Eric Abetz (Tasmania, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

nator ABETZ () (): Today, crates full of live rock lobster and abalone will be loaded onto an airbus at Hobart airport, signalling the resumption of a cargo service that takes fresh produce from Tasmania to vital Asian markets. The resumption of this service by Cathay Pacific is indicative of how vibrant Tasmania's primary industry sector is. Live abalone, live rock lobster, cherries and other fresh produce are being delivered to Asian markets to command the premium prices that Tasmanian produce deserves. More importantly this service, which over this period has lasted for only eight weeks, will now be for a period of 12 weeks, which is a 50 per cent increase. Of course, that is because of the demand to get fresh Tasmanian produce to the Asian markets—Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines. All of this is indicative of a healthy, vibrant Tasmanian primary industry sector.

It's also indicative of the delivery on a promise made by the then Abbott opposition to extend the Hobart runway to cater for planes like this because it would deliver job security and export potential. That which was promised has been delivered. In fact, the extension on the runway was delivered under budget and on time, and the people of Tasmania, in particular the workers of Tasmania, are the beneficiaries, as of course are those who are fortunate enough to consume our product.

Slade Brockman (President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

It being 2 pm, we will move to questions without notice.