Roger Jaensch, Minister for Environment and Parks
Tasmania’s recovery from the coronavirus emergency relies on our economy and tourism industry being able to return to normal as quickly as possible once the current restrictions ease.
With our world-class national parks currently closed, there is an opportunity now to get on with many building and maintenance projects in our parks so that the infrastructure is fit for purpose in coming months.
The picturesque Southwest National Park is a much-loved destination which continues to grow in popularity.
The Tasmanian Government is tomorrow calling for tenders to construct a new visitor shelter and amenities at the entrance to the park, south of the Cockle Creek Bridge.
The work also includes toilet facility upgrades in the national park and nature recreation precinct, and the installation of infrastructure on which future interpretative signage and artwork will tell the story of the park and its surrounds.
The $16 million Improved State-wide Visitor Infrastructure (ISVI) fund will not only provide improved infrastructure in parks throughout the state to meet visitor expectations, but also generate jobs and support economic activity in regional Tasmania and help the tourism industry prepare to rebound in coming months.
Our capital works program in parks plays a critical role in keeping the economy moving and this project will provide work in both the manufacturing and construction industries.
We understand that Tasmanians have enjoyed bushwalking, camping and fishing for generations and look forward to celebrating this major step in updating Australia’s southernmost vehicle accessible point.
Work is expected to begin mid-2020 and will be designed to not only cater for increased visitor numbers but also improved environmental outcomes. A temporary information shelter and access to public facilities will be provided for visitors during the construction phase when Tasmania’s national parks re-open.
Tender documents and information can be found on the Tasmanian Government’s Tender website at www.tenders.tas.gov.au. The tender period closes in May.
