From next month, it’ll cost $15 more to ride the Cradle Mountain shuttle bus as Parks and Wildlife Tasmania works to recoup some of the $3+ million that the service costs to run each year – but not everyone is onboard.
Used by a “majority of visitors,” the shuttle serves the 300-odd thousand people who visit the park each year, around 80% of whom are interstate or international tourists.
The Department of Natural Resources and Environment say the new “cost recovery strategy” will place the “iconic gateway to the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area” on a “more sustainable footing”.
“PWS will ensure that commercial operators who currently use the shuttle bus for their guests to enter the park are supported and have time to adopt the new model into their operations,” a spokesperson said.
“Importantly, this cost recovery initiative means that parks pass revenue is reinvested directly into maintaining critical infrastructure and protecting Tasmania’s natural and cultural values.”
Frequent visitors to the area have called the decision “absolutely outrageous” and “over the top extortion”.
“As a local family, we’ve enjoyed the various walks over many years by paying an annual family pass. This is a disgrace to Tasmania’s who have supported Tas Parks for decades,” one person wrote online.
Others called on the PWS to reverse the decision for Tasmanians, so those already paying for all tiers of park passes are “looked after better than this”.
“A disgraceful decision for all Tasmanians! When we’ve already paid for a Parks Pass, this is outrageous. A family of 4 and we up to $60!! Absolute BS. You can forgot us taking all our visitors there now. As a local, we are being short-changed.”
The $15 ticket will be valid for 72 hours and must be used alongside a park pass, with an annual pass available for $45 and free rides for those under 18.
Free travel is included in the Overland Track booking fee and the Icon Daily National Park Pass, which is valid for 24 hours.
The shuttle ensures safe access from the visitor centre to Dove Lake, the main destination for visitors wanting to explore the wilderness heritage areas unique features, walking trails and Dove Lake viewing shelter.
The service operates 7 days a week from 8am to 6pm every 10 to 15 minutes in summer and 9am to 5pm every 15 to 20 minutes in winter.
