World class axe throwing venue takes chunks out of boredom near Cleveland CBD
Residents are set to sharpen their skills as an internationally certified axe throwing venue opens its doors at a locale longing for entertainment.
Redlands Coast
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A new venue has opened for anyone who yearns for the satisfying “thunk” a competition specification axe blade makes as it is thrown at a massive bullseye.
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Former business development manager Jason Lake has opened 13 Axes Axe Throwing Australia at Russell St in Cleveland where those of adventurous spirit can partake in the ages old tradition while sipping a cool beverage and listening to music.
Having lost his dream job to COVID Mr Lake realised the time was nigh to follow his heart’s content and so came the drive to bring novel entertainment, “accessible by all”, to the Redlands.
“We are always throwing things, throwing darts or throwing this and that but we have never had a safe place to throw an axe in a fun, warm environment and that is what I really went for,” Mr Lake said.
“Don’t be afraid to try something new; you never know until you try and everybody who comes in and gives it a go, loves it.”
Step over the 13 Axes threshold and you are welcomed by the rustic charms of an intimate cabin purpose-built for bladed action.
Your weapon of choice is either a regular axe, with shortened shaft and easier to throw at the start, or a World Axe Throwing League (WATL) competition specification axe imported from Canada, where the sport is “huge”.
Line up in any number of bays – a few of which are to WATL specification and ready for online international competition – address the line and loose your axe.
A gentle release “allows the axe to do the work” and with a little luck your ears are met by the “sweet sound” of metal biting wood.
“Anybody can do it; our insurance mandates that you have to be 16 years old so anybody from 16 to 100 years old can do it,” Mr Lake said.
“It is amazing how simple but effective and fun it is.”
Having officially opened on Saturday the business, run by Mr Lakes, his wife Sam and daughter Emmy, has already seen return business.
A dauntless Mr Lake acknowledged opening up a business during these fraught times was a challenge but was steadfast in his belief that the unique activity would bring in the crowds.
“It is different and I reckon you should always do something different in your life,” he said.
“Because you don’t wake up one day and think ‘I want to go throw an axe’, you wake up and think ‘you know what, I want to go and do something different today’.
“And that was the main reason why I built the place; to do something different.”
Bookings are essential for the hour-and-a-half sessions which include a comprehensive safety instruction and tips on how to throw.
For opening times and prices see the 13 Axes Axe Throwing Australia Facebook page.