The search is on for an operator to take over the cafe and thermal pool at one of Tasmania’s most popular natural attractions, as the state government looks to revitalise the Hastings Thermal Springs precinct.
Expressions of interest are now open for businesses wanting to run and redevelop the 8.9-hectare tourism precinct within the Hastings Caves State Reserve, around 105 kilometres south of Hobart and on the doorstep of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.
Parks Minister Nick Duigan said the precinct had long been a drawcard for both locals and visitors.
“The Hastings thermal pool and cafe have long been a popular venue for locals and tourists to enjoy the swimming, barbecue and picnic facilities, as well as nearby short walks,” he said.
“We want an operator who can offer innovative, sustainable and appropriate visitor experiences that provide social, environmental and economic benefit.”
The site includes a visitor centre built in 2001 featuring a cafe and retail space, a thermal pool fed by a natural underground spring that remains about 28 degrees year-round, change rooms, picnic and barbecue facilities and a network of walking tracks.
It also features The Chalet, a heritage building originally constructed in 1939 as a caretaker’s cottage and tea rooms, along with workshop and storage facilities.
Around 59,000 people visited the Hastings caves and thermal springs in 2025.
The project is part of a state government election commitment to refresh the precinct as a key tourism destination for the state’s far south.
Government documents identify the site as having strong potential for wellness tourism, drawing on its combination of thermal springs, caves, forest surroundings and dark skies.
Research cited in the proposal found nine in 10 potential visitors already view Tasmania as an attractive wellness destination.
Applicants will need to demonstrate how their proposal aligns with the site’s natural and cultural values while delivering sustainable management outcomes.
A shortlist will be developed after expressions of interest close, with selected proponents invited to submit detailed proposals.
Guided tours of nearby Newdegate Cave will continue to be operated by the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service.
Expressions of interest close on July 27.
