At the end of December, Warner Bros. Movie World, located in the vibrant city of Gold Coast on the east coast of Australia, began a new era of magic and fantasy by opening the world’s first themed area based on the classic “The Wizard of Oz.” Inspired by the 1939 film, which has captivated generations with its charming story and unforgettable soundtrack, the new area marks a milestone in theme park history by bringing one of cinema’s most beloved tales to life.
Planned since 2022, the new area was carefully developed over two years, combining cutting-edge technology with meticulous attention to detail to capture the essence of the story. Upon entering the space, visitors are immediately transported to the world of Oz, with the iconic yellow brick road guiding their steps through a world filled with magical and recognizable settings.
The recreation includes key points from the narrative, such as Dorothy’s charming farm in Kansas, the stunning Emerald City Palace, the colorful and cheerful Munchkinland, and even a mysterious haunted forest, adding a touch of adventure to the experience. Every detail has been carefully designed to evoke nostalgia for fans of the original story while creating new memories for children and families.
Right at the entrance, visitors are greeted by lifelike statues of Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, and of course, the beloved dog Toto. But the immersion doesn’t stop there: actors dressed as the characters wander the area, ready to interact with the audience, take photos, and create unforgettable moments.
Additionally, the film’s soundtrack, including the legendary “Over the Rainbow,” echoes throughout the space, creating an immersive atmosphere that makes visitors truly feel they are in Oz.
The new themed area features two family-friendly roller coasters, designed to provide fun and excitement for all ages. These attractions are the heart of the new area, offering adventures for both the young and the adults who still carry the magic of Oz in their memories.
Flight of the Wicked Witch
This suspended roller coaster offers an electrifying experience, taking visitors through a haunted forest while confronting the threatening presence of the Wicked Witch of the West. The adventure begins in the themed queue, immersing the audience with sound and visual effects that bring the darkness and mysteries of the forest to life.
The ride includes an impressive climb of up to 19 meters, winding sections, and a speed of up to 67 km/h, covering a track of over 450 meters. The design of the roller coaster combines classic adrenaline elements with a touch of storytelling, ensuring that every twist is an extension of the narrative. The minimum height to participate is 1.05 meters, making it accessible to both children and adults.
Kansas Twister
The second attraction is the Kansas Twister roller coaster, a dynamic and interactive experience in the “boomerang” style. In this attraction, two parallel tracks make the cars seem to compete with each other, providing an extra dose of excitement.
The queue is also a unique experience: visitors walk through a setting recreating Dorothy’s grandparents’ farm in Kansas, with rustic details and sounds that evoke rural life. During the ride, the cars reach heights of 22 meters and speeds of up to 58 km/h. The attraction is family-oriented, with a minimum height of 95 centimeters, allowing even the youngest to join in the fun.
Both roller coasters were developed by the Dutch company Vekoma, one of the world’s leaders in attraction design. The company is known for its expertise in creating thrilling experiences, such as the upcoming tallest and fastest roller coaster in Latin America, which will be installed at Cacau Park in Itu, São Paulo.
The “The Wizard of Oz” themed area was built on the site previously occupied by the Arkham Asylum roller coaster, which was decommissioned. The transformation marks another stage in the expansion of Warner Bros. Movie World, which continues to establish itself as one of Australia’s leading entertainment destinations.
Opened in 1991, the park is part of a complex covering over 150 hectares owned by Village Roadshow, which also includes the Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast water park and film studios. Movie World is known for its attractions inspired by Warner Bros. and DC Comics franchises, such as the Superman Escape roller coaster, the interactive 3D Justice League attraction, and the Looney Tunes carousel.
Additionally, the park is home to one of the most impressive roller coasters in the Southern Hemisphere: the DC Rivals HyperCoaster, which stands out for being the highest, fastest, and longest in Australia, with peaks of 61 meters, speeds up to 115 km/h, and a 1.4 km long track.
With the opening of “The Wizard of Oz” area, Warner Bros. Movie World reaffirms its commitment to offering high-quality attractions that combine technological innovation and the power of storytelling. In addition to attracting fans of classic cinema and families seeking unforgettable experiences, the new space positions the park as a must-visit destination for theme park lovers worldwide.
The combination of nostalgia, magic, and adrenaline makes the new area a milestone in theme park history and a lasting celebration of one of cinema’s greatest classics. Whether walking the yellow brick road, exploring Oz’s settings, or facing the Wicked Witch of the West, every visitor is invited to rediscover the enchantment that only “The Wizard of Oz” can offer.
The opening of the first “The Wizard of Oz” themed area is not only a tribute to the legacy of one of the most iconic films in cinema history but also an invitation for new generations to experience the magic, courage, and friendship present in Dorothy and her companions’ journey. With attractions that balance adrenaline, interactivity, and immersion, the space solidifies itself as a unique experience that connects nostalgia and innovation.
This new addition to the park strengthens Movie World’s commitment to creating emotionally impactful experiences that captivate visitors of all ages. More than just a themed area, the world of Oz in Gold Coast becomes a destination where dreams come true, transporting every visitor to a universe of colors, adventures, and discoveries.
Thus, “The Wizard of Oz” is given new life in Australia, ensuring that its magic continues to enchant and inspire for many years while solidifying Warner Bros. Movie World as one of the most extraordinary entertainment destinations on the planet. After all, as Dorothy taught us, “there’s no place like home” – and now, for fans around the world, Oz can also be called home.
