Tasmanian tourism is booming and cycling is a niche market that can contribute to further growth in our visitor economy, drawing more visitors to our State and creating more jobs.
If Tasmania is to continue to grow our tourism numbers towards our goal of 1.5 million visitors by 2020, we need to seize new opportunities and capitalise on our competitive strengths.
My Government is committed to developing a Cycling Tourism Strategic Action Plan to identify what we need to do to establish Tasmania as a leader in this exciting market.
The amazing Blue Derby trails have put the North-East firmly on the world mountain biking map ahead of hosting the Enduro World Series at Derby next year.
Road cycling is also growing rapidly, assisted with events like the Cradle Mountain Peaks Challenge, and the listing by Lonely Planet of the West Coast as one of the best touring routes in the world.
Three priorities have been identified in the Action Plan to help support and grow cycling tourism out to 2020:
• Consolidating trails and routes.
• Marketing what we already have to offer.
• Providing the supporting infrastructure and services to provide the best experience once a cycling tourist arrives.
A concise list of potential actions has been identified in this draft strategy and we will welcome the input of people with an interest or expertise in this area, like those attending the Bike Futures Conference today.
More information is available of the Department of State Growth website.
Will Hodgman, Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events
