Construction has begun on the locally made Matagarup Bridge zip-line and climb infrastructure, with the McGowan Government today revealing the zip-line landing spot and confirming the attractions are set to open this summer.
The zip-line route has been expanded by 100 metres from earlier designs – with the attraction now set to stretch over 400 metres from the peak of the bridge to the landing platform on the Burswood Park foreshore.
Thrillseekers will travel up to 100kmh from the launch platform along cables extending from the western wishbone of the bridge structure, across the Swan River to the landing platform.
The bridge climb will include a 314-step trek up the bridge’s main arch, ascending about 70 metres to the ‘sky view’ platform. People will have the option of combining both the climb and zip-line experiences.
WA company Byte Construct are now installing the ‘sky-view’ platform, zip-line launch and landing platform, as well as enhanced safety systems and lighting to extend activities into the night.
Final negotiations are now underway with the preferred proponents to operate the attractions: a consortium of PGA (Services) Pty Ltd and local multi award-winning tourism operator, Two Feet and a Heartbeat.
When negotiations have been finalised, the joint venture will enter into a 10-year contract as operator of the bridge adventure activities.
It is expected that the bridge climb and zip-line will be open to the public early next year.
An all-ages climbing frame is being considered as a second stage of activities to further enhance the Optus Stadium precinct.
The bridge climb and zip-line were only made possible due to the McGowan Government returning the bridge work to Western Australia after the previous Liberal Government originally sent the work overseas.
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
“The locally made Matagarup Bridge is an example of the high-quality work Western Australians deliver. Now this iconic structure will provide even more exciting opportunities for locals and tourists alike.
“We have worked hard to ensure infrastructure required for the zip-line and bridge climb will be installed as soon as possible and by a local WA company.
“This innovative opportunity will allow more people to experience what the bridge and surrounding precinct has to offer.
“I am looking forward to seeing progress continue on these exciting activities and can’t wait to take a turn zipping across the Swan River next year.”
As stated by Tourism Minister Paul Papalia:
“The State Government is focused on activating the Optus Stadium precinct to bring more value for locals and tourists alike, and provide a new and thrilling way to experience the beautiful Swan River.
“These adventure-style activities will be a great boost for WA tourism, introducing a new, unique attraction and providing visitors with yet another reason to love WA.
“This is just one of the projects being supported by Tourism WA’s new Tourism Case Management Framework, which aims to help viable tourism projects become a reality.”
