A ferris wheel incident occurred during the Wairiki Sevens tournament, but fortunately, no injuries were reported. Tournament director Iowane Gade confirmed the event took place but refrained from providing details about the circumstances surrounding the ferris wheel’s malfunction.
While a video circulating on social media depicted smoke emanating from the ferris wheel’s engine and onlookers attempting to manually halt operations to assist riders, all passengers were able to disembark without injury. Gade emphasized the importance of public safety and instructed the operator to cease operations immediately. The Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) team is set to conduct an inspection and dismantle the ride.
Despite the incident, Gade reassured attendees that the Wairiki Sevens rugby tournament would continue as scheduled, running from Tuesday through Saturday. He encouraged spectators to come out in large numbers to support the event. Police spokesperson Wame Bautolu said additional information regarding the incident would be shared later.
It’s commendable that safety was prioritized and that the event can still proceed, allowing the community to enjoy and support the tournament’s activities. This situation highlights the importance of swift action during emergencies and the resilience of planned community events.
In summary, while the ferris wheel incident posed a potential safety concern, prompt responses ensured the safety of the riders, and the ongoing tournament provides a continuation of community engagement and support.
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