When the Melbourne Star closed in 2021, the expectation was that this polarising Docklands landmark had turned for the last time. However, the giant wheel is ready to roll again, with an official reopening date now set for Thursday, October 15. Acquired by Jay and Jane Jones of Skyline Attractions in August 2025, the team has spent the past year or so carrying out extensive work, investing $11 million in the overhaul. That includes a significantly upgraded lighting system, now capable of full-colour animation and synchronised sequences — perfect for special events and seasons. The visitor experience is also revamped, with new interior areas spanning a bar, a cafe and a gift shop. Plus, new VIP cabins and a fresh voiceover with updated storytelling will look great on brand-new in-cabin screens. Alongside a suite of safety upgrades and checks, the Melbourne Star may never have spun so good. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Melbourne Star (@melbournestarwheel) "It's been a long road getting Melbourne Star ready to welcome passengers again, but it's been worth every minute. Seeing more than 7,500 people come out for the lights-on moment showed us just how excited Melburnians are to experience Melbourne Star again," says Jay Jones, Managing Director at Skyline Attractions. Thanks in part to the COVID-19 pandemic, the wheel's previous owners entered liquidation in 2021. It wasn't its first closure, but it was the first deemed permanent. At one point in 2024, private owners even planned to cut it down for parts. But the 120 metre-tall structure, originally built at the cost of $100 million, wouldn't fetch more than $500,000 for its metal. Now, according to Nick Reece, Lord Mayor of Melbourne, the return of the Melbourne Star serves as a powerful symbol of Melbourne's recovery. "The reopening of the Star is a huge vote of confidence in Docklands — bringing hundreds of thousands of people into this part of our city and supporting local businesses, hospitality, jobs and investment. The City of Melbourne never gave up on the Star." The Melbourne Star is set to reopen on Thursday, October 15 at 101 Waterfront Way, Docklands. Head to the website for bookings and more information. Like what you see? Subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter to get stories just like these straight to your inbox. Images: Supplied.