Tasmania launches ‘odd jobs’ offer to promote tourism

Tasmania has introduced a humorous “odd jobs” initiative to increase tourism during its winter season. The Australian island state offers people the chance to exchange their regular work for unique temporary roles during the off-season. Among the 10 advertised positions are paranormal investigator, wombat walker, and stargazer.

Although these roles are unpaid, the Tasmanian tourist board will cover all expenses, including travel, food, and accommodation, for successful applicants. The paranormal investigator role is voluntary and lasts for just one day, targeting those interested in “history and mystery.” It involves using “the latest ghost-hunting equipment” at Willow Court, one of Australia’s oldest asylums.

Another position, “oyster organiser,” involves sorting, cleaning, and categorizing oysters from Great Oyster Bay, with opportunities for “taste-testing” for quality control. Train enthusiasts can apply for the “puffer nut” role, a one-day job that includes joining the crew on the Lynchford Express steam train along the Tasmanian west coast.

Stargazers are invited to join Tasmania’s Astronomical Society for a night of sky observation. Additional roles include truffle hunters, “wine whisperers,” and wombat walkers, who will take the marsupials on their “morning waddle.”

Tourism Tasmania reported that 1.25 million people visited the island last year, an increase from the previous year but still less than the 1.35 million visitors in 2019 before the pandemic. Winter in Tasmania, from May to August, typically has temperatures between 3-11°C. Lindene Cleary, Tourism Tasmania’s chief marketing officer, noted that Australians seek a well-being boost and a break from the daily grind during the colder months.

Only adult residents currently living in Australia are eligible to apply for these roles. Applicants must explain in under 50 words why they want to swap their day jobs for one of these “odd jobs.”

The initiative aims to attract adventurous spirits looking for a break from their usual routines while promoting Tasmania’s unique winter attractions. These unconventional roles not only offer a change of pace but also provide immersive experiences in some of the island’s most fascinating activities and locations.

The “wine whisperer” role invites applicants to explore Tasmania’s renowned vineyards, engaging in wine-tasting sessions and learning about the winemaking process from local experts. Truffle hunters will join experienced foragers in the hunt for the elusive fungi, gaining insight into the delicate art of truffle hunting and even enjoying some fresh truffle tastings.