The 300 metre (984 ft) skyscraper known as the Eureka Tower was designed by architect Fender Katsalidis. Situated in Melbourne's Southbank the tower is Australia's second tallest building, standing at 91 floors high, plus one underground level. The construction of the skyscraper began in August 2002 and was completed in June 2006, but the Eureka Tower was not officially opened until October 2006.

The name comes from the Eureka Stockade, the famous rebellion of the 1854 Gold Rush. The building’s design was developed from this link to Australian history, with its exterior being blue glass striped with white that represents the blue of the Eureka Stockade Flag with its white cross. The gold crown at the top of the building symbolises the gold rush, while the red stripe is a representation of the blood spilt during the rebellion. Melbourne’s tallest building includes an observation deck, Eureka Skydeck 88, which consumes the entire 88th floor. All of the city’s biggest landmarks can be spotted from this area and it has become a popular attraction for both locals and tourists. The viewing area includes ‘The Terrace’, an outside area that is closed in strong winds, and ‘The Edge’, a glass cube that extends from the building and allows occupants to literally hang over the edge of the building and see the sights below.http://www.eurekaskydeck.com.au/index.asp

The Eureka Skydeck is open daily between 10am and 10pm; however the last admission will be at 9:30pm.

Ticket Prices (Australian Dollars $)

SKYDECK

• Adult: $17.50
• Children (9-14 years old) $9.00
• Concession: $11.00
• Children 3 years & under: free of charge
• Family & multiple visit passes are also available

THE EDGE

• Adult: $12.00
• Children (9-14 years old): $8.00
• Concession: $10.00

The Edge will be open subject to weather conditions and cannot be booked, however bookings are required for the Skydeck for groups with over fifteen people. Tickets need to be purchased for the Skydeck before you can buy tickets for The Edge. The Edge is an attraction of the Skydeck and tickets can be bought up on the 88th floor. Wheelchair access is available to the tower and on both the Skydeck and The Edge.

The Eureka Tower can be easily accessed by public transport. The best way is to go to Flinders Street Station, take the Southbank exit and cross the footbridge. At the roundabout turn right and continue to walk until the destination of the Eureka Tower is reached. The address for the building is 7 Riverside Quay Southbank 3006. Parking at Wilson Parking Facility is available via Southbank Avenue, off city road.

The closest international airport is Melbourne Airport.http://www.eurekaskydeck.com.au/eureka-skydeck.asphttp://www.eurekaskydeck.com.au/the-edge.asp