Yet another fun activity is coming to the Gold Coast – just in time for the Christmas holidays. We caught up with co-owner Mitch (and his mum Abigail) ahead of the X-Golf Ashmore grand opening.
When Mitch decided to transition out of the army after 14 years of service, he faced a daunting question: ‘What next?’.
After sustaining a serious injury during service, Mitch’s doctor suggested golf as part of his recovery. What began as a simple way to rehabilitate with a friend quickly grew into a passion for the sport. But when their usual golf course was flooded in 2022, they found themselves at X-Golf Enoggera – and Mitch’s next adventure began.
X-Golf is a competitive yet social way to enjoy golf, using state-of-the-art simulators to better your game, play world-renowned courses or just have a crack. It wasn’t long before Mitch got involved with X-League, Australia’s biggest golf tournament, which is played by X-Golf players all over the world.
“When someone suggested I buy into X-Golf, everything just clicked,” he tells us.
But setting up X-Golf Ashmore – the first on the Gold Coast – was no small feat. From navigating the complexities of franchising to finding the perfect location, the process took years.
Originally, Mitch and his business partner (and ex-army mate) Alex considered Springwood, but they quickly realized the Gold Coast was the ideal spot.
“It’s close to residential areas and tourist hubs like Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach,” Mitch says. “We wanted a place where families could come together and have fun.”
X-Golf Ashmore’s location is unique, combining two rental spaces to create a venue that’s as much about hospitality as it is about golf. With six high-tech simulators imported from Korea – two of which are equipped with advanced laser technology for professional swing analysis – the facility caters to everyone from seasoned golfers to complete beginners.
“We’re creating an experience that’s customisable for whoever is playing,” Mitch explains. “If kids want to challenge their parents, we can adjust the settings to make it fair. If someone wants to play on a world-famous PGA course, they can. Or, if you’re just here for fun, you can play in an amusement park or Times Square.”
Mitch’s mum, Abigail, has been a big part of the journey, too – and she’s passionate about making X-Golf Ashmore welcoming to women. A long-time golfer herself, she knows firsthand how intimidating traditional golf courses can be.
“Golf can feel unapproachable, especially for beginners or women,” Abigail says. “At X-Golf, it’s all about having fun, whether you’re here socially or looking to improve your game.”
While the venue is designed to be family-friendly, it also boasts a vibrant sports bar atmosphere, setting it apart from other X-Golf locations that primarily focus on the simulators. Mitch emphasizes their commitment to hospitality.
“It’s about creating a space where people can relax, have a drink and enjoy themselves.”
X-Golf Ashmore also taps into the growing demand for interactive social experiences, as proven by the popularity of Top Golf. However, Mitch believes X-Golf offers something unique.
“Our point of difference is that our simulators allow you to customise every game,” he explains. “And with X-League, you can even compete remotely against friends across the country.”
Getting the venue ready for its December opening hasn’t been without its challenges. Importing and setting up the cutting-edge simulators was a logistical puzzle, but Mitch’s IT background from his army days came in handy. Now, with the finishing touches being made, X-Golf Ashmore is ready to welcome locals and visitors alike.
As the Christmas holidays approach, Mitch and the team invite everyone to experience the fun and versatility of X-Golf. Whether you’re a serious golfer looking to refine your swing, a beginner curious to try the sport or a family seeking a unique, weather-proof day out, X-Golf Ashmore promises an unforgettable experience.
