Safety a priority as the Royal Adelaide Show opens

The 2015 Royal Adelaide Show has opened with organisers the Royal Agricultural & Horticultural Society of South Australia pledging it has done “everything in our power” to ensure that the Show’s carnival rides are safe.

Earlier this week, Safework SA reportedly completed its investigation into the death of an eight year old child who died after being tossed 10 metres from the Airmaxx 360 ride during last year's Show.

With Show organisers looking to learn from that tragedy, at least six ride safety inspectors will be based at the Wayville Showgrounds during the 10 day event.

With a crowd of 50,000 understood to have attended the first day of the Show on Friday (4th September), all rides have undergone inspections prior to the Show.

Local newspaper the Adelaide Advertiser reported that this audit of operators uncovered “minor” issues with some rides.

Commenting on the safety regime, SafeWork SA Executive Director Marie Boland stated “what we are doing is ensuring amusement ride operators are meeting their obligations to run safe rides at this year’s show.

"SafeWork SA (has) done absolutely everything in our power to look at the rides this year, to look at the critical safety elements and to ensure they are safe.

“We learn every year from every show.”

Commenting on last year’s death, Royal Adelaide Horticultural Show Chief Executive John Rothwell stated “we would express to anyone affected by last year our deepest sympathies ... but the Show does go on.”

Visitors to this year's Show will be able to buy a return ticket, meaning they can make a second visit to the Wayville Showgrounds at any time during the event.

For more information on the 2015 Royal Adelaide Show go to www.theshow.com.au

2nd September 2015 - SAFEWORK SA COMPLETES INVESTIGATION INTO 2014 ROYAL ADELAIDE SHOW RIDE DEATH

12th September 2014 - CHILD DIES AFTER FALL FROM RIDE AT ROYAL ADELAIDE SHOW