WhiteWater West, Usa
Geoff Chutter, president and CEO
What would your dream installation be? In 2011, we received a WWA Innovation Award for creating the first acrylic Master Blaster, which went into our dream installation – the Disney Dream Cruise ship. Many unique engineering challenges
had to be overcome, such as ensuring the 360-degree view of the ship’s deck wasn’t lost. To compensate for the lack of slope on board, we customised a gravity-defying Master Blaster to provide the necessary acceleration. The transparent flume that has to endure harsh and unpredictable conditions, including thermal expansion, is uniquely made with 10 acrylic sections held together with specialised connectors.
What’s the biggest challenge for operators? In the US market, the biggest challenge will be the economy. While the ‘Greek’ situation isn’t likely to replicate itself in North America, the American economy is in for a significant restructuring. This will result in people holding onto their money, creating a negative impact on admissions.
How can operators run waterparks during droughts? Combat public perception that waterparks are water hogs. Between 97 and 98 per cent of waterpark water is reclaimed or reused after the initial fill, so the focus should be to educate people on this fact. Other advice to consider – fix leaks in flumes, pipes or pool basins. This just makes good sense financially and visible leaks look bad on the facility. Cut back on landscaping materials that require lots
of water. Utilise more rock and natural grasses versus flowering seasonal plants. Also, do deck washing as needed, as opposed to standard operating procedure.
How should operators market a new ride? Get free publicity. Put press releases out to the industry and community media, but make sure your stories are newsworthy and have great photos. There are tons
WhiteWater West’s
Extreme River at Chime Long Waterpark in China
of resources online that can assist you. Younger guests are on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Consider how to get the word out in ways they can relate to, especially video.
What’s next for waterparks? We’ll see a convergence of wet and dry play across the industry. Integrating these elements provides a variety of experiences, allowing guests to have their own adventure.
aUstralian Waterslides
Annette Matthews, managing director
What would your dream installation be? To design and develop a waterpark in my hometown of Coffs Harbour, NSW, Australia for the local children and families.
AM 3 2012 ©cybertrek 2012
What’s the new technology? We’ve recently developed a high quality waterpark attraction called KIPS (Kids Interactive Play Structures). These are made up of five zones – either stand-alone or fully integrated. They’re made from 316 electro-polished stainless steel and colourful fibreglass, so the structures will look good for a long time.
Where are your future markets? China, Africa and the Middle East.
How can operators run waterparks during droughts? Alternate operation of rides through the midday time to offset evaporation and drag-out. Review the filtration system in place and change to filters that don’t require standard backwash procedures.
What’s next for waterparks? Installations in smaller, resort-type hotels and accommodation and the upgrade of older council swimming facilities.
Read Attractions Management online
attractionsmanagement.com/digital 77
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