Canberra Carousel 8 Petrie Plaza, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 2601
About the Business
Welcome to Canberra Carousel, an iconic amusement park and tourist attraction located at Petrie Plaza in Canberra, Australia. This institution holds a special place in the city's history and offers a unique experience for visitors of all ages.
Canberra Carousel is home to a historic 69-keyless fairground organ, built in 1911, which was originally part of a merry-go-round. In 1973, the organ and merry-go-round were purchased for the people of Canberra. Since then, dedicated volunteers at the Carousel Organ Restoration Group have diligently undertaken rebuilding and refurbishment projects with the help of heritage grants.
After years of restoration work, the organ was officially handed back to the ACT Government in 2014. Now, you have the exciting opportunity to hire the Canberra Carousel Organ for your own events in and around Canberra. Whether it's a community gathering, charity event, or any special occasion, the organ adds a touch of nostalgia and charm to any setting.
To book the organ for your event, we kindly ask for at least three weeks' notice prior to the desired date. The price structure for organ hire is detailed on our website, and we offer special rates for community organizations and charity groups. Additionally, we provide a backup generator (15 amp) where applicable, ensuring uninterrupted music enjoyment for your guests.
When booking, a deposit of 10% of the quoted hire fee will be required. Please note that this deposit is non-refundable for cancellations made with less than three weeks' notice. However, in cases where the organ cannot be played due to unfavorable weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances, a full refund will be provided.
If you are passionate about preserving history and would like to get involved, we invite you to join our volunteering program. As a volunteer, you will have the opportunity to learn about the operation and maintenance of this historic instrument. You can assist during performances and contribute to the general maintenance of the organ, ensuring its longevity for future generations to enjoy.
At Canberra Carousel, we also want to acknowledge and pay respect to the Ngunnawal people, the traditional custodians of the ACT. We recognize the ongoing cultural contributions of all indigenous people and families connected to the lands of the ACT and region.
Come and experience the magic of Canberra Carousel, where history comes alive through the enchanting melodies of the Carousel Organ. Step back in time and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones in this cherished tourist attraction.
Photos
Location & Phone number
8 Petrie Plaza, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 2601, Australia
Hours open
Monday:
11:30 AM - 2:30 PM
Tuesday:
11:30 AM - 2:30 PM
Wednesday:
11:30 AM - 2:30 PM
Thursday:
11:30 AM - 2:30 PM
Friday:
11:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday:
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Sunday:
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Reviews
"Such a fun activity for all ages, it’s free at the moment for Christmas but I would gladly pay to ride. The carousel is beautifully ornate and you can feel the history."
"Every time I would visit my grandparents in the city, we would go to the merry go round. Now I can take my children there as well. It's great that this place is still up and functional."
"It is so nice to see the Canberra Merry-Go-Round in Civic: now in Civic for over 47 years in Petrie Place. See the old Elephants and Horses going around. When you go on the Horse and sit down, that each of the 52 Horses was named after Famous Australian Racehorses? And Famous Elephants? Can you find Phar Lap, Lord Fury or Snow Stream? Or even Queenie the Elephant? The Merry-Go-Round is now 107 years old. The Volunteers are looking after the Merry-Go-Round, come with your family and go for a ride, help them out. I come with my Family, we had good times on the Merry-Go-Round. In 1971 the closed the streets, in Civic Petrie St. And part of Ainge St, to make the first Walk Way in City. On 28 September 1973 the Department of the Capital Territory purchased the Merry-Go-Round at auction for $40,000. The Civic Merry-Go-Round was officially opened in Petrie Plaze on 13 March 1974. A large number of Canberra's Groups and Volunteers undertook the serious repair work needed to get the Merry-Go-Round and accompanying carousel organ and music functioning again. The construction of the Merry-Go-Round in Melbourne in 1914, was designed and constructed by Herbert Thompson, who was famous for designing and building the First Australian steam car in 1896. At the time of the construction, it was the largest and most modern Merry-Go-Round in Australia. Know as Wenger's Riding Gallery, the Merry-Go-Round was installed on the esplanade at St Kilda, Melbourne in 1914 as part of the Beachside Amusement Park. In 1957 MacDonald's Carnival Amusement purchased and operated the Merry-Go-Round unit the site was scheduled for demolition in 1973."
"Attendant was very understanding of my daughter's special requirements. There was no pressure to be fast and there were plenty of options for people unable to sit on a horse. All in all very inclusive."
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