For more than six years, Catherine and Darren Hayes have run Ballarat Indoor Go Karts & Laserforce, delivering fun, excitement and memorable experiences to locals and visitors alike. As the region’s only venue combining indoor go-kart racing and laserforce under one roof, the family-owned business has evolved into a complete entertainment destination, offering everything from laser tag and arcade games to karaoke, birthday parties and corporate events.
A family business built on determination
When Catherine and Darren took over the business, they brought with them more than 15 years of franchise experience but no background in the family entertainment sector. Despite seeing significant potential in the venue, their journey was immediately tested when COVID-19 forced the business to close just over three months after purchase.
Rather than stepping back, the team adapted quickly, accessing support programs and reshaping their plans to navigate the challenges. Their resilience paid off, with the business emerging stronger and later being recognised with the 2024 Federation University Business Excellence Award for Family Business.
Connecting with TMV
Wanting to become more connected with the region’s tourism industry and improve how the business was marketed to visitors, the team began engaging with Tourism Midwest Victoria (TMV). Through programs including Advance Sales Training, ATDW training, the Accessible Business Workshop and Mobile Video Content Workshop, they gained practical skills including introducing online booking capabilities, allowing customers to book 24/7, investing in social media content creation, and continuing to focus on delivering exceptional customer service.
The business has also seen increased interest from conference and business events visiting Ballarat, creating new opportunities for team-building experiences and exclusive venue hire offerings.
Small steps towards sustainability
Sustainability is also part of the business’s long-term focus. Ballarat Indoor Go Karts & Laserforce has upgraded to energy-efficient LED lighting throughout the venue and participates in the Fifteen Trees program to help offset its carbon footprint through tree planting. These practical initiatives demonstrate how small actions can contribute to a more sustainable tourism industry while supporting the future of the region.
Looking to the future
For the team, success today means more than strong bookings. It’s about creating memorable experiences, maintaining an excellent safety record, retaining passionate staff and continuing to deliver the friendly, welcoming atmosphere that keeps visitors coming back.
Their advice to other tourism businesses considering involvement with TMV is simple: “Get involved. There are a lot of people with a lot of local knowledge that you can learn from.”
Their story is a great reminder that successful tourism businesses don’t grow in isolation. They thrive when they learn, collaborate and contribute to the strength of the destination as a whole.
Connect with TMV and let us help you be part of the story.