Episteme to deliver the East Coast Positive Impact Tourism Plan
Bay Of Fires Masterplan
St Helens Telstra Cell on Wheels
ECHO Festival Launched for 2025
Tourism Forecast for Australia
TICT 2025 Important Event Dates
Events Tasmania Marketing Grant
Happy Festive Season from ECTT
What's on - Events
Business grants available
Sleepy Bay, Freycinet National Park. Photo Credit: Harrison Candlin
Partnering with Episteme to Shape the Future of East Coast Tourism
ECTT is pleased to announce its collaboration with Episteme to deliver the East Coast Positive Impact Tourism Plan (ECPIP).
Episteme brings 25 years of expertise in the tourism industry, place-based strategy design, development and implementation. ECTT looks forward to collaborating with Episteme with Allison Anderson at the helm to drive positive impact, regenerative tourism and supporting sustainable future growth of our East Coast region.
As leaders in transformational tourism, Episteme's portfolio spans significant local and National place-making projects including having worked on Destination Management Plans for the Blue Mountains, Australia’s Coral Coast (WA), Australia’s Golden Outback (WA) and Destination Perth, as well as played a part in other notable projects such as the Victorian Visitor Economy Master Plan and the Needs Assessment for the Tasmanian Sustainable Tourism Management Framework.
Episteme’s approach centres on empowering communities through delivering meaningful engagement opportunities, recognising their vital role in shaping the authentic identity of a place.
The primary objectives and desired outcomes of the ECPIP are to:
✅ Assess how tourism currently impacts the environment, community, culture, and economy of the East Coast region.
✅ Identify opportunities and challenges for enhancing positive impacts and develop plans to mitigate those that are negative.
✅ Engage meaningfully with local residents, businesses, and stakeholders to ensure their voices shape the future vision of the East Coast, with a clear understanding of what is wanted for the region and how tourism fits into that vision.
✅ Develop practical strategies that support sustainable tourism while preserving the region's unique identity.
✅ Create a clear roadmap with actions, responsibilities, and measurable outcomes to guide future efforts including an East Coast specific Place Brand and Place Making Strategy.
✅ Continuously monitor progress and make necessary adjustments to ensure the ECPIP remains effective, relevant and supports a sustainable, long-term vision for the East Coast.
Statement from the ECTT Board:
“The Episteme tender application response noted a small nimble Tasmanian team and detailed a good use of data and programs to assist the community to have their say within a stewardship framework. The tender was based on civic led planning with good connections to Aboriginal community and products on the east coast. Episteme allocated provisions for ongoing support and provided space for creative solutions identified by our East Coast community.”
The Bay of Fires is one of Tasmania’s most iconic destinations, renowned for its natural beauty, cultural significance, and unique visitor experiences. To ensure this special place thrives for future generations, the Parks & Wildlife Service and Break O’Day Council are partnering to create a 20-year Bay of Fires Master Plan.
This plan will focus on delivering a sustainable and high-quality Bay of Fires experience that balances environmental protection, cultural heritage, community needs, and economic opportunities. These goals align closely with ECTT’s core values of Positive Impact Tourism—tourism that enhances the environment, respects cultural and community values, and drives long-term benefits for local people and businesses.
Your voice is essential in shaping this vision. By participating in the community survey, you can help guide decisions that protect the Bay of Fires’ pristine landscapes and cultural heritage while ensuring it continues to offer enriching experiences for residents and visitors alike.
At ECTT, we believe that collaboration is key to building a sustainable and inclusive future for tourism on the East Coast. We encourage everyone in our community—operators, locals, and visitors—to have their say in this important project.
Stay tuned for updates on survey links and community engagement opportunities through our newsletter, social media, and other local channels. Together, we can create a Bay of Fires experience that reflects our shared commitment to sustainability and positive impact.
Michael Patterson Regional GM Telstra, Grace Keath CEO ECTT, Kristi Chapple Deputy Mayor BODC, Jason Unwin Easy Tiger
Telstra Cell on Wheels in St Helens
Since last summer our CEO Grace Keath, has been working with Telstra on a solution to our connectivity issues in our peak season, and here it is in St Helens! It's a wonderful time of the year on the East Coast, when we see our towns swell with lots of Tasmanians going camping and to their shacks, and we also welcome lots of interstate and international visitors to our beautiful coast. This year when visiting St Helens, there shouldn't be any issues with our wifi network in St Helens, with a permanent solution in the works for 2025/2026.
12 December 2024
Jeremy Rockliff, Premier
Madeleine Ogilvie, Minister for Innovation, Science, and the Digital Economy
An investment by the Tasmanian Liberal Government will help keep visitors and locals stay connected this summer.
The Government has worked closely with East Coast Tasmania Tourism to deliver a temporary 4G Telstra Cell on Wheels that will be based at St Helens from December 15 to January 30.
Premier and Minister for Tourism, Jeremy Rockliff, said St Helens booms over the summer and this investment will ensure the community can go about their business uninterrupted.
“Our Government’s investment in a Telstra Cell on Wheels will take pressure off the main tower during the holidays, ensuring visitors, locals and businesses can stay connected,” Premier Rockliff said.
“We know St Helens is a hotspot over the summer period and this investment will ensure visitors can use Google Maps, research the fantastic eateries and activities in the region, and much more.
“Boosting connectivity in St Helens is also important for businesses in St Helens which use Wi-Fi for payments and other systems.” East Coast Tasmania Tourism CEO, Grace Keath, said the initiative is a welcome boost for the region.
“This investment ensures our visitors and local community can stay connected during one of our busiest periods, enhancing their experience on the East Coast,” Ms. Keath said.
“Reliable connectivity is vital for visitors to access travel information, plan their adventures, and share their experiences, while also supporting local businesses to thrive during the peak season.” The 4G Telstra Cell on Wheels will boost connectivity within a kilometre radius, deliver a 175 per cent increase in mobile capacity, better connectivity indoors, faster data and enhanced accessibility for making voice calls.
Telstra Tasmania’s Regional General Manager, Michael Patterson, said in addition to the temporary Cell on Wheels, Telstra will also soon deliver a permanent boost to connectivity in St Helens with a 4G small cell to be installed in town, delivering improved capacity and coverage in the town.
“Over the past five years to the end of FY24, network traffic on Telstra’s mobile network has increased by approximately 3.5 times and continues to grow by 20 per cent per annum. Improving capacity in St Helens will help cater to this growing demand, particularly during busy holiday periods,” Mr Patterson said.
“Co-investment programs such as this, where carriers like Telstra and the government work together to share the cost in bringing improved coverage in regional and rural locations, are really important in helping deliver great connectivity outcomes.”
Break O'Day Council Deputy Mayor Kristi Chapple said we are very grateful for this opportunity for our community in particular businesses to alleviate the pressures on our network during this busy time.
"Thank you to East Coast Tourism, Telstra and State Government for this collaboration," the Deputy Mayor said.
Minister for Innovation, Science, and the Digital Economy, Madeleine Ogilvie said the Tasmanian Government understands that our iconic and beautiful East Coast is better enjoyed with digital connectivity.
“We are delighted to continue work with our telecommunications providers to deliver this local solution,” Minister Ogilvie said.
The Government is keeping our regions strong, investing in the tourism and hospitality sectors, and doing what matters for Tasmanians as part of the 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future.
Dive into the rhythm of the
Tides at ECHO Festival 2025
What an unforgettable way to set the stage for ECHO Festival 2025! This year’s festival theme, Tides, celebrates their profound connection to our region—shaping our coastline, our stories, and our way of life.
The festival launched with an intimate gathering at the remarkable Matilla Studio in Hobart, hosted by the talented Peter Mattila.
Tasmanian author Robbie Arnott enthralled the audience with a reading from his novel Limberlost, while renowned Chef Simon Ford of Marefold on Bruny Island offered a tantalising preview of the culinary wonders awaiting guests at the Native Bounty Feast.
ECHO Festival is a celebration of creativity, connection, and the spirit of the East Coast. Don’t miss your chance to experience this extraordinary event! From thought-provoking conversations to immersive performances and incredible local food, ECHO Festival promises something for everyone.
Tickets are selling fast, so secure yours now and be part of this unique journey that highlights the tides’ enduring influence on our region. Let’s come together to celebrate what makes the East Coast so special!
A new report from Tourism Research Australia (TRA) indicates Australia's resilient tourism industry will continue to grow over the next 5 years.
According to TRA's Tourism forecasts 2024-2029:
international visitor spend is forecast to increase from $28 billion in 2023 to $49 billion in 2029
domestic visitor spend is forecast to increase from $142 billion in 2023 to $174 billion in 2029.
The report explores many details including projections for both international and domestic visitor numbers, which countries are likely to be Australia's biggest tourism source markets in the next 5 years, and key areas of growth for the visitor economy out to 2029.
Explore the 2025 TICT event calendar! TICT offers a diverse range of high-quality industry events throughout the year, including networking lunches, workshops, webinars, and casual industry meet-ups.
Don't forget—Accredited Operators and Members enjoy discounted ticket prices!
To read more about TICT’s events, visit the website by clicking here.
2025 Events Tasmania Marketing Grant
The 2025 Events Tasmania Marketing Grant Program is now open! This program supports marketing initiatives designed to promote and attract audiences to events held in Tasmania between 1 January and 30 June 2025.
Applications close at 2pm on Thursday, 1 May 2025, or earlier if the available funding is fully allocated. Click here for more information, eligibility criteria, and application details.
Season’s Greetings from ECTT
As the Festive Season approaches, we want to thank you for all the passion and dedication you bring to our East Coast community.
This time of year is one of the busiest for many in our region, as we welcome visitors to experience the beauty and hospitality that make the East Coast so special.
While you’re working hard to create unforgettable experiences for others, we hope you can also find moments to celebrate the incredible place we call home—from its stunning landscapes to the strong, supportive community we share.
We’re excited to continue working alongside you in 2025 to make it another extraordinary year for our region.
Wishing you a safe, successful, and happy Festive Season!
What's on
There's so many great events, markets, live music, classes and activities to get involved with on the East Coast.
To see the whole schedule for this year and beyond
If you are hosting an upcoming event on the East Coast let us know!
Email marketing@eastcoasttasmania.com.au
Business grants and support
There are a number of industry grants and funding opportunities now available to help support your business visit the website
The Tasmanian tourism industry acknowledges the Tasmanian Aboriginal people and their enduring custodianship of lutruwita / Tasmania. We honour 40,000 years of uninterrupted care, protection and belonging to these islands, before the invasion and colonisation of European settlement. As a tourism industry that welcomes visitors to these lands, we acknowledge our responsibility to represent to our visitors Tasmania’s deep and complex history, fully, respectfully and truthfully. We acknowledge the Aboriginal people who continue to care for this country today. We pay our respects to their elders, past and present. We honour their stories, songs, art, and culture, and their aspirations for the future of their people and these lands. We respectfully ask that tourism be a part of that future.
East Coast Tasmania Tourism Inc, PO Box 115, Bicheno, Tasmania 7215, Australia
