AALARA President defends Adventure World in enforcing ride weight restrictions

Shane McGrath, President of the Australian Amusement, Leisure and Recreation Association (AALARA), has defended Perth’s Adventure World over allegations that methods used to enforce its ride weight restrictions amount to ‘fat shaming’.

The allegations, reported by media including WAtoday, 7 NEWS, PerthNow and The West Australian, and the source of widespread condemnation on social media, stem from a 13-year-old girl reportedly being barred from a waterslide because she exceeded the attraction’s rider weight limit.

Adventure World operates weight stations featuring a flashing light on certain rides in order to meet manufacturer safety requirements.

If the light flashes red, guests are barred from the ride.

Following widespread coverage of the reported incident involving the girl, who was apparently humiliated by the incident, McGrath told Perth radio station 6PR that while the situation was “unfortunate”, theme park operators have no choice but to abide by manufacturer restrictions.

Speaking to Liam Bartlett on 6PR Mornings, McGrath advised “they are required to do what they’ve done, they can’t compromise on safety, and they need to ensure that the girl has a safe experience at the theme park throughout the course of the day.”

However, McGrath (pictured) added that Adventure World could find a way in which guests that are too heavy are spared embarrassment, adding “I think the expectation needs to be managed in advanced, and maybe that is through some communication, via a website, or private entry.

“I don’t know the specifics of that ride, but I’m sure the theme park will be reviewing all that, they’re constantly striving to ensure that everyone has a positive experience.

“And in this instance, I guess that hasn’t been the case.”