Major Tourism Investment Opened at Quamby Estate

4 October 2009

A piece of Tasmania’s colonial history has been preserved thanks to a major investment in Tasmania’s tourism industry.

Premier David Bartlett today officially opened the Quamby Estate at Hagley and congratulated Anthology Travel on its outstanding development.

“This development is another sign of the strength of Tasmania’s tourism industry and the confidence private business has in our economy,” Mr Bartlett said.

“Tourism is one of the industries that is at the heart of a strong Tasmanian economy, directly and indirectly employing around 25,000 Tasmanians.”

“The investment to date by Anthology Travel of more than $700 000, will ensure visitors take home a truly memorable experience and share it with family and friends.”

As the northern home of former Tasmanian Premier, Sir Richard Dry, Quamby became known as the ‘Government House of the North’. Dry was Premier from 1866 to 1869 and was the first Tasmanian-born premier and the first Tasmanian to be knighted.

“Sir Richard’s former home has been thoughtfully restored in keeping with heritage principles and converted for sustainable, contemporary use as a luxury lodge.

“It is exciting to see visionary tourism operators like Grant Hunt investing in properties like Quamby Estate to ensure we continue to deliver high-quality and world-class experiences to the visitors the Government works so hard to entice here,” Mr Bartlett said.

Recently completed works at the property include the restoration and refurbishment of ten luxuriously appointed guest rooms, a nine-hole golf course and the conversion of the heritage-listed Georgian stables into a purpose-designed centre for guests on multi-day walking tours.

Quamby is also the home-base for the acclaimed guided walking tours, Cradle Mountain Huts and Bay of Fires Walk. Anthology purchased the two award-winning experiences last year and has added two shorter walks to the collection.

Minister for Tourism and the Arts, Michelle O’Byrne said Tasmania’s tourism industry had proven its resilience and strength in the face of the global financial crisis.

“The recent visitor statistics again confirm Tasmania’s growing popularity as a holiday destination at a time when other states are seeing a downturn in visitor numbers.

“I am confident the $2 million dollar national marketing campaign I launched recently will continue to draw more people to our State to enjoy our world-class attractions and experiences like Quamby Estate and the walks,” Ms O’Byrne said.

Further information: Rod Scott 0419879696