Grant Thornton secures DOCA to bring the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel back into operation
Grant Thornton has secured a Deed of Company Arrangement (DOCA) for MB Star Properties Pty Ltd, the company that owns the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel and the land on which it is situated, with the aim of having the attraction reactivated and operating again within 2026.
The DOCA was accepted by creditors on 30 March 2026 following Grant Thornton’s appointment as Voluntary Administrators on 26 February 2026.
Under the DOCA, MB Star Properties Pty Ltd will be recapitalised and control will transition from the Voluntary Administrators back to the company and its directors upon execution of the deed. MB Star Properties Pty Ltd, the owner of the 120-metre landmark, will be restructured and reinvigorated under the DOCA.
Andrew Hewitt, Partner – Restructuring Advisory at Grant Thornton said, “We’re pleased the voluntary administration process has reached an outcome that is beneficial to all parties. The DOCA provides more certainty for stakeholders and delivers a pathway to reopen the Melbourne Star which is positive for everyone who wants to see this landmark attraction back in operation and for the broader precinct.”
The DOCA provides for a new investment arrangement to support the revitalisation of the Melbourne Star district and the safe reactivation of the Wheel. The partnership supporting the Melbourne Star includes the RoBu Group, Liberty Star Investment Group Pty Ltd, and Skyline Attractions, bringing experience with amusement attractions and observation wheels from across the globe.
Skyline Attractions, a Melbourne-based family business that owns and operates several iconic wheels around Australia, will manage the Melbourne Star’s ongoing operations as part of the new arrangement.
Jay Jones, Business Manager at Skyline Attractions, said, “Our team has been working closely on the recommissioning of the Melbourne Star since August last year and have made fantastic progress. It’s a privilege to support the safe return of this much-loved attraction, welcoming locals and visitors back to enjoy the views and see the wheel light up the Docklands skyline once again.”
“We’re gearing up to reopen in the second half of 2026 and look forward to sharing more updates in the coming months,” he continued.
Director of Precincts for The District Docklands, Jonathan Codman echoed this sentiment.
“The District is proud to be the home of the Melbourne Star and seeing visitors to the precinct enjoy all the attraction has to offer will be a significant milestone. The Melbourne Star has long been integral to Docklands' and is a world-class attraction. We're committed to supporting its return as a vibrant part of Melbourne's unique offering," said Jonathan Codman.
In accordance with the deed’s terms, Grant Thornton’s role as Voluntary Administrators will conclude following the effectuation of the DOCA.
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Mikala Spark Senior Communications Manager at Grant Thornton AustraliaClick here for all media enquiries