Natural State Would Be Natural Host for Key Event
The Tasmanian Greens today urged the Minister for Environment, Parks & Wildlife, Brian Wightman, to seize the initiative and invite the World Parks Congress to hold its globally significant conference in Tasmania, after Victoria declined to host the event in 2014.
Greens Environment, Parks & Wildlife spokesperson Cassy O’Connor MP said that now that the Victorian State Government has reportedly given up the right to host this important conservation meeting in September and October 2014, there is a huge opportunity for Tasmania to bid for the event, which is estimated to be worth about $35 million to the host state’s economy.
“Tasmania has a world-class parks network and environment. The Greens believe there would be nowhere better for this event to take place than in this state. It would give the rest of the world a window on our stunning remaining wilderness areas and parks, and provide a significant boost to the island’s tourism industry.”
“It is estimated the event would bring 3,500 visitors to the hosting state, with as much as $35 million injected into the state’s economy, and the hosting costs would be shared between the State and Federal governments.”
“Given that Queensland is now considering bidding for the conference, the Greens are urging Minister Wightman to discuss with his Federal counterpart, Environment Minister Tony Burke, Tasmania taking over as host,” said Ms O’Connor.
Cassy O’Connor MP Greens spokesperson for Environment, Parks & Wildlife
