The Story Bridge Adventure Climb, now under the ownership of Artemus Group, is poised for a significant expansion, aiming to transform the experience and solidify Brisbane’s position as a premier tourist destination in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympics. The company envisions enhancing the climb with new features, including a thrilling swing at the summit and a relocated starting point nestled within the vibrant Howard Smith Wharves precinct. This strategic move aims to integrate the climb seamlessly with the bustling dining and entertainment options of the area, creating a more comprehensive and appealing tourist experience.
Artemus Group, led by CEO Luke Fraser, emphasizes the company’s commitment to showcasing Brisbane on the global stage. The proposed enhancements to the Story Bridge climb are central to this vision, offering tourists a unique and unforgettable perspective of the city. The new starting point at Howard Smith Wharves, coupled with the potential for post-climb dining and entertainment, aims to create a more dynamic and attractive offering for visitors. Furthermore, the proposed swing at the top of the bridge promises an exhilarating adrenaline rush, further distinguishing the experience from other climbs around the world.
However, the plans have encountered a roadblock regarding the consumption of alcohol at the summit. While the company initially envisioned climbers enjoying celebratory drinks 80 meters above sea level, Queensland Tourism Minister Andrew Powell has firmly rejected the idea, citing safety concerns and workplace health and safety regulations. Powell emphasized the importance of maintaining sobriety during the climb, suggesting climbers could enjoy their preferred beverages after descending. This decision effectively puts an end to the company’s plans for champagne toasts at the top of the bridge.
Beyond the climb itself, Artemus Group has ambitious plans for the broader Howard Smith Wharves precinct. The company, which acquired the area in 2014, has outlined multimillion-dollar redevelopment plans that include a boutique hotel, a riverside pool, retail spaces, and a theatre hall. These additions would further enhance the precinct’s appeal as a premier entertainment destination, complementing the revamped Story Bridge climb and creating a synergistic tourist hub. The company’s investment underscores its confidence in Brisbane’s tourism potential, particularly in light of the upcoming Olympics.
Running parallel to these exciting developments is the pressing issue of the Story Bridge’s ageing infrastructure. Identified as an “at-risk structure” since 2016, the bridge requires significant maintenance to address rust, corrosion, and general deterioration. The Brisbane City Council is actively seeking funding from the federal government to support these crucial repairs, highlighting the need for investment to ensure the bridge’s long-term viability and safety. This maintenance is crucial not only for the continued operation of the Story Bridge climb but also for the overall integrity of a vital piece of Brisbane’s infrastructure.
Artemus Group’s vision extends beyond entertainment and revitalization; the company also champions accessibility. With the support of a state government grant, Artemus plans to develop Australia’s first wheelchair-accessible climb on the Story Bridge. This initiative reflects a commitment to inclusivity and ensures that individuals with disabilities can also experience the thrill and unique perspective offered by the climb. This, alongside the relocation of the climb’s office, facilitated by another government grant, signifies the company’s dedication to enhancing the overall experience and accessibility of the Story Bridge Adventure Climb. The confluence of these factors, from ambitious development plans to crucial infrastructure maintenance and a focus on accessibility, positions the Story Bridge and its surrounding precinct for a significant transformation in the coming years.
