Roger Jaensch,Minister for Environment and Parks
Jonno Duniam,Federal Assistant Minister for Regional Tourism
The Tasmanian Government has accepted a recommendation of the Tourism in Parks EOI panel to allow a proposal for a major art installation in the Huon Valley to proceed to the next assessment stage.
The proposal, titled ‘Green Lens’, has been developed by MONA’s DarkLab as part of Project X, which was established to encourage visitation to the Huon Valley region after the 2019 summer bushfires.
Tasmanian Minister for Environment and Parks, Roger Jaensch said the Government was committed to showcasing our world class parks and reserves and helping the State’s tourism industry back on its feet.
“We remain committed to help our tourism industry recover from the impacts of COVID-19, especially once our borders reopen. Projects like this can attract tourists to the State and enhance our reputation for delivering high-quality experiences that showcase our natural areas into the future,” Minister Jaensch said.
“The Green Lens proposal involves the creation of a new immersive art installation in the Ida Bay State Reserve, near Lune River in the State’s south. The art installation would include supporting infrastructure and would be accessed via a walkway, leading from a visitor centre and carpark on the site.
“Importantly, the project would support up to 28 jobs during construction and ongoing jobs once operational – supporting employment and the local economy in the Huon Valley.”
Federal Assistant Minister for Regional Tourism Jonno Duniam said attracting visitors to our regional communities would underpin the economy in these towns, create jobs and attract investment.
“The Green Lens project has the potential to encourage overnight stays, rather than just day trips in the revitalisation of the Huon Valley region,” Assistant Minister Duniam said.
“Tasmania’s regional tourism industry is vitally important, employing tens of thousands of locals across the state.
“The tourism industry is resilient, and we are committed to ensuring every region is supported as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic.”
All projects assessed through the EOI process must comply with all relevant local, State and Commonwealth approvals processes.
The Government will ensure that the important natural and cultural heritage values of the reserve are appropriately protected, including working with the Ida Bay Railway Preservation Society to manage the site’s historic rail heritage.
