Bomb suits to birdies: First look inside first of its kind indoor golf precinct on the Gold Coast

Two ex-army mates have taken a swing at a different career path, opening a $1.5 million, first of its kind indoor golf precinct on the Gold Coast. FULL STORY

Switching bomb suits for birdies, two ex-army mates have taken a swing at a different career path, opening a $1.5 million, first of its kind indoor golf precinct on the Gold Coast.

The launch of the 600 sqm X-Golf venue came after franchise owner Mitch Simkin was looking for a transition back into civilian life after being medically discharged from his role as an Ammunition Technician in the Army.

“I’ve always loved soccer but couldn’t play after the Army, I discovered X-Golf and being able to play sport around my injuries was a no-brainer,” Mr Simkin said.

“Opening my first ever franchise business is certainly nerve-racking, but when I compare it to what we were doing in the Army, it’s easy.”

Two Ex-Army mates are taking a shot at the Gold Coast’s golfing scene, opening the city's first ever X-Golf franchise located at Ashmore. Owner Mitch Simkin and General Manager Alex Flori watching over the construction process. Picture Glenn Hampson

Mr Simkin will launch the exciting new sports entertainment hotspot on Tuesday, 26 November alongside his friend and fellow Ex-Army Ammunition Technician Alex Flori, who was also medically discharged.

Mr Flori said they are currently recruiting a local team, which will likely include some ex-Army comrades.

“At the end of the day, the ultimate goal is to do your hobby as a job and we’re excited to be doing that while bringing an awesome new venue to the Gold Coast,” Mr Flori said.

“There’s a solid golf scene here and to combine that with welcoming hospitality, good food and drinks, and a lively atmosphere will be a real game changer for the sport.”

Two Ex-Army mates are taking a shot at the Gold Coast's golfing scene, opening the city's first ever X-Golf franchise located at Ashmore. Render of expected interior. Picture: Supplied

X-Golf simulators are renowned as the world’s most realistic with high-resolution cameras, infra-red lasers and impact sensors to capture detailed data about each shot.

Players can also play simulated versions of more than 50 of the world’s most prestigious courses.

Located at 345 Southport Nerang Road, X-Golf Ashmore will include darts, a pool table, live sporting action playing on the big screens, a central bar stocked with tap beer, cocktails and a full kitchen.

Two Ex-Army mates are taking a shot at the Gold Coast's golfing scene, opening the city's first ever X-Golf franchise located at Ashmore. Render of expected exterior. Picture: Supplied

The venue will host the popular X-League tournaments, the largest virtual golf competition of its kind and offer players the ability to practise with PGA Pro golfers.

“It’s great to find a purpose and we’re thrilled to be starting this journey within such a supportive community,” Mitch said.

X-Golf Ashmore is the 30th location to open in Australia.