New Ferris wheel for Cairns Esplanade

A new Ferris wheel is coming to Cairns, with works now underway to replace the existing Reef Eye attraction on the Esplanade.

The Reef Eye began being dismantled today (13 July) and is expected to be removed over approximately three days.

Its replacement will be a new permanent, state-of-the-art Ferris wheel designed to deliver a more accessible, resilient and modern experience for residents and visitors.

To help minimise disruption to the community during the transition, a temporary Bella Vista Ferris wheel will operate on the Esplanade while the new attraction is manufactured and transported to Cairns.

Mayor Amy Eden said the project represented a significant investment in one of Cairns' most popular and photographed attractions.

"The Reef Eye has become an iconic part of the Cairns skyline and Esplanade experience, welcoming hundreds of thousands of riders since first arriving in our city in 2019," Cr Eden said.

"Now we're looking to the future, with a brand-new Ferris wheel that will make sure this much-loved attraction delights residents and visitors for many more years to come."

Expected to arrive and be installed in December, the new permanent Ferris wheel will feature wheelchair-accessible gondolas and is engineered to withstand Cairns’ weather conditions.

Unlike the Reef Eye, it will remain operational year-round without the need for seasonal dismantling.

The new attraction forms part of Westshell Pty Ltd's investment following Council's endorsement of a 10-year trustee lease for the Ferris wheel site on the Western Events Lawn.

The temporary Bella Vista Ferris wheel will be installed from 27 July, with the attraction expected to reopen to the public on 28 July while works continue toward the arrival of the new permanent wheel.