News Release
Will Hodgman, Premier
Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events

Jetstar Partnership; the Sky's the Limit. The Liberal Government is committed to building on our competitive strengths, especially tourism.

It is our government's target to attract 1.5 million visitors to the state by 2020, which the industry says would create 8,000 new jobs.

Jetstar's announcement today that it will offer an additional 15,000 seats this summer will bring thousands of extra visitors and continue the growth in the tourism sector, which has seen a record 1.06 million visitors travelling to our state in the 12-months to March.

This means an additional flight between Melbourne and Hobart every day from December 14 to January 28.

This is a huge vote of confidence in our tourism market and its capacity for growth by one of our country's leading airlines.

That's why together with Jetstar we are investing more than $600,000 in a cooperative marketing campaign. The State Government through Tourism Tasmania will contribute $350,000.

The 12-month campaign aims to attract more visitors to Tasmania and will cross all mediums from TV to print, online and radio.

It will focus on the traditionally quieter months in spring 2014 and autumn next year.

I am confident that our commitment together with Jetstar's ability to offer enticing deals and packages will ensure we continue to build on these encouraging figures and one of our state's greatest competitive strengths.

Mona Foma Dates have been announced for 15 - 18 January 2015. In typical Mona style, the announcement graphic is dark and mysterious and the website has no detail. All they are saying is "Our Festival of Music and Art, curated by Brian Ritchie. As the name suggests, there is music and art. But don't be fooled: there is also food and drink."

Hobart and surrounds accommodation books out in January, so book well ahead. We have as selection of accommodation in Hobart from colonial,  self contained to city hotel style.

We can design an entire itinerary, including car hire, activities and accommodation in Hobart plus some pre and post Mofo exploring of the Far South Tasmania. Send us your desired experience style, contact details etc and we will get back to you.

This little possum appeared unexpectedly at Huon Bush Retreats. His habits make us think he was raised by humans and brought here for release.

Instantly tame and looking for cuddles and treats, he needs to learn the ways of finding his own food and his place in the possum hierarchy (right at the bottom).

So small that in the wild he would still be following his mother, and with fluffy fur, not quite ready to totally fend for himself. For the next few weeks, he will receive privileged treatment, while he learns how to look after himself in the semi-wild habitat here.

Orphans ready for release are welcome at Huon Bush Retreats. If we know they are coming, we can help them settle in with supplementary food and shelter during their transition.