Ballina developers submit plans for virtual golf facility

A North Coast town could be the home to an exciting new virtual sporting centre if one developer’s plans are approved. Get your first look here>>

A new plan to build a one-of-a-kind golfing facility in Ballina have been revealed.

A development application for a virtual golf facility on Ascot Rd was recently submitted to Ballina Shire Council, on behalf of applicants Virtual Golf Centre.

The plans detail the golf centre and accompanying cafe would be contained in a subdivision already approved in 2021 for the purposes of a gymnasium and food/drink premises.

According to the planning report by Newton Denny Chapelle, there would be four virtual golf bays available in the centre with a maximum of four golfers allowed per bay for co-ordinated competition and six players for social use.

Each social game is slated to last approximately one hour, and the report noted the space would also be used for professional functions and golf tournaments.

The proposed business model outlined a two-staff requirement, including a possible professional PGA qualified coach for lessons.

Pre-packaged food would be sold initially with plans for a cafe and a liquor licence in the future.

However, the cafe’s operation was solely dependant on the golf centre.

“The cafe which is planned to be licensed will function only when the virtual golf is operational and as such, it is not an independent business and will cease should the virtual golf business cease its operations,” the report noted.

An additional mezzanine space was also part of submissions, with hopes it would be made to eventually house kid’s virtual entertainment.

“This area serves as a child play area while the adults undertake their virtual golf game,” the application noted.

Operating hours were proposed to be between 7am and 10pm.

The developers were contacted for comment by The Northern Star.