Amaze World has launched on the Sunshine Coast after a $1 million upgrade with new virtual reality dinosaur and treasure hunt experiences.
Formerly Bellingham Maze, the Palaszczuk Government has partnered with the popular Sunshine Coast attraction to build new visitor experiences for Queensland’s Covid-19 Economic Recovery Plan.
Assistant Tourism Minister Michael Healy said the Palaszczuk Government’s Growing Tourism Infrastructure Fund had invested $590,000 in the project.
“Amaze World’s use of virtual reality technology has added a fun, new 21st century dimension to the Sunshine Coast’s famous maze experience,” Mr Healy said.
“It’s now possible for young Queenslanders to jump back in time to the prehistoric age and experience virtual dinosaurs stomping through a new sun-smart maze.
“Augmented reality technology has also delivered a treasure hunt the entire family can enjoy.
“The Growing Tourism Infrastructure program is designed to help Queensland tourism operators through the pandemic, support construction jobs and get world-class projects off the ground to build back better for recovery.
“Amaze World is an awesome example of tourism operators looking to the future with confidence to refresh a much-loved visitor attraction.”
Amaze World’s $1 million upgrade also includes a new observation deck, pavilion, nature playground and water play area and amenities.
Member for Caloundra Jason Hunt said as the Bellingham Maze, the attraction had been entertaining Sunshine Coast visitors for more than 28-years.
“There’s no doubt in my mind the new Amaze World experience will be a hit with all ages because everybody loves dinosaurs and the thrill of a treasure hunt,” Mr Hunt said.
“It’s predicted Amaze World could deliver an extra 25,000 visitors every year to the Sunshine Coast, generating almost $900,000 in economic benefit for the local tourism industry.”
Member for Nicklin Rob Skelton said Amaze World was another reason to book a Sunshine Coast getaway.
“The upgrade is a great fit with the Sunshine Coast’s reputation as a family-friendly holiday destination, and it’s ready to entertain in time for Easter,” Mr Skelton said.
“Amaze World delivers five new operation jobs for the Sunshine Coast and supported work for ten tradies during construction.”
Director of Amaze World, Adam Cheshire said that he and his family are proud to be revitalising an iconic Sunshine Coast tourist attraction.
“As a destination that has been entertaining and amazing guests for many years, it is so exciting to be giving it a new lease on life,” Mr Cheshire said.
“As an outdoor venue with acres of rainforest, gardens, mazes, puzzles, mini golf and more, we offer an engaging and interactive experience for visitors, unlike any other on the Sunshine Coast.
“With the generous support of the Queensland Government, we have now added an incredible, immersive 21st century tourism experience – augmented reality within the mazes.
“It’s an exciting time for the Sunshine Coast and we are grateful to be a part of its growth and evolution.”
To date 11 projects have been completed in partnership with the Palaszczuk Government’s 2020 Growing Tourism Infrastructure Fund which are predicted to encourage more than 200,000 additional visitors to Queensland.
New infrastructure delivered by the fund will create an extra $62 million in visitor spending annually, supporting 79 operational jobs and more than 210 construction jobs.
