LOCAL tourism identity Rachel Power has hit out at the lack of federal election focus and commitments for National Parks, such as Mt Field.

Ms Power said as the campaign when on, she was losing hope. “Normally I only post political posts when we have a visit from a local representative, an exciting announcement or news that affects our park,’’ the Waterfalls Cafe and Gallery owner said.

“Sadly, as this election campaign goes on I lose hope. “There have been zero announcements, zero visits and no contact about the priorities that are needed to support our amazing National Park. “We are in the seat of Lyons, a key seat in Tasmania, and the Upper Derwent Valley faces critical unemployment levels mostly due to barriers to employment and training.

“We face sky rocketing cost of living as fuel is required for everything we do and need out here. “Mt Field is Hobart’s backyard yet receives little funding – even the basic needs of enough parking can’t be met.

Infrastructure might be ‘coping’ but can’t handle much more. “Which party cares about the Upper Derwent Valley? None have taken the time yet… will they?’’ Liberal Lyons candidate Susie Bower said she was “working hard to talk to as many people as possible about my plan for Lyons, including tackling the cost of living through measures such as cutting the price of fuel and I look forward to being in the area shortly’’.

Incumbent MP, Labor Lyons MHR Brian Mitchell accused the Liberals of only making promises at election time. “Tourism operators and exporters in the Upper Derwent Valley will be a beneficiary of Labor’s $60 million commitment to upgrade Hobart Airport, an announcement that has been branded a game changer for Tasmania’s visitor economy by the Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania,’’ he said.

“Derwent Valley residents will save $12.50 on medical scripts under Labor’s commitment to slash the cost of common medications. “These pledges coupled with our plan to reduce the cost of living through cheaper childcare, fixing the aged care crisis, and driving local manufacturing, demonstrate Labor’s long-term commitment to improving the lives of all who live in the beautiful Derwent Valley.’’