In today's update we have lots of important industry development opportunities and information for you as we continue to round out the off-season.

Our next Talking Tourism Podcast is now live and it's definitely worth a listen. We had a lots of positive feedback about Hannah following our Conference about her contemporary way of viewing staff recruitment - so a good way to broaden your thinking. Our next Skilled in Sixty session is also open for registrations, addressing that tricky skill of grant writing. On the awards front, all submissions are now in and our busy team of judges are now doing what they do best. Our Gala promises to be big affair this year - so please grab your ticket - details below.

Last week, I joined our new Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events, Jane Howlett, to meet with Federal Minister for Tourism and Trade, the Honourable Don Farrell and the Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Katherine King. It was an important opportunity to raise Tasmania's visitor economy priorities with both senior leaders. We also celebrated being home to Australia's Top Tour Guide, Cat Davidson, from Inala Nature Tours, which reiterates the importance of the work we’re doing to make tour guiding a career of choice for more Tasmanians.

On the state front, the Tasmanian Parliament got back to work this week. There will be an interim Budget delivered in November, returning us back to a normal budgetary cycle next May. It goes without saying, that given the current financial situation, the budget is expected to be challenging. The tourism industry benefitted from many initiatives in the Budget that was not passed by the Parliament earlier this year and we'll continue to fight for every dollar for our industry.

Building on the strong momentum of record-breaking results, Hobart Airport recently celebrated its busiest August on record, with 208,312 passengers passing through. This is the twelfth straight month with more than 200,000 passengers. This follows success in the north at Launceston Airport, proving the strength of Tasmania’s visitor economy and the vital role aviation plays for tourism, business and community growth.

On that note, have a great weekend!

Amy Hills - Chief Executive Officer, TICT