The Fun Fix at Funlab Maroochydore
Looking for weatherproof good times? Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer discovers the fun-believable local venue that’s great for groups…
If there’s one thing a Sunshine Coast summer loves to do, it’s keep us guessing. Will it bring sweltering heat, a torrential downpour, golf-ball-sized hail – or perhaps even all three in the same afternoon?!
Whatever the weather, sometimes you just want to escape to a sanctuary of glorious air conditioning, icy-cold drinks, delicious snacks – and bucket-loads of fun at your fingertips. This is especially true if you’re entertaining out-of-towners, hosting a gathering, or simply have cabin fever from being cooped up in your house with the kids for waaay too long (can relate).
Enter our favourite fun-tastical solution: Funlab Maroochydore – aka Strike Bowling, Holey Moley mini golf and Archie Brothers arcade.
Tucked inside Maroochydore’s Big Top Shopping Centre, this colourful, energetic wonderland features group games galore, making it the perfect place for a day out that’ll delight everyone, from the littlest to largest members of your gang.
Sunshine Coast Venue Manager Wayne Robson says they can cater to any group – just bring yourselves and the Funlab team will bring the vibes.
“We’re here for celebrations in any way, shape or form,” he says. “Sometimes it’s groups of friends, family get-togethers, birthday parties or something else. We know it can get a bit much having everyone in your house, so people come here where they know everything will be taken care of.”
Funlab isn’t just about bowling, mini golf, karaoke or arcade games (although it does all of that super well) – at its heart is a team who are genuinely passionate about removing any stress from your shoulders so you can lean into the good times.
“Being of service is our number one guiding principle,” Wayne says. “If we see someone who needs help such as overwhelmed grandparents or parents, we just step in to assist. We want people to have those nice moments without worrying about anything.”
He tells me about a grandmother who arrived looking highly concerned that her grandkids might break something; but when a team member stepped in to gently guide them, she relaxed, stepped back, and started smiling.
“She went from a nervous grimace to actually enjoying the moment,” he says. “That’s how it should be.”
That sense of ease is woven into the Funlab ticketing system too – such as the flexible Fun Bundle, the triple-activity pass that’s become the venue’s best-loved gift-card option. Buy it online and it’ll assign bowling, mini golf and arcades, making it a great choice for those who want a little bit of everything.
And for anyone looking for a gift that’s sure to be a winner, look no further than the Funlab Gift Cards.
“They’re a big hit with grandparents, as they know they’re getting an experience gift that the kids will truly love,” Wayne says.
But be warned – it gets popular, so you really do need to book ahead!
Most families spend around two hours doing the circuit at Strike, Holey Moley and Archie Brothers, but groups can stretch that into a whole afternoon if the good vibes (and creative cocktails) are flowing, which they usually are.
Families with little ones are well catered for – the youngest bowlers tend to be around four or five, though Wayne’s daughter has been toddling the pins since she could stand. Staff are happy to recommend ball sizes and tips for tiny first-timers, and the whole venue is designed for a choose-your-own-adventure experience, whether you’re four, 40 or 94.
It’s no surprise that Funlab is popular for milestone events: birthdays, team parties and end-of-year wind-downs. It’s even a great option for that notoriously tricky party demographic: too-cool-for-school teens.
“They definitely don’t want Mum and Dad hovering. We’re way more daggy than their parents, but we’re not their parents, so it totally works,” Wayne says.
The dining area has everything you need to fuel your fun, including pizzas, burgers, share platters and more, while the fully equipped cocktail bar serves up classics alongside crazy creations. Bowling groups can graze while they play, but golf and arcade fans usually refuel before heading to the next thing.
Looking for a weatherproof bubble where you can escape the heat, dodge the rain, let loose with your favourite people, and let someone else handle the hard bits? Find your fun at Strike Bowling, Holey Moley and Archie Brothers – because sometimes the best memories are the ones made under a disco ball, holding a bowling ball, laughing at the chaos of it all.
GIVE THE GIFT OF FUN!
Looking for a gift that’s sure to be a hit for the young or young at heart?
A Funlab Maroochydore Gift Card will guarantee a funtastic time! It can be used on activities, drinks and food, letting them choose their own adventure.
Order now via the Strike, Holey Moley or Archie Brothers websites or at www.funlabgiftcard.com.au
