Additional sailing of John Duigan

The Tasmanian Government has announced an additional Bass Island Line (BIL) sailing to King Island this Friday [tomorrow] to assist farmers and producers in coping with ongoing dry seasonal conditions. The extra service will help manage the increased demand for cattle transport as farmers continue to destock.

The additional service comes despite recent significant rains.

Minister for Primary Industries and Water, Jane Howlett, emphasised the government's commitment to supporting rural communities during these difficult times.

“We will always back our farmers, rural communities, and the farming families that rely on them,” Minister Howlett stated. She highlighted the government’s earlier $4.8 million drought support package, which includes $1.5 million for extra shipping services and $900,000 for on-farm water infrastructure rebates for Bass Strait Island livestock producers.

“I will be visiting King Island again next week to hear directly from farmers about their experiences and challenges,” Minister Howlett added.

The additional sailing follows increased demand since mid-October, as heightened cattle movements have filled BIL’s regular services.

Anthony Donald, CEO of TasPorts, praised the government’s timely support. “Bass Island Line exists to connect and support regional communities, and this additional sailing is a tangible demonstration of our commitment to the community and our customers,” he said.

Donald acknowledged the collaboration with processor JBS, which worked alongside TasPorts and BIL to consolidate farmer bookings and ensure sufficient freight volumes. “By bringing forward this service to arrive in Grassy on Friday, we’re ensuring farmers have the vital logistics and support they need to manage their operations in the face of drought conditions,” he explained.

Further discussions are underway to explore additional demand-based sailings in 2025, aimed at addressing seasonal challenges.