Tasmania’s tourism industry body is calling for the full reopening of the West Coast Wilderness Railway, saying it is “missing out” on vital return visitation and word-of-mouth marketing.
Tourism Industry Council CEO Amy Hills said the railway is currently operating on a reduced schedule of five days a week, rather than seven, having not fully reopened since challenges encountered over a year ago.
“Despite this strong interest, I understand that the Railway often fields calls from people wanting to take the full or centre trip, and others who say they will visit once it’s fully open again,” Hills said.
“Without a timeframe or pathway for the Railway to fully re-open, the state is missing out of vital return visitation and word of mouth.”
“The Railway’s vital role in the state’s visitor economy confirmed why candidates in the upcoming federal election need to commit to funding the full reopening of the track.”
Hills said the railway requires significantly increased levels of maintenance and infrastructure investment.
“In recent years the railway has had to close a section, meaning the full journey has not been able to be enjoyed by our visitors,” she said.
“It’s clear that heritage rail is as popular as ever. The more people in the region, the more they spend on accommodation, dining and other local experiences.”
“That’s why we’re urging all sides of politics to commit to full funding for reopening the track.”
