Luna Park Restores Iconic Wild Mouse Roller Coaster for the Next Generation

A heritage-listed icon of Sydney Harbour, the Wild Mouse roller coaster, has undergone a two-year, multi-million dollar restoration and has reopened to the public at Luna Park Sydney as of Friday 14 March 2025.

Since its first installation in 1963 at Luna Park Sydney, the Wild Mouse has cemented its status as one of the most popular roller coasters in Australia. The unique and thrilling gravity-fed coaster was designed to be semi-mobile and was a regular feature at both Sydney’s Royal Easter Show and the Brisbane Ekka. 

One of only three of its kind operating in the world, the Wild Mouse comprises a ‘quarter mile’ of laminated timber track (400m), supported by timber jack towers. The Wild Mouse cars are designed to hold 2 passengers, seated one behind the other. After a traditional chain lift to the highest point, riders experience a series of top level zig zags or ‘switchbacks’ featuring flat, slightly sloped 180 degree turns. The zig zags are followed by a series of steep drops or ‘bunny hops’ producing abrupt negative g-forces separated by vigorous curves. The ride moves back and forth and up and down in a rectangular plan shape. 

Luna Park Sydney CEO John Hughes said “The excitement of the ride is built by the speed generated by steep gradients combined with tight turns so that when passengers approach a corner it makes it feel like you’re flying above the harbour” 

Taken out of service in late 2022 for a planned restoration, the ride has been meticulously recrafted by a team of expert technicians and trades using traditional methods, supported by modern technology. The creation of curved sections of track is a highly detailed and specialised arrangement which requires the gluing of up to 10 individual pieces of timber in a specially formed jig. 

An asset of the State Government that is maintained through a Heritage Infrastructure Fund which is funded from Luna Park Sydney revenues, the Wild Mouse roller coaster is preserved as directed by a  Conservation Management Plan framework which ensures ongoing conservation and protection of the Wild Mouse and other heritage items within the Luna Park site including Coney Island and the Luna Park Face. 

“Restoring a 60 year roller coaster in a modern setting required us to work with specialist engineers, fitters, welders and heritage experts to ensure every component was true to the original design along with ensuring the ride met all current standards for engineering, electrical and safety” said John Hughes.

The multi-million dollar, two-year restoration of the Wild Mouse is a testament to Luna Park Sydney’s commitment to preserving its rich heritage. As one of the world’s rarest, most intact art-deco amusement parks, Luna Park continues to embrace its ethos of wonder, escapism and joy. 

As the Park enters its 90th year, Luna Park Sydney CEO John Hughes said: “We want Luna Park Sydney to be the best experience destination in Australia, anchored in the best of the old and the best of the new. We are proud to reintroduce the Wild Mouse to new and old visitors.. Along with stunning views of Sydney Harbour, the Wild Mouse remains a timeless favourite and a cornerstone of Luna Park’s enduring legacy.” 

Visitors can experience the Wild Mouse and more with an Unlimited Rides Pass from Friday 14 March.

Tickets are available to purchase online at lunaparksydney.com or at the in-Park ticket booth.