Semaphore Carousel
Posted by: 
ParisLaura
S 34° 50.248 E 138° 28.802
54H E 269568 N 6142084
Foreshore
corner of Esplanade & Semaphore Road
Waymark Code: WME0NY
Location: South Australia, Australia
Date Posted: 03/18/2012
Views: 35
The Semaphore Carousel celebrated its 70th year as a resident of the Semaphore Foreshore in 2008. It is believed to be the largest operating carousel in Australia with 40 handcrafted wooden horses with most other rides like this only have 36 horses. As a seaside carnival attraction of yesteryear, the place is magical and a must for visitors, families and also a unique venue to hire for private parties and functions.
The building's hexagon structure can accommodate up to 100 persons comfortably for a sit down meal. Weddings, anniversaries, corporate functions or just a family & friends get-together are just a few events that can be booked at the carousel.
The Carousel, on the Semaphore Foreshore, was built in 1928 by Len Northey who also owned it. There was an earlier carousel and it was brought from the United States by Mr. Jimmy Barr who was an Adelaide Carnival operator. This carousel was steam driven and it was sold in 1933 and replaced by the current Merry-Go-Round.
The current carousel is the oldest in Australia and was moved from Henley Beach to Semaphore by Mr. Len Northey. The carousel was very popular and important to Semaphore especially when there were beach carnivals and in the summer months.
It was designed and built for a German showman named Weniger by engineer Herbert Thompson of Armadale, designer of Australia 's first successful motor car.
The horses were carved by Melbourne craftsmen with simple decoration. Whereas the old Merry-Go-Round was driven by steam, the current carousel is electrically powered.
The two carousels have given pleasure to generations of people in Semaphore for nearly 100 years, connecting us with the past in a fun way.
Carousel Location: Other
Is the Carousel operational?: Yes
Does the Music work?: Yes
Cost to ride:
$5 per ride
Hours of Operation:
Every weekend, Public & School Holidays – 12noon to 5pm. Summer school holidays open till 10pm
Related Website: [Web Link]
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Visit Instructions:
Please include a photo of your self at the location or a picture of your favorite animal on that carousel.
If you are lucky enough to take a ride on your visit, tell us what animal you rode.