The Melbourne Star Observation Wheel has had a bumpy history, and after closing in 2021, this giant attraction is reopening to the public later this year. While the date hasn’t been confirmed yet, anyone driving around Melbourne or moving around Docklands would’ve seen the lights flicker on for testing. Well now, they’re making it official. The Melbourne Star will have an official lighting ceremony, complete with a full animation sequence, and even fireworks! Wander over to The District Docklands on Thursday, July 30, and watch the wheel sparkle back to life.
Melbourne Star lighting up
The Melbourne Star has been dark since September 6, 2021. The lights turning on will be the first public sign of all the hard work going on behind the scenes, to bring this attraction back to life.
Standing at 120 metres tall, this observation wheel is the tallest in the Southern Hemisphere. And with a structure this big, refreshing the landmark has been a huge undertaking. The team has completely replaced and upgraded the lighting system. The lights will now stretch over 3,000 metres, and are capable of full-colour animation and synchronised sequences. This means that the Melbourne Star can now light up for events and special moments in a way that it never could before.
“While there is still work to do before we welcome passengers back, the lights are a testament to the progress being made and our commitment to delivering an attraction Melbourne can be proud of again,” said Jay Jones, Managing Director of Skyline Attractions.
Aim to arrive at The District Docklands at 6:30pm on Thursday. The switch on will take place at 6.45pm. After admiring the free display, stick around the area and grab a bite to eat from one of the local restaurants.
What else can you expect?
While the lights will switch on this week, the Melbourne Star itself will open to the public later this year. When it does, expect a refreshed experience inside the cabins, with a new voiceover, in-cabin screens and updated storytelling developed with First Nations voices. The air-conditioning, CCTV and intercom systems have also been replaced or restored. You can also expect new interiors at the entry and loading areas, including a bar, cafe and a gift shop.
The Star has gone through a full recommissioning of its major mechanical, electrical and safety systems, with major control systems being rewired. The wheel’s pneumatic system was completely replaced, with a new compressor, filters and housing, as well as refurbished cylinders.
There has also been extensive safety checks and independent engineering reviews from two leading engineering companies. Safety documentation has also been developed and reviewed by leading safety consultants.
Once it reopens, it is expected to attract 250,000 visitors in its first year.
Key details:
đź“…Thursday, July 30
đź•’From 6:30pm
đź“ŤThe District Docklands, 101 Waterfront Way, Docklands VIC 3008
Read more about the event here, and see the progress on the Melbourne Star via their social media.
