Co-Founder 

In 1997, John Sharpe approached Lord Mayor Jim Sorley with a proposal to establish a climbing experience on the Story Bridge.

​

The concept for the Story Bridge Adventure Climb was born out of a desire to create a unique adventure tourism attraction that capitalised on the bridge’s iconic status. The goal was to provide a thrilling yet safe way for people to experience the bridge and its spectacular views.

​

Following an exhaustive tender process, the development of the Story Bridge Adventure Climb required extensive planning and collaboration with Brisbane City Council and various stakeholders. The process involved rigorous safety assessments, structural evaluations, and securing necessary permits while working alongside town planners, heritage architects, engineers, and other professionals.

​

In 2003, Sharpey led the construction team responsible for building the suspended walkways and safety systems, ensuring participants could safely ascend from the lower approach spans at Kangaroo Point, cross the southern apex, traverse the bridge’s centre, and return.

 

With nearly four years of planning and construction at a cost of $6,000,000, the Story Bridge Adventure Climb officially opened to the public on October 4, 2005.

 

In 2014, the attraction expanded with the launch of abseiling experiences at the Kangaroo Point Pier.

 

In 2023, Sharpey and his business partner, Brad Ross, sold their shares to the team at Howard Smith Wharves. However, Sharpey remains involved in the business, focusing on design, safety, and making the experience accessible with wheelchair climbs launched in 2025.