Funding boost for major Tasmanian projects
News Article
27 June, 2005

HOBART: Tasmania’s Premier Paul Lennon has announced $2.5 million in funding for two major infrastructure development projects in the Burnie area.

Mr Lennon said the government would commit $1.5 million to the first stage of a major city waterfront redevelopment project. Mr Lennon said the project would transform the Burnie foreshore into a vibrant destination for tourists and a focus of activities and events for the Burnie community.

The redevelopment plans aim to connect the port edge, basalt columns, north-facing beach, the Surf Lifesaving Club, board walk, heritage building and penguin colony. “It will create a welcoming, enjoyable place for community events and activities and it will celebrate this city’s connection to the sea,” he said.

An initial focus will be the redevelopment of the Burnie Surf Club building, which will become a hub for festivals and the arts. An information centre will promote Burnie and the North-West and West Coast touring routes. The development will also provide for a restaurant to capitalise on the waterfront views.

The government also announced funding of $1 million towards the development of the Complete Paper Experience at Creative Paper Tasmania in Burnie. Mr Lennon said the concept would see visitors to the new attraction learn how paper was made and take a journey through the history of paper and its significance to Burnie.

Mr Lennon said visitors would be encouraged to make their own paper and purchase locally designed and made paper products. “This is set to become a major iconic cultural tourism attraction for Burnie and the North-West Coast,” Mr Lennon said.

He said the project was unique both nationally and internationally.