Mr BAYLEY - In something of a sensitive question, minister, in doing some research in preparation for the committee, it appears there's been an increase in reporting in relation to the Port Arthur massacre, in some cases, in part inspired by the recent film, as well as a couple of more recent developments that I won't draw attention to. While Tasmanian outlets tend to apply certain rules when reporting on these matters, it was concerning to see a range of mainland outlets with sensationalist headlines and otherwise breaking some of the implicit rules on how this matter should be reported.
It's a bit of a tricky question but do you think there's a role for PAHSMA or for the Tasmanian Government in educating mainland media outlets about the appropriate way to report on these matters and the sensitivity of it for Tasmanians?
Mr O'BRIEN - Interesting question.
Mr DUIGAN - It is a really interesting question, very interesting in the wake of the film that you mentioned that's been released and the conversations that creates. How heavily you would wade in as a government, I'd have to say without giving considerable thought, which I haven't done, I don't have a firm view there. But I think it is interesting question and I'm sure members on the board at PAHSMA have given it a great deal of thought of recent times because it is one of those issues, particularly for the people of the Tasman who are very closely connected with those events, have very strong and understandable views. I would be interested to hear the chair's thoughts.
Mr O'BRIEN - When the movie was in train, we were approached, as was the Government at the time, and we chose not to respond. I guess there are a couple of ways you could look at this. By responding and giving it air, you're encouraging further commentary within the media, so our view was to not be involved in it. It's something we monitor and we're very sensitive to because, as the minister said, it is still a sensitive issue on the peninsula and one that we view most seriously and talk about quite often in terms of how we continue to manage that going forward. Our philosophy at that time, and remains, not to give it air, I guess is the answer to the question.
Mr BAYLEY - As a follow on, have you noticed an increase in problematic visitation or anything, any consequences of it on site?
Mr FLAMSTEED - We've seen no physical evidence of that. I'd like to also recognise that we're actively working within the community in preparation for the 30th anniversary of 1996. We actively commemorate that annually, but in particular focus on the 30th anniversary and ensuring that the community has a really active part in that.
