Melbourne Opens Iconic Tourist Attraction
MELBOURNE, Australia, December 19, 2008 - The city of Melbourne is opening its brand new tourist attraction this weekend, the Southern Star observation wheel.
Located at Waterfront City in Melbourne Docklands, the AU$100m Southern Star is the first giant observation wheel to be built in Australia, and offers spectacular views overlooking Melbourne's CBD, Victoria Harbour and beyond.
The 120-metre high observation wheel at Waterfront City on the Docklands was originally due to open in late November.
Earlier this month, the developers said they were waiting on parts from Japan and Germany and that Melbourne's recent storms had caused delays in the commissioning of the wheel.
Key features include:
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Unique star design formed in the shape of the seven-pointed Federation Star
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120 metres in height (equal to a 40 storey building)
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21 cabins capable of holding up to 20 people each
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30 minute flight experience
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Open 365 days a year
It costs AU$29 per adult and AU$17 per child to take a flight on the Southern Star. Cabins are also available for private hire. At the base of the wheel, the 3-level Star Building and function centre provide undercover boarding and disembarkation, caf'es, kiosks, souvenir and retail outlets. Within it, the Star Room holds up to 400 for cocktails or over 200 for sit-down functions. There are also two private boardrooms. Star Room guests receive special VIP access to their Southern Star flight.
Southern Star observation wheel is the anchor attraction of the ING Real Estate's Waterfront City development in Melbourne's Docklands. Waterfront City is Melbourne's most exciting new retail, residential, commercial, event and entertainment precinct. It includes the recently opened Harbour Town shopping centre of brand direct and specialty stores, Australia's first Costco warehouse (currently under construction) and residential apartments. Future developments include a 5-star boutique hotel, a 3-4 star hotel and the National Ice Sports Centre.
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