AusLeisure

The troubled AquaSphere waterslide ride at the $49 million Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre (PARC) has finally been reopened after 10 months out of operation.

The Frankston Standard Leader has reported that water flow has been adjusted to slow rafts in the slide while lighting and cameras have been added as part of modifications.

Commenting on the reopening, PARC Chief Executive Tim Gledhill said the delay in reopening the slide had been due to rigorous testing to ensure it was safe for patrons.

Gledhill told the Frankston Standard Leader “we have conducted significant testing recently to ensure the slide can be enjoyed by up to four people at a time, making it perfect for families.

“The slide has multiple safety measures in place so we can monitor its performance and ensure the safety of users at all times.”

Billed as a world first, the slide was closed indefinitely last August as a result of minor injuries sustained by two staff when testing the waterslide prior to the facility’s opening.

The AquaSphere was not launched when the rest of the PARC facility was opened in September.

The 79 metre-long AquaSphere is billed as a thrilling two-to-four-person raft ride allowing patrons to ride down an enclosed serpentine flume, experiencing high speed twists and 90-degree turns.

Patrons must be a minimum of 110 cm tall to use the AquaSphere slide.

Frankston Mayor Sandra Mayer, who is on the PARC board, said she was delighted that the slide was finally open.

Mayor Mayer stated “I encourage people to get down there and use it during the school holidays.”

Since the opening of the PARC, Wyndham City Council’s just opened AquaPulse and the Encore Events Centre now claims to offer the largest water slide in Victoria.

Images: Facebook

7th June 2015 - WYNDHAM CITY SET TO OPEN AQUAPULSE AND THE ENCORE EVENTS CENTRE

22nd November 2014 - FRANKSTON WATERSLIDE DUE TO REOPEN

30th September 2014 - PENINSULA AQUATIC AND RECREATION CENTRE GETS OFFICIAL OPENING

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