Dreamworld

Dreamworld is a large theme park and zoo situated on the Gold Coast, Quealand, Australia. It is one of the biggest theme parks in Australia and features a wide array of rides, shows, and attractions in themed areas. Dreamworld, since its opening in 1981, has been a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over Australia and the world.

History

Dreamworld was officially opened in 1981 by John Longhurst, the park's founder. The park was developed over several years after Longhurst purchased land in Coomera in 1974. Dreamworld has expanded significantly over the decades, adding new rides and attractions, including the Big Brother Australia house and the Tiger Island exhibit.

Attractions

Dreamworld is divided into several themed lands including Ocean Parade, DreamWorks Experience, ABC Kids World, and Tiger Island. Each area features rides, shows, and attractions suitable for various age groups.

Roller Coasters

Dreamworld is home to several high-profile roller coasters, including:

• The Giant Drop, noted for being one of the tallest free-falling rides in the world.
• The Tower of Terror II, a high-speed coaster that uses magnetic propulsion to launch riders at high speeds.

Wildlife Exhibits

Tiger Island is a prominent feature of Dreamworld, offering visitors the chance to see Bengal and Sumatran tigers and learn about conservation efforts. The park also features a wildlife conservation area where guests can interact with various Australian wildlife species.

Incidents

Dreamworld has experienced several incidents over its history, the most significant being the tragedy in 2016 when four people were killed on the Thunder River Rapids ride. This incident led to widespread media coverage and a significant review of safety procedures within the park and the broader theme park industry in Australia.

Cultural Impact

Dreamworld has been featured in various Australian media and has been a filming location for several television shows, including the Australian version of Big Brother.

See Also

• List of amusement parks in Australia
• Gold Coast, Queensland