The Launceston Chamber of Commerce is asking questions about the troubled Spirit of
Tasmania port construction in Devonport. It is concerning that, after this length of time,
Tasmanian business will not be able to access the forecast, needed, additional freight capacity
over this summer’s peak trading periods.
“Tasmania’s businesses need the additional capacity. Bass Strait is one of the most expensive
stretches of water in the world to move goods. We have just seen the downsizing of Boag’s
production in Launceston, and our businesses are questioning the Government’s ability to
deliver freight capacity and cost relief at this time”, said Alina Bain, Chief Executive Officer of
the Launceston Chamber of Commerce.
“Our businesses are looking to their Chamber to seek answers to important questions about
freight costs and capacity across Bass Strait. This latest project delay will impact further the
competitive positions of many of our business’, along with their ability to grow. Its disappointing
for our tourism sector and for all Tasmanians.
The delay prevents the attraction of high yielding self-drive visitors, negatively impacting
demand and revenue generation across our state at a time where businesses are impacted by
the downturn in discretionary spend.”
Business requires accountability and straightforward answers to questions on the project:
- When will the new port at Devonport be ready so that the additional capacity on the new Spirit of Tasmania vessels can be utilised?
- Will there be any additional capacity for Tasmanian products across Bass Strait this summer?
- Can the new ships, combined with the current fleet, deliver additional sailings at times that suit Tasmanian producers?
- Traditionally truck and container reports across Bass St have shown a large number of empty movements across the year. Can government coordinate an effective program to
ensure all trucks and container movements are not empty? - Did TT-Line and Tasports fail to act in an appropriate timeframe to ensure the new wharf facilities would be ready in time for the new Spirit/s of Tasmania?
- Will the new Spirit/ s of Tasmania operate at full capacity irrespective of the tidal condition of the Mersey River?
- Will the Mersey require special ongoing dredging and if so, at what cost?
- Are there plans to sell the current Spirit/s of Tasmania and what are they expect to fetch?
“Businesses in Tasmania are now getting ready for the busy summer season, and this includes
tourism operators, hospitality and retail. They need certainty in regard to passenger and freight
capacity across Bass Strait. We ask the Government, as owner of the GBE, TT Line, to provide
this information to businesses and industry”, said Ms Bain.
Media Enquiries: Alina Bain, Chief Executive Officer, T: (03) 6331 9364