September 23, 2010 13:02
in Hotel, Backpacker by admin :: 
A LONG-AWAITED labour of love has finally arrived in the heart of the Gold Coast.
The 60m giant ferris wheel that has for several years been on the cards for Surfers Paradise is soon to open its gates to the public, just in time for the school holidays.
The man behind the project, owner Ken Jackson, said he was relieved yet anxious to see his plans for the wheel on top of the transit centre come to fruition.
After years of negotiations and false starts with the Gold Coast City Council, workers are putting the final touches on the ride.
Work started on the slab and the wheel's foundations last month, with the spokes and carts being erected across the week using a 350 tonne crane.
''It's been a hell of a lot of work,'' said Mr Jackson.
The ride could open as soon as this weekend, providing all the right paperwork goes through.
He said the wheel would not only be a drawcard for locals, but a major attraction for tourists to the Glitter Strip.
''We just want to see the tourists satisfied,'' he said.
''The more entertainment we can give them, the happier they are when they go home.
''This is in the heart of Surfers Paradise, so of a night they will be able to wander down there and have a nice ride in the evening.''
With tickets prices expected to be affordable for families, Mr Jackson said Gold Coasters could enjoy the attraction too.
''We're working in with the community that's already here and working with infrastructure that's already here,'' he said.
Over time he hopes to add a reptile park, rooftop cafe and mini golf course to create a full entertainment precinct.