Bryan Green’s disparaging remarks about the Spirit of Tasmania refurbishments are not only extremely ignorant, they are also insulting to all those who were involved in this successful project.

Mr Green greeted the exciting news of extra sailings being added on the back of a massive increase in forward bookings by dismissing the refurbishments as merely “improving the décor” and “short-term”.

Is this how truly bitter and twisted he has become since being dumped from government by the Tasmanian people last year?

Or does Mr Green believe that being the Opposition Leader means he must rubbish any and all positive developments, even those of great benefit to his own electorate?

What is all the more galling about his comments is that Mr Green is yet to take up invitations to see the “new” Spirits; he has not lowered himself to travel from Salamanca to inspect the ships for himself.

If he did, he would know that the refurbishments have done more than add a lick of paint to the Spirits, they have transformed the passenger experience, particularly for day sailings.

They showcase the finest Tasmanian produce in the new eateries and, yes, in the décor that Mr Green chose to rubbish.

And they are a tribute to the hard work and skills of the many Tasmanian businesses and their employees who were involved in this project.

The Liberal Government’s plan for the Spirits – to refocus on growing passenger numbers and put downward pressure on average fares – is clearly working.

TT-Line’s 2014-15 Annual Report showed an eight per cent increase in passenger numbers coupled with an eight per cent decrease in average fares in real terms compared to the previous year.

Since the “new” Spirits were unveiled, forward bookings have grown 17 per cent, which has seen TT-Line add even more day sailings over the summer.

The Annual Report also shows that TT-Line increased cash and cash equivalents in 2014-15 by about $9 million to $90.2 million – growing capacity to purchase new ships in the future, not diminishing it.
Our plan is long-term because it is about growing the business.

TT-Line will be holding an open day at its East Devonport terminal on Saturday 7 November, and I urge Mr Green to get aboard and see for himself why visitors and Tasmanians alike are so excited about travelling on the Spirits.
Adam Brooks, Parliamentary Secretary for Small Business and Trade