The Waves Sports Club has lodged an application for an estimated $2.5 million refurbishment of its gaming room, reducing the number of machines and introducing a VIP lounge.
Bundaberg Regional Council planning and development portfolio spokesperson Cr Ross Sommerfeld said the minor change application would also see the building extended, if approved.
“The applicant is proposing a minor extension that would see the club’s total ground floor area increased by 115 square metres,” Cr Sommerfeld said.
“This would facilitate the refurbishment of the existing gaming room with a reduction of gaming machines from 221 to 180 to improve layout and circulation around machines.
“The extension would also allow for the introduction of a new VIP entry point and lounge area, extension to the existing bar and a new designated outdoor smoking area.”
The Waves CEO Brendan Royall said it was an exciting opportunity for the club to invest back in to the community.
He said ‘VIP’ was a new terminology they were using for their members, all of whom the club considered to be VIPs.
“It’s a card access point,” Mr Royall said.
“Similar to what we have around the back of the club.
“It just makes it easier for members to enter the club by having VIP entry.”
The VIP lounge will offer a cosy space for a quiet moment away from the sports and entertainment areas.
“A place to go and have a conversation and meet some friends without being in the main hub of the club which is quite vibrant.”
The Waves refurbishment to include new food option
Mr Royall said a new bar would also be built in to the gaming area with a kitchenette behind it offering instant meals with shorter cooking times.
“It gives another food option in the venue and will take a bit more pressure off the coffee shop in peak times.”
He said the club was not concerned about needing to reduce the number of gaming machines to accommodate the updates.
“We’re more focused on the community and the members and creating a safe environment for our members,” he said.
“It’s a community owned asset.
“Any surpluses we do have we try to reinvest in the asset to improve member facilities and services.”
Mr Royall said The Waves had been exploring refurbishment options since late last year and would need to reprice the proposal, but they anticipated it would cost about $2.5 million.
Provided the relevant Council and Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation approvals are received in a “timely manner” Mr Royall said the club hoped to call tenders for the refurbishment in November this year with construction to commence early next year.
He said the project would be spread over four to five months so that the closing of certain areas could be staged.
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