Cassy O’Connor MP | Greens Leader and Parks spokesperson
In Question Time today, Minister Groom confirmed the suspicions of many - talking up the luxury aspects of the Three Capes 'experience' this morning, but ignoring the burning question from ordinary Tasmanians, “Can I do the walk without forking out $500?”
What Minister Groom proves every time he speaks is that the development in the Tasman National Park is not for Tasmanians and regular tourists, it's really there for wealthy visitors.
Just under $2000 for a family of four to walk the Three Capes track is unaffordable for most Tasmanians and budget travellers. The Liberals’ Parks’ agenda is shutting low to medium income Tasmanians out of enjoying what was once a public asset.
National Parks are protected for Tasmanians, visitors and generations to come, but Minister Groom would have as a playground for the rich and powerful.
It’s important to remember, the walk was paid for taxpayers, as will be its ongoing maintenance to the tune of an estimated $550 000 each year.
The Minister today failed to commit to full public access to the new track and visitor facilities, but he will need to come clean about what sections of the tax payer funded track and camping facilities will be closed to Tasmanians without a fat wallet.