As we gradually start to ease our venues open again after a year of social distancing and number restrictions, a trend has emerged of large and roomy ‘super’ venues throwing open doors across Australia. Drinks Trade lists three of the latest and greatest openings.
SkyCity, Adelaide
Star and Crown, stand aside, the City of Churches has just opened a $330 million world-class integrated entertainment precinct. The modern establishment will feature Eos by SkyCity 5-star luxury hotel, four restaurants, two bars, a range of gaming products and VIP gaming rooms plus conference and events facilities with a view of the Riverbank.
SkyCity Adelaide General Manager, David Christian, said he’s excited about the role SkyCity will play in supporting tourism, local artisans and jobs for South Australians.
“When we designed the new SkyCity Adelaide, which includes the stunning new expansion as well as a complete refurbishment of the heritage building, front of mind was to not only cater for the tourism market by showcasing South Australian producers and suppliers, but also to provide a world-class precinct where all South Australians feel excited to visit and proud to call their own.
Ballers Clubhouse, Melbourne
When a brewer and a fun parlour owner put their heads together, the result is Ballers Clubhouse. It’s the brainchild of Josh Lefers and Stephen Wools owners of East 9th Brewing and championed by Simon Jones, founder of Funlab, owners of Strike Bowling and Holey Moley. It’s a first of its kind venue where the best of bar sports and immersive gameplay comes together under one roof.
“These types of venues exist in London, New York and Chicago so we thought Melbourne deserved to be on that list too. And because the games are so accessible, it doesn’t matter if you’re a first-timer or a pro, you’re going to love it. We have created the ultimate adult’s playground that you can take your mates, your colleagues, your family or even the in-laws for a fun (and COVID safe) night out,” says Wools.
Ballers, named after the adjective ‘baller’ meaning impressive is a social club with spectacular proportions employing over 100 people across a 2500 sqm mega-space making it the biggest licensed venue in Melbourne’s CBD. With the choice of ping pong, shuffleboard, VR, social darts, six bars and beach cabanas this is the super-venue guaranteed to cure the post-lockdown blues.
The Growers, South Coast, NSW
The hospitality creators of the acre eateries, The Greens, The Fernery, Taffy’s and Alala’s, Tully Heard Consulting set its sights on regional with the opening of The Growers in NSW’s Shoalhaven. This expansive indoor-outdoor casual eatery and bar just south of Nowra will celebrate the best of its surroundings while showcasing the region’s diverse produce, wine, spirits, beer and cheese. The space features multiple areas for dining and private events enhanced by the delicious menu created by head chef Patrick Haney (ex-Sydney Opera Bar and Pok Pok in Portland, Oregon). The outdoor area caters beautifully to families with kids play areas, a fire pit and kiosk serving a limited weekend menu that serves barbecue-style dishes.
“The NSW South Coast is a region rich with produce and history, and The Growers will continue to tell these stories, cementing its place as a leading food, beverage and event destination,” said Patrick Haney. “As we head into the school and Christmas holidays, The Growers is the perfect pit stop for lunch if you are passing through, or an ideal location for those in the Shoalhaven region over summer.”
