The launch day was lively, with $1000 in prizes up for grabs, live broadcasting by Hit FM, and family-friendly activities such as fairy floss and face painting adding to the festive atmosphere.
City of Greater Shepparton Cr Fern Summer had the honour of cutting the red ribbon, officially opening the lanes to the public.
According to Fun Planet director Jason Wallace, the new attraction now makes Shepparton home to interactive, full-length bowling lanes typically found only in select city locations.
Mr Wallace described the million-dollar investment as “significant” for the business but “worthwhile” as bowling represented “a long-term attraction”.
Installing 12 bowling lanes has been part of a six-month transformation at Fun Planet. The new lanes replace the venue’s Go Kart tracks, which were retired earlier this year to prioritise an activity that appealed to a broader audience.
“Fun Planet prides itself on being an all inclusive venue with options for everyone,” Mr Wallace said.
"We recently had Go Karts, which were removed back after Easter 2024, in order to make way for the 12 more-inclusive bowling lanes.
“Tenpin bowling is known as the great equaliser of sports.
“People of all ages and abilities can play and compete with each other, as opposed to karts, which did not appeal to the wider audience of Shepparton and the Goulburn Valley.”
Group operations manager Melanie Bow emphasised the versatility of the new bowling alley, highlighting how it appealed to various groups thanks to its low-effort yet fun-packed nature.
“We had often been requested to put in bowling by the general public,” Ms Bow said.
“We will be offering social competitions, school tournaments and events, open play casual bowling, along with birthday parties — all making use of the lanes.”
She also shared plans to cater to a wide range of needs, from disability support providers to corporate events.
“We’ve got a really cool function area, which is right next to the bowling area,” Ms Bow said.
“So, if you’re looking at doing a team bonding event … we’ve got a projector screen there with a projector, so you can have a conference there, and then you can go out and do some team-building bowling.
“We’re also looking at social leagues … which don’t discriminate against age.”
Expanded opportunities for entertainment
The new bowling lanes have also allowed Fun Planet to expand its operations, with the venue now open seven days a week, increasing accessibility and creating new job opportunities.
Visitors can now enjoy a variety of experiences whenever they want.
“We look forward to welcoming our past and current customers to experience the thrill of modern day tenpin bowling, and welcome new customers to come and explore our offer of more than 5000 square metres of entertainment that includes café, laser tag, pixel games, mini golf, dodgem cars, over 130 arcade games and a wonderful prize shop,” Mr Wallace said.
Plan your visit
Bookings for bowling are available online, with options for per-game play, hourly sessions accommodating up to six players per lane, and birthday party packages. Customers can also take advantage of bonus packages, offering up to 40 per cent savings on attractions, or the all-inclusive Planet Pass.
For more information, head to Fun Planet’s website or its Facebook page.
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