City of Clarence Mayor Brendan Blomeley welcomed Port Stephens Mayor Leah
Anderson as Jetstar’s inaugural direct flight between Hobart and Newcastle touched
down at Hobart Airport on 2 December.
With Hobart Airport located in Clarence, and Newcastle Airport located in Port
Stephens, the historic connection between the two coastal cities was marked with a
gift exchange and a warm welcome between the two Mayors.
Mayor Blomeley said the new direct service represents a significant opportunity for
Clarence’s hospitality businesses, tourism operators and visitor economy.
“This flight opens the door to thousands of potential visitors from one of Australia’s
fastest-growing regional centres,” Mayor Blomeley said.
“Clarence has so much to offer – spectacular coastlines, vibrant cultural experiences,
award-winning food and wine, and some of Tasmania’s most iconic destinations.
“Richmond alone is consistently the third most-visited town in Tasmania, and we know
it will continue to be a major drawcard for visitors flying in from Newcastle.”
Mayor Blomeley said the direct connection will make it easier for travellers to explore
Clarence from the moment they land.
“Whether it’s a day on our beaches, a visit to our wineries, mountain biking on the
Meehan Range, golf at Seven Mile Beach, or discovering our arts and cultural
experiences at Rosny Farm, Clarence has something for every traveller. This new route
provides enormous potential for our local businesses by enabling seamless short
break travel between our two regions.”
He said Clarence was committed to working with local operators, the tourism sector,
and Hobart Airport to maximise the benefits of the new service.
“We look forward to seeing our cafés, restaurants, accommodation providers and
tourism experiences welcome more visitors—and we’re excited about the new
partnerships and opportunities this route will create.”
Mayor Blomeley congratulated Hobart Airport, the Tasmanian Government and Jetstar
for achieving a great outcome for Tasmania.
The Newcastle–Hobart service will operate three times per week through to late-April
2026, providing convenient travel options for both leisure and business visitors.
Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson is met by City of Clarence Mayor Brendan Blomeley and Hobart International Airport executive Nathan Drake.