Civic Merry Go Round

The Civic Merry Go Round was originally located at the St Kilda Esplanade in Melbourne where it commenced operation in 1915. It was designed and built for a German showman named Weniger by Herbert Thompson of Armadale, designer of Australia’s first successful motor car.

At the time it was built the Merry Go Round had the largest ball bearing in Australia. It was also described as the largest portable steam riding gallery and the first made in Australia. The basic specifications were a 10 inch diameter centre pole of specially forged steel, fitted with 15 inch ball bearing containing two dozen 1.5 inch balls in each.

The organ, 52 hand carved wooden horses and two elephants were especially imported from Germany. The twisted brass uprights were imported from Scotland. As the organ played the mechanical figures would perform, two damsels in fancy dress strike bells, another plays a xylophone, whilst the orchestral conductor is represented as an age, beating time with a baton.

The Merry Go Round was purchased at public auction in 1973 for the people of Canberra at a cost of $40,000. After extensive restoration by Canberra citizens and donations of money and materials by local organisations it commenced operation in Civic on 13 March 1974.

The Merry Go Round is open 7 days per week.

Monday to Thursday 10 am to 4 pm
Friday 10 am to 7 pm
Saturday 9.30 am to 4 pm
Sunday 11 am to 3 pm

For Enquiries: Phone 6247 4527.

Downloads

• Media Release—Plaque to commemorate 30 year anniversary of Civic Merry Go Round ( PDF 18.6Kb)