The Minister for Tourism, Martin Ferguson AM MP, today launched the historic Derwent Valley Rail Restoration project, honouring a 2007 election commitment to the people of New Norfolk while also providing the region with an exciting new tourist attraction, the historic H5 locomotive.
Minister Ferguson said: "In last year's Budget, the Member for Lyons, Dick Adams, and I announced funding of $50,000 to capitalise on the tourist potential of the Derwent Valley Rail through the refurbishment of an H5 locomotive in preparation for local tourist rail services. The construction of a storage shed to house locomotives during future restoration works was also funded.
"This funding not only provides an incredible attraction for the region, but also ensures that the historic locomotive is preserved for future generations.
"The Australian Government is pleased to be investing in a more competitive Tasmanian tourism industry."
In 2007, more than 801,000 day trips were taken in Tasmania's southern tourism region, generating around $41 million.
Today's Derwent Valley Rail announcement comes three weeks after Minister Ferguson launched Tourism Australia's No Leave - No Life campaign which encourages Australian employees and employers to unlock accrued leave and take an Aussie holiday.
Mr Adams said: "Today, with the launch of the Derwent Valley Rail Restoration project, visitors have another reason to visit this magnificent location. The H5 is a unique attraction that will no doubt draw more people to the region.
"Australian workers have more than 123 million days of accrued leave and I encourage them to use this leave to experience Tasmania's many tourism attractions.
"With millions of Australians receiving the Government's stimulus bonuses, now is a great time to travel throughout our beautiful region."