THE last surviving paintball business in the region is looking for a new home after being forced to halt operations at the current Burrungle Road site.
Joe DiCenso announced the indefinite closure of Burrungle Park Paintball and Laser Tag last week due to “unforeseen circumstances”.
However, he said an application had been lodged with Grant District Council to relocate to a new site.
“Should approval be given, then the lengthy process of rebuilding new fields can begin,” Mr DiCenso said.
“South Australian Police will then need to inspect the field to give approval before trading can start.”
Mr DiCenso described the current closure of the business as a significant loss to the South East and also to western districts of Victoria.
“Burrungule Park provided a unique form of entertainment – laser tag can cater for children from the age of six years and paintball from the age of 10,” he said.
“Football, cricket, hockey and netball clubs, as well as buck shows and kids birthday parties are the majority of groups utilising the field.
“The closest paintball field from Mount Gambier is located at Monarto, some 380km away.”
He said the closure was particularly disappointing for groups who had already pre-booked to use the site.
“We sincerely apologise for the disappointment and inconvenience this has caused to so many clubs and groups who had advanced bookings, none more so than the kids who were looking forward to their birthday parties,” Mr DiCenso said.
Mr DiCenso said the business had sponsored a number of community groups and charities while maintaining an “exemplary safety record”.
While he is hopeful an agreement can be reached with council to relocate to a new site, it is not guaranteed.
“Should a positive outcome not be received from council, then it is highly probable the business will be forced to permanently close,” he said.
“We have had lots of positive comments and good wishes via social media, so let’s hope we get some good news from the council.”
