Ardent Leisure unveils plans for $60 million in upgrades at Dreamworld

Ardent Leisure has revealed the latest phase of its future growth plan, including area upgrades and ride investments of over $60 million.

Following the launch of its Steel Taipan rollercoaster and the celebration of the Gold Coast theme park’s 40th anniversary in 2021, Dreamworld will see the addition of a “world first” rollercoaster and a flyer ride along with a new jungle adventure theme land called Rivertown.

The Jungle Rush rollercoaster, to be built by Dutch ride specialist Vekoma, will feature a 'world-first inclined turntable', which can be used to rotate the individual cars in the ride.

At $35 million, Jungle Rush, which has been compared to Disney's much-praised Indiana Jones adventure, will be the Dreamworld’s most expensive ride ever.

Set to open by the end of 2024, Jungle Rush will have 12 'airtime elements' and can run backwards and forwards.

The new rollercoaster will be part of the jungle-themed Rivertown precinct, built in the area of the park’s vintage car ride, which will be reimagined.

As reported by the Gold Coast Bulletin, Dreamworld's upgrade will also include several other rides for both adults and children and a major change to 'Tiger Island'.

While guests can still view the park's tigers, within 18 months direct contact between tigers and handlers will be phased out because of, as Ardent Leisure advise “changing public sentiment around performing animals”.

As part of the redevelopment, a new wave swinger ride, named the Dreamworld Flyer will open next year, situated alongside the Dreamworld Globe.

Other new attractions and updates include an extension of Kenny and Belinda’s Dreamland and Ocean Parade extension and the introduction of solar power.

Commenting on the investment, Dreamworld Chief Executive, Greg Yong stated “since the announcement of the first phase of Dreamworld’s future growth, while we have faced various challenges, we have also reached some incredible milestones and made some significant improvements both fiscally - and, importantly, in relation to our guest experience.

“Despite the challenges faced, we have reached the incredible milestone of helping guests at Dreamworld make memories for over 40 years, and this series of announcements will help us to ensure we make them for many more.”

For the upcoming peak holiday season, Dreamworld will be operating a pop circus entertainment offering features free daily shows with globe riders, aerial acts, comedy acts, clowns and hydro stunts in the Dreamworld Pond.

Images: Concepts for Dreamworld's upgrades and new rides: the Jungle Rush (top), the Riverland precinct (middle) and new wave swinger (below).