14 July 2010
TT-Line, operators of the iconic Spirit of Tasmania ships,
celebrated its 25th anniversary at the East Devonport terminal
today.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Infrastructure Lara Giddings
presented a special edition plaque to commemorate 25 years of
TT-Line and Bass Strait shipping operations under Tasmanian
Government ownership.
Ms Giddings said TT-Line had done an outstanding job, keeping
visitors coming to Tasmania during its 25 year of operations.
"During its 25th year, the company has promoted numerous
campaigns featuring discounted fares and other initiatives that
have all delivered impressive results in terms of visitor numbers,"
she said.
"This performance is even more impressive considering
competition from other Australian destinations, more Australians
choosing to holiday overseas and cheap airline fares."
Former and present captains reunited to cut a celebratory cake
to mark the occasion. Captain Ralph McDonell from Abel Tasman,
TT-Line's first ship in 1985, Captain Jim Lewis from the original
Spirit of Tasmania in 1993 and Captain Kon Eliades and Captain
Martin Watts from the present twin ships all played an important
role in reliving a nostalgic 25 years of TT-Line.
Special edition anniversary flags were also raised in the
Devonport terminal and on board the ships.
Deputy Chairman Michael Grainger said the success of the $25
fares that were offered on night sailings from 1 June surpassed
expectations.
"The tickets sold out in a week," he said.
"This is just one example of the campaigns the company has been
running for the ultimate benefit of the Tasmanian tourism industry
and the broader Tasmanian economy.
"Much has obviously changed over the past 25 years, but I can
assure you all that as we move forward we will continue to work to
achieve excellence in safety, reliability and exceptional passenger
and freight service."
-ends-
Contact:
Soniya Fernandez
Corporate Communications Coordinator, Spirit of Tasmania
E: saf@spiritoftasmania.com.au
