Melbourne's Eye on Southern Star Observation Wheel

Editorial

Melbourne's Southern Star has closed indefinitely resulting from damage incurred by Melbourne's record-breaking January heat wave. Following the extreme conditions, the Giant wheel buckled and cracked. Southern Star Management Group are seeking international advice to how best repair the wheel ensuring it will be once again fully operational as soon as possible.

After the success of the London Eye and the Singapore Flyer, it's Melbourne's turn to reinvent the wheel, and the Southern Star Observation Wheel opened in grand style on Saturday, 20 December.

Melbourne's newest tourist sensation, located at Waterfront City in Docklands attracted 15,000 people when it had its long-awaited opening after months of delays. Live DJs, roaming performers, a light show – and of course an impressive fireworks display – made sure the Southern Star made its entrance with a big bang.

Before you experience the Southern Star, here’s some a list of must-know facts to entertain your friends with during the half hour ride: it's the first of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere; it's built in the shape of the seven-point Federation Star; it's 120 metres high (as tall as a 40-storey building); it has 21 air-conditioned cabins with floor-to-ceiling curved glass walls carrying up to 20 people; and it sits on top of a three-level support building with a function centre, shops and cafes.

Flights on the wheel are 30 minutes, and are able to be hired for private functions – proposals, weddings, parties… anything really. It costs $29 per adult and $17 for kids, and is open 365 days a year, 10am to 10pm most days.

With 1.5 million people expected to ride the Southern Star Observation Wheel in its first year of operation, you might want to get in early – so you don’t miss out!

For more information, visit the website.

Tim Hunter, Citysearch