WELCOME: FROM THE EDITOR

Did you just blink and miss spring?

It’s certainly been a busy period for the world of tourism, with judging and presentation of the Tasmanian Tourism Awards at the gala black tie function at Wrest Point in November. What a wonderful celebration of remarkable resilience, creative culture and hardworking individuals who make up this fantastic sector. We have a special story on four winners who took home gold on debut - some are brand new businesses built on a confidence that Tasmania is going to be the destination of choice for discerning travellers for years to come. You might be surprised that one of the winners is actually almost 50 years old and is one of the state’s most iconic attractions - they have only just entered the awards for the first time and will represent us well on the national stage when the Australian Tourism Awards are held early next year. Time won’t slow over the summer season as we prepare for a federal election. Photo shoots of politicians on the hustle will be aplenty and we expect the tourism industry in the state to play a role in the background. But we don’t just want platitudes made in front of our beautiful beaches, wilderness areas and innovative businesses - we want and deserve an adequate investment in Tasmania’s tourism resurgence. Take a look at the TICT’s Wishlist for funding on pages 10-15. Speaking of busy, our tourism profile this edition introduces us to Lauren Sheppard, the General Manager at Tasmania’s largest independent craft brewery, Moo Brew. It’s an interesting read about her journey and the brand’s expansion. And, as we prepare for a border reopening as we go to print, which will inevitability see COVID cases returning to the state, we pose some pertinent questions for business owners in the tourism and hospitality sectors. Are you prepared? If not, we can help with some tips for getting the advice you need. But first, slow down and find good spirit as we look at the success of one Aboriginal tourism venture and the progress being made to ensure more Indigenous culture and creativity is activated and celebrated.

We learn through the wukalina Walk that the power of being on your country can never be underestimated - it has the power to transform. I hope you enjoy this edition and we look forward to bringing you the summer magazine shortly.