Dreamworld Attendance Up 34%, Ticket Sales Soar 59% in FY26 YTD
Coast Entertainment’s Dreamworld development application has been called-in by the Queensland Minister, while the company reports robust FY26 trading growth and nears completion of its new King Claw ride.
- Queensland Minister calls-in Dreamworld development application
- Minister to directly assess and decide the project approval
- FY26 year-to-date attendance up 34%, ticket sales up 59%
- King Claw gyro swing ride construction completed, opening December 2025
- Company remains open on future land use pending approval
Minister Calls-in Dreamworld Development Application
Coast Entertainment Holdings Limited has received a significant regulatory development with the Queensland Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning formally calling-in its Preliminary Approval Development Application for Dreamworld. This move transfers the decision-making authority from the local council directly to the Minister, reflecting the project's perceived importance to the state's economic and environmental interests.
While the Minister’s final decision remains pending, this call-in signals a more centralized and potentially expedited assessment process. Coast Entertainment has expressed appreciation for the proactive approach but remains cautious, having made no commitments regarding the land’s future use should the application be approved.
Strong FY26 Trading Momentum at Rivertown
The company’s operational performance continues to impress, with FY26 year-to-date figures showing a 34% increase in attendance and a 59% rise in ticket sales compared to the same period last year. These gains have pushed ticket sales beyond levels last seen in FY16, driven by effective promotional campaigns and the growing appeal of the Rivertown precinct within Dreamworld.
This surge in visitor numbers has translated into a meaningful uplift in operating revenue and earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA), underscoring the company’s improving financial health. Further details are expected to be disclosed at the upcoming Annual General Meeting on 6 November 2025.
King Claw Ride Nears Completion
Adding to the positive momentum, construction of King Claw; the largest gyro swing ride in the Southern Hemisphere; has reached practical completion as of mid-October. The attraction is currently undergoing mandatory pre-launch testing and final theming touches, with an anticipated opening slated for December 2025.
This new ride is poised to enhance Dreamworld’s appeal and could further boost visitor numbers, complementing the company’s broader growth strategy.
Looking Ahead
While the regulatory landscape remains uncertain due to the Minister’s pending decision on the development application, Coast Entertainment’s strong trading performance and imminent launch of King Claw provide a solid foundation for future growth. Investors and stakeholders will be watching closely for updates on both fronts as the company navigates this pivotal phase.
Bottom Line?
With regulatory oversight intensifying and operational momentum building, Coast Entertainment stands at a critical juncture that could define its growth trajectory.
Questions in the middle?
- What timeline and conditions will the Minister impose on the Dreamworld development approval?
- How will Coast Entertainment leverage the King Claw attraction to sustain visitor growth?
- What strategic options is the company considering for the land pending approval?