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.