The Department of Tourism, Parks, Heritage and the Arts seeks Expressions of Interest from persons interested in undertaking commercial activities within the Maria Island National Park.

The potential commercial activities include:

• ferry transport and freight service to and from the island;
• operation of the campground and penitentiary accommodation at Darlington;
• development of existing buildings for accomodation in accordance with Tasmanian Heritage Office specifications;
• guided heritage and/or nature tours;
• retail sales and equipment hire.

Any activity or development on Maria Island must be in accordance with the Maria Island Management Plan and the Darlington Site Plan.  These plans permit low-scale development and preclude substantial new buildings and non-sympathtic adaptions of existing structures.  The Government is committed to the ongoing role of Maria Island National Park as a place for conservation of natural and historic heritage, quiet contemplation, education and recreation.  Submissions which do not fulfil these requirements will not be considered.

The Government will consider proposals from consortiums with different operators taking responsibilty for separate parts of the business.  However the Government has a strong preference for a business that can operate under a single contract and offer visitors a seamless experience.