A NEW way for farmers and landowners to enter the agritourism sector is being offered up by an initiative in conjunction with the state’s tourism bodies.
Opening the Gate is operated by Optimum Standard in partnership with the State Government and Tasmania’s four regional tourism organisations.
The initiative aims to help farmers, food producers and existing agritourism businesses to explore and embrace new agritourism opportunities to diversify, amplify, value add and connect with visitors.
Allison Clark, who leads the project, said the program would help farmers understand the opportunities for their farm and their region.
“It doesn’t matter what your farm size or agritourism idea is, you just might have a great experience that visitors are craving.
“We are excited because Tasmania has the potential to be Australia’s key agritourism destination,” Ms Clark said.
One Tasmanian producer who has already registered is Matt Tack, who operates Our Mate’s Farm in Geeveston in the Huon Valley.
“We have some capacity now and really want to make the most out of what we are already doing,” he said.
“We want to create a new income stream and we don’t want to miss the agritourism opportunity, agritourism may be the way to further diversify our business.”
Opening the Gate will host a series of field days from the end of this month, presenting an opportunity for producers who have considered expanding into agritourism to learn more about the opportunities.
They will also present an opportunity to learn how the Opening the Gate business development program works and the one-on-one support that will be available to participating businesses.
The days are also a chance to meet the project team and to network with other businesses who have an interest in agritourism in the local region.
The sessions will be held from August 30 to September 2 in Swansea, Hamilton, West Ridgley, Longford, Lebrina and Grove.
Register online at www. agritourismtasmania.com.au/ events.