Tuesday 31 July 2007

FILMING BEGINS FOR MAJOR INTRASTATE TOURISM CAMPAIGN
As part of the State Government’s 2006 election commitment to encourage Tasmanians to explore more of their own State, filming began yesterday for the pilot episode of a new Tasmanian travel series which will be aired later this year.

The travel series is hosted by TV stars Fast Eddie (Ed Halmagyi) from “Better Homes and Gardens” and Tim Campbell from “Home and Away”.

Together the friends will take Tasmanians on a journey that will open their eyes to the wonders of our diverse and inspiring island.

“For people who take such pride in their local communities, Tasmanians on the whole travel surprisingly little to other parts of the State,” said Minister for Tourism, Arts and the Environment Paula Wriedt.

“This series will show that Tasmania offers holiday experiences as good as, or better than, anything available interstate or overseas.

“There’s simply no need to travel outside the State to have a holiday you’ll want to brag about to your friends.

Ms Wriedt said the hosts could not have been better chosen to highlight the essence of a Tasmanian holiday.

“I have a feeling Fast Eddie will slow right down to savour the goodness and flavour of our fresh local produce, wine and seafood,” Ms Wriedt said.

“Tim, on the other hand, can’t wait for a taste of Tasmanian adventure.”

The program, which is funded by the Tourism Promotion Plan and Tourism Tasmania, is being produced by local company Southern Cross TV, who were the successful tenderer.

The 10 half-hour episodes and one-hour ‘Best Of’ special will air at 6.30pm on Saturday evenings between 22 September and 1 December.

Ms Wriedt said the television program was just one part of a comprehensive campaign to increase Tasmanians’ knowledge of regional destinations, stimulate their interest and pride in Tasmanian tourism opportunities, and encourage them to travel more widely and more often within their home state.

In addition to the television program and advertising, the campaign will feature a magazine-quality publication, direct mail, partnerships with Tasmania’s three major daily newspapers and cooperative opportunities for Tasmanian tourism operators.

For further information contact Tourism Tasmania's Communications Unit

(03) 6230 8244
email mediainfo@tourism.tas.gov.au