Tasmania has a brand that's pretty niche - our island state is known for low-volume but high-quality products and experiences but this coming week Tasmania will play host to an event that flies under the radar of most.
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The World Fly Fishing Championships will lure people from 32 countries across the world, with teams heading to some of Tasmania's regional areas to compete.
While fly fishing is not typically a mainstream hobby, it's obviously one that has a loyal, dedicated fan base, in Tasmania, Australia and around the world.
The fact that Tasmania was selected to be the venue for the event speaks volumes about the state's literal capacity to not only host but to run an event of this calibre and it's something that all Tasmanians should take pride in - whether you are a fly-fisher or not. There are places in Tasmania, Cressy for example, that has built its town foundation on the fish's back and have used it as leverage to create a unique identity.
For the one-week of competition Tasmania's smaller towns will be on display for the teams who have been competing at the event, and with that comes a great opportunity to showcase just exactly what makes Tasmania special. Tasmania's slice of the tourist pie is growing and attracting events of this calibre only strengthen that industry, with team members, organisers, families and spectators from 32 teams travelling to Tasmania and spending their time and their money in our state. The flow-on effects for this kind of event are invaluable and Launceston is well-placed to reap the benefits of this coup, as the likely city that most of the competitors will base themselves from.
If Launceston is going to capitalise on these kinds of events in the future, planning to ensure associated infrastructure, such as accommodation, and conference venues will be vital. Thankfully, with several new hotel projects on the horizon, the future is looking bright for Launceston in this area. All the people who worked to secure Tasmania as the venue for the World Fly Fishing Championships should be congratulated on their hard work because it's not just a competition - it's contributing to our continued economic prosperity.