The Taipan is unleashed…………………..

NSW’s biggest fun park, Jamberoo Action Park, today unleashed a world-first – a high-thrill water ride dubbed The Taipan due to its ability to strike fear into anyone game enough to take it on.

Riders huddle in five-person rafts for nearly 20 seconds of abject horror as they drop, twist and turn down two giant waterslides in disorientating darkness before being spat into a giant pool at the bottom.

Jamberoo General Manager Dax Eddy said the unveiling is a world first for the $3 million ride, which draws on technology developed in the US but never before used in this form.

“It is the first ride of its kind to be in total darkness for the entire ride – plus we have added extra drops, twists and turns to make it even more frightening!

“We’ve named it The Taipan after the most dangerous and feared snake in Australia, because it will strike fear into those who come near it.

“From start to finish, riders plunge 18 metres in total darkness, leaving them faint-hearted and reeling with excitement.”

Mr Eddy said The Taipan’s arrival took Jamberoo into a whole new league and cemented its position as one of Australia’s premier fun parks.

“Not only are we the largest theme park in NSW but we’re now one of the biggest in Australia, and can offer the visitors the added benefit of being able to enjoy high thrill activities in a uniquely beautiful natural setting.”

Just over an hour’s drive from Sydney via Wollongong, the 22-hectare park provides a fun-packed day out that is guaranteed to keep kids and kids-at-heart entertained for hours.

“In fact most families struggle to fit all the fun to be had at the park into a single day,” Mr Eddy said.

“Apart from our massive wave pool there are speed slides, water rapids, rock jumps, racing cars and the famous mountain toboggan – and that’s just the start!” Mr Eddy added.

“Our entry fee covers all rides, all day – so fun lovers of all ages can go nuts with as much action as they want, as it’s all included.

“And even better, Jamberoo is one of the few places you can bring your own food for a relaxed picnic in a magnificent natural setting with the family.”

Already competing for attention at Jamberoo Action Park are:

** Outback Bay – a 2.5 mega-litre surf pool producing waves up to 1.5 metres high

** Rapid River – a raft ride amongst bucking rapids, waves and cascading waterfalls

** Surf Hill – a wave slide where riders achieve cheek-stretching speeds in a race to the bottom

** Mountain Toboggan – two tracks reached by a spectacular chair lift

** Splash Out – two giant water slides that twist and turn down the mountain

** Billabong Beach – an aqua park ideal for toddlers

** The Rock – a five metre high daredevil jump into deep water

** Racing cars – go-kart style racecars competing on their own racetrack

** 18-hole mini golf course and train rides

** The Loft – a 350-seat food terrace offering relaxing views across the park.

Jamberoo Action Park is open every day from 10am-5pm from September to April (except Christmas Day).

Entry includes all rides and is $35 for adults and $28 for children 4-12.

Children three years and under are admitted free of charge.

Further information is available on (02) 4236 0114 or at http://www.jamberoo.net/.

Report by The Mole