The Wheel’s in Motion: Melbourne Star set to spin again in Docklands

Docklands’ skyline will soon regain one of its most recognisable features, with the long-dormant Melbourne Star Observation Wheel officially set to turn again in 2026.

Four years after the 120-metre-tall attraction shut down during COVID, a new partnership has been confirmed to bring it back to life. The Melbourne Star’s owner, MB Star Properties Pty Ltd, will be restructured under a deal involving global amusement specialists The Robu Group, Ray Cammack Shows, and Skyline Attractions – the same Melbourne-based operators behind the recent ferris wheel at South Wharf.

Skyline Attractions business manager Jane Jones said restoring the landmark was a “labour of love” for the team.

“As locals ourselves, it’s been so sad to see the Melbourne Star sitting dormant for the past four years,” Ms Jones said. “To play a pivotal role in getting Melburnians and visitors back on the iconic observation wheel is a tremendous honour. We are committed to creating something truly exceptional – something all Melburnians can feel proud of.”

An opening date has not yet been announced, but the new team is aiming to welcome a quarter of a million visitors in its first year of operation.

The District Docklands – the wheel’s long-time home – has welcomed the announcement. Director of Precincts Jonathon Codman said the return of the Melbourne Star would “breathe new life” into the precinct.

“We are beyond thrilled to see the renewed excitement and appreciation for the Melbourne Star and the fundamental role it plays in attracting people to the precinct,” Mr Codman said.

The relaunch is also being hailed as a major boost for Docklands’ tourism revival. Lord Mayor Nick Reece described it as “a huge moment for Melbourne and a vote of confidence in the future of Docklands”.

“The City of Melbourne has been involved in many behind-the-scenes conversations to help get the Star turning once more,” Cr Reece said. “We’ll be working closely with Skyline Attractions to ensure a smooth process towards the relaunch. I can’t wait for the maiden voyage.”

The Melbourne Star’s troubled past is well-documented. Since opening in 2008 at a cost of $100 million, it has endured mechanical failures, lengthy shutdowns and the pandemic’s devastating impact on tourism. Its closure in September 2021, following the liquidation of its previous operating company, left the structure idle and sparked speculation it could be dismantled.

With the scrap metal alone valued at millions, dismantling or relocating the wheel was deemed unviable – paving the way for this revival plan to keep it in place at Docklands.

Skyline Attractions will manage the day-to-day operations, drawing on its experience running large-scale wheels in Brisbane, South Africa, and major events across Australia. The Robu Group brings decades of global expertise in wheel design and operation, while US-based Ray Cammack Shows has a long history in premier carnival entertainment.

Further details about the Melbourne Star’s reopening, including ticketing and activation plans, are expected to be announced over the coming months.

For now, Docklands locals and traders can look forward to seeing the wheel light up the night sky once again – a long-awaited spin back into Melbourne’s tourism spotlight.