Tasmania’s West Coast is seeking crucial funding for tourism infrastructure ahead of the federal election, with industry bodies and local government joining forces to support one of Australia’s most tourism-dependent regions.
Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania (TICT) and West by North West have partnered with the West Coast Council to advocate for several priority projects aimed at driving economic growth in the area.
TICT CEO Amy Hills identified the West Coast Wilderness Railway as a key focus requiring immediate attention.
“While the railway is a huge drawcard for the region, it needs funding to improve the infrastructure and re-open the closed section to ensure it’s once again the jewel in the crown of the region’s visitor economy,” Hills said.
West Coast Mayor Shane Pitt said the railway’s is significant to the local tourism sector, with almost one in every three visitors enjoying it..
“Currently, urgent maintenance work is required to ensure the railway can be fully and reliably operational, following the closure of a middle portion of the journey,” Pitt said.
West by North West CEO Gabriella Conti, who visited the region this week to discuss the strategic partnership, highlighted the importance of heritage tourism to the West Coast’s future.
“We are looking forward to strong support for the region from both major parties ahead of the election, especially for the Frontier project – a groundbreaking, multi-sensory experience at the iconic Gaiety Theatre in Zeehan that will bring West Coast history to life through immersive projections,” she said.
The partnership will also address workforce accommodation challenges, which have been identified as a barrier to tourism growth in the region.
Industry leaders hope that reopening the full railway journey between Queenstown and Strahan will boost visitor numbers while supporting local employment and preserving the region’s rich heritage.
