30 June 2008

The cost of transporting a standard vehicle on Bass Strait on board Spirit of Tasmania will be reduced from $72 one way to $58 effective tomorrow

(1 July).

The introduction of the revised fare structure follows a decision by the Federal Government to increase the Bass Strait Passenger Vehicle Equalisation Scheme (BSPVES) rebate.

Funding for the scheme is passed on in total to passengers in the form of reduced vehicle fares.

Chief Executive Officer Charles Griplas said the Federal Government’s rebate had been increased pro rata for all other passenger vehicle categories under the scheme, and this was reflected in TT-line’s prices.

“For example, the price to transport a motor home or campervan, up to seven-metres-long, has reduced from $98 one way to $69,” he said.

“A standard vehicle towing a caravan, up to seven-metres-long, has also reduced to $69 one way.”

Mr Griplas said the Federal Government's BSPVES contributed positively to the economy of Tasmania.

“The Spirits play a prominent role in delivering benefits to Tasmania's economy through tourism,” he said.

“The Federal Government is also obviously contributing to this through the scheme.

“It is also worth noting that TT-Line has also recently completed the extension of its vehicle decks on both vessels that allows for an additional 60 standard vehicles to be transported on each crossing.”

Released by:

Nicolas Turner

Tel: 6210 5206 or 0418 538 865