View Full Version : Dreamworld Reviews - From Mod Con
Hi
Earlier this year the bubhub moderators attended a conference on the gorgeous Queensland Gold Coast. We were absolutely thrilled to be able to spend a day together at one of the best theme parks in Australia - Dreamworld.
Despite the fact that it rained for the first hour that we were there (the QLD mods blamed the Melbourne mods for bringing it with them!) the day brightened up and we had many hours to spend looking at the rides and attractions.
Below are some comments by the moderators, regarding the rides and attractions of the theme park - we all had a fantastic time, even those amongst us who aren't thrill seekers! I think we were all a little surprised at how much there was to do in the park!
Here is a link to the dreamworld site if you are planning to head there anytime soon- we can all recommend it.!. http://www.dreamworld.com.au/
xx
Jen
Mick Doohans Motocoaster (was closed for maintenance during mod conference)
Leeny - Although the Mick Doohan ride was closed the day of our trip, I'd had the chance to go on this ride on a previous visit to Dreamworld. I found the ride very enjoyable, fun and fast-paced and great for an adrenaline/speed junkie, but not so much that we couldn't have a laugh and exchange words during the ride. I loved the fact that you're seated in the same position as you would be while on a motorbike, It gives a completely different sensation to a normal roller coaster or a seated roller coaster such as the Runaway Raptar Rollercoaster. I like the addition of the sidecars for younger children (or adults), even though we didn't need to use one at the time. The only downside we found to the ride was the sensation of our eyeballs drying out! We didn't know if it's because we were leaning forward like on a bike, but we did feel that our eyes were a little stingy during the ride, yet we didn't experience this on rides like the cyclone. All in all its a fantastic, fun ride.. I'd definitely go on it again!
Bhtech - In April I went to Dreamworld and rode the Mick Doohan ride. Its a pretty popular ride and once you go on it you can see why. Since you're seated like on a motorbike and snugly pinned by the safety bars, you're body feels like its blended into the rollercoaster in some sense. This takes the 'get me off this thing' paranoia out of the ride and lets you really focus on the dips and turns as they come. Its a much more 'in control' experience of a roller coaster.
The Giant Drop
veve - I don't believe I will never EVER go on this ride again. I've been on it three times now, and I believe it is just too scary for me to enjoy! I personally consider this to be the most challenging ride at Dreamworld, and the hardest part is the waiting that you do at the TOP of the ride cycle *shudder*
Nomsie- Not a ride I would usually even CONSIDER... so when I found myself strapped in and rising slowly to the top, I didn't know what to think. At the top the view is breathtaking (and oooh look! They're playing a game of footy just over to the right!) but I was too terrified to speak. And then it doesn't help when everyone is sitting up there saying "You can hear a click before the drop" so there I am, holding on for dear life, straining to hear a click. The wait seemed endless... and the little drops just added to the feeling of "OMG will this ever end?" And then all of a sudden we were falling.. I couldn't keep my eyes open, and I screamed as loud as I have EVER screamed. (Not voluntarily!) It's a quick trip to the bottom, but due to my fear of falling I'm sure it felt like forever... but the best part was the absolute adrenalin rush after I got off. To this day I am still so proud of myself that I actually went on the giant drop!
earthfairy ~ LOVE this ride....I'm an adrenalin junkie though :)
SalTheGal: Oh.My.God!!! This ride was easily one of the scariest things I have ever done- but I can't wait to get back there and try it again one day.... the anticipation once you reach the top (oh so high!) just waiting for the 'drop' to happen... and not knowing when, and not knowing quite what to expect- was nerve wracking enough, but when you actually do drop- you DROP!!!! It was awesome!
Leeny - Even though I do consider myself an adrenaline junkie at times, this ride does terrify me! The views at the top are amazing, but I find myself so stressed and anxious at the top, listening to that droning sound get louder and louder and anticipating the fall that I find it hard to actually look around and enjoy the view! The giant drop is one of the few rides that have such an impact on my body that while I'm trying to scream, noise won't actually come out! Such a bizarre feeling. I don't know if I'd do this ride again (although I've said that once before and I did do it again!), I guess it depends who I'm with, and how supportive of my whinging they are!
Nic - loved this one!
Izy- It's one of those rides that you think isn't that big a deal, until you're climbing... climbing.... climbing....The view of the park is amazing, but that suspense is a killer! You just don't know when you're going to drop. I've been on this ride before and I can honestly say it doesn't loose the thrill regardless of previous experiences.
sam's mum - I have been on this before and it took my niece and I all day to work up the courage to go on, and when we did, we LOVED it. It was such a rush and you get a great view from the top. Now that I am older it was a bit scarier, but the anticipation while you are waiting to drop... EXQUISITE!
Amelia (sam's mum's daughter) - I went on it for the first time by myself (my friend has vertigo) and was quietly screaming and staring out at the really, really, really high view. When it got too much I looked up and realised that we were only half way up. At the top i was still screaming at the top of my lungs while the guy to my right laughed at me. On the way down i was to scared to scream. It was scary, extreme and exhilerating.
pegasus - loved this (although absolutely packing myself while hanging up the top), I was so proud of myself that I did it!
Moorish - I've not been on this ride for 10 years and I was very much looking forward to it!! By far one of my favourite rides at Dreamworld! It's a lovely, leisurely ride to the top - but don't look down! The higher you go, the faster your heart beats when you have that 'holy crap I can't get off this thing' moment! :D At the top you're treated to the most spectacular views of the surroundings. On a clear day you can see for miles and even on a cloudy day you can take in a lot. All of this is cold comfort though and I suspect the length of time that thrill-seekers are left suspended is a cunning ploy to lull you into a false sense of security. After the distractions you're then left wondering just how long your life is going to be suspended for and before you know it you're plummeting to the earth below, barely able to catch enough breath to scream!
THE MOST exhilarating experience - and by far one of my favourites!
The Tower of Terror
V8 - Definately an edge of your seat ride, i was really quite scared of this one, thank goodness the ride is so quick, definately a rush of adrenaline on this one.
cmd'smum- One word for this ride - FAST!!!
Kiwiana - I just loved this ride, its probably my favourite, even though I always loose my insides at the beginning of the ride, I always felt safe and secure on this one.
SalTheGal: So much fun... not as scary as I expected, just really fast going through the tunnel at the start.
Leeny - This ride isn't nearly as scary as people expect it to be (to me anyway!), but I do find the massive noise at the beginning through the tunnel excessive, not that it can be helped I'm sure! All in all, it's a great ride and I'd go on it again. I do wish it wasn't over so quickly though, during the holidays and summer when lines can be HUGE, it does almost seem a little disappointing considering the huge wait time. When the parks not busy, it's fantastic being able to go on again right away.
Nic - another one I loved ... first time on it and will go on it again
Izy- It really is so fast and unexpected. One second you're in the waiting bay, then you're being shot across dreamworld! Love it
pegasus - fantastic - would def go on it again - although - I thought the going up or the drop would be the scary bit - I was wrong - it was the acceleration.
The Claw
Veve- I was dragged on this ride by my 'friends' who assured me that it wasn't really that scary. While it is stomach clenching, and I held the harness tightly for the whole ride I really enjoyed it. The fact that the harnesses are really firm (so you aren't sliding around) helped me relaxed and take in the full speed and height of the ride. I went on this ride three times, and will definitely be lining up to go on it again next time.
earthfairy ~ this is my FAVE ride of the whole park...it's fun, not rough & made me laugh so much. I think I went on this about 5 or so times that day. Love it :)
SalTheGal: My favourite!.... adrenaline boosting, but gentle, lots of laughs on this one.
Leeny - When I first saw this ride, I always wanted to go on it, more then any other ride. I finally had the opportunity to go on with my husband one day, and I must say, it scared the bageezus out of me!! I did swear I'd never go on it again, but a promise is a promise! I do think the memory of the ride was worse the the reality of facing it again, and even went on it twice again with friends. Not a move I'll be doing again, as the second ride made me feel so terribly ill for an hour or two, but I'd brave this ride again (and I may even make myself let go of the harness one day to see what it feels like!), even though I don't appreciate seeing the horizon upside down, or the sore throat from the screaming afterwards!!
Nic - must have enjoyed this one went on it 5 times in a row I think it was ... a very fun ride
sam's mum - this ride terrified me, I only opened my eyes twice the whole time and I think I was screaming...
Amelia (sam's mum's daughter) - definatly not the ride to go on after three hot dogs and a cheeseburger..... the only good thing was that i threw up when i was going backward.
pegasus - I thought this was less scary than the previous two - mostly because you knew you'd be in a less scary position the next time it rotated. Loved it and would go on it again.
The Wipeout
Veve- I really do like this ride, however it is one of the 'rougher' thrill rides in Dreamworld. I find that the harnesses on the wipe out ride aren't as snug as those on other rides, so I slide around a bit more when I'm upside down, but otherwise its great.
V8 - The wipeout is enjoyable, only one bit which was a tad scary, but i was too busy laughing at another friend screaming on it.
Kiwiana - This is one scary ride, I never felt totally secure on this ride, so maybe that was part of it, I always felt like I was going to fall out, other than that, I loved it, definitely was not a boring ride, with all the flipping and swinging going on
SalTheGal: This one was a great balance between the sheer terror of the Giant Drop, and the woozy pace of the Claw... going upside down you honestly feel like you are about to fall out, but I laughed the whole way through it! Went on this one a couple of times... lots of fun.
Leeny - When I was a teenager, I had an incredibly bad experience with this ride and was left very sore and bruised by the harness and vowed never to go on it again, but being 10 or so years ago I braved it again with friends to see if it was really as bad as I remember it. In fact I think we even went on it twice! It was just as I remember it - terrifying! I find the claw so much "smoother" to ride then the wipeout, which I find to be quite rough and jerky. While I may brave it again in the future, I really don't feel as secure in the harness as I do on other rides. I wish I felt firm and secure, then maybe it wouldn't be quite as terrifying? It's safe to say, that my misery and fear will have many people sniggering at my expense for years to come, at least I provided some entertainment for fellow riders!
Nic - enjoyed the ride, but it was rougher than the other rides.
The Cyclone
Nomsie- The Cyclone has given me a new-found appreciation for roller-coasters! I had been to Dreamworld 2 times previous, and spent most of those times watching everyone else go on all the rides and have fun. This time I decided to suck it up and give it all a chance, and I'm so glad I did. I was really, really nervous on the climb up to the top, but as soon as we started accelerating down I just let go and enjoyed it. And weirdly enough, the loops were the part I liked best! Who would have thought I would enjoy being upside-down?
cmd'smum - This is an awesome ride! It was so much fun and like Noms, I loved the loops!
earthfairy ~ NEVER AGAIN! I hurt my neck on this ride, It was rough & rickety, didn't like it at all.
SalTheGal: Fun, but not that amazing, over really quickly- and pretty boring compared to many of the other rides there.
Leeny - I find this ride more enjoyable then the old thunderloop thriller rollercoster it replaced, although I must admit that I did miss the TRUE double loop-to-loop, rather then the "twist" kind of loop that the cyclone has. All in all I find this ride quite enjoyable, albeit a little rough at times. I do find that as long as I push my head back, it's not quite as rough on the neck. Perhaps the seats around the head area could be a little more supportive, as no matter how hard you try sometimes, it's really hard not to have your head flinging about.
Veve- I was surprised that I almost enjoyed this ride - I think the difference for me was the fact that it levels off a little before you plummet to the ground (at the start of the ride). I have never been a fan of rollercoasters, but I enjoyed this more than I thought I would. I did find it rougher than say, the claw, but it was still a good adrenalin rush.
Nic - too rough, jolts your head around, been on it once, won't do it again.
pegasus - I found this less rough than expected - the climb was the bit I found scary - I loved the loops!
Rocky Hollow Log Ride
Nomsie - Always a favourite! It's a bit deceiving in that it's nicely paced with little interesting things to look at... and then you get to the climb, and then come outside at the top... and just whoosh down the slope! A great one for kids, too, if they're a bit of an adrenaline junkie!
Jaq - I find this ride really relaxing, for some reason. That lovely feeling of drifting along ... then a little bit of excitement at the end. I'm not much of a thrill seeker, but I enjoy the log ride!
Sam's mum - I love the log ride, and it is a great ride with the kids too. It isn't too scary, but isn't too tame, and the joy (especially in Summer) is that splash at the end.
pegasus - I went on this last time - I enjoyed it (took my then 3 year old), and he enjoyed it, till we did the last whoosh - where we both got wet - I'd love to try it again, now he's older.
veve- I can not believe that I will happily go on the claw or the tower of terror, but not this ride. I really dont like the plummet at the end of the trip!!! I dont mind getting wet (I love the rapid ride) but the sudden drop at the end of the ride is enough for me to decide that this ride just isn't for me (I do love standing near the ride watching people getting drenched and hearing the screams as they drop though!)
Thunder River Rapid Ride
Veve - This is one of my favourite rides at Dreamworld. It is a challenge to stay dry- we went on it three times and not one of us escaped the water!!! The ride is fun because its unpredictable as to who will get wet- and the anticipation of you being the poor sucker that gets drenched is just part of the excitement of the ride.
cmd'smum -I love this ride, even though it's not "scary" it's fun and yes, a big challenge to stay dry! I love the part where you go into the dark cave and can't see anything :D.
Bec - this was the only ride I went on because:
A. I'm a wuss
B. I'm pregnant.
Just the right amount of thrills and spills for me. :D
Jaq - Another wuss here - but I like this one. I must have been a riverman in a past life, because I just love floating along, even when its wet and splashy and a bit rough. Fun!
SalTheGal: Lots of fun, great to go on with some girlfriends for a giggle... at least you can have a gossip whilst you are going around! We went several times to make sure everyone got their fair share of the soaking! Prepare to get wet :D
Leeny - Definitely one of the most fun rides, if only for the fact that you can go on with a group of friends (rather then just a partner) and have a fantastic chat, and laugh at the ones beside you as they get soaked and you avoid the spills! It's a lot of fun going on this ride more then once, trying to figure out who sat where and if theres any rhyme or reason to who get's soaked! After 3 turns and everyone coming off quite soaked, it's safe to say that it seems completely random!! Definitely enjoyable and a bunch of fun!
Myztik - being scared of heights this was one of the few rides I actually went on and even though I ended up with water down the back of my pants and in my shoes I thoroughly enjoyed it. Definitely a ride for those like me who cant handle heights but really wanted to be part of the action
Sam's mum - another ride that is great in Summer with the risk of the splash. My kids (3 and 5) love this ride too.
pegasus - quite a pleasant ride - a good group experience.
Reef Diver (used to be the enterprise)
Veve- I have loved this ride since I was a little girl (back when it was known as the enterprise). It was considerably scarier the last time I went on it due to the windy day (the carriages were rocking quite a bit) - but its still a fun ride. I"ve been on there with my four year old now, we shared a carriage, and he enjoyed it.
Nomsie- Never AGAIN! The wind on the day caused the capsules to sway unpredictably. It was sickening, and the ride felt as though it was never-ending. I was terrified- on a kids ride! Nuh-uh, not for me thanks!
SalTheGal: Considering I was sitting with Nomsie when it was swinging and swaying I'm with her- NEVER AGAIN!!! It was too windy, and we felt like our little cage was going to smash into the pole everytime we went around... I didn't like not being strapped into anything securely enough either. It's meant to be a gentle easy ride- but I found it anything but!!
Leeny - I do find this ride quite easy and enjoyable, although on the day of our trip with the rain and high winds, it was a lot rougher and the carriages rocked much more then normal. Even though the rocking carriages made the ride a whole lot less enjoyable at the time, it wasn't so scary or terrifying that my partner in the ride and I couldn't sit and discuss how the ride wasn't usually like this! I'd definitely go on this ride again, as I do find it fun, I just won't go on it again on a windy wet
Stingray
Veve- This ride was extremely popular with my four year old - who declared that it was scary but not TOO scary for him. He went on the ride three times in a row, so he clearly enjoyed it.
Bhtech - Imagine a big spinning top - that's what this ride looks like. Its not a fast pace ride, more like one of those rides you might see at the Royal Easter Show in Sydney or Ekka in Brisbane. Around and around you go, rising up and down gently. A bit of a thrill for the pre-tweens, with a cute stingray head in the centre.
AVIS vintage cars
V8 - Went on these with the family, the kids enjoyed it and pretending to drive the car was a highlight for them.
Veve- love love love the fact that this ride still exists. I remember the delight of driving these cars many years ago, and now my children love it too! To be under five and to think that you are in charge of the vehicle is such an awesome feeling! This was one of the rides that both my two and four year old boys were still talking about when we got home- they loved it!!
Leeny - This is definitely one of those rides that are great to take the kids on again, and again, and again. The kids feel like they're in complete control of the car and feel so grown up doing so! Definitely a winner for my daughter, and any other friends kids that we've been with.
sam's mum - I love that this ride is still here, and my 3 and 5 year old really believe that they are driving. It is gorgeous to watch how much they enjoy this
Riverboat (long, slow ride on the river)
Kiwiana - This is one relaxing ride, its ideal for having a break between all the adventurous rides, the scenery is wonderful, very relaxing.
Bhtech - I love this ride. Most people like to head for the thrill rides but I like this nice slow ride as a good juxtaposition. You just cruise around the big island at a relaxed pace on an old time paddle-wheel boat, listening out for the native birds and having a chat with friends.
Train (that goes through dreamworld)
V8 - Went on the train with the little ones, was interesting to see some of the parts of the park that are now closed when i remember enjoying it when i was younger. The train is quite loud and those that are sensitive to noise (like my eldest) might not make for a fun journey. But it was nice to see some other things without having to walk there.
Leeny - The train is a nice way to make your way back to the middle of the park from the wildlife section after a long day of walking. The kids can sit and relax, eat some snacks, have a drink etc all while heading back to the rides without wasting time sitting down at a table to refresh. I do find the whistle way to loud for my sensitive ears, but it's still a good way to get around the park when the kids feet are tired.
Veve - this is a great way to get from one side of dreamworld to the other when you have tired children with you! it is stroller friendly- which is great ... and it also allows you to see parts of dreamworld while you travel. I do wish there were more laps done, and less waits between train arrivals, but overall our family loves to use the train when we are at Dreamworld.
sam's mum - the train is great when the kids want to keep riding, and you want to just sit down for a while. I love the path that it takes through the trees, very relaxing.
Spongebob Flypants
Veve - I like going on this ride with my oldest (four) because its not painfully slow like lots of the rides aimed at the younger kids. Jack refers to this as the spongebob superman ride, because you get to lie down and fly around up and down (his description, not mine!)
Bhtech - Little kiddies love this ride. I once went to Dreamworld with my nieces and at the end of the day when I asked them which was their favourite ride, they said the Spongebob Flypants ride because 'you fly.' I think because the kiddies feel strapped in securely they can really enjoy the feeling of flying without being afraid.
Runaway Raptar Rollercoaster
Veve- I love this ride. To be honest, I prefer the raptar rollercoaster to the cyclone. I love the fact that you hang from the top of the ride, rather than sit in a carriage, and I find it less rough than lots of rollercoasters that I've been on. This is usually one of the first rides I head for, whether I have the kids with me or not!
Nomsie- An awesome warm-up ride for the day! I first went on this in the pouring rain and it was great! It's not as jerky as other rides, and I really like how your feet hang free. Super fun.
cmd'smum - Definately a fantastic "warm up" ride! Love how you hang from the top of the ride as well, it's very smooth and fun!
Jaq - I felt that I had to TRY a rollercoaster, even if it was just a kiddie one. This was thrills enough for wussy me, though - at one point I couldn't decide whether I wanted to have my eyes open, or closed. So one was open, one closed ... I'm lucky my face didn't stay that way. I was terrified, but must admit to a little bit of disappointment when the ride finished so quickly ... maybe I should have gone again.
earthfairy~ this was the first ride of the day & was done in pouring rain. Such a laugh! A good 'warm up" ride!
SalTheGal: This one was lots of fun.... for a rollercoaster- way better than the cyclone! Lots of laughs, especially since it was raining, and we were in the front carriage, great fun, and not too scary.
Leeny - This is definitely a ride we love. It's so fun, and you can still have a chat amidst the screaming and laughing! I was so pleased to see this ride wasn't closed in the rain, it just made it so much more fun. On entry to the park, we purchased ponchos to keep dry, but by the time we got to the steep incline of the ride we were well and truly soaked from the water falling on us from the seats in front! It was a fantastic ice breaker for the day, and we certainly didn't care about getting wet walking around the park afterwards! This ride was definitely one of the most fun of the day!
Nic - first ride of the day, it set the pace it was fun start.
Myztik - I loved this ride and went on it twice. First attempt we got soaked but it just added to the fun. This is the first roller coaster I have ever been on and would recommend it to any other scaredy cats as one to try. Just a note, if you're going on it after a heavy down pour, dont let anyone talk you into sitting in the first two seats *cough*Thanks Ernie*cough* unless you want to get really really wet
sam's mum - I love this roller coaster. not too scary and a great intro for kids
pegasus - enjoyed this - and think it's a good intro for those not sure of the more scary rides.
Angry Beavers Spooty Spin
Veve- This ride is a favourite with our family. It's a ride that the kids can enjoy (not too high, not too fast) but its not too boring for the adults either.
Leeny - This is my daughters favorite ride at the park! Even though she's older then some of her friends, they're actually taller then her so are allowed to go on a lot of the more "grown-up" kids rides like the raptar coaster that she isn't yet tall enough to go on. This is one of the few fast paced rides that my adrenaline junkie daughter can go on being quite little! I definitely enjoy it too, and have no problem taking her on multiple times.
Myztik - This ride was pretty cool and my kids would love it. I will admit to having slightly wobbly legs when we got off.
Rocket Power Bumpber beach
Bhtech - Bumper cars have been around for ages, and their appeal is perennial. Its great fun to ride around the track bimping and bumping into other cars. Kids always smile with this ride, especially if they get to 'drive' the car. This ride reminds me of my childhood riding bumper cars with my family, its something that we've all got fond memories of.
Blues Skidoos
V8 - Was a fun little ride and enjoyable for my 2 year old.
Veve- my two year old loved this ride - he loved the fact that HE controlled the ride just with the push of a button. My four year old enjoyed the fact that he could go on this ride BY HIMSELF!!! and that he had control of the ride's height.
pegasus - my hubby went on this with my son when he was 3 - they both really enjoyed it.
Dora the Explorer Sea Planes
sam's mum - my 3 and 5 year old love this, anything that they think that they are driving themselves is a hit!
veve- my four year old loves this ride - because due to his age he is allowed to go on the planes with no one with him (ooher, exciting when you are little!) Jack loves the fact that with the lever he can control the planes height, and that he can also CHOOSE which colour plane he will ride in!
Swinger Zinger
Veve- I went on this ride with my four year old (who was allowed to sit by himself) and my two year old (who sat on my lap) both boys love the ride and went on it several times. The speed is great becaues its fast enough to be fun for everyone, but not too fast for the younger kids.
Sam's mum - My 5 year old wants to go on this ride every year, and then every year he is absolutely terrified. My 3 year old however loves it and would stay on for hours if we let her.
Mighty Go Round
pegasus - I think this is the ride I took K on when she was one - it was great that she got to go on a ride (with me holding her), so that she was participating in our fun day.
veve- my two boys love this ride (Alex who is two prefers to sit on the seats rather than on the horse though) - they both enjoy the fact that they dont NEED adult help once they are on the ride. While this ride is rather slow for adults, the kids always ask to go on it several times during their days at dreamworld, so they obviously enjoy it a lot!
Rainforest Rampage (the ball throwing area)
V8 - The boys had a great time in there, could have probably left them in there all day.
Leeny - This area is definitely fun for kids AND grown-ups! I think sometimes the grown-ups forget about the children sometimes, getting carried away with the fun of trying to hit each other with balls from across the room! My daughter thoroughly enjoyed it, although she did slip on balls quite a lot! She particularly enjoyed when the balls "rained" from the roof.
pegasus - my hubby and son did this when he was 3 (son, not hubby LOL) they both loved it
veve- oh gosh, this area of dreamworld is chaos!!!!! I honestly think that my husband loves this area as much as the children do, he loves to stand up on the top level with a ball gun, firing as fast as he can into the crowd below. My children adored the machines that are on the bottom level, which you fill with balls as fast as you can, and then press a button to make the balls fly out - its almost like a fountain! We visit this area every time we go to dreamworld (its also a good area to go, because you can chill out a little bit while the children run around having fun!)
Slimebowl Theatre
Sam'smum- I have pictures of my eldest daughter getting slimed here when she was 8 years old, and my youngest two love the sponge bob show.
Veve- we have never sat down to watch a show in the theatre - mainly due to the fact that we have younger kids who would rather be do-ing not watching! However I have heard the squeals of glee coming from the arena, and also see a young girl getting slimed (the grin on her face was rather impressive!). My boys love the fact that the characters (Dora/ Spongebob) are there throughout the day to hug, talk to and get your photo taken with. While they are cautious of approaching the characters, they chat about it afterwards happily.
Wiggles World- including the big red car ride, tea cup ride, captain featherswords ship.
Katiesmum - Went and had a look around as DD loves the wiggles. She definitely loved the photos and begged to go
cmd'smum - I am SO taking my girls there! :D
veve - its amazing to step back and watch the children enter this area of dreamworld, their eyes just light up when they see and hear the wiggles everywhere! It is also wonderful to be able to purcase wiggles merchandise from the store- I found the prices to be relatively standard for the items, and the range was fantastic! I actually dont like the tea cup ride, however my children LOVE it .. I find the spinning really affects my stomach, but the kids just laugh and spin the cup harder! This is our favourite ride in wiggles world, and I love the fact that there is hardly ever a wait to get on it, due to the fact that 3-4 people can get in each cup.
Myztik - I loved Wiggles World so much I made Katiesmum and cmd'smum have a photo taken with me and Waggs :p My 3yr old would be in heaven there. I liked that you could go on the SS Feathersword and pose with various characters. I thought the SS Feathersword ship area was great. My 3yr old Wiggles Fanatic would've totally loved it!
sam's mum - Wiggles world rocks for the little kids. They get to ride through the wiggles house and you can take the kids photos with the characters when they are available. having the front door of the wiggle house available for photos is great too. The biggest saviour in wiggles world is the play area. There is some wonderful play equipment available for the kids and it lets you catch your breath.
pegasus - we spent most of our day here when the kids were 3 and 1 - well set out area and the kids could have stayed there all day. Jason went on the tea cup ride with Aiden when he was three - they both loved it. The big red car ride was a hit with our whole family, and the photo taken on the ride is a true treasure. Aiden absolutely loved the Captain Feathersword Ship area to play in.
V8 - The Big Red Car Ride was a hit with both my kids and normally the eldest doesn't like much. Even I enjoyed this one.
Australian Wildlife Experience (the kangaroos etc)
V8 - The kids enjoyed seeing the animals, especially the crocodiles and the wombat. Very informative and nice to stroll through and see and touch the animals.
veve- Since I went to tasmania a few months ago my four year old has desperately wanted to see a tasmanian devil - so it was so very exciting for him to find out that there was one at dreamworld!! He stood in front of the tasmanian devil enclosure for ages, just watching this animal that he has heard so much about! The boys also loved the fact that they were able to get up close and personal with a koala (a staff member was holding one so we were able to pat it, and ask questions about it) and kangaroos!
Kiwiana - I always love this part of dreamworld, I love being about to interact with some of the animals, and also watching the shows, a nice relaxing part of dreamworld
Leeny - I enjoy taking my daughter to see this part of the park (although I don't usually venture there if I'm without a child for the day). It's great to be able to take her to a theme park which also has a "zoo" if you will included in the admission cost. The range of animals is great, and the kids learn a lot. I do wish that the chairlift was still at the park though, even if it was a little scary while on it!
Myztik - had a lovely relaxing stroll through this area and loved seeing all the mummy roo's with their joeys. The obsessive compulsive Tassie Devil was extremely entertaining to watch too. Being a bird lover I enjoyed looking at and photographing the huge variety of birds.
sam's mum - my kids loved being able to get up and close with the animals
X - loved the kangaroos and their little joeys. The aviary is also quite amazing.
Tiger Island
Katiesmum - I thought the tiger show was fantastic. The best part of Dreamworld. DD LOVES my photos of the white tiger (I bought her a little headband and tail at the shop) and she is now quite obsessed with white tigers :laughing:
veve- It was so nice to go back to Tiger Island again. Years ago (on our honeymoon!) we had our photo taken with a tiger, and we still treasure that photo now. At the time it was amazing to get up so close to a tiger, to feel the power of its muscles and be able to actually pat it carefully while your photo was taken was truly an awesome experience! The tiger show at Dreamworld is well worth seeing, it is always impressive to watch these animals display their true grace and power.
cmd'smum - Loved the big beautiful, amazing Tigers!! The show was great and so was the Tiger shop! Got myself a gorgeous bracelet and "tiger ears" for the girls which they love wearing when they play "tigers" :P
Bec - loved it!
Jaq - I must admit I had no idea there were tigers at Dreamworld, and this was a wonderful, riveting, awe-inspiring surprise. The shows were wonderful (I watched two) and just to watch the tigers afterward was a treat in itself. The black eco-shopping bags printed with a tiger's face (all of $2) must rank as Dreamworld's most affordable souvenir!
Leeny - I've never actually stayed to watch a full tiger show (usually too busy with rides!) but I would like to stay and watch it next time I go. It's a great addition to a park, and theres no where else you can go and see tigers like this! Thoroughly enjoyable and its easy to get caught up in the beauty of the tigers.
Myztik - we seemed to keep gravitating back to Tiger Island. Watched the show twice and thoroughly enjoyed it both times. The tigers were just gorgeous and their trainers were entertaining and gentle. My boys loved the Tiger Island cups I got them from the souvenir shop and the hat looks so cute on my 3mnth old. Definitely somewhere I hope to visit again.
sam's mum - I loved the tiger show, very natural activities that they were doing.
pegasus - fantastic
Lunch (buffet restaurant)
Nomsie- A nice selection, and a good mix of healthy and a little bit naughty. Loved the choc mousse for dessert!
veve- I was impressed with the range of food- I thought that the prices were reasonable, and it was really nice to chill out a bit between the rides and chaos of dreamworld- it was wonderful to be able to sit back, enjoy lunch and chat with friends.
Katiesmum - I thought lunch was great. Was so nice to go to a nice place to meet up with everyone for lunch. There was plenty of room for everyone and it was really lovely. Lunch was really nice - a good broad range for people to choose, and what I chose was hot, tasty and filling.
Bec - I do like having lunch here. The food is presented well and as a vegetarian there are good options (thank you!). The veggies are cooked really well, not too soft, just right.
SalTheGal: Lunch was fantastic, great selection of food- something for everyone's taste, and nice setting, good service.
Leeny - We'd never been in to the restaurant before, as we didn't know what the food would be like but I must say I was pleasantly surprised. The food was delicious even though I was recovering from being extremely ill from the Claw and the Tower of Terror and didn't think I'd be able to eat. I particularly enjoyed the delicious moist roast in gravy and even went back for seconds. There was a great range, and I do wish I wasn't so ill at the time so I could have tried more! I'd definitely considering going again next time I went to the park.
Nic -very nice lunch, hadn't eaten there before, to be honest didn't even know it existed.
sam's mum - I love the buffet lunch, this is where we always eat when we are at Dreamworld. With the kids I much prefer to be able to pick from the buffet and offer healthier options. It also means that we have more options if they reject the first offering!
pegasus - was great - choice was great - something for all.
Bigbadbrad - Dreamworld's biggest secret. Kids eat free with a paying adult which means the cost is only slightly more than paying for a meal in the park but it is all you can eat in air conditioned comfort!
Alien Vs Predator (oooher shooot shoooot now!!!!)
X - Loads of fun, easy to operate, good setup. Wish we'd had longer.
Nomsie- This was sooooo much fun! A little bit exhilarating- and a lot to focus on at one time! I was concentrating on shooting the big alien and forgot to keep check on my back... and the 'people' (I was a mutant) kept shooting me in the back. (So much for friends, hey? ;)) Would have loved to have gone in again!
veve- I can not believe how much I enjoyed this feature of dreamworld. I was honestly quiet uncomfortable with the idea of heading into the dark environment to shot at others, but the adrenalin rush of this 'ride' is amazing! I was so busy having fun that I was really cranky when the ride came to an end, and I wanted to go back in and play again!! I was also a little suprised to find that my score at the end of the game was quite respectable- this will definitely be on our 'to do' list for our next trip to dreamworld!
katiesmum - this was awesome!! Loved it. wanted to go again
cmd'smum - I was actually dreading participating in this, but I wanted to go again as soon as our session was over! LOVED it (except for listening to Brad brag about winning :P), so much fun!!
Jaq - LaserTag, where have you BEEN all my life! Loved this, want to do it again soon! Thought the Alien v Predator set up was really well organised, and the thrill and the challenge was awesome.
Kiwiana - This is probably one of my most fab attractions at dreamworld, its heaps of fun, even when your against people you don't know, the only downfall to it, is its not long enough
earthfairy ~ i was really anxious about doing this. Even as we were running into the arena I was having heart palpitations, but ended up having a good time...and getting the highest score! Ha! Who would have thought! Thought the dude who ran it was EXCELLENT & had a great sense of dry humor! Thought it could have been a bit longer though
SalTheGal: I sooooo sucked at this!!! :D It was loads of fun, and I now want to go do it locally. Very well run, but I think we had an advantage as we did it by ourselves as a large group, I wouldn't like to do it normally where you just line up and get allocated a session with complete strangers.
Leeny - Laser tag.. A new found love!! I'll definitely be aiming to do this again next time I go to dreamworld, and I'm even trying to organise a group to go privately outside of the park! I had so much fun, my only complain was that it's FAR too short. The host guy that introduced us to the game etc was absolutely fantastic. He was in character the whole time and it just added to the whole experience. It wouldn't have been the same with some wishy washy teenager doing the job, he definitely completed the whole experience. Thoroughly enjoyable, and definitely a very different experience!
Nic - not my sort of thing, so probably would have avoided it if we weren't made to do it ... but it was great fun, I'd do it again.
Myztik - this was probably the best part of the day! I loved it and plan to drag the other Perth mods to a laser tag session in the near future. The Commando guy was hilarious and really set the mood before we went into the arena. I only wish the session went longer.
sam's mum - I would love to have been able to have another go at this, I had only just started to figure it out and it was over
pegasus - I'm with Jane - I was only just figuring it out, when it was over - can't believe time went so quick - but that's a sign that it was a fantastic experience.
Flow Rider :thumbsup:
Ernie - This is probably my favourite attraction at Dreamworld. It differs to the others in that the rider is in control of what happens (unlike say a rollercoaster).
Its basically a wall on an angle of 45' with water jetting from the bottom to the top. You jump onto it riding a board similar to a body board. The pressure of the water balances the weight of your body, allow you to kind of hover on the water. By shifting your weight around you can maneuver your way around the wall. Once you get the hang of it, its a small step to get up on your knees. I got up within about 5 goes, and once kneeling its even easier to move around.
Its not like surfing although it looks a bit like it to the spectators. If you come off the board you can either exit to the side or get pushed up and over the lip of the wall at the top.
You have to pay a few dollars to go on this ride (its not included in the park fee.) This gives you half an hour of attempts at riding it. You take turns with a maximum of about 15 people but when I went there was only 3 of us and we went at 3pm which I thought would have been the busiest time.
Its worth doing - I haven't seen anything else like this and I've been to a fair few theme parks around the world.
Making purchases at the dreamworld shops
Nomsie- I bought a couple of puppets for my boys. The staff were very friendly and polite. The shops were set out nicely and easy to browse.
Katiesmum - bought some things for DD. There was a good selection at a variety of prices, and for many age groups. I bought tiger ears and a tail for DD, which matched in with the photos of the Tiger show nicely
veve- I like the range of items that you can purchase while you are at dreamworld (although I wish that there was more of a cross section of items - e.g. once you leave wiggles world, there is only minimum wiggles items available). I found the staff very friendly, and helpful - and I found the prices to be fairly reasonable.
cmd'smum - Loved the tiger shop, and the "fairy" shop especially! The fairy shop had amazing things in there and we spent ages looking around. Very helpful and friendly staff. The lollyshop wasn't bad either ;)
Nic - bought some lovely gifts, unfortunately the staff weren't always too helpful with the discount side of things (my fault I forgot to show the tag) and they weren't helpful with a refund/redo sale.
Myztik - I bought several bits and pieces for my kids from several different shops. I found the staff to be super friendly and the price to be quite reasonable. My only issue was finding something that wasn't to young for my 8yr old.
X - loved the girly shop, loads of things for the little ladies in your life from 6 weeks to 16 years old
pegasus - great variety - all staff were helpful and patient.
The icecream parlor and Lollyshop
earthfairy ~ all I can say is YUM!!!
Leeny - We never leave dreamworld without visiting the ice cream parlor. I truly do appreciate the fact that the ice cream and dreamworld isn't over priced compared to a regular shopping center ice cream place like wendys. I'm quite happy to spend the 4 or 5 dollars on ice cream at the end of a long hot day. If it was more expensive, we'd probably give it a miss. Good range of flavours!
Nic - I'll just quote EF!!! YUM!
Sam's mum - see EF. that icecream was to die for
veve- oh my goodness. We always finish our day at dreamworld with a trip to the icecream palor. I love the fact that the prices are still competitive (easily the same price as outside icecream stores) which makes it more inviting for families to do. The staff in the ice cream store were extremely friendly the day that we were there, and even took care of a toy that my son misplaced (he was in tears when he finally went up to the counter to ask if they had seen it).
pegasus - great way to end the day. Once you'd made the choice - it was um...Yum!
An Overall Comment about Dreamworld.
Nomsie- Dreamworld is the only park I have visited each time I go to QLD. I love how it's always got something new every time, but there are still the old favourites to enjoy as well. It's a huge pity that it was too cold to enjoy Wet Water World, as it looked awesome, and I can't wait til my kids are old enough for us to take a family holiday to QLD and go back to Dreamworld again! I had a fantastic day filled with lots of fun memories :)
Katiesmum - I am not really big on rides, so was actually quite surprised that I had such a good time. There was a lot to do even for people who dont really do the rollercoasters and scary stuff. The rain didnt take anything away from it at all, and I would go again even if it was raining. All in all, I thought it was an awesome day for a fun family day out. :)
veve- I really can not express how much I love spending the day at Dreamworld. As a family, we find it a little harder (due to the little ones) but there is easily enough to do for EVERYONE that there is not a moment to waste while you are there! I love the fact that there is a good combination of adrenalin rushing rides, as well as quieter choices, and that there are lockers on site so you dont have to lug things around all day either. I will be seriously consider buying an annual pass this coming year, because we do get value out of the days that we spend in the themepark. Thank you Dreamworld for not disappointing us - we had a ball!
cmd'smum - AWESOME!! Can't wait to go back! There is something to do for everyone at Dreamworld!:D
Bec - Dreamworld is great if you've got young children or like scary rides but if you're a wuss and/or pregnant like me there isn't an abundance of stuff to do. It's nice to walk around though, there is plenty to see.
Jaq - Despite being a Queenslander, and still having most of our family in Queensland, I hadn't been to Dreamworld since the early (19!) 90s. I was surprised by the variety of things there is to do there now - it's not just rides, and there really is something for everyone, especially since the integration with White Water World. I will be taking my family back next time we are all on the Coast.
Kiwiana - I just love dreamworld, its got something for everyone to do, no matter how short or tall you are, there is a wide variety of things to do, ample places to get food and drink from, lots of shopping, I will definatly be going back there again in the near future
earthfairy ~ Had a fantastic day! Hadn't been to Dreamworld for a few years but good to see new stuff & different things to appeal to everyone in the family.
They need more maps around the parks though so you know where you are & where you are going.
Leeny - We always thoroughly enjoy or trips to dreamworld, and our last visit was no different. It's great to see that theres more child friendly rides now, although I'm interested to see what dreamworlds next big thrill ride addition will be.. 6 isn't quite enough!! I'm excited to go back when it warms up a little and visit whitewater world, as it was too cold on the day. Definitely a great day out!
Bhtech - I've been twice now this year and I always enjoy myself. I love the water park because its never very busy when I go (around Easter.) People might be scared off by the cooler weather but its still really warm. During this time there is barely any lineup for the slides etc. I'd love to see their laser show 'Illuminate'.
Myztik - This was my first trip too Dreamworld so I was much like a little kid wanting to see everything. I had a fantastic time and even the rain in the morning couldn't spoil the fun! I plan to go again with my kids next time as I think they will love it.
sam's mum - I love Dreamworld, we go every year. I have a 14 year old as well as two smaller kids and there is plenty to there to make it a great day for all ages.
pegasus - fantastic day - and great value (when pitted against equivalent in Perth). I loved that we felt we got our dollars worth when with the 1 and 3 year old and I definitely got (what would have been my money's worth - got to go on all the great rides - except motocoaster) as an adult.
Bigbadbrad - As locals with annual passes our family visits Dreamworld regularly. We love that it is a full day out and that we can tailor our visit to conditions and temperment of the kids. With younger kids Wiggles world is very popular but all my kids are huge fans of many of the thrill rides and the two youngest are just unhappy that they are not tall enough to ride on some!
Bhadmin - I have grown up with Dreamworld always an hour away, and with their constant adding of new attractions, I go at least every year and go on rides I have never seen before. I think Dreamworld has something for everyone, with shows for adults and kids, rides to suit the adventurous and the not-so adventureous, and Whitewater World for those steamy summer days. For me, the big thrill rides are my favourite.
Whitewater World
The Green Room
Bhadmin - is an EPIC ride that parents and children alike can enjoy. Dropping almost vertically through a dark tunnel, at high speed, in a 4-seater raft, and finishing whooshing up the sides of an enormous cone-shaped basin filled with rushing water is a great experience. Mums and dad's can take smaller children with them on the other seats in the raft, making the ride perfect for families. Definitely a thrill ride - hold on tight. The park also has a great Nickelodeon waterslide section just for kids which is very handy for keeping an eye on the littlies.
Super Tubes Hydrocoaster
Bhtech - This is my favourite ride in Whitewater World, because its a water-slide that goes uphill! You ride on top of a toboggan type board - two at once, so make sure you're riding with someone you get along with.
You travel around the water slide using mostly gravity. We are not sure how the uphill part works - we came up with two solutions - one being the toboggan has magnets in it, the other that its like a giant air hockey game and air jets push you up. EDIT - apparently the lifeguards say its magnetically operated.
Worth doing a few times! :goodvibes:
The Bro
Bhtech - I love this speed slide because the lines are fast moving. 8 people ride at the same time. Its like a race, there is a starting light that turns green then everybody goes for it. And as you pick up speed over the humps, you can get a bit of air time which makes you feel like flying - something any pre-teen boy (and me) like the feeling of.
The Little Rippers
Bhtech - Kind of like 'The Rip' ride. Its pretty awesome - you jump on an inflatable tube and drop down into a bowl and the momentum carries you around the central hole, which you eventually drop through to the plunge pool below. I can get two rides around before I hit the hole, while my friend managed to get 3 rides somehow. A good ride for the younger crowd, as the heights and speeds are not full on like some of the other rides.
Temple Of Huey
Bhadmin - These are your traditional water slides - there are 4 coming off the top platform. They're all pretty good. You ride them either singly or with a friend on a double tube (good for parents and kiddie combos.) Usually the lineup here flows quite fast as the slides are about 100 metres long and there is no special raft setting up time.
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