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The Melbourne Star Observation Wheel will be spinning again by the end of this year, after an agreement was reached between the owners and voluntary administrators of the embattled tourist attraction.
The wheel was permanently closed in 2021 after owners MB Star Properties Pty Ltd entered liquidation, partially due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
But in March, the troubled attraction was offered a lifeline. A deed of company arrangement was accepted by creditors that would see the company restructured and revitalised, with the aim of reopening the attraction in the second half of the year.
Last year, the wheel received more than $11 million in investment from a combination of international and local backers. Along with MB Star Properties, Swiss amusement company Robu Group and American amusement group Ray Cammack Shows will all manage the wheel collaboratively going forward.
Melbourne-based Skyline Attractions, which also owns observation wheels in Airlie Beach, Adelaide and at South Wharf in Melbourne, will operate the wheel.
“Our team has been working closely on the recommissioning of the Melbourne Star since August last year and have made fantastic progress,” business manager Jay Jones said in a statement.
“It’s a privilege to support the safe return of this much-loved attraction, welcoming locals and visitors back to enjoy the views and see the wheel light up the Docklands skyline once again.”
Lord Mayor Nick Reece said that the reopening is an exciting announcement – calling it a “wheely big deal” for Melbourne.
“It’s been more than five years since the Melbourne Star last turned. Now, members of the public can look forward to seeing more exciting tests as things progress down at The District,” Reece said.
“The City of Melbourne has been involved in many behind-the-scenes conversations to help get the Star turning once more … We’ll be working closely with Skyline Attractions to ensure a smooth process towards the relaunch.”
The $100 million wheel originally opened in 2008 under the name Southern Star, but closed less than two months later due to serious design flaws.
Since its rebranding, the Melbourne Star has since faced prolonged periods of closure. For almost five years between 2009 and 2013 it was closed to the public and most of the structure was rebuilt. In 2024, the City of Melbourne even considered selling the 120-metre tall structure for parts.
But the upcoming reopening will bring renewed optimism to the Docklands, an area that has previously been described as a suburb that has failed to reach its full potential.
“The District [Docklands] is proud to be the home of the Melbourne Star and seeing visitors to the precinct enjoy all the attraction has to offer will be a significant milestone,” said director of precincts for The District Docklands Jonathan Codman.
“The Melbourne Star has long been integral to Docklands and is a world-class attraction. We’re committed to supporting its return as a vibrant part of Melbourne’s unique offering,” he said.
With Rachael Dexter
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