Liberals’ plan to open up national parks for development gains support

A TOP eco-tourism consultant has urged Tasmanians to embrace new possibilities within national parks and World Heritage Areas.

Eco-tourism expert Mark Olsen says a pro-development policy is not about changing managem

A TOP eco-tourism consultant has urged Tasmanians to embrace new possibilities within national parks and World Heritage Areas.

Mark Olsen, a senior manager with eco-tourism company EC3, backed a plan by the State Opposition to encourage development in Tasmania’s iconic natural environment.

Visiting Hobart yesterday, Mr Olsen said the state was blessed with natural assets and untapped potential.

“While the global financial crisis was on and destinations were struggling to make ends meet, one of the few markets that kept chugging along was the nature-based and eco-tourism market,” he said.

The Liberal Party has vowed to make it easier to develop and operate in Tasmania’s national parks and World Heritage areas, such as the Gordon River in the South-West wilderness. Source: Supplied.

“One of the best opportunities in Australia in the next decade is value-adding to your experiences. You have beautiful natural areas … and it is about recognising what people will pay for life-changing, memorable moments.’’

Mr Olsen said a pro-development policy was not about changing management plans of reserves or destroying natural wilderness.

“You don’t have to kill the goose that laid the golden egg to create great nature-based and value-added tourism experiences but you do have to understand what the market is looking for and continue to meet their needs,” he said.

He said opening up reserves to more development should also come with more stringent regulations and guidelines for developers.

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