Spirits sinking on delay

TASMANIA’S peak farming body says lack of certainty about freight is eroding confidence in the state’s agriculture sector. 

TasFarmers is calling on the State Government to solve the current freight issues following the announcement the new Spirit of Tasmania vessels will be delayed for two years. 

Late last week the Government announced it had made a commercial decision not to develop a short-term berthing solution for the new Spirits. 

TasFarmers president Ian Sauer said the decision would have big repercussions for the state’s fresh produce exporters. 

While he acknowledged the Government’s need to make a commercial decision to bridge the gap until a new Spirit berth is operational, he highlighted the potential negative impact. 

To solve the issue, TasFarmers wants to see extra sailings on the current Spirits scheduled for the next two years. 

Mr Sauer said this was need ed to help restore confidence of agricultural businesses and the tourism sector, which is also hit by a lack of transport capacity. 

“What we need to see is double sailings for the two Spirits and they need to be booked out for the next two years,” he said.

“There’s no use bringing on double sailings just when you need it.

times a week we need double sailings until the new Spirits come online.” 

Premier Jeremy Rockliff has committed to additional sailings for September and October 2025, which are available for booking now. 

He said further extra sailings for April 2025 would also be made available this week. 

Mr Rockliff said this was on top of the 138 additional sailings scheduled over the upcoming peak season. 

“I, more than anyone, recognise that the importance of our ships is not just about tourism but, just as importantly, our farmers and fruit growers,” he said. “Consistency and reliability of our freight service are crucial.” 

Mr Sauer said a lack of certainty was preventing some agricultural businesses from expanding. 

While a large amount of freight leaves the state aboard privately owned services, Mr Sauer said the new Spirits would offer options and in creased competition. 

He warned of major problems when other shipping operators take vessels out of service for essential maintenance. 

Mr Sauer said the state’s freight situation was facing a “market failure”, potentially in January’s peak period. 

“It’s the old mantra: certain ty and consistency equal confidence. 

TT-Line’s handling of this situation has not only eroded confidence, but has also harmed our state’s brand and reputation, which is intolerable and difficult to repair.” 

Mr Sauer said taxpayers expected state-owned ferry operator TT-Line and ports operator TasPorts to work together to deliver infrastructure projects on time and for the benefit of the state. 

He said the freight problems raised broader issues of scrutiny around Government Business Enterprises. 

“We want more accountability and transparency from them; otherwise, we risk further market failures.”