Department of Economic Development and Tourism

Tasmanian designers are invited to attend a one-day workshop this week to improve their entrepreneurial capabilities and develop business-to-business networks.

The Minister for Environment, Parks, Heritage and the Arts, Michelle O’Byrne, said the Entrepreneurship for Tasmanian Designers Workshop was a joint initiative between Arts Tasmania and Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism and was part of the State Government’s Design Island Strategy for assisting designers with business development initiatives.

“The workshop is based on the Springboard Entrepreneurship Workshops, a Federally-funded program, which runs successfully in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane,” Ms O’Byrne said.

“The program will enable Tasmanian’s most promising furniture, accessories, textiles and home-ware designers to develop their competitive edge.

“The workshop aims to improve Tasmanian designer business skills, export and retail knowledge, online marketing practice, and business planning.

“Participants will improve their business skills and receive practical advice by providing access to experienced national and international mentors.

“The participating Tasmanian designers will further develop their professional career prospects in Australia and international markets.

“The Entrepreneurship for Tasmanian Designers Workshop is an excellent example of skill development that fosters relationships and builds financial, market and business capacity.

“Participants include designers from Design Centre Tasmania, Designed Objects Tasmania, Furniture Design Association, IXL Designs and the Tasmanian School of Art,” Ms O’Byrne said.

The workshop is targeted specifically at Tasmanian designers, designer-makers, retailers and exporters of design objects and will be held on Friday (2 May 2008) in Hobart.

The Minister for Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism, Paula Wriedt, will depart for a nine-day visit to Hong Kong and Japan culminating in a ceremony for Incat Tasmania’s latest catamaran.

The catamaran, the Natchan World, will make its inaugural voyage between Aomori and Hakodate on May 2.

Ms Wriedt said the catamaran was a prime example of the lucrative trade links Tasmania had with Japan, and she will be hosting a dinner for key importers of Tasmanian products in Tokyo to further cement the State’s trade relationship.

“Japan is Tasmania’s largest export market with exports totalling $626 million sent there in 2006-07. This accounts for 26 per cent of Tasmania’s merchandise exports.

“With a population of 127 million in an area just 5.5 times bigger than Tasmania, Japan is a significant importer of a wide variety of products ranging from our finest foods to this magnificent Incat catamaran that will be making its inaugural voyage.”

“Tasmania has developed a strong niche in Japan’s food sector because of our lack of fruit flies, and the State’s ability to meet the very low chemical residue levels required by the Japanese market.

“These are important considerations for Japan’s very discerning consumers.”

Ms Wriedt said her visit to Hong Kong, which is Tasmania’s second largest export market, would also build on the strong presence the State has achieved in the country recently.

“In February, Tasmania was featured in a series of five half-hour travel programs on TVB, one of the most influential television stations in Hong Kong.

“Each episode in the nature-based Last Paradise series was broadcast to an audience of over 2.1 million people,” Ms Wriedt said.

“During this visit, I will be meeting with some of Tasmania’s key travel partners, as well as looking to further promote Tasmanian produce.

“I will also be following up some of the world-class Hong Kong chefs who toured Tasmania recently and sampled some of the state’s finest produce.

“To see this Tasmanian produce ultimately gracing the tables of some of Hong Kong’s best restaurants will be an excellent outcome,” Ms Wriedt said.

“It is important for Tasmania to continue building close economic and business ties with these markets, which together account for over $1.1 billion in exports.

Tasmanian entrepreneurs and investors will attend Hobart’s first ever Pitch Club for the chance to pitch their business to experts and develop their marketing skills.

The Minister for Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism, Paula Wriedt, said the State Government was sponsored the dynamic event, aimed at building a state-based network.

“The State Government has partnered with Australian Anthill and Christo Partners to bring this first-ever, business pitching event to Tasmania,” Ms Wriedt said.

“Pitch clubs are held in states throughout Australia and I am delighted that Hobart has the opportunity to host its own event.

“Tasmanian businesses need to be able to sell an idea successfully and events such as the pitch club provide a unique opportunity to do so.

“Nine business entrepreneurs will deliver a 90-second elevator pitch from a stage resembling a boxing ring.

“The fast-paced action will be witnessed by some of Tasmania’s finest entrepreneurs, business owners and investors.

“The audience then has the opportunity to ask questions of each entrepreneur and select four contenders for a five-minute pitching finale.

“The Hobart Pitch Club also encourages those attending to network and build relationships with pitchers and other audience members,” Ms Wriedt said.

Hobart’s entrepreneurs and investors can attend the Pitch Club on Tuesday 29 April 2008 at 6-9pm.

The State Government is stepping up its efforts to meet the challenge of a skills shortage.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Skills, David Bartlett, said today the Government was determined to improve skills training.

Mr Bartlett is currently on a two-day visit to a number of cutting-edge Tasmanian industries and businesses on the North West Coast.

“Tomorrow’s TAFE Tasmania graduation ceremony will see the biggest graduation class for years.

“We’ve seen great strides taken in shifting the way we train Tasmanians for new skills – tailoring the training to meet the needs of specific workplaces.

“Less than half of TAFE Tasmania’s training is now delivered in the classroom. Most of it happens on the job, and that’s having an impact on the skills shortage.

“But we know more needs to be done, and the Tasmania Tomorrow reform package has been specifically designed to meet that need.”

Mr Bartlett said the creation of a new three-stream system beyond Year 10 would directly benefit both job-seekers and employers.

“The academy will provide a clear pathway to university for school leavers who learn best from books; the polytechnic will focus entirely on skills development for school leavers wanting practical training, and the Training Institute will be geared to provide skills development services specific to employers’ needs, anytime, anywhere."

“This will give us greater flexibility to provide the community with the skills individuals need to find work, and for employers to get exactly the training they need for their employees."

“We’ve reshaped the umbrella organisation overseeing skills development in the State (Skills Tasmania) and we are putting additional resources into building our skills base."

“Evidence of the need for these changes is graphic and the statistics alarming so we are in no two minds about what we need to do."

“We are determined to leave no stone unturned in making sure every school leaver has access to education and training to allow them to play a meaningful role in the workplace."

“And we are determined to ensure that the training and education we provide is relevant to the needs of the State’s employers," Mr Bartlett said.

Premier Paul Lennon today officially opened a new PFD Food Services Pty Ltd warehouse in King Meadows, describing it as an example of economic confidence in Tasmania.

“In the past decade business investment has increased by 77%, our population has increased by just over 4% and unemployment has more than halved to around 5%

“The decision by PFD to establish this site is one more vote of confidence in the Tasmanian economy,” Mr Lennon said.

The state-of-the-art facility is the 5th Tasmanian site for the national food services giant and is expected to employ an additional 80 people.

“This new site will bring the number of jobs PFD has created for Tasmanians to over 290.

“The company also returns $16 million a year in economic activity to the state through wages and running costs,” Mr Lennon said.

PFD Food Services Pty Ltd commenced business in 1864 as a fresh fish merchant in Melbourne. Through expansion and acquisition it has become a leading supplier of frozen and fresh foods, dry groceries and paper cleaning products to the food services industry.

The company’s Tasmanian association began in 1995 when PFD acquired the Allfoods distribution network in Talbot Road, Launceston.

The Premier reiterated his Government’s commitment to encourage major investment projects in Tasmania in order to drive jobs and economic activity.

“Currently $4 billion in major investment projects are either underway or committed to in Tasmania. Today I am pleased to see one more come to fruition,” he said.

The new PFD facility consists of 5500 square metres of warehouse with fridge, freezer and dry storage capacity to support PFD’s operational growth. It also includes a full test kitchen, board room and administration offices.

“The foods – the fruit and vegetables and grain that PFD stores and transports are grown by our farmers and they’ve been doing it tough with drought.

“The more farmers can produce, the more goods need to be delivered by companies like PFD and in turn the more jobs are created for Tasmanians,” Mr Lennon said.

Labor Member for Denison, Lisa Singh, today launched the Tasmanian component of the Australian Innovation Festival.

Ms Singh said the festival is all about recognising and celebrating innovation within Tasmania and highlighted the significant contribution the Information and Communication Technology Sector was making in Tasmania.

“The Tasmanian Innovation Festival showcases the best innovations in the state and reinforces the significance of processing ideas to market.

“Today’s festival launch celebrates the achievements of the 18 ICT companies that have been successful through the first three rounds of the Intelligent Island Program’s Market Access and Partnerships Program (MAPP),” Ms Singh said.

“The successful ICT companies that have benefited from MAPP have already generated 77 jobs and $3.8million of revenue, and most of these projects are still in the early stages of commercialisation.

“MAPP funding has helped Tasmanian ICT companies successfully compete internationally with the world’s best and brightest.

“The State Government plays a key role in encouraging innovation through policy development and program delivery.

“Our programs strive to meet the needs of industry challenges to increase productivity and competiveness.

“Tasmanian businesses are naturally innovative, a culture that often accompanies the resourcefulness grown out of island life.

The recipients of MAPP have shown that this resourcefulness can lead to significant success on the world stage.

“It is creative businesses such as those in the ICT sector that help ensure Tasmania continues to be at the forefront in attracting investment and visitors to live and work here,” Ms Singh said.

The Tasmanian Innovation Festival runs from 26 April to 13 May. For more information on the planned activities visit www.innovation.org.au .

Round Four of the Market Access and Partnership Program closed on 18 April 2008. Successful recipients will be announced in the later part of 2008.

The Minister for Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism, Paula Wriedt, today announced $30,000 for the Meander Valley Enterprise Centre to help maximise the potential of the Meander Dam.

Ms Wriedt said the funding was being provided to the centre for the assistance, advice and referral services it was providing for local farmers and agribusinesses with possible access to the planned Meander Valley irrigation networks.

“As part of this funding allocation the centre will also compile a report to guide the efficient allocation and sustainable use of water resources captured in the Meander Dam.

“The realisation of the Meander Dam’s full economic potential is in the reticulation and subsequent uptake of water to outlying farming areas in the Meander Valley region.

“It is expected that with the increased availability and surety of irrigation water, a shift in the dynamics of agricultural production in the Meander Valley will result.

“Initial activities undertaken by centre toward establishing irrigation networks include the collection of information from local farmers, businesses and other stakeholders to help ascertain the demand for, and potential uses of water from the Meander Dam.

“The MVEC has also worked closely with the Department of Primary Industries and Water to develop a project brief and select a consultant to assess the feasibility of the four proposed pipelines.”

“The funding is being provided from the SMART Farming Program which is aimed at helping farmers through increasing their knowledge in business and farming skills.”

Ms Wriedt said sustainable water use and development were essential components of SMART Farming.

Tasmania is dominating the German airwaves as part of a three-week advertising campaign on Germany’s biggest public radio station, SWR3, representing another international coup for the State.

The Minister for Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism, Paula Wriedt, said the promotion comes after Tourism Tasmania hosted 75 competition winners and a SWR3 radio crew for a week-long tour of Tasmania last year.

“During their November visit, the SWR3 crew broadcast live from Tasmania to around 3.1 million German listeners every day.

“This new promotion sees Tourism Tasmania joining with Qantas and Aussie Specialist tour operator Karawane Reisen to promote a number of Tasmanian package holidays on prime-time radio,” Ms Wriedt said.

Since 7 April, SWR3 has been broadcasting the Tasmania advertisements twice daily, during the peak morning and evening timeslots.

“The campaign is part of Tourism Tasmania’s international marketing strategy to increase the awareness of the State in Germany, particularly for nature and outdoor activity lovers,” Ms Wriedt said.

The on-air promotion is being supported by a strong online campaign, with Karawane Reisen creating a dedicated Tasmanian website (www.allestasmanien.de) . The German homepage of Tourism Tasmania’s consumer website, discovertasmania.com, also features direct links to Karawane Reisen/Qantas Tasmanian holiday specials.

Ms Wriedt said the German campaign is yet another international promotion that will see Tasmania’s profile continue growing.

“This international profile was also boosted in Japan last weekend when Tasmania became the first destination to feature in a new Eco-Tourism series on Japanese television.

“Japan’s national broadcaster, NHK, screened the 50-minute, high-definition program on Sunday evening, with live crosses to presenters at Tasmania’s Trowunna Wildlife Park being beamed into Japan via satellite TV.

“The Tasmanian program focused on Tasmania’s World Heritage wilderness experiences and wildlife around the Cradle Mountain National Park.

“Tasmania’s international profile has received an enormous boost this month, with media exposure across the world and more to come, including the screening of the three Tasmanian episodes filmed by US wildlife celebrity Jack Hanna later in the year,” Ms Wriedt said.

The State Government was aiming to make Tasmania the best place to work in the country, the Minister for Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism, Paula Wriedt, told the National Careers and Employment Expo in Hobart today.

Opening the expo, Ms Wriedt said the event would give employers and training institutions the unique opportunity to pitch to a range of jobseekers.

“Because of Tasmania’s continued economic growth, jobseekers now have the ability to be more selective about the jobs they apply for.

“To help employers improve their capacity to attract, develop and retain skilled employees, Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism has funded two key initiatives.

“The Employer of Choice Awards recognise and promote workplaces that adopt modern work practices and a healthy work-life balance.

“The Better Workplaces Program, through The Better Workplaces Kit, helps business become better, safer and more productive.

“The benefits that these two resources can offer make it easier for employees to attract staff locally, nationally and internationally.

“Tasmania has always enjoyed an envious reputation for the lifestyle it can offer, and businesses that are prepared to offer their employees workplace incentives that are second to none will help our State be highly regarded as a place to work.”

Ms Wriedt said it was an extremely exciting time for students, jobseekers and employees.

“Jobseekers and students need to be aware of the opportunities available in Tasmania and employees need to offer jobs that are appealing and provide a positive work environment.”

Ms Wriedt said that the National Careers and Employment Expo was attended by about 30 employers and training institutions, providing valuable information on the training and education opportunities in Tasmania.

Treasurer Michael Aird today promised financial help for low-income earners when the new water and sewerage arrangements come into place.

“Tasmania leads Australia in providing concessions in such areas as power charges and my expectation is for a similar approach with water and sewerage.

”I will be introducing special legislation to minimise the cost impact on those in need.

“Also, the Water and Sewerage Industry Bill requires that any changes to pricing for water and sewerage services are made over a sensible timeframe.

“I’m proud of the Government’s track record with its electricity concessions to 70,000 households.

“Like electricity, it is appropriate that the owners of the infrastructure, who receive a return from the investment in water and sewerage assets, fund the subsidy to the customers who face hardship.”

Improving Tasmania’s Food and Beverage Industry

15 April 2008

The Minister for Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism, Paula Wriedt, today reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to the Tasmanian food and beverage industry at the whole-of-industry forum at Moorilla.

The forum is a joint initiative between the Food Industry Council of Tasmania and the State Government and is the first of the three industry consultation activities providing input into a revised food strategy for Tasmania.

“Working with the Food Industry Council enables the State Government to identify the issues that are relevant to the food and beverage industry in our State, and to jointly develop strategies to address them,” Ms Wriedt said.

“The value of the State’s food, agriculture and fisheries industries alone represent five per cent of Tasmania’s State product and provides employment for 20,000 Tasmanians.

“It is, of course, a highly diversified industry that has a mix of overseas, interstate and local markets and more than 70 major product groups.

“I was amazed to discover that Tasmania produces most of the poppy seeds for the famous New York bagels, and was once the sole producer of aniseed flavouring for the French liqueur Pernod.

“It is fantastic to see that substantial economic growth has occurred in some of the food sectors over the 2006-07 period, in particular salmon, which is up 57 per cent over the last two years.

“Tasmanian dairy production is also performing well by recording four per cent increase against the backdrop of a national decline of 14 per cent last year.”

Ms Wriedt said Tasmanian food had a gross value of $984 million before processing and a gross value of $2.1 billion after packaging and processing.

“As good as these figures are, we know that Tasmania is currently facing many issues and challenges in the food and beverage industry.

“Climate change, the carbon footprint of food production, branding and access to water are some of the key concerns facing the industry and the State Government is already working to address these issues.

“The Premier, in his 2008 agenda, has listed the importance of drought-proofing Tasmania to improve the growing conditions for our food and beverage industry’s primary producers.

“Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism recognise the strong contribution the food and beverage industry makes to the Tasmanian brand,” Ms Wriedt said.

Adobe Adventure Photographers Capture Tasmania

13 April 2008

Seventeen world-renowned photographers have wrapped up their nine-day Tasmanian Adventure with an exhibition of the work they have produced while road-testing the latest version of Adobe’s Photoshop Lightroom software.

Speaking at the Henry Jones IXL Atrium this afternoon, the Minister for Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism, Paula Wriedt, congratulated the photographers on their exceptional and inspirational photographic work.

“You have captured our Island in many ways: from spectacular wilderness landscapes to fascinating underwater images, portraits of cray-fishermen at work and high-art photography that challenges and inspires," Ms Wriedt said.

The 17 photographers, who work across a range of photographic genres, travelled from across the world to spend nine-days in Tasmania to road-test the global software giant’s newest version of its Photoshop Lightroom software.

“Each day they rose before dawn and travelled to the far corners of the region, accompanied by Tourism Tasmania guides, before returning to work on their images until the early hours of the morning using the software," Ms Wriedt said.

“I am not surprised that the entire Adventure team have been impressed by the helpfulness and friendliness of the Tasmanian locals they’ve met along the way.

“Today we have the opportunity to see Tasmania through their eyes.

“The work produced over the nine days and exhibited here today will be showcased in the software handbook, Photoshop Lightroom 2 Adventure, produced by Adventure organisers, O’Reilly Media.

“Millions more people around the world will also see the Tasmanian imagery via O’Reilly’s Adventure website and in a major feature on Tasmania planned for Adobe Magazine later this year," Ms Wriedt said.

Internationally renowned journalist Leo Laporte joined the photographers on their Tasmanian adventure, broadcasting his top-rating radio show ‘The Tech Guy’ live from Tasmania into the USA last weekend.

"This is yet another positive outcome of Tasmania’s involvement at G’Day USA earlier this year, and an example of how Tourism Tasmania is working creatively to promote Tasmania as a world-class destination," Ms Wriedt said.

The exhibition included an informal auction of selected images from the Tasmanian Adventure and Adobe Photoshop software with all proceeds donated to the Save the Tasmanian Devil Appeal.

Donna Hay to Showcase Tassie Produce

12 April 2008

Tourism Tasmania has joined forces with renowned chef and successful publisher Donna Hay to promote some of the State’s finest produce at a Tasmanian Showcase event in Sydney this weekend.

The Minister for Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism, Paula Wriedt, said a number of Tasmanian producers were in Sydney for the Tasmanian Showcase weekend.

This Showcase event was part of a joint marketing promotion initiated by Tourism Tasmania’s new Partnerships and Event Marketing Unit, with Donna Hay Magazine and Domayne homewares stores.

“This is an ideal opportunity for Tasmanian producers to connect with the highly respected Donna Hay brand as well as providing them the chance to talk directly with consumers,” Ms Wriedt said.

A number of stalls will present Tasmanian gourmet produce during the 2-day showcase promotion.

They include Anvers Confectionary, Blue Hills Honey, Huon Aquaculture, Webster Fresh Walnuts and the Tasmanian Gourmet Sauce Company.

Basket Cases Gourmet Gifts will also showcase a variety of Tasmanian products including Grandvewe cheese and pinot paste, Cripps shortbread, Island Olive Grove, Tasmanian Gourmet Kitchen relishes and chutney, Naturally Nichols and Hill Farm Dijon mustard, and Tasmanian wasabi, jams, marmalades and relishes.

“Over the weekend, Donna Hay will give cooking demonstrations of recipes featuring the Tasmanian produce in the Domayne Alexandria store in Sydney,” Ms Wriedt said.

Donna Hay Magazine’s food editor Justine Poole will be demonstrating the same recipes in the Domayne Auburn store over the same weekend.

“Tasmania will be on display throughout both Domayne stores, with Discover Tasmania signage, trade tables and a promotional DVD showcasing key Tasmanian experiences and our pristine environment.

“Discover Tasmania show bags will also be handed out over the weekend, containing product samples, a Tasmania holiday planner, and the April/May edition of Donna Hay Magazine,” Ms Wriedt said.

To further capitalise on the promotion, the June/July edition of Donna Hay Magazine will include a feature article on Tasmania.

“The Donna Hay crew were in the State earlier this year to shoot the 10-page feature, which is set on Bruny Island and showcases only Tasmanian produce.

"Their visit was supported by Tourism Tasmania’s Visiting Journalist Program.

“With a circulation of more than 100,000 and an estimated readership of around 320,000 worldwide, the Donna Hay Magazine feature will keep Tasmania produce and the destination top of mind with Donna Hay readers,” Ms Wriedt said.

The winter edition of Donna Hay Magazine featuring Tasmania goes on sale on 4 June 2008.

Aviation Review a Welcome Step for Tasmania

11 April 2008

The Minister for Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism, Paula Wriedt, welcomed the review of Australian aviation announced by the Federal Government yesterday.

“This review presents a key opportunity for Tasmania to put forward a major submission on the issues that impact on our State,” Ms Wriedt said.

“Tasmania’s dependency on aviation for tourism transport and economic activity makes our participation in this review essential.

“With the recent announcement of the liberalisation of the Australia-United States air route, the Federal Government has made a big step towards freeing up the rights of country-of-origin carriers between the two destinations.

“If we are to grow the tourism industry as a country, more reforms of this sort are needed.

“In the case of Tasmania, while air access has increased over the past five years, flights into Tasmania are on average at 80% of load factor and airline scheduling still provides the opportunity for further flights into the State to accommodate passenger demand.

“The opening up of new routes into Tasmania will also ensure the State continues to grow its air activity, both tourism and otherwise.

“We look forward to raising these issues with the Federal Government and discussing the implications as the review proceeds.

“Tasmania’s long-term development and economic future relies on access not being a constraint to development and we welcome the opportunity to participate in the review,” Ms Wriedt said.

New Mulcher to Drastically Reduce Landfill

11 April 2008

Minister for Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism, Paula Wriedt, today visited Barwicks Landscape Supplies at Mornington to inspect the company’s highly innovative, environmentally-friendly mulcher.

The new Magnum Force mulcher will drastically reduce the amount of wood waste and scrap metal that ends up in landfills in Tasmania.

“The Department of Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism, has supported the development of this new waste management and recycling service through a $50 000 grant,” Ms Wriedt said.

“It can process wood waste, tyres and scrap metal and is the first of its kind in Tasmania.

“It will result in 90 per cent of the wood waste Barwicks currently deals with being recycled rather than going to landfill.

“The heavy duty magnets fitted to the mulcher separate large pieces of metal from the timber, which is then recycled and sold.

“The mulcher produces recycled products, such as wood waste, garden mulch and scrap metals, which can then be sold to supply industry with much-needed materials.

“Barwicks estimate that the new service will result in six new jobs and increase sales by over $1.5 million within two years so it clearly has both environmental and economic value.”

Ms Wriedt said Gunns Ltd has indicated its support for using the wood waste recycled by Barwicks’ mulcher to run the furnace at the Bell Bay Pulp Mill.

“Barwicks’ ultimate aim is to establish a central location for the processing of the recycled wood waste for daily transport to Bell Bay,” Ms Wriedt said.

“This is a great example of a Tasmanian company benefiting as a spin-off from the pulp mill project, perhaps in a way that many people may not have imagined.

“Through their new service Barwicks are leading the way in wood waste management and valuable metals recycling and should be congratulated for their contribution towards the economy and a better environment,” Ms Wriedt said.

The number of Tasmanians in full-time employment is at its highest level in 30 years.

The Treasurer, Michael Aird, said ABS figures show that Tasmanian full-time employment increased by 300 people (0.2 percent) in March 2008 to 159,600 people in trend terms.

“It is the highest level of full-time employment recorded since the current labour force survey began in February 1978.

“About 75 per cent of the growth in total employment over the past five years has been from growth in full-time employment.

“I note that the ABS data on part-time employment showed an easing of 600 people, taking the level of part time employed to 69 500 and off the peaks seen in late 2007.

“With higher interest rates and a slowing world economy, softness in some components of the labour force data is not a surprise, especially from record highs.

“But the overall trend in employment is very clear, with strong growth evident since April 2002.

“Since then, trend employment has risen by 31,500 persons (or 15.9 per cent), with only Queensland (24.6 per cent) and Western Australia (20.6 per cent) recording faster growth over this period.

“Since January 1999, employment in Tasmania has risen by around 35,200 or 18.2 per cent.”

Mr Aird said the unemployment rate for Tasmania remained unchanged at 5.0 per cent in March 2008 which is 0.3 percent below the March 2007 rate.

Minister for Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism, Paula Wriedt, announced today that plans are well underway for this year’s Antarctic Midwinter Festival.

Ms Wriedt said that the ten-day festival in Hobart celebrates Tasmania’s living and historical links with Antarctica and marks the midwinter solstice, the longest night of the year.

“Last year 40,000 Tasmanians turned out to enjoy festival events including the Huskies’ Picnic, the Longest Night Film Festival, Solstice Antarctica and the Extreme Photography exhibition.

“The Extreme Photography Competition has developed into a very exciting festival highlight which should attract entries from all over the world,” Ms Wriedt said.

The competition will open for entries this coming Monday, the 14 April 2008 and offers one of Australia’s richest prizes for a single image.

“The Salmon Ponds Prize for $5000 will be awarded to the best image entered in the competition by an amateur and professional photographer,” Ms Wriedt said.

“The Pure Tasmania prize of $2000 will be awarded to the best Antarctic image taken by an amateur photographer.

“This prize commemorates Wayne Papps, one of Tasmania’s finest Antarctic photographers who died tragically in a cliff fall at Cloudy Bay in June 2003.

“This year’s festival sees the return of our inaugural Antarctic Midwinter Festival Director Paul Cullen who has returned to Hobart after several years in Ireland.

“Paul is delighted to be back in Hobart, which he described as ‘really buzzing’, and is looking forward to producing this year’s Midwinter Festival.

“Paul has some great events planned and we’re looking to draw visitors from all over Australia,” Ms Wriedt said.

Tasmania’s conference and convention industry is being urged to continue building the State’s profile as a first-choice destination.

The Minister for Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism, Paula Wriedt, said the industry was playing an ever-growing role and expanding its contribution to tourism, hospitality and retail revenue.

Addressing exhibitors at the Tasmanian Convention Bureau’s Conference in Action Expo, Ms Wriedt said the business events market is so important for Tasmania, spreading benefits to businesses and regions alike.

“Delegates spend around $445 each day, and stay an average of 4.6 days," Ms Wriedt said.

This means every individual delegate spends just over $2,000 during their visit.

“This is certainly the high-yield sector of the tourism industry, and I congratulate the Tasmanian Convention Bureau for continuing to work closely with Tourism Tasmania to make the most of not only convention attendance but also and post conference touring.

“The fact that Tasmania was successful in attracting 23,000 delegates last year is testament to what we have to offer here as well as Tasmania being a highly desirable destination.”

Ms Wriedt congratulated exhibitors on the calibre of product and services being offered.

“I am also urging individuals to build on the State’s desirability as a conference and convention destination by using their own networks, and those of the Tasmanian Convention Bureaus, to bid for events,” Ms Wriedt said.

The exhibitors include conference venues, accommodation properties, professional conference organisers, caterers, tourist attractions, bus companies, car rental companies, speakers, wineries, in addition to many other products and services.

Legislation to reform Tasmania’s water and sewerage sector has been tabled today in the Legislative Council.

The Treasurer and Chair of the Ministerial Water and Sewerage Taskforce, Michael Aird, said the reforms would achieve major long-term improvements in Tasmania’s water and sewerage services and infrastructure.

“We are on the brink of a new era in delivering water and sewerage services in Tasmania,” Mr Aird said.

“These significant reforms will see improvements in public health, the environment and the economy.

“They present enormous opportunities for the Tasmanian community in years to come.

“Employees in the sector are a key priority in the reform process and will transfer to the new local government owned, regional corporations with employment entitlements fully preserved.

“With about $1 billion in new infrastructure required over the next decade, the Government expects that the reforms will lead to significant employment, training and career progression opportunities.

“This legislation is the culmination of many months of hard work by both State and Local Government.

“It follows the historic agreement on the reform model and timelines by the Premier’s Local Government Council in February.”

“These landmark reforms are fully consistent with the National Water Initiative, and the proposed regulatory reform framework is Australian best practice.

“I am confident that a renewed water and sewerage sector operating under this comprehensive reform structure will sustain Tasmanian communities and our economy for decades to come.

Mr Aird re-iterated that the State Government could not privatise the water and sewerage businesses.

“The proposed regional water and sewerage companies will be owned and operated by Local Government, not the State Government” he said.

“The businesses are not under State Government control and all financial returns will flow back to councils - not the State Government - as the owners of the businesses.

Minister for Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism, Paula Wriedt, today attended the INCAT Naming Ceremony for its new high-speed luxury catamaran destined for Japan.

Ms Wriedt presented Mr Tashiro, President of Libera Holdings, the leading ship operator in Japan, with a gift to mark the occasion of the naming of the Natchan World.

“INCAT Tasmania has developed a solid working relationship with Libera Holdings resulting in the building of two world-class luxury catamarans,” Ms Wriedt said.

“This relationship is a great example of how Tasmanian businesses can create products of outstanding quality and gain recognition on the world-stage.

“The first vessel was delivered to Libera Holdings in August last year and the second vessel marks INCAT’s most valuable export to date.

“Natchan World is one of the largest vessels built by INCAT and stands at 112.6 metres long and weighs in at nearly 11 000 gross tonnes.

“This new vessel has been built for speed and luxury, can be enjoyed by up to 800 people and has the capacity to hold 355 cars.

“Natchan World has a new form of relaxation for Executive Class passengers which cannot be experienced on any flights, trains or cruise ships.

“Instead of individual seats, there are small booth-style compartments for passengers to lie down and relax, as well as massage chairs,” Ms Wriedt said.

After a hugely successful two weeks in the United States earlier this year, Tasmania has again made its mark internationally, this time in Canada as part of G’day Vancouver Australia Week 2008.

The Minister for Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism, Paula Wriedt, said Tasmania even had the jump on other Australian destinations this year thanks to a two-week pre-event promotion on CityTV Vancouver.

From 19 March, CityTV’s popular breakfast program, Breakfast Television, promoted the Hunt Down Under Sweepstakes – a week-long competition for one CityTV viewer to win a holiday for two to Tasmania.

“Tasmania was the Australian destination on Canadian lips even before G’day Vancouver officially started on 4 April,” Ms Wriedt said.

“In addition to the Tasmanian holiday promotional clips and live on-air announcements, CityTV also broadcast a Discover Tasmania commercial produced specifically for the North American market,” Ms Wriedt said.

In another major coup, Tasmania was offered the position of presenter at Australia Week’s only gala event, the Penfolds Macquarie Wild Tasmania gala dinner.

“Approximately 250 high-profile guests attended including Canadian business leaders such as CanWest Media and Macquarie North America, tourism partners, Aussie Specialist travel agents and senior government officials such as the Australian High Commissioner,” Ms Wriedt said.

“They were treated to Tasmanian gift bags, a 15-minute Tasmania presentation, and promotional Tasmania footage surrounded them on giant screens.

“They were also treated to a taste of some of Tasmania’s world-class cuisine including smoked trout and gourmet cheese.

“Former Australian of the Year and eminent environmentalist, Tim Flannery, presented the keynote address, and Tasmania’s own Hollywood movie star, Rachael Taylor, was officially recognised as a Tasmanian ambassador,” Ms Wriedt said.

Australia Week saw the launch of a three-month long exhibition of Australia’s unique wildlife and natural environment at Vancouver’s iconic Science World: Planet Oz – Walk on Australia’s Wild Side.

Ms Wriedt said the Tasmanian exhibit is the cornerstone for the entire exhibition and highlights the unique challenge we face to protect the iconic Tasmanian devil.

It is anticipated 125,000 people will visit the exhibition over the three months.

“Tasmania was involved in numerous media events and promotional activities throughout the four-day program, organised each year by Tourism Australia,” Ms Wriedt said.

“And Tasmania’s Canadian exposure won’t end with the completion of G’day Vancouver.

Sydneysiders are being tempted by Tasmania’s own travel television series which began last night.

The Minister for Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism, Paula Wriedt, said the dedicated Tasmanian television series ‘Discover Tasmania’ will be broadcast by the Seven Network over the next 11 weeks.

“Produced in partnership with Southern Cross Television, the Tasmanian travel series was hosted by Australian celebrities Fast Eddie Halmagyi from Better Homes and Gardens, and Tim Campbell from Home and Away.

“The series formed part of our intrastate tourism campaign launched in September last year,” Ms Wriedt said.

The campaign was designed to encourage Tasmanians to holiday at home by showing them that our own State offers experiences as good as, if not better than, anything available interstate or overseas.

“The half-hour shows were so successful they won the ratings in all but one of their 10 Tasmanian timeslots,” Ms Wriedt said.

“Now the travel series, which was originally created to encourage intrastate tourism, has the opportunity to entice interstate visitors as well.”

Ms Wriedt said Tourism Tasmania has always had a major role in interstate and international marketing.

“This intrastate marketing campaign, in partnership with industry, has been the impetus for many thousands of Tasmanians to enjoy the wonders of their own state,” Ms Wriedt said.

The intrastate campaign was funded by Tourism Tasmania and the Tourism Promotion Plan, and was developed with input and assistance from the tourism industry and the regional tourism associations.

The Australian and Tasmanian Governments have agreed to work with Launceston’s ACL Bearings and the three major car makers to ensure that ACL can continue to supply its unique components to the Australian car industry.

ACL is the sole supplier of precision auto bearings, supplying Ford, Holden and Toyota. But the company has been experiencing short-term difficulties, which have threatened the supply of these critical parts.

In response to these exceptional circumstances, the Australian Government will provide assistance of $2 million to ACL, and the Tasmanian Government $330,000.

The three vehicle manufacturers are also working closely with the Australian and Tasmanian Governments to enable ACL to address its short-term difficulties.

The support package has been offered under strict conditions, and requires ACL to implement an efficiency and productivity strategy to secure the viability of the company into the future. Clear requirements and milestones will be negotiated with the company to ensure this occurs.

In announcing the assistance, the Australian Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, Senator the Hon Kim Carr, said: “The Rudd Government believes Australian manufacturing has a strong future, but we understand that the automotive industry is facing new challenges and opportunities.

“That’s why we’ve brought forward a review of the industry, examining all aspects of competitiveness, to look at how we can boost innovation in the sector and take full advantage of its strengths – like the highly skilled workforce at ACL Bearings.”

Tasmanian Minister for Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism, the Hon Paula Wriedt MP, said: “ACL Bearings makes a significant contribution to the Tasmanian and Australian economies, and the package offers the company, and its 285 Launceston based staff, the security they need to get on with the job.

“Officers of the Department of Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism will continue to work closely with the Australian Government to secure the long-term viability of the company’s operations and the security of its Launceston workforce.”

North America’s much-loved animal adventurer and wildlife celebrity, Jack Hanna, is filming in Tasmania for his next television series.

The Minister for Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism, Paula Wriedt said Mr Hanna will be filming up to three, 30-minute episodes for his new television series Into the Wild.

“The show he is best-known for, Jack Hanna’s Animal Adventures, reaches 95 per cent of US television households every weekend and has been viewed in more than 60 countries worldwide,” Ms Wriedt said.

“This Tasmanian filming expedition is for shows that will broadcast in October and November 2008.

“The show follows the travels of his family to wildlife destinations around the world and features stories about wildlife, conservation, and ecotourism destinations.

“His media appearances alone have made him one of the best-known and well-liked animal experts in the United States.”

Ms Wriedt said the prominent wildlife celebrity is in Tasmania at the invitation of Tourism Tasmania, and is a direct result of Tasmania’s successful involvement in G’Day USA earlier this year.

“His visit is yet another example of how Tasmania is working creatively and innovatively to promote the State as a world-class destination,” Ms Wriedt said.

“North America continues to be a key international visitor market for Tasmania, and last year provided more than 28,000 visitors.”

Mr Hanna and his crew arrive in Tasmania tonight and will spend this week filming at various locations including Mole Creek, Cradle Mountain, Latrobe and Bruny Island.

Mr Hanna is available for media interviews MONDAY at Trowunna Wildlife Park, Mole Creek, between noon and 1pm.

Tasmanians spent up last month with retail trade figures at a record monthly high.

The Treasurer, Michael Aird, said Australian Bureau of Statistics data released today showed the value of retail trade, in trend terms, in Tasmania increased by 0.1 per cent in February 2008 to a level of $424.1 million.

“The value in February 2008 is 5.6 per cent above the level recorded one year earlier, in trend terms,” Mr Aird said.

“Retail trade also rose in seasonally adjusted terms in February, up by 0.2 per cent, compared to a decline nationwide led by Victoria and Western Australia.

“While Tasmania continues to have strong economic results, we are seeing some States ease off and I am aware of possible headwinds from the slowing world economy and high interest rates.

“I am confident, however, that our underlying economic momentum can be sustained as there is billions of dollars worth of investment planned for Tasmania in the years ahead.”

Mr Aird said trend growth was recorded in three of the six components of retail trade in Tasmania.

“Household goods recorded the largest increase (up 1.0 per cent in Tasmania but down 0.4 per cent nationally), followed by hospitality and services (up 0.4 per cent in Tasmania and 0.1 per cent nationally) and department stores and other retail (up 0.1 per cent in Tasmania and 0.8 per cent nationally),” he said.

Twenty-three Inbound Tour Operators have arrived in Tasmania for a workshop and tour aimed at expanding their knowledge of Tasmania’s tourism experiences and boosting Tasmania’s international sales potential.

The Minister for Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism, Paula Wriedt, today welcomed the mainland-based Inbound Tour Operators (ITOs) to the State for the three-day tour sponsored by the Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC), Qantas and Tourism Tasmania.

"They are our primary link between Tasmanian tourism operators and key international travel wholesalers like Goway and ATS Tours in North America and JTB in Japan.

“In today’s highly competitive global tourism market it is vital that our tourism industry has the opportunity to familiarise these ITOs with their products,” Ms Wriedt said.

The visiting ITOs work directly with international buyers and were selected on the basis of their potential to increase the number of overseas visitors to the State.

“The familiarisation tour and workshop is part of Tourism Tasmania’s International Marketing Plan and aims to educate agents on the major selling points of Tasmania.

“It is also designed to assist them with itinerary planning and increase their awareness of the types of experiences available for international visitors,” Ms Wriedt said.

As part of their visit, local tourism operators have been invited to attend a half-day industry workshop in Hobart for individual appointments with each of the ITOs.

“During this visit, the ITOs will also be experiencing our accommodation, transport and activities in south-eastern Tasmania,” Ms Wriedt said.

Tourism Tasmania conducts three ITO familiarisation tours each year, with a different regional focus for each visit.

Fifteen of the world’s best photographers are in Tasmania as part of a nine-day road test of the latest software package from Adobe Systems.

Welcoming the photographers and Adobe crew to the State, the Minister for Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism, Paula Wriedt, said the Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Adventure was a fabulous initiative and presented Tasmania with enormous promotional opportunities.

“Tasmania was chosen as the destination for the second Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Adventure by organisers who were struck by our State’s breathtaking scenery, quality of light and ‘edge of the world’ appeal,” Ms Wriedt said.

“The Adventure was secured for Tasmania as a result of meetings held between the Tasmanian delegation and Adobe executives during G’DAY USA 2008.”

The first Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Adventure was held in Iceland in 2006 to trial the pilot version of the software package, which is aimed at professional photographers.

“Handpicked by the Adventure organisers, the photographers are the best in their fields, specialising in everything from wilderness to weddings, agricultural to portraiture and fashion photography.

“The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Adventure is another example of how Tasmania is working creatively and innovatively to promote the State as a world-class destination,” Ms Wriedt said.

From tomorrow until April 13, the fifteen photographers will explore and photograph the State, returning each evening to bases in Bicheno, Cradle Mountain and Hobart to edit their work using the digital image manipulation software.

The showcase of the nine-day’s work will be a glossy handbook, Photoshop Lightroom 2 Adventure, published by respected digital media company and Adventure organisers, O’Reilly Media.

“The promotional opportunities for the State extend well beyond the software handbook as millions of people are expected to visit O’Reilly’s Adventure website," Ms Wriedt said.

A major feature on the Tasmanian Lightroom Adventure is planned for Adobe Magazine.

As part of this promotion internationally renowned journalist Leo Laporte will host his top-rating US radio show ‘The Tech Guy’ live from Tasmania on April 5 and 6.

“The international credentials of these photographers mean their Tasmanian work will continue to appear in a wide range of outlets and publications, taking the destination of Tasmania to the world,” Ms Wriedt said.

Two of the most important global trends likely to impact on Tasmanian tourism are being addressed this week by an international expert.

The Minister for Economic Development and Tourism and Tourism and Tourism, Paula Wriedt, said Canadian strategist and futurist, Anna Pollock, is in the State at the invitation of Tourism Tasmania.

“Tasmania as a tourism destination is learning how to better understand and cope with the many and varied change forces transforming our economy and society,” Ms Wriedt said.

“Ms Pollock is President of DestiCorp, an international tourism consultancy and founder of The Icarus Foundation, a Canadian-based not-for-profit organisation designed to help tourism face the climate change challenge.

“Ms Pollock has consulted with the international tourism industry for more than 30 years.”

Ms Wriedt said during her visit, Anna Pollock would focus on two specific areas, the impact of information technologies on destination marketing and the impact of climate change on tourism sustainability.

“Ms Pollack has earned a reputation as a highly-informative, inspirational speaker who thinks differently and encourages her audiences to do the same,” Ms Wriedt said.

Ms Pollock has already delivered a public lecture on e-marketing trends, and today she is delivering a presentation to a climate change workshop that Tourism Tasmania is holding with industry partners.

“Rising energy costs, brand impact, and changing consumer preferences and influences are some of the key issues and risks she will cover.

“With Ms Pollock’s input, Tourism Tasmania hopes to start defining the steps needed to develop the Tasmanian tourism industry’s collaborative, strategic response to the climate change challenge,” Ms Wriedt said.