Buckleys Entertainment has long been a beloved destination, offering great value meals and a welcoming atmosphere. The recent refurbishment of Uncle Buck’s ice creamery-themed playground has further solidified its reputation as a family-friendly venue, creating a space where both children and adults can enjoy themselves. The inspiration for this playground came from the unexpected success of Uncle Buck’s Ice-Creamery, which quickly became a hit with guests. Seeing the appeal, the Buckleys team decided to extend the theme into the kids’ room and playground. By working closely with a playground architect, they brought this vision to life with a custom design, rather than opting for a standard, off-the-shelf model. The result is a seamless integration of the two spaces that not only provides entertainment for children but also opens up exciting marketing possibilities for the future.

Every detail of the playground was thoughtfully designed to reflect Buckleys’ and Uncle Buck’s unique style and quality. From the vibrant, colourful flooring that mimics the look of ice cream scoops to the newly added mini ice-cream parlour tower and slide, the playground is unmistakably tied to the Uncle Buck’s brand. This careful attention to detail has made the space not just visually striking but also a perfect complement to Buckleys’ overall atmosphere.

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The playground has helped shift Buckleys’ identity, transforming it into a recognised family destination. With the addition of the playground, families now have a full experience to enjoy—great meals for the adults and a fun, engaging space for the kids. The playground’s new features, such as the mini tower and slide, were specifically designed to cater to different age groups, ensuring that all children can find something to enjoy. This thoughtful planning has been met with overwhelmingly positive feedback from families visiting the venue.

The timing of the playground’s construction during the COVID-19 lockdowns allowed Buckleys to complete the project without disrupting their business. When the venue reopened, the playground immediately attracted attention, not just from the local community but from visitors across Victoria. The increased foot traffic has led to a surge in revenue, with Buckleys now booked out weeks in advance and busy every night of the week.

In addition to drawing more families, the playground has also created new opportunities for the club. Buckleys now hosts kids’ parties most weekends, using the playground space before bistro service begins. This has provided local families with a new option for birthday celebrations, while also allowing the club to make the most of its facilities during quieter periods.

The success of the playground has inspired Buckleys to plan further renovations. The main bar is set to be revamped, to make room for a new café/bar space that will provide additional seating and options for private parties. The alfresco area will also undergo an upgrade, transforming it into a comfortable, stylish outdoor space with heating, cooling, and modern furniture, making it usable year-round.

Buckleys’ commitment to continually improving its family offerings and diversifying its services has solidified its position as a must-visit destination. The ice creamery-themed playground is just the latest in a series of enhancements that are helping the club grow and thrive, ensuring it remains a favourite for families across the region. With more renovations on the horizon, Buckleys is set to continue its upward trajectory as a top destination for all ages.

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