Tassie bookings up by 40%

DEMAND for booked nights to Tasmania for the next three months is up by close to 40% on the same period last year, according to new figures from Tourism Tasmania’s COVID-19 recovery update report.

The state’s capital led the way by accounting for 18,607 nights, up 55% on last year, followed by the state’s north west (6,607 nights), Freycinet (6,422), Launceston (6,082), the north east coast (3,805) and Bruny Island (3,537).

While Hobart experienced strong growth compared to last year, the biggest proportional leap in booked nights was actually claimed by the state’s west coast, which grew by 71%, while the eastern shore made good ground by jumping 55%, ahead of Freycnet (49%), and King Island (46%).

Meanwhile in Hobart strong bookings recorded for mid-Jun were fuelled by the popular Dark Mofo festival, with bookings peaking on the weekend during the month.

In the north of the state, Launceston also gained some traction in Jun due to the Australian Musical Theatre Festival, AFL games and Launceston Running Festival.

The report claimed that Tasmania continues to maintain its brand position, including perceptions of being a “meaningful” and “different” domestic destination.