Mini Golf Pops Up to Drive Holiday Fun

Published 10th October 2024
Barunga West Council has voted to support a pop-up mini golf trial at Gallery 1871 in Port Broughton, which will be launched in December as part of the town’s festive activities.

The student-led initiative will run from Tuesday, 17 December until Friday, 24 January, providing a new recreational option for locals and visitors during the summer holiday season.

The 18-hole mini golf course, purchased by the Council for $2000, was sourced from Par Tee HQ in Port Pirie and will be hosted indoors, making it an all-weather attraction suitable for family outings, group bookings, and social gatherings.

The course will be open from 9.30am to 3.30pm on weekdays, allowing participants to enjoy a round for just $5 per person, with payment options available through the local Visitor Information Office.

This pop-up event is part of Barunga West Council’s broader strategy to promote tourism and community engagement, coinciding with other local festivities like the Port Broughton Christmas Festival, Santa’s Cave and New Year’s Eve Fireworks.

The decision to trial the course came after a group of Port Broughton Area School students proposed the idea as part of a school-led initiative to enhance local tourism. The students’ presentation to Council, which included other community projects, impressed councillors and highlighted the value of youth involvement in local decision-making.

Mayor Leonie Kerley said: “The students have demonstrated remarkable insight into the needs of the town, combining tourism potential with sustainable community development. We are excited to see these ideas come to life and to evaluate their potential for longer-term implementation.”

The pop-up mini golf will be managed primarily by volunteers, with support from Council staff.

If successful, the initiative could become a regular feature during school holidays and special events, with the potential for a permanent location.

The Council will use this trial to gather feedback from the community, which will inform future decisions on recreational infrastructure for the region.