SkyPoint tower launches external adventure climb concept

Ardent Leisure has released details of a daring new attraction at its SkyPoint Observation Deck attraction.

Located 270 metres above the ground, the SkyPoint Climb will be Australia's highest external building walk, taking climbers on a guided journey high above Surfers Paradise.

During a 50-minute journey from the 78th level, climbers will walk above the glass crown which frames the top of the Q1 tower, taking in 360-degree views of the region along the 240 stair experience.

The walk will guide climbers up to a crow's nest located around the spire and back down to SkyPoint Observation Deck.

Plans for the novel attraction were last year approved by the Gold Coast City Council, after Ardent Leisure bought the management rights to the building's observation deck in 2009, known as QDeck.

Ardent Leisure Chief Executive, Greg Shaw, explains the long awaited experience will give locals and visitors an opportunity to experience the region like never before, stating "SkyPoint Climb will form the Gold Coast's premium new tourism and leisure attraction designed for locals and holiday makers wanting to experience the region's most unique vantage point with a level of thrill.

"The Gold Coast is known for being Australia's fun capital and Ardent Leisure is proud to be on the front foot when it comes to offering new experiences that will boost the region's tourism offering."

Queensland Premier Anna Bligh added that new attractions are exactly what the Gold Coast needs at a time when the State is overcoming a tough year for tourism, stating "this attraction presents another reason to visit Queensland and another product that locals can proudly promote."

The stairway is now in the early stages of construction and is due to be completed in December.

SkyPoint Climb has been heralded as a saviour for the Gold Coast's ailing tourism industry, with Queensland Tourism Industry Council Chief Executive Daniel Gschwind stating "the glitter strip part of the Gold Coast is in need of more attractions.

"We know what the Harbour Bridge Climb has done for Sydney, so we hope this will do similar for the Gold Coast."

Recently appointed Ardent Leisure Group Theme Parks division Chief Executive Todd Coates guided the development of the Sydney BridgeClimb prior to its launch in 1998.

Ardent Leisure is yet to set the cost of the climb.

For details go to www.skypoint.com.au/

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