History of Skypark Cairns

AJ Hackett Skypark Cairns opened in 1990, becoming Australia's first commercial Bungy Jump site and introducing Bungy jumping to the country. Founded by adventure pioneer AJ Hackett, the park was purpose-built in the tropical rainforest of Smithfield, just north of Cairns, and has since become one of Australia's most iconic adventure tourism destinations.

Over the years, Skypark has expanded beyond Bungy jumping to include Australia's only Giant Swing, allowing visitors to experience a different style of adrenaline-filled adventure. Today, the park welcomes thousands of visitors each year and continues to set the benchmark for adventure tourism with world-class safety standards, innovative experiences, and spectacular rainforest surroundings.

Architecture & design of Skypark Cairns

Unlike traditional theme parks or observation towers, AJ Hackett Skypark is designed specifically for adventure sports, blending engineered structures with the surrounding tropical rainforest.

• Purpose-built bungy tower: The centrepiece of the park is the 50-metre Bungy Tower, Australia's only purpose-built Bungy jumping structure. Designed to international engineering and safety standards, it supports multiple jump styles while offering panoramic views across the rainforest, Northern Beaches, and Coral Sea.
  
• Giant swing launch structure: Adjacent to the tower is the Giant Swing, an engineered launch system that delivers a 45-metre drop before accelerating riders to speeds of up to 120km/h. The structure is designed to maximise both safety and the dramatic pendulum motion through the rainforest canopy.
  
• Open-air rainforest setting: Rather than enclosing the experiences within buildings, Skypark is integrated into its natural surroundings. Elevated viewing decks, walkways, and activity platforms are positioned to take advantage of the lush rainforest landscape while allowing spectators uninterrupted views of the Bungy Jump and Giant Swing.
  
• Visitor precinct: The reception area, Skypark Café, gift shop, and viewing terraces are arranged around the adventure zones, creating a compact, walkable layout. This design allows visitors to move easily between activity check-in, spectator areas, dining, and relaxation spaces while remaining connected to the action.
  
• Engineering for safety: Every adventure structure at Skypark is built with redundant safety systems, specialised harnessing equipment, and professionally maintained cables and rigging. Regular inspections and international operating standards ensure the park remains one of Australia's leading adventure tourism facilities.