Tasmania, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and unique attractions, is currently experiencing a remarkable surge in tourism. With a record 1.3 million visitors recorded in the 2017-18 period, the island state is thriving as a global tourism destination. However, this influx brings both opportunities and challenges, prompting a critical look at the state’s preparedness for sustained growth.
Tourism Growth and Regional Impact
The tourism boom has significantly impacted various regions within Tasmania. The Cradle Coast saw a 4% increase in visitors, reaching nearly 521,000, while the eastern part of the state experienced a 3% rise, bringing its total to almost 390,000. The southern region, including Hobart, attracted over 1 million visitors, though growth here was a modest 2%. The north saw a similar growth rate with just over 708,000 visitors.
Hobart, buoyed by attractions such as the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) and Salamanca Markets, continues to draw the largest share of visitors. The city’s popularity is putting pressure on local infrastructure, with hotel shortages and housing market strains becoming evident. The new Lord Mayor, Anna Reynolds, has expressed concerns over balancing the economic benefits of tourism with the strain on public resources, particularly as local projects face delays due to prioritization of visitor infrastructure.
Challenges and Opportunities
The rapid rise in visitor numbers presents several challenges. The increased demand for infrastructure and services has led to concerns about sustainability, especially in regions outside of Hobart. While some areas are benefiting from the influx of tourists, others are struggling to see similar growth. Luke Martin from the Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania points out that not all regions are capitalizing on Hobart’s success. Areas such as the east coast and other remote parts of the state are only beginning to attract significant tourist attention.
John Fitzgerald, CEO of Tourism Tasmania, emphasizes the need for strategic development in regional areas. The focus is shifting towards targeting high-spending tourists and encouraging them to explore beyond Hobart. This includes promoting regional experiences and developing new travel routes to distribute visitor numbers more evenly across the state.
Infrastructure and Community Impact
The growth in tourism is also creating pressures on infrastructure and local communities. In Hobart, the tourism boom has highlighted issues such as the need for better public amenities and increased accommodation options. This strain on resources is prompting discussions about the role of state and federal funding in supporting local infrastructure.
In regional areas, the influx of visitors has been a double-edged sword. While it boosts local economies, it also raises concerns about the sustainability of communities. Rachel Power, a café owner in Mount Field National Park, notes the need for comprehensive infrastructure improvements, including road upgrades and enhanced sewerage systems, to support growing visitor numbers. Additionally, there are worries about the impact of short-term accommodation on local housing availability, which affects essential services like ambulance coverage and community facilities.
Future Directions
As Tasmania continues to attract visitors, the government is working on several initiatives to address these challenges. The State Government is investing in regional tourism infrastructure, including a $72 million upgrade to tourism roads. However, there is also pressure to expedite the development of a Tourism Masterplan for the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, as recommended by UNESCO.
The tourism industry remains optimistic, with a focus on balancing growth with sustainability. The promotion of regional attractions and the development of new travel experiences are seen as key strategies for managing the impact of tourism while ensuring that all parts of Tasmania benefit from the influx of visitors. In summary, Tasmania’s tourism boom is a testament to the state’s growing appeal as a travel destination. Yet, the increasing visitor numbers are highlighting the need for careful planning and investment in infrastructure to ensure that the benefits of tourism are shared across the state and do not come at the expense of local communities.
