Attractions hit record visitor numbers despite border closures

Borders, schmorders. Some Tassie attractions saw visitation rates reach a record despite no new international or interstate tourists to boost numbers. FIND OUT WHERE >>

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SOME iconic Tasmanian tourism attractions have laughed in the face of border closures with visitation numbers going up – and even hitting a record – despite a lack of mainland and overseas visitors.

The latest data, from the State Government, shows that while the border closures knocked some tourism businesses around, locals returned to iconic parks and reserves in droves after they reopened in June.

“Despite the gap left by visitors from interstate and overseas, visitation to Freycinet for July and August was around 90 per cent of the numbers compared with the same time 12 months ago,” Environment and Parks Minister Roger Jaesnch said.

At Highfield House in Stanley, visitation for July and August was the highest on record.

And visitor numbers were up by seven per cent at the Tamar Wetlands, compared to the same time last year.

Highfield House at Stanley. PICTURE CHRIS KIDD

A Highfield House spokeswoman said while 125 Make Yourself at Home vouchers had been used by local visitors most customers were Tasmanians keen to get out and about once restrictions eased.

“We are normally quiet in the lead up to Christmas but with the borders now open who knows? It has been great to see Tasmanians exploring what their own state has to offer and now we are getting ready to welcome tourists from further afield.”

Mr Jaesnch revealed there had also been very strong bookings on the Overland Track and Three Capes Track and accommodation providers near parks and reserves were doing well with strong forward bookings.

“I’d like to thank all Tasmanians who got out and about when they could to support our regional economies by visiting our local attractions and spending in the surrounding communities,” he said.

“As our borders reopen to all states and territories, we expect interstate visitors to again flock to our parks and reserves as we get our visitor economy moving again.”