Welcome to the second edition of The East Coast Conversation. This occasional update will share key project information, milestones, and opportunities to get involved — along with insights and case studies to help grow understanding of Positive Impact, and how it can help shape a stronger, more sustainable future for the East Coast.
Positive Impact Team - Left to right: Daniela Ruiz (episteme), Allison Anderson (episteme), Damian Mather (East Coast Tasmania Tourism)
Great Chats, Even Greater People! 🙌
A huge thank you to everyone who has joined us so far for the Community Conversations. From Swansea to Triabunna to Buckland, it was a privilege to connect with locals who care deeply about their communities and the future of the Coast.
We talked yacht culture, native hens, and how to make the East Coast a vibrant, year-round place to live and visit — one that welcomes a diversity of ages, backgrounds, and experiences. We also heard powerful reflections on what makes this place special: authentic stories, meaningful connections, and a deep sense of belonging.
To all attendees - we are truly grateful for your time, generosity, and insights. We look forward to connecting with you all again as the project continues and we’re feeling energised to keep the conversations going!
More Conversations, More Connections — Here’s What’s Next! 🌍
St Marys 12 May | Scamander 12 May | St Helens 13 May | Bicheno 14 May | Coles Bay 15 May
The Positive Impact team is heading north this week — and we’ve already had some excellent conversations with people in St Marys and Scamander. Tonight we are in St Helens, then onto Bicheno, and Coles Bay.
Last week, we asked East Coast locals what they thought was good about tourism — and what they thought wasn’t. We heard a range of ideas and perspectives, shared stories, and had some big-picture conversations about what kind of future people want for their communities. There were honest reflections, thoughtful provocations, and plenty of laughter too.
Tonight's session in St Helens will be at Portland Hall and is shared with the Bay of Fires Masterplan team 5:30-7:30pm.
We’ll be finishing the week with visits to Bicheno and Coles Bay.
On Wednesday 14 May, you can find us at The Farm Shed from 2-3pm or you can join us at the Bicheno Bowls & RSL Club for an evening session from 5:30-7pm (or come along to both!)
Thursday 15 May, we’ll be in Coles Bay for a morning Conversation from 10-11:30am at the Coles Bay Hall, followed by an afternoon drop-in at Granite Freycinet from 2-3pm.
These sessions are all about listening — to what’s working, what’s not, and what possibilities people see for the future. If you’ve got thoughts, questions, or just want to hear what others are saying, we’d love you to join us.
Themore voices we hear, thebetter this plan will be. So please spread the word!
Looking for a session near you? We've got you covered!
📍St Helens — Tuesday 13 May
• Drop-in chat: 2.00–3.00pm at Life Buoy Café • Community Conversation: 5.30–7.30pm* at Portland Hall (*Combined session with the Bay of Fires Masterplan — extended duration to accommodate)
📍Bicheno — Wednesday 14 May
• Community Conversation: 5.30–7.00pm at Bicheno Bowls & RSL Club
• Drop-in chat: 2.00–3.00pm at The Farm Shed
📍Coles Bay — Thursday 15 May
• Community Conversation: 10.00–11.30am at Coles Bay Community Hall
• Drop-in chat: 2.00–3.00pm at Granite Freycinet
Get Involved!
If you're unable to attend a session, there are other ways to participate and have your voice heard.
Take the survey.
The survey is only takes about 3 minutes or less to complete - You can also choose to remain anonymous.
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