The Liberal Government is committed to a target of attracting 1.5 million visitors to Tasmania per year by 2020, which the industry says will create 8,000 jobs.
Events like this week’s Qantaslink Cradle Coast Regional Tourism Forum are an important part of developing the tourism industry and reaching the target.
The Cradle Coast recorded double-digit growth in visitor numbers in the latest Tasmanian Visitor Survey, with a 10 per cent jump in tourist numbers.
Tasmania’s other regional areas also spiked in popularity with the tourists, with the South increasing by 13 per cent, the North by 12 per cent and East Coast by 20 per cent.
The upward trend is part of a record number of visitors state-wide in the 12 months to March, with about 1.06 million interstate and international touring our island.
Regional attractions including Cradle Mountain and Ghost Rock Vineyard are drawing tourists off the beaten track, boosting our regional economies.
The achievements of the Cradle Coast’s tourism providers will be recognised at the fifth annual Cradle Coast WIN TV Regional Tourism Awards tomorrow.
Will Hodgman, Premier Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events
