THE Premier highlighted the value of Tasmania’s $300 million Southern Midlands Irrigation scheme in his State of the State address this week.
“I would like to thank Tasmanians for working with me and my Government through what has been a challenging period as we have dealt with a worldwide pandemic,” Mr Gutwein said.
“It is not over yet, but we are in a good place and our reopening plan is progressing well.
“My Government is working with the Australian Government to progress the development of a Business Case for an estimated $300 million Southern Midlands Irrigation scheme, which will deliver a similar economic benefit to the heart of Tasmania.”
When delivered, the estimated $370 million South East Irrigation Scheme will be the biggest irrigation project in Tasmania’s history, expected to deliver more than 40,000 megalitres annually, supporting a further $150 million in on-farm investment, with the potential to create more than 2,000 local jobs.
Mr Gutwein said Tasmania had the greatest opportunity for the paddock to plate experiences, which were sought after by locals and visitors alike.
“This includes wild deer, which will be considered as part of the deer management plan review that will occur 12 months after the commencement of the plan,” he said.
“Following this review and informed by its outcomes, it is the Government’s intention to conduct a limited fixed-term trial to evaluate the potential for deer farmers and land-holders to supply value-added wild deer products for the regulated food or restaurant trade, in consultation with Tasmanian Game Council and other key stakeholders.”