New sport events and festivals to support Tasmania as winter destination 

The Tasmanian Government has announced a winter tourism package to help deliver new events in the cooler months and to build on Tasmania’s reputation as a winter travel destination. 

With more than 70 events already locked in across the State during the winter months, Tasmanian Premier and Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, Jeremy Rockliff advised “our Government continues to deliver on our long-term plan to sustainably grow the tourism sector.

“We know winter 2024 will be challenging for many businesses in the tourism and hospitality sector, and we have worked closely with the sector to deliver new activity to drive visitation over the cooler months.”

The Tasmanian Government has secured new events, including Hockey Australia’s under 16s national championships, under 13s National Water Polo Championship, Athletics Australia and School Sports Australia Cross Country Championships, and Tennis Australia Pizzey Cup Secondary Schools Australian Teams Championships.

Additional funding has also been announced for existing winter events such as Festival of Voices and Beaker Street Festival, enabling them to expand their offering in 2024.

Tasmanian Minister for Stadia and Events, Nic Street, said these events will inject thousands of extra visitors into our state and millions of dollars into our economy through additional nights spent in accommodation venues, eating at cafes and restaurants, and experiencing our unique tourism offerings.

The State Government has also increased funding to support the Off Season marketing campaign, building Tasmania’s reputation as a must-visit destination in the cooler months.

Premier Rockliff added “We are supporting more than 130 Tasmanian tourism businesses to develop and market their Off Season experiences.

“Our Government is also launching a second round of the Event Marketing Tasmania grants, providing funding to support interstate marketing for events being held in winter 2024.

“Attracting more events to Tasmania is a key part of our long-term plan, which is why eligible new festivals can apply for up to $30,000 funding through Events Tasmania’s one-off assistance program.

“And it’s great to see Mona has a fantastic program lined up in June, including a major new exhibition and the very popular Winter Feast which provides a valuable platform for local producers and suppliers.”

Image top: Tasmania has secured under 13s National Water Polo Championship. Credit: Water Polo Victoria; image above: Beaker Street Festival