O’Brien Icehouse

Overview O'Brien Icehouse is an ice sports and entertainment facility located in Melbourne's Docklands precinct. It is Australia's largest ice arena, featuring two Olympic-sized ice rinks available for public use 364 days a year. The venue caters to a wide range of visitors, from first-time skaters to professional athletes, offering general public skating sessions, learn-to-skate programs, and dedicated ice sports training.

The facility provides structured programs and lessons for various ice sports, including figure skating, ice hockey, speed skating, and curling. It serves as a training ground for novices and is the home of national league teams, the Melbourne Ice and Melbourne Mustangs. In addition to individual and group skating, O'Brien Icehouse also organises birthday parties, school groups, and corporate functions.

Highlights

• Features two Olympic-sized ice rinks, making it Australia's largest ice arena.
• Offers a range of activities including public ice skating, learn-to-skate classes (Aussie Skate program), ice hockey, figure skating, and curling.
• Provides skate and helmet hire, with skating aids like plastic seals available for children.

Community Sentiment (The "Vibe")

What parents like: Reviewers frequently mention the friendly and helpful staff, the cleanliness of the facilities, and the overall welcoming environment for families and beginners. The availability of two large rinks is also a positive point.

What to watch out for: Some visitors note that the venue can become crowded during peak times. The overall cost, including skate hire and optional extras like lockers or skate aids, is mentioned by some as being relatively high. The internal temperature is kept at a constant 16°C, so warm clothing is necessary.

Logistics & Tips

Best for: All ages and skill levels. Specific skate aids (seals) are available for hire only for children under 8 years old.

Facilities: Café (Igloo Cafe), bar (St Moritz Bar), toilets, skate shop, lockers for hire, and a gym. The venue is pram and wheelchair accessible.

Note: The temperature is maintained at 16 degrees, so warm clothing, gloves, and long, thick socks are recommended. Helmets are available free of charge and are recommended for beginners. Parking for 90 minutes is available for free at The District Docklands.