Growing passenger numbers on the Spirit of Tasmania ferries underline the potential of the Liberal Government’s plan to boost our tourism industry to 1.5 million visitors a year by 2020.
The State-owned TT-Line is critical to achieving our vision, and the Government congratulates the board, management and staff on the annual report tabled today, which shows an after-tax profit of $10.4 million for 2013-14.
The Government expects to receive details within weeks of the business plan we asked TT-Line to prepare on how we can further grow passenger numbers and make travel more affordable.
This will focus on more frequent day sailings and refurbishing on-board facilities to enhance the travelling experience.
We are encouraged to see that for the year to date, as at last week, the Spirits have recorded growth in passenger numbers on day sailings of more than 11 per cent compared to the same period last year.
Overall passenger numbers for the same period are up by nine per cent.
Forecasts are also good the coming peak season, with forward passenger bookings up by more than 10 per cent for travel between October 27 and January 25.
Once again, TT-Line will not be required to pay a dividend, allowing the company to continue to build its current assets for working capital.
This will assist with funding future vessel refurbishments and eventual replacements
TT-Line’s profit result and its growing passenger numbers leave it well placed as we look forward to an exciting era of renewal and growth.
Rene Hidding, Minister for Infrastructure
