The Liberal Government has approved a commercial licence to Tasmanian Air Adventures to expand its tourist seaplane flights to more destinations within Tasmania’s Parks and Reserves.
We want Tasmania to become the environment tourism capital of the world. Tasmania already offers world-class tourism experiences but we believe there is further potential in our National Parks and World Heritage Area.
We want to unlock this potential and we have already taken significant steps with the opening of Expressions of Interest for sensible and appropriate tourism developments.
Today’s announcement will ensure visitors can enjoy seaplane flights to iconic destinations such as the Sir John Falls in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.
The licence also allows Tasmanian Air Adventures to offer limited flights to more destinations including: the Southwest National Park, encompassing the Celery Top Islands, Forest Lagoon, Schooner Cove and Bramble Cove and Lake Pedder; Recherche Bay, within the Recherche Bay Nature Recreation Area; and Hazards Beach within Freycinet National Park.
Flights to Lake St Clair will also be offered under a trial arrangement for the next 12 months, with an independent survey of park visitors to be undertaken.
The licence has been granted following a trial period that found there were no adverse social or environmental impacts with the additional flights.
Tasmania’s natural environment is one of our greatest assets and tourism drawcards. By showcasing our unique and world class wilderness we will deliver on our policy to grow tourism numbers to 1.5 million by 2020, which the industry tells us will create 8000 new jobs.
Matthew Groom, Minister for Environment, Parks and Heritage
