears Hotel, Rosevears

Crown Inn, Pontville

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Knight Frank Tasmania is pleased to share the following hotel and tourism deals we have transacted more than 30 properties over recent years exceeding $60 million.

Tasmanian hotel and tourism properties are very much in demand by prospective purchasers with transactions spread throughout the state, particularly in our regional areas.

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SPRING | 2023 | ISSUE 12

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PREFERRED PARTNERS

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MARKET OVERVIEW

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Level 5, 29 Elizabeth Street Hobart TAS 7000 (03) 6231 2244 info@tict.com.au www.tict.com.au 38