A customer centre on the much-loved James Boag’s Brewery in Tasmania has been introduced again from the brink, days from when it was scheduled to shut.
The centre and excursions on the Launceston brewery have been slated to shut on January 31, with proprietor Lion citing the influence of COVID-19.
However, Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff decried the choice as not assembly “the pub test”, and on Thursday introduced the federal government was stepping in to maintain the attraction open.
Mr Rockliff promised it could be larger and higher because of an in-principle settlement between Lion and the state authorities for $1 million in funding.
“The Boag’s Brewery Visitor Centre is not only a local cultural icon but a vital part of the local northern economy attracting thousands of visitors a year,” Mr Rockliff stated.
“The unique experience it offers has been a significant drawcard for Launceston for decades, with the benefits flowing to other businesses in the region and across the state.”
James Boag’s Brewery director Nathan Calman hailed the end result as a win-win for Launceston.
The outpouring of ardour in response to the announcement concerning the customer centre’s closure reminded the brewery of how integral it was to the area people, he stated.
“We will now work with our Boag’s Visitor Centre team, who will all retain their roles, to consider how we can use this funding to enhance the Boag’s brewery tour experience and promote tourism to Launceston for the benefit of the region,” Mr Calman stated.
City of Launceston Mayor Danny Gibson described the choice as “incredibly exciting” for the area people, saying it could give a much-needed increase to the customer financial system.
Labor Member for Bass Michelle O’Byrne welcomed Boag’s customer centre and excursions persevering with, however stated the marketing campaign to maintain them open revealed long-term points for companies.
She referred to as for an intensive assessment and the event of a strategic financial response to assist ease “mounting and unnecessary” prices that companies across the state have been coping with.
Boag’s customer centre and excursions will stay open for the foreseeable future.
Anyone with a Tasmanian driver’s license can tour Boag’s without cost in the course of the subsequent 12 months.
