The construction of Melbourne's new Melbourne Star Observation Wheel in Docklands is progressing steadily towards completion.

In an up-date to the Australian Tourism Exchange being held in Sydney, Melbourne Star Management Group said it will announce an opening timeline when installation of the cabins commence. When the 21 cabins are installed and commissioning of the Star begins, an opening date will be announced.

The Management Group said a series of “exciting announcements” would be made in the months leading up to the opening.

Unique to the Melbourne Star will be a sophisticated LED lighting system allowing Melbourne Star to light up the skyline with a dynamic 'nightly' display that will add a new dimension to Melbourne at night.

When it opens, the new Melbourne Star will be one of only three Giant Observation Wheels in the world and the only one in the Southern hemisphere.  With a maximum height of 120 metres, the Star will offer 360-degree views over the Docklands precinct, the city and surrounding areas, including Port Phillip Bay, and as far as Mount Macedon and the Dandenong Ranges.

'Significant product enhancements are being undertaken during the new build that will ensure the Melbourne Star provides a compelling and unique way to discover and experience Melbourne, with details to be announced as the opening approaches,” Melbourne Star Management Group CEO, Chris Kelly, said.

Mr Kelly said: “The new Melbourne Star would be the first significant tourism attraction to open in Melbourne for five years and, with its striking scale and innovative design, will become a vibrant addition to the Docklands landscape and further enhances Melbourne's reputation as a must visit destination.”

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