Future focus for Spirit of Tasmania

MEDIA RELEASE

24 April 2020

Future focus for Spirit of Tasmania

The Devonport Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) supports TT Line’s decision to relocate the Spirit of Tasmania’s Victorian operations to Geelong and recognises the significant benefits the move will present for Tasmania.

Spokesperson for the DCCI, Rod Bramich, said the move was the right call to make for the long-term future of the Bass Strait ferry service.

“This is a move which focuses on the future. The change will require some major adjustments but this is about long term thinking and looking after the interests of Tasmania, rather than the Port of Melbourne,” Mr Bramich said.

“Supply chains are only as strong as their weakest link. For many of the businesses associated with the Spirit of Tasmania that weak link was Station Pier in Melbourne. This was exacerbated by the Port of Melbourne’s decision to significantly increase charges – the cost of which would be ultimately passed on to Tasmanian businesses.”

“It’s understandable that there will be some walk-on passengers who will not appreciate the added inconvenience of travelling up from Geelong but unfortunately this has to be balanced against the benefits that will flow to vehicle passengers, freight businesses and producers - the major users of the Spirits.

“The new Geelong facility, including a purpose designed passenger terminal, a marshalling area for 600 cars and a dedicated freight terminal will be a breath of fresh air compared to the current congested Station Pier and greater Port Melbourne area.”

The move will ultimately enhance the competitiveness of businesses in the Devonport region and across greater Tasmania.

ENDS

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