Observation wheel to open in Melbourne

From November 28th, visitors to the city of Melbourne in Australia will be able to visit the Southern Star observation wheel, which offers 360-degree views of the city's skyline and up to 25 miles beyond.

The wheel, which was modelled on the London Eye and is only 15 metres smaller at 120 metres, is the largest observation wheel in the southern hemisphere.

At night-time, the wheel itself becomes an impressive visual attraction as a 2.3-mile-long LED lighting system is switched on to provide constantly changing light displays.

The wheel boasts 21 walk-around, air-conditioned cabins, each capable of holding up to 20 people, and charges AU$29 (£12) for adult tickets and AU$17 for children.

It is set to become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Melbourne, with some 1.5 million guests expected to take a ride on the wheel in its first year.

The Southern Star is one of the central parts of Waterfront City, a new AU$1 billion development in the Docklands area of Melbourne, which also includes an open-air shopping centre and a range of dining and entertainment options.

Posted by Teddie, 20 November 2008 14:22

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• Melbourne