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Cataract Gorge a top attraction
| Monday, 18 January 2010 00:45 |
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Launceston’s Cataract Gorge’s position as one of the Tasmania’s top attractions has been further strengthened with the completion of extensive upgrades and the launch of a self-guided discovery experience. The Minister for Tourism and the Arts, Michelle O’Byrne, today joined Launceston Mayor Albert van Zetten and Federal Labor Member for Bass, Jodie Campbell, in launching the revitalised Cataract Gorge. “As a Launcestonian, I am incredibly proud of this beautiful wilderness oasis on our city’s doorstep,” said Ms O’Byrne.“It is not hard to see why Cataract Gorge is one of the top attractions in our State, with more than 200,000 people visiting the Gorge this year. “However, it was evident to the Launceston City Council, and the State and Federal Governments that upgrades to the Gorge’s facilities and infrastructure were vital to maintain the Gorge’s position as a leading visitor destination.
“There was also very little interpretation to help visitors fully experience the Cataract Gorge Reserve and learn about its amazing stories and history.
“Today is the culmination of four years work and the realisation of a shared vision to develop Cataract Gorge into a world-class tourism experience that responds to, enriches and reinforces the Gorge’s unique visitor values.”
Work on the Gorge revitalisation commenced in 2005 and was undertaken in four stages, starting with significant refurbishments and infrastructure improvements funded jointly by the Federal Government and Launceston City Council.
The State Government also contributed $150,000 from the Tourism Promotion Plan to enable extensive visitor interpretation work to be carried out.
“As a result of the Tourism Promotion Plan (TPP) funding, the Cataract Gorge now has a self-guided discovery experience that can be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.”
Ms O’Byrne said the new Trail of the Tasmanian Tiger encourages visitors to explore the Gorge and its different facets more widely, with the installation and refurbishment of interpretative signage, and the introduction of contemplation seats that allow visitors to sit and enjoy the Gorge environs.
“The TPP grant has also seen the development of a guided walks program for the Gorge and a manual to train and equip volunteer guides working in the Reserve.
“A Discovery Pack has also been produced. It includes a booklet, children’s word puzzle, badges, card games and postcards, and a percentage of sales will go to protect and enhance the Gorge environment.”
Ms O’Byrne said with the busy visitor season just around the corner, Launceston has a lot to be excited about with the city’s number one attraction now offering locals and visitors so much more.
“The completion of this important project is more good news for this region, which has been performing extremely well as a visitor destination.”
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