THE Big Banana Group’s Development Application to build a new attraction, the Alpine Coaster, was approved by City Of Coffs Harbour council on Thursday 24 August.

The development application was reported to Council for determination because it proposes to vary a development standard in the Local Environmental Plan by more than ten percent.

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In this case it is a height variation.

The Big Banana Fun Park CEO Michael Lockman addressed the meeting saying the Alpine Coaster at the Pacific Highway attraction fits well with Coffs Harbour’s eco-tourism goals.

The development is for an Alpine Coaster track and ancillary development to operate alongside other tourism attractions within The Big Banana Fun Park.

The proposed Alpine Coaster will include 34 toboggans running along a steel track.

The cart track follows the existing toboggan route, with some extensions and loops away from this existing route, particularly upslope to the west.

The proposed Alpine Coaster track system is a gravity driven, tubular track of about 860m length.

The track would be constructed above the natural ground surface by a steel subframe structure sited on pile footings.
The structure will be held into position by its interconnecting components and secured by earth-nails driven into the natural ground at intersecting ground points.

The Coaster experience is described by The Big Banana team as “an adrenaline-filled journey, complemented by breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and hinterland”.

The Alpine Coaster, manufactured by world-leading German company Wiegand Slides, is equipped with the latest safety features available on the market.

“The Coaster embodies heart-racing speeds, daring tight turns and the sensation of soaring over a dynamic track.

“Riders have the freedom to control their speed, and can with either one or two people per cart,” states The Big Banana team.

“With the proposed introduction of the Alpine Coaster, set amongst our banana plantations and boasting panoramic views of the Coffs Coast, we’re reinforcing our commitment to blending thrilling experiences with the natural beauty of Coffs Harbour,” Michael Lockman added.

The plan is to restore banana plantations in and around the coaster once built, and replace removed trees three for for one.

“This Coaster is a significant addition to our Fun Park and a key element of our 15-year Master Plan which is expected to be another anchor attraction, fortifying our reputation as a must visit destination on the North Coast.”

By Andrea FERRARI