The possibility of Disneyland opening its gates in Australia has been quashed by a local council, leaving fans down under feeling disappointed. The locality of Werribee, a 30-minute drive west from Melbourne’s CBD, was abuzz with speculation on Wednesday that it might be the chosen site for an Australian Disneyland. However, Wyndham City Council spokesperson clarified, “We have not been approached by any organization regarding plans for a Disney-style park in our municipality,” as reported by the Herald Sun.
Rumours about Disney’s expansion into Australia have been circulating, following The Walt Disney Company’s announcement last September of plans to ramp up investments in its parks and experiences segment. The entertainment giant aims to nearly double its capital expenditure over the next decade, reaching up to $60 billion, with intentions to open three new international parks.
Currently, Disney operates theme parks in the USA, China, France, and Japan, with Japan being the site of the first Disney park outside the United States, Tokyo Disneyland, which opened on April 15, 1983.
Victoria Tourism Industry Council’s chief, Felicia Mariani, highlighted the need for new tourist attractions in Victoria, especially outside Melbourne. She remarked, “New attractions are vital to drive visitation into Victoria, making areas outside Melbourne CBD viable tourism hotspots.”
Despite Werribee’s buzzing Disney dream, reality has set in with no forthcoming confirmation from Disney. The rumor mill had been grinding around potential sites, especially with The Walt Disney Company continually fueling hopes with its ambitious expansion stories.
What do you think about the possibility of a Disneyland in your backyard? Would Werribee make an ideal spot for Disney magic? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! And don’t forget to share this story with fellow Disney enthusiasts.
For original sources and more details, check out the full report on Daily Mail Australia and Herald Sun.
