Written by Lara Zakhour and Tayla Oates
A new and exciting, heart-pumping activity in making Victoria Square home this October, as part of Mental Health Month. A giant bright yellow nine-metre tall swing has risen in Victoria Square today (Thursday October 10th), so get ready to let your hair loose and fly to new heights.
Designed for the thrill seekers, the young at heart, or those who just want to find something to do or see in the warmer weather, this is the perfect activity to do and place to visit.
Creator Ian Pidd said the free 9m-high structure known as SWING had been designed to help people regain their childhood selves in public spaces through playful action.
“This is a joyful and exhilarating public event, as much fun to watch as to do,” he said.
“It is simple, spectacular, enormous fun – and it’s free!”
“SWING has demonstrated impact for participants, with many going in their minds to a simpler time, to happy memories or just enjoying the kinetic motion,” he added.
“The ride is surprising in its thrill, being large and high but people are also placed in the centre of attention as they ride – applauded by strangers, celebrated and sung to.”
For those who aren’t so keen on swinging, you will have just as much fun by watching your family and friends swing on the nine metre swing.
You can even grab a bite to eat after you swing high with a range of food trucks on the 11th and 18th of October. This makes the perfect family or chill day out while you enjoy some delicious food and fun tunes from 4pm to 9pm.
You will also have the chance to wine 1 of 5 $100 Central Market voucher where you can experience some of Adelaides best coffee, ice cream, paninis, smallgoods and so much more.
Headspace are also making an appearance at the event on Thursday the 10th at 12pm to motivate us all to let go and break free from everyday life. Encouraging all people who are working, studying, or both between the ages of 16-25 to come visit, Headspace will be providing snacks for those come along and have some fun.
SWING has been brought to South Australia from Melbourne for the first time as part of the City of Adelaide’s ongoing activation program for the CBD and North Adelaide.
“It galvanised crowds outside the State Library of Victoria and the street next to Footscray Railway Station when it appeared last year,” Ian said.
“Commuters passed it and rode on it every day, tram drivers mentioned it in their public announcements, tourists took video after video, people living on the street owned it and loved it.
“Now it’s in Adelaide as part of Mental Health Month and what a great fit to launch SWING today on World Mental Health Day.”
Lord Mayor Jane Lomax-Smith said she was looking forward to seeing city workers and visitors gather in Victoria Square to either have a swing or watch others take part.
“I’m told the installation is as much fun to watch as it is to swing on,” said the Lord Mayor.
“We’re hoping everyone will take time out from their busy lives to come along and have a go.”
SWING will open to the public from 11.30am today. Special sessions for wheelchair users will be held on Saturday, 12 October and Wednesday, 16 October, between 4pm and 7pm while Friday night sessions will be accompanied by live music and food trucks.
WHAT: SWING!
WHERE: Victoria Square
WHEN: 10th – 23rd of October
PRICE: Free
For more information, click here!
