Since coming to Tasmania, we have noticed a definite change in the weather – all down to climate change in Tasmania.  When we first came, it was cold, wet, and there was snow on the mountains.

Now, it is a lot warmer with less rain and less snow. The last three years the winters have been mild, and we don’t see the snow covering Mt Roland or the Western Tiers from Glencoe Country B&B.

Generally, the dry period is Autumn but the last couple of years it has been very dry. The year before, even the old farmers were saying they had never seen it so bad.

It was a very bad hay season as well. Last year, we had to start feeding hay earlier and ran out of feed for the animals.

This year, it is also drier but not quite as bad. We did get more hay this year, but not as much as we were getting years ago.

Because it has been dry…again, down to climate change in Tasmania, the paddocks don’t have the grass we need for hay and we don’t have a watering system for the paddocks.

It’s not so bad for the sheep and goats…but the cows really need lots of grass. They get cranky because they are hungry or ‘hangry.’

Even our lawns turn brown – it’s like we are back in QLD in drought. Another problem is that by the time the rain comes it is getting colder, so the grass isn’t growing as well.

The only things that grow are the weeds. The dams are very low: in one of our dams the geese aren’t swimming they are walking!

The big farms around us had a water pipeline put in so they can top up their dams to water fields and crops.

Our gardens are definitely suffering – we can’t grow vegetables as well, less fruit on the trees…all from lack of water.

Impacts of Climate Change on Local Growers/Producers and Sellers in Tasmania

  • Meat Production: Rising temperatures and extreme weather events stress livestock, reducing productivity and increasing costs for feed and water.
  • Vegetables and Fruits: Unpredictable rainfall and temperature shifts affect crop yields, quality, and growing seasons.
  • Egg Production: Heatwaves impact poultry health, leading to reduced egg production and higher operational costs.
  • Food Prices: Increased production costs are passed on to sellers and consumers, leading to higher prices for meat, vegetables, fruits, and eggs.

Rainfall and Temperature Changes in Tasmania

  • Rainfall: Annual average rainfall has decreased since 1900, with variability across regions.
  • Temperature: Average annual temperature has increased by 1.1°C since 1910, with projections indicating further warming.

Impact on Small Local Accommodation Businesses in Tasmania

  • Increased Operating Costs: Costs have increased across the board for all small businesses, in part due to climate change in Tasmania.
  • Food Sourcing: As local producers experience higher costs, accommodations relying on locally sourced food may face increased expenses.
  • Energy and Water: Extreme weather necessitates additional investments in energy efficiency and water management.
  • Cost Recovery: To recoup these increased costs, local accommodation providers may need to raise nightly rates.
  • Pricing Pressures: Higher rates may alter demand patterns, potentially reducing occupancy during off-peak seasons.
  • Visitor Patterns: Unpredictable weather can impact the length and timing of tourist seasons, affecting revenue stability due to climate change in Tasmania.
  • Service Adaptations: Providers might adjust services or invest in enhanced amenities to justify the increased rates amid climate pressures.

Strategies to Manage or Offset Cost Increases

  • Invest in Renewable Energy & Efficiency – Solar Panels & Wind Energy: Reduce reliance on fluctuating energy markets.
  • Upgraded Insulation and HVAC Systems: Improve energy efficiency, lowering operational costs.
  • Water Conservation Technologies: Install rainwater harvesting and efficient irrigation systems.
  • Eco-friendly Operations: Use sustainable materials and practices to potentially access green grants or incentives.
  • Direct Sourcing Agreements: Establish agreements with local growers/providers to secure reasonable prices during disruptions.
  • Community Collaboration: Work with local stakeholders to share resources, like cooperative bulk purchasing.
  • Agritourism & Eco-tours: Capitalise on Tasmania’s unique climate and landscape to attract eco-conscious tourists.
  • Flexible Pricing Models: Adjust rates dynamically in response to seasonal changes and weather forecasts.
  • Leverage Government Incentives: Seek subsidies or tax breaks for businesses adopting sustainable practices.
  • Advocacy: Collaborate with local councils to develop regional adaptation and mitigation strategies.

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