Hodgman Government has failed region – Labor’s plan will provide transformation
Tourism attracting a new audience that needs new visitor infrastructure
Commitment includes significant, widespread infrastructure build and upgrade
A re-elected Labor Government would make West Coast tourism a key priority, rebuilding the region’s industry after it had been deserted by the Hodgman Liberal Government.
Labor Leader Bryan Green today unveiled a list of priority West Coast tourism projects for consideration as part of a West Coast Tourism Masterplan.
Mr Green said projects for consideration will include:
Upgrades to the Strahan Visitor’s Centre
Revitalisation of Heritage Landing – the iconic end point for cruises on the Gordon River
A Regional Airport feasibility study for Strahan which could help attract new visitors to the region, as well as servicing the aquaculture industry
The Arcadia Science Research Project
Revitalisation of the Lake Margaret Power Station
The Masterplan would inform priorities for Labor’s $50 million Regional Tourism Infrastructure Fund announced earlier this year.
“There are very few places in our state that need support more than the West Coast,” Mr Green said.
“But over the past two-and-a-half years the Premier and Tourism Minister Mr Hodgman has proven that he has no vision for the West Coast and no vision for a future which will be largely based on rebuilding and revitalising the tourism sector.
“Unlike Mr Hodgman, Labor is committed and serious about giving the people of the West Coast a genuine helping hand and delivering jobs in industries like tourism which is critical to the region’s revitalisation.
“Tourism and events are exposing this region to an entirely new audience and we need to ensure that this newfound interest is matched with investment in visitor infrastructure.
“Labor’s West Coast Tourism Masterplan will follow the successful model of the Cradle Mountain Masterplan by setting clear priorities for investment in public infrastructure that will unlock millions of dollars’ worth of private capital.
“We will commit to funding a branding strategy for the entire West Coast to ensure this remarkable region gets the attention it deserves.
“And we will partner with the West Coast Council to jointly fund an Economic Development, Tourism and Events Coordinator to ensure the plan is delivered.
“The Liberal Party has abandoned the West Coast.
“In contrast Labor sees the enormous potential of the West Coast and it is determined this region will have a bright future.”
Bryan Green MP Labor Leader
