Smaller, modified Taste now on the menu

THE Taste of Tasmania will not proceed in its usual format this year.

However, Hobart City Council unanimously agreed at its meeting last night that a smaller, modified Taste-style event could still go ahead, subject to COVID-19 restrictions. This comes as Labor has called for the money earmarked for the Taste to be redirected to other summer events that support businesses affected by coronavirus — if the festival were to be cancelled.

The council budgeted $300,000 in the 2020-2021 draft estimates, with additional funding to be sought from the State Government. Following discussions with Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds, Premier Peter Gutwein said the Taste should proceed in some form, and asked the council to defer making a decision.

Labor leader Rebecca White said the Taste was not only a tourism drawcard showcasing the best of Tasmanian produce, it was an icon for the state.

“The Taste of Tasmania generates revenue for hundreds of Tasmanian small businesses who rely on it for customers either at their trade stall or from flow-on benefits in the region,’’ she said.

“The State Government must ensure that every dollar that would have been spent on the Taste of Tasmania remains committed to hosting summer events that will support our tourism, hospitality, arts and culture businesses as they work hard to recover from the impacts of COVID-19.”

Mr Gutwein said he would discuss options for the Taste with the council this week.