17 April 2002 BASS STRAIT VESSEL NAMES TO BUILD ON REPUTATION FOR SAFETY AND RELIABILITY TT-Line Company Pty Ltd's decision to name its new Bass Strait passenger vessels after the current Spirit of Tasmania would build on the strong brand recognition that has been developed since the vessel's inaugural crossing in November 1993. TT-Line Chief Executive Mr Peter Simmons said the current Spirit had built an excellent reputation for reliability, safety and service since its introduction on to Bass Strait. " The Spirit of Tasmania brand, which has played an important role in the success of this organisation, provides TT-Line with a competitive advantage when attracting people to travel to Tasmania by sea," he said. " We would be foolish to change what has been a successful formula for the company after nine years." Mr Simmons said TT-Line had invested in excess of $25 million over the last 9 years in marketing this brand name, which now has excellent levels of recognition in the market place. " The company will build on this long-term investment and spend $5 million during the first year of the new two monohull service on a combined marketing, sales and public relations program," he said. " The campaign will incorporate television, print and radio advertising in Victoria and Tasmania and an e-commerce strategy which includes advertising and promotion on the Internet." For further information please contact: Ms Simone Ferrier TT-Line Company Manager Corporate Communications Telephone 03 9206 6220 / 0417 540 583