Melbourne Wheel Opening-Saturday December 20, 2008

The Southern Star Observation Wheel (The Melbourne Wheel) finally opens today (Saturday December 20, 2008). The London Eye style wheel, that is set to become one of Melbourne's biggest tourist attractions, was originally scheduled to open on the 28th of November, but due to bad weather and radio wave problems with their backup system the date was pushed back. 

The Melbourne Wheel ticket office opens at 9am and the wheel starts operating to the public from 5pm.

There is free family entertainment from 12pm and an "amazing fireworks and light show" later on.

(Click image to enlarge)

For all the latest Southern Star Observation Wheel information or to book tickets online check out the official website. 

Where was the material for the Melbourne Wheel sourced from?

The columns were from Tasmania, the hub/spindle from Japan, the inner spokes from Melbourne, the spokes/wheel frame from Japan, the cabins from Japan and the frame LED lighting was shipped over from Korea.

It is believed every effort was made to source materials from Australian suppliers but cost in most cases prevented this.