Veteran journalist Charles Wooley will join Tasmanian thought leader Natasha Cica this Saturday to explore a bold vision to position Tasmania’s Central Highlands “as Australia’s highland lakes district”.
The Central Conversations event at the Great Lake Hotel is aiming to challenge locals, tourism operators and anyone connected to the region to help shape its future.
Facilitated by Dr Cica, the afternoon discussion will explore how the region’s natural beauty, history and character can be better celebrated without losing what makes it special.
“This is about more than tourism,” Dr Cica said.
“It’s about identity, storytelling and unlocking opportunities that strengthen both the economy and the community, without losing what makes this place special.”
Wooley will bring decades of experience from the ABC and Channel Nine, including more than 40 years on 60 Minutes.
The self-described “Hydro kid” grew up in Tarraleah and now owns a shack at Bronte Park.
Great Lake Hotel owner James Johns said he has been investing in the region’s future since taking over the hotel and Miena Village site.
“There’s a commonality of hard work and no-nonsense, but the Central Highlands is that hidden gem within the whole state,” Johns said.
“There needs to be something here that fits and respects the area.”
“We don’t want to take over the pie, we want to make the pie bigger.”
The event will run from 3:30pm to 5pm on Saturday at the Great Lake Hotel on the Marlborough Highway at Miena.
Tickets are available through TryBooking.
