Release Date: 10/03/2015
The refurbishment of the two Spirit of Tasmania vessels should be a boost for many Tasmanian businesses, despite the major contract being award to UK based Trimline, according to the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
And don’t overlook the outcome of the $31million project which is aimed at attracting tens of thousands of new visitors to the State, Chair of the TCCI, Susan Parr, said today.
“The new look vessels will play a major role in growing visitor numbers to 1.5million in the next five years which means lucrative returns to Tasmanians from a spending boost in so many sectors of the community.
“Initially we may feel we don’t like the idea of a major contract awarded to a UK company, and not a state, or national company. However, we can’t always have everything on our own terms.
“The big picture for Tasmania means a boost for a wide range of Tasmanian businesses providing goods and services and, of course, employment for skilled Tasmanian tradesmen including plumbers, tilers, decorators and welders.
“Also, Trimline will be based in Devonport during the contract which means increased services and expenditure in a district desperately in need of an economic upturn.”
Ms Parr said it was imperative that the contractual arrangement with Trimline, to use as much Tasmanian labour and consumables as possible, was meticulously monitored by TT-Line, a Government Business Enterprise.
Contact: TCCI Chair, Susan Parr, mobile 0417 563 405