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With the Tasmanian Government backing the historic Statement of Principles agreement between environmentalists, unions and the timber industry (known as the Forest Peace Plan), Tasmania's native forests are on the verge of being protected forever.

And this protection is set to create new opportunities for tourism.

According to Daniel Hanna, Chief Executive of peak tourism body Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania (TICT), the Forest Peace Plan has the potential to deliver positive outcomes for the Tasmanian 'brand' and the Tasmanian tourism industry across regional towns and rural areas.

TICT is now lobbying to play a major role in the next phase of forestry peace talks, having backed the proposed peace plan in the belief it will enhance Tasmania's reputation as a global leader in nature-based tourism.

As Hanna explains "tourism has been identified by the parties, quite rightly, as an area that offers great opportunity for investment and job creation should a final transition plan be agreed

"Areas of protected land will provide opportunities for exciting new tourism developments that can generate economic benefits and jobs. The benefits of these could flow to many towns and local areas that will be most affected by transitions in the forestry industry.

"A new agreement between the parties can help the Tasmanian brand be strengthened in a number of key visitor markets interstate and overseas.

"For these reasons the TICT believes that it is imperative that the tourism industry be involved in the next stage of discussions."

According to the Tourism and Transport Forum (TTF), Tasmania, along with the Northern Territory, has the highest rate of international participation in bushwalking activities in Australia.

Australasian Leisure Management Editor Karen Sweaney explores the tourism potential of the FSP in the feature Turning Point in the latest issue of Australasian Leisure Management.

To make sure you receive every issue of the magazine subscribe online at www.ausleisure.com.au/magazine

Image: Tasmania's Cradle Mountain.

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