New attractions to boost Dreamworld as losses flow
DREAMWORLD’S operators hope a new “flying theatre” and walk-through DreamWorks attraction will stem its losses as the 2016 tragedy continues to dog parent company Ardent Leisure, which reported a half-year loss of $13.4 million.
The theme park alone ac- counted for a $24.8 million loss for the listed company in the six months to December 31, following losses of $95.2 million the same period last year.
Ardent said trading at Dreamworld continued to improve, but at a lower rate than expected, with attendances up 32.6 per cent and revenue up 55.6 per cent for the period from December 10 to February 13 compared with the same post-incident period last financial year.
The company expects the new tiger and the completion of Corroboree Stage II will bolster visitation in the lead up to the Commonwealth Games.
The new DreamWorks attraction planned for mid-2018 will be joined by a world-class iRide Brogent Flying Theatre attraction later in the year.
Featuring 40 seats across 10 different gondolas, the simulator will heave, sway, rock and roll over a projection screen as ridegoers experience effects like wind, mist and scent.
Shareholders will receive a 2c/share distribution for the half.
Revenue for the three theme park businesses, Dreamworld, WhiteWater World and Skypoint fell 11 per cent to $37.2 million.
Ardent announced the appointment of Chris Morris as CEO of its US-based Main Event Entertainment business, but are yet to appoint a CEO for its theme parks division
MORE LOCAL COMPANY RESULTS: BUSINESS P35