Luna Park, located at Milsons Point on the north side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, has been a part of Australian life since 1935.
It was as big an attraction for Sydneysiders as Coney Island is for New Yorkers.
During World War II, the lights of Luna Park were browned out (in case of enemy aircraft), and the Park became especially popular for servicemen to take their girl friends.
Luna Park closed down every winter, so its rides could be overhauled and new attractions could be added.
But in June 1979, the funfair’s Ghost Train ride caught fire, and seven people died. Luna Park closed down pending official investigations and a coroner’s inquest.
Several tall luxury apartment blocks were built right next door to Luna Park while it was closed. And when it re-opened the well-heeled residents (and developers) complained loudly to the council that the roller-coaster ride was ‘too noisy’.
Today, Luna Park is busy again and filled with with children, families, couples and people of all ages, from Sydney and from everywhere you can think of. The rides still clatter and the people riding them still scream with excitement. And you know what’s really good about it these days? Nobody has to pay to get in. Entrance is free, and you only need to pay for the rides you want to go on.
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