Whilst event organisers all hope for a perfect day when planning outdoor activities, unfortunately special events can be adversely affected by inclement weather. As far as the rides are concerned, we always do our best to stay open for as long as possible, however adverse weather presents safety issues that need to be considered.
Apart from the Dodgem Cars which, being fully covered, can operate in most weather conditions, the remaining rides must cease operations at some point when the climatic conditions become unacceptable and hazardous.
If passing showers are very light and short in duration, most amusement devices can continue operating except the Super Slide, which must be dry for riders to slide effectively.
If passing showers are medium to heavy, we close operation of all rides (except Dodgems) until the showers stop. The equipment is then dried, with operations re-starting soon after.
If showers are constant forming drizzle, we close all rides until the drizzle stops.
All rides (except Dodgem Cars) close during continuous rain, then reopen when the rain clears and the attractions are towel dried.
Storms normally include strong wind gusts, heavy rain and lightning. When a storm is approaching, we close all rides and advise the public to seek shelter. Storm usually pass relatively quickly. Once the weather has cleared, attractions are dried and reopen.
All rides remain closed during any instance of lightning.
Correctly secured inflatables can operate with wind gusts up to 38km per hour. As a general rule, when pop up marquees start to become unstable due to excess wind, it's time to close down the inflatable rides until the winds subside.
Excessive windy conditions are unpleasant for the public, and safety issues arise as debris becomes airborne.
In Queensland and Northern NSW, westerly winds around August can reach 40 to 50km per hour occur, which are too strong for the safe operation of many amusement rides, especially inflatables.
In very hot weather, when temperatures reach in excess of 35 degrees, amusement rides in direct sun may become too hot to sit on.
Summer events are best held in the early afternoon and into the evening. Twilight fairs have a fabulous atmosphere, and can be very enjoyable even if the weather is hot during the day.
During September and October, we can often face the rides south away from the sun during hot weather. From November through to February, when the sun is virtually overhead, there is no respite from the heat, until the afternoon.
At Funfair Amusements, our goal is to ensure all guests have a fun and safe experience while riding on our attractions. To ensure maximum safety, ride manufacturers specify certain restrictions on rider access including minimum height requirements, and general health restrictions. All such restrictions are listed on individual ride pages. Some examples are shown below.
