Based in Northern Tasmania, eGuide Pty Ltd proudly celebrated its 21st anniversary on November 26, 2023. With a dedicated team equivalent to six full-time employees, we specialize in offering Burnie shore excursions and transfers to Cradle Mountain, the Overland Track, and Walls of Jerusalem National Park. Additionally, we provide multi-day tours tailored for Japanese visitors. Our commitment to high-quality, personalized experiences and sustainable practices sets us apart.

Our Journey

Innovative Beginnings: eGuide started as an online travel platform, thriving for 15 years with 96 dedicated sites, including HobartEGUIDE.com. These platforms provided traveler-centric information on top tourist destinations worldwide, driven by extensive content and strategic linking.

Pivot and Relocation: In November 2015, facing increased competition and changes to Google’s algorithm, eGuide relocated from Brisbane to Bushy Park, Tasmania, after purchasing Hawthorn Lodge. We refocused on offering Tasmanian tours combined with accommodation. Our Overland Track packages became a standout success, prompting a move to Sheffield in 2021 to be closer to Cradle Mountain.

Strategic Move to Devonport: In August 2023, we relocated to Devonport in Northern Tasmania due to unreliable internet in Sheffield and the desire to benefit from enhanced city facilities. This move positioned us to better serve the new Spirit of Tasmania ferries, the new Novotel, and Devonport Airport, significantly boosting transfer and tour opportunities. Our decision aligned with Devonport winning Gold in Tassie’s Top Tourism Town Awards (population over 5000) in 2024. Since relocating, we have experienced a 40% increase in revenue.

Our Team

• David Hearle: Founder and Director, with a background in botany and a Master’s in Education. David’s passion for Tasmania and expertise as a hiker and outdoor enthusiast drive eGuide’s commitment to exceptional, immersive experiences.
• Marie Bean: David’s wife, full-time guide and driver, with a career in the fitness industry. Marie is a keen bushwalker, enriching the outdoor experiences she shares with visitors.
• Ian Etchell: Joined in November 2023 as a full-time driver, bringing 40 years of experience as a driver and tour guide in Tasmania. His extensive local knowledge ensures guests receive authentic, informed experiences.
• Koji Yasui: Part-time guide since November 2023, leading our expansion into the Japanese market. His experience guiding Japanese guests in Tasmania is crucial to our success in this growing market segment.
• Howard Smith: Former owner of Cradle Mountain Tours, works part-time as a guide and driver, sharing his deep knowledge of Cradle Mountain.
• Casual Employees: Our team includes experienced seasonal guides and drivers, such as local elder Charlie Bobongie.
• Pippa Strickland: Tasmanian-based freelance writer handling our content writing needs.
• Felix Jarvis: Tasmanian actor recording our audio guides.

Our Fleet

eGuide operates a modern fleet, including two 8-seater Starias (2022, 2024), a 12-seater LDV bus (2023), and a 4-seater MG SUV (2022). To meet seasonal demand and support large group, cruise ship operations, we contract with Kinetic for additional vehicles and drivers. This fleet has allowed us to serve 5,910 guests during the qualifying period.

This description provides a comprehensive overview of eGuide Pty Ltd, highlighting its history, team, and services. Let me know if there’s anything else you’d like to add or adjust!

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