The Southern Star, Giant observation wheel in Docklands, Australia
The Southern Star measures 120 meters in height and features seven spokes that represent the points of the Australian national flag.
The structure opened in December 2008 but closed after 40 days due to structural problems, leading to a complete reconstruction of the wheel component.
The passenger cabins offer panoramic views extending to Melbourne CBD, Port Phillip Bay, Mount Macedon, and the Dandenong Ranges during the rotation.
Each glass-walled cabin accommodates 20 passengers and completes one full rotation in 30 minutes, providing visibility up to 40 kilometers in clear conditions.
The Japanese corporation Sanoyas Holdings designed and manufactured this engineering project, investing 100 million Australian dollars in its construction.
Location: Victoria
Official opening: December 20, 2008
Height: 120 m
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Address: 101 Waterfront Way 3008 Docklands
Phone: +61417533786
Website: http://melbournestar.com
GPS coordinates: -37.81192,144.93751
Latest update: November 22, 2025 17:02
Observation wheels allow the exploration of cities and their surroundings from heights ranging from 25 to 250 meters. These steel structures rotate slowly, giving visitors time to observe monuments, watercourses, and neighborhoods spread at their feet. In London, the London Eye looms over the Thames at 135 meters, while in Singapore, the Singapore Flyer stands at 165 meters with views reaching into Malaysia and Indonesia. In Las Vegas, the High Roller rises 168 meters above the lit-up Strip. Each wheel has its unique technical and historical features. The Tianjin Eye in China is integrated into the Yongle Bridge structure above the Hai River. In Vienna, the Wiener Riesenrad in Prater dates from 1897 and retains its original 15 wooden cabins. These attractions offer an alternative way to see cities, taking height for a rotation duration typically between 15 and 30 minutes.
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