McConnell Dowell and Electrix, our electrical subsidiary company at the time were awarded the contract for the design and construction the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway just west of Cairns in Far North Queensland.
Stretching 7.5km, Skyrail was the world’s longest gondola cableway at the time of completion. More importantly, Skyrail provided guests with a unique opportunity, and a world first, to see and experience the rainforest in a safe and environmentally friendly way.
The construction of Skyrail Rainforest Cableway in Cairns, Australia was a world first in environmental tourism
The original Skyrail concept was conceived in 1987 and was followed by 7 years of pre-construction feasibility studies, an Environmental Impact Study and numerous other reports, assessments consultations and approvals with local, state and federal governments and local communities.
Construction commenced in June 1994 and required world first construction techniques. When completed it was the world’s longest gondola cableway at the time.
Skyrail opened to the public on 31st August 1995. In December 2013, Skyrail introduced 11 Diamond View glass floor gondolas which offer yet another amazing perspective of the rainforest below. Even today Skyrail Rainforest Cableway remains the most environmentally sensitive cableway project in the world.
Watch a video of the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway below
