Officially opened in 1972 by Barry Larter, the chairlift has been a part of the Larter family's story for as long Barry's children Jo and David Larter can remember.

The chairlift was recognised at this year's Tasmanian Tourism Awards, winning gold in the tourist attraction category, much to the surprise of the Larter family who owns and operate the chairlift.

"It's so exciting, we weren't expecting it and I'm sure we looked quite stunned as we were walking up to collect the award," Mrs Larter said.

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The scenic chairlift spans more than 457 metres and is the longest single-span chairlift in the world.

It was built as an accessible way to cross the water long before the causeway was made to connect the two sides.

The chairlift and the Gorge itself is a second home for the Larter family.

"It's been very much a family affair over the last almost 50 years. Growing up we were here every night after school in the summertime, we learnt to swim here and we've always lived in the area," Mrs Larter said.

"It's the place we belong. Going across the chairlift is a right of passage for kids growing up in Launceston. Especially going across for the first time, many people would have fond memories of that.

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"Nothing has changed, kids here are still experiencing that memorable moment and it's so lovely that we are a part of that."

Mrs Larter said that for visitors to Launceston it's an essential stop on their list of places to visit.

"People from all over the world have come to visit the chairlift since it first opened. We love hearing where people are from and they are just blown away by the amazing view you get from the chairlift," she said.

"A memorable moment would be when Alphonse Bugler did a tightrope walk across the chairlift wire which was quite a spectacle and an impressive feat as well."

About 6000 people gathered in 1987 to watch the stuntman, who was in town as part of a travelling circus.

The feat was the result of a suggestion jokingly put by Peter Gilligan and Peter Kaye on 7EX radio.

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Mrs Larter also said the 'Chairway to Heaven' collaboration with Mona Foma earlier this the year was memorable, as a visual experience was created by musician utilising the chairlift carriages to emit a sound that changed as other carriages passed.

"To have a symphony in the air was amazing, even for those that did not ride, the sound from the chairs through the trees on the ground was very special."

Another memorable moment was when the Gorge was lit up as part of an ancient sporting ritual.

"In 2000 as well during the Olympics, the Olympics torch was carried across on the chairlift first thing in the morning, which was a very special moment," Mr Larter said.

In regards to what the future looks like, Mr Larter said that the experience is something that will develop and change.

"Our goal is to improve on the current experience we have."

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