July 2004. First signs that something was happening for 2005. This area is next to the 400 Highway and can be seen on the turn-a-round of Minebuster. Why was this area needed? Because this area became the new home of the interlock storage area. The old interlock storage area at the other end of Minebuster had to cleared out to make room for The Italian Job: Stunt Track.

July 2004. Earth was also being moved behind Psyclone and Sledgehammer which also gave a hint that something was happening for 2005. Normally with Wonderland no signs of construction are ever seen until well after the season is done. This must be big if they were moving ground this early.
 

July 2004. So a survey marker what is the big deal? But this is a big deal to coaster enthusiast it only confirms their suspicion that something indeed is about to be announced. This marker could be seen in the Minebuster entrance queue just before the ramp.

July 2004. this picture is right were Minebuster comes into its brake run. The extra interlock is about to be moved to the other end of Minebuster. The brake run of Minebuster should give a pretty good view of Stunt Track.
 

July 2004. The interlock storage yard is still there but not for long.
 

August 12, 2004. Even thou we were driving to Prince Edward Island the next day there was no way we were going to miss this announcement.

August 12, 2004. We had arrived at the park pretty early to partake in the early admission to Grande World expo for season pas holders. If you had heard rumours about an Italian Job theme ride coming for 2005 those Mini Coopers made it pretty obvious what was going to be announced.

August 12, 2004. Even the bridge near Wonder Mountain was being decorated with a yellow Mini Cooper. What could this be?

 

August 12, 2004. Nolan checks out the fence / runway that circled the entire length of international fountain. At 12 PM about ten Minis appeared and circled around the fountain.

August 12, 2004. By noon all of the major Toronto TV station had a crew at the park. Unfortunately we were so busy getting ready for trip to PEI the next day we didn't get to see any of the coverage.

August 12, 2004. Mr. Barry Jones, General Manager PCW, makes the major announcement of the new for 2005 addition.
 

August 12, 2004. While must of the TV crews seemed to be more interested in the Minis rather than the ride we had a chance to talk to Mr. Jones and Ms Williams about the new ride.  Thank you to both of you for taking the time to talk to us.

October 2004. Land clearing and site preparation is well under way. To the right is the top of Minebuster's lift hill.

October 2004. View of the site from Minebuster's lift.
 

October 2004. View from Minebuster's brake run. This view will change dramatically next year.

 August 2004. Nolan giving the New for 2005 display a good study.