Wheel Of Brisbane

The Wheel of Brisbane is a terrific attraction. You get a sense adventure, a bit of adrenaline and simply THE best views of the Brisbane sights by day and the city lights by night. You get 360-degree panoramic views of South Bank and sensational city views across the lovely Brisbane River.

The Wheel of Brisbane is located in Russell Street, in the South Bank Parklands in the heart of Brisbane’s cultural, lifestyle and entertainment district. The wheel is a tad shy of 60 metres tall and as erected in 2008 as part of the 20th anniversary of the World Expo 88 and the 150th anniversary of the State of Queensland celebrations. There are 42 air-conditioned capsules that can seat up to six adults and two children, giving a maximum capacity of 336. The rides last for approximately 12 minutes unless you opt for something like the Ride and Refresh Experience. There’s no need to book ahead for general admission but if you have a group it is a good idea to book and essential for the Ride and Refresh Experience.

Costs are excellent value with general admission for adults $15.75; students $13.50; concessions $12.60; children aged 4 to 12 $10.80; children under 3 – free; families $45 and a private gondola is $85. The Wheel of Brisbane operates Monday to Thursday from 11:00am to 9:30pm, Friday and Saturday from 10:00am to 11:00pm and on Sundays from 10:00am to 10:00pm.

The Ride and Refresh Experience is available Friday and Saturday nights only (5:00pm, 6:30pm and 8:00pm) and you can secure a time by phoning (07) 3844  3464. The package price is $60 for two people, $120 for four people and $180 for six people and you get a private air-conditioned gondola, a 25 minute ride with an appetizer share platter (selection of Queensland cold cuts with grilled and marinated vegetables served with crusty ciabatta). You can purchase drinks from the bar at an additional cost.

If you would like to upgrade to a VIP package there is a maximum of four people ($130 for two, $160 for four) and you get leather seats with a tinted window with romantic/general music (or your own personal selection – must drop off two hours prior to the booked time so they can have it ready).  You get the appetizer platter as above with a complimentary Sirromet wine or soft drink per person. Hmm… wonder how many have taken this option for a romantic and memorable marriage proposal?

If you are taking kiddies on the ride, they might bump into the Wheel of Brisbane’s mascot, an Eastern Water Dragon called Wanda. Check out the news section and Facebook page on the website link below to see when Wanda will be ‘on duty’. The real Eastern Water Dragons live along the South Bank waterways and are often seen around the fountain at the base of the wheel. The males have a bright red chest and belly, they can live up to 20 years in captivity and they can stay underwater for up to an hour.