Get ready to roll! A development by ING Real Estate, Melbourne’s most exciting new tourism project, the Southern Star observation wheel, celebrates a construction milestone TODAY (Monday, 18 August 2008) when the last of 21 viewing cabins is installed.
The installation of each of the 21 cabins has been a fascinating work in progress since commencement in mid July 2008, a process that has involved each 13 tonne cabin being delicately lifted by 2 cranes and connected to the outer rim.
Now that this important milestone has been achieved, attention will turn to preparing for commissioning the wheel.
Work is also busily being undertaken to finalise the Southern Star’s support building and mechanisms including:
· Erection of Southern Star support building façade – the black and red pattern inspired by that of a ladybird
· Connection of over 3.4 kilometres of LED lighting cable to the wheel’s rim
· Finalising design and décor for the Southern Star function centre catering for up to 400 people, to be known as the Star Room, featuring Peter Rowland as official catering partner
Located adjacent to the Southern Star, Docklands’ first dedicated shopping centre, Harbour Town at Waterfront City, is also nearing completion. Scheduled to open in late October 2008, Harbour Town comprises 41,000 square metres of retail comprising of Brand Direct, specialty fashion, food, entertainment and leisure stores.
The Southern Star is scheduled to open in November 2008. It is expected to become a major tourism drawcard for Melbourne, offering spectacular views across Melbourne’s city centre, Victoria Harbour and beyond. |