Wheel of Brisbane

브리즈번 휠

The Wheel of Brisbane is an observation wheel in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. It is 60 metres tall and stands at the northern entrance of the South Bank Parklands, beside the Brisbane River. People often call it the Channel Seven Wheel, and it was once known as the Big Wheel.

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At a glance

Country: Australia
Location: Brisbane, Australia
Built: 2008
Height: 60 m

Quick answers

Where is Wheel of Brisbane?

Wheel of Brisbane is in Brisbane, Australia.

When was Wheel of Brisbane built?

Wheel of Brisbane was built in 2008.

How tall is Wheel of Brisbane?

Wheel of Brisbane is about 60 m tall.

A 60 m observation wheel in the South Bank Parklands with views over the city and river.

It has 42 air-conditioned capsules, and each can seat up to six adults and two children, so the wheel can carry 336 passengers at a time. A ride lasts about 12 minutes and makes roughly four turns, giving riders a 360-degree view of the city and river. The wheel opened in August 2008 and marked the 20th anniversary of World Expo 88, the fair that created South Bank.

A wheel on the move

The wheel did not begin its life in Brisbane's city centre. It was first built in 2006 for Sea World on the Gold Coast, where it was called the Sea World Wheel. It was taken down in late 2007 and moved to South Bank in August 2008. Its opening coincided with Riverfire, Brisbane's yearly fireworks show on the river. It was part of celebrations for Queensland's 150th anniversary.

Floods and repairs

South Bank is right beside the river, and in the 2011 Brisbane floods the wheel was damaged by water. Like any big ride, it needs regular care. In May and June 2015 it was partly taken apart for routine maintenance, and each of the capsules was removed and sent away for an overhaul before being put back.