A sneak peak into the $3 million refit of a city icon, Baller’s Clubhouse set to reinvigorate Adelaide’s hospitality and entertainment sectors.
A new jewel is about to be added to the crown of Adelaide’s hospitality sector with the upcoming launch of Baller’s Clubhouse at 21 Pulteney Street. Revitalising the iconic, heritage listed, Ruthven Mansion into a bespoke ‘hospo-tainment’ complex complete with state-of-the-art gaming technology and a 36-tap bar, the mansion with its $3 million refit marks Baller’s Clubhouse’s first expansion interstate following the success of its prior two flagship locations in Melbourne’s CBD.
Peter Tunno, Southern Cross Equity GM and Landlord of the heritage listed 21 Pulteney Street, noted that "Ballers Clubhouse was chosen for the space because it perfectly aligns with our vision for this historic mansion. They bring a unique energy and vibrancy, ensuring that 21 Pulteney Street will become a lively centrepiece for the community. By blending respect for the past with a fresh, modern approach, Ballers Clubhouse will breathe new life into this area."
The new venue, which hosts a premium take on shuffleboard, ping pong and darts along with a birdcage ball pit with karaoke, a giant ping pong tree, a mirrorball loveseat and multiple fancy private spaces. Baller’s Clubhouse is set to draw increased foot traffic to the CBD, employ over 500 staff over a ten year period and inject millions into the local economy. This comes directly following the recent closure of several hospitality businesses in Adelaide’s central business district with more and more facing significant struggles over lack of visitors according to
recent reports.
“We have a proven track record of boosting local urban economies and we know Australia is eager for the growing competitive socialising trend” said Stephen Wools, co-founder of Ballers Clubhouse and parent group Superverse Group, referencing the growing demand, particularly in the UK, where 71% of consumers have engaged in such activities in the past year, with an impressive 93% participation rate among Gen Z (WorldXo.org). “Australia is about five years behind the UK in this trend,” says Wools. “We’re on the brink of a dramatic shift in the market that will change the way we socialise. Our venues are perfectly poised to lead this evolution.”
Adding credibility to this claim, before he became a founder at Ballers Clubhouse, Simon Jones was co-founder of Funlab (Holey Moley, Strike Bowling and Sky-Zone). Simon successfully sold out of Funlab (which later had a $250 million sale to TPG Capital in 2021) to focus Ballers adult-focussed entertainment over Funlabs’ focus on kids and late teens demographic.
Included in Baller’s Clubhouse’s bespoke offerings to Adelaidians is a unique blend of technology and entertainment, pioneered by the Superverse Group's subsidiary,
Good Time Tech. The Technology ensures that each game is not only engaging but also enhanced beyond traditional automated scoring. For example, the world's first “footy darts game” combines physical dart throwing with a simulated footy field display, offering an innovative and interactive experience, tying in with live footy prize giveaways.
“We aim to inject a new type of adult fun and vitality into Adelaide’s growing hospitality and entertainment sector that is being amplified with LIV Golf and The Gather Round. Our mission is to revolutionise socialising in Australia through blending stunning hospitality environments with immersive games to create the world’s best nightlife experiences," says Josh Lefers, co-founder of Superverse and Ballers Clubhouse. "Our Adelaide venue is designed to captivate guests for hours, helping people entertain themselves together through a multi-sensory experience with posh food, exquisite cocktails, immersive games, and energising music."
Beyond casual social gatherings, Baller’s Clubhouse is also a popular choice for SME's and corporate events, team-building activities, and special occasions such as mates dates, hens and bucks parties. The venue’s ability to offer a fun yet productive environment makes it a valuable addition to corporate event calendars, promoting social responsibility and team cohesion with an impressive existing corporate client list that includes the likes of Deloitte, Coles and McDonalds.
On a path to creating a $100+ million turnover business within the next 3 years, and leading the hospo-tainment venue revolution within Australia Baller’s Clubhouse is set to launch its first interstate venue in Adelaide this July.
The new Adelaidian venue follows the immense success of Ballers Clubhouse flagships in Melbourne and is a testament to the growing demand in the adult competitive socialising space. The $3 million refit of the heritage-listed 21 Pulteney Street location illustrates the brand’s dedication to reinvigorate Adelaide’s hospitality and entertainment landscape and marks the first of four new venues by mid 2025.
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Ballers Clubhouse Co-Founders Josh Lefers and Stephen Wools are available for interview and comment. All enquiries should be directed to Matthew Iozzi | 0466 406 418 | Matthew@madco.com.au and/or Helen Reizer | 0412 684 431 | helen@hrpr.com.au
About Ballers Clubhouse:
Ballers Clubhouse is a premier sports bar and immersive gaming venue that combines state-of-the-art technology with a vibrant social atmosphere. Founded by Josh Lefers and Stephen Wools, Ballers Clubhouse offers a unique multi-game concept, exceptional food and drinks, and an engaging environment that keeps guests coming back for more. With successful venues in Melbourne, the brand is expanding rapidly, setting new standards in the competitive socialising space.