Perth, March 5: A Morley-based operator known for turning around Wanneroo Markets is betting on the suburb’s next growth phase, launching a $2 million sport-entertainment venue opposite the Galleria Shopping Centre later this month.
Dean Petrie, who helped lift Wanneroo Markets to full occupancy before the site was sold this year for close to $10 million, has opened a 900sqm X-Golf Morley facility at 129 Russell Street, targeting locals seeking “close-to-home” leisure options as household budgets tighten.
“That experience showed me what’s possible when you combine strong business fundamentals with a genuine focus on community,” Petrie said, referencing his work revitalising Wanneroo Markets alongside the broader shift toward localised entertainment.
The venue sits across from the Galleria during its major redevelopment and is launching as Morley’s population and demographic profile continue to change. Petrie said the scale of investment in the precinct signals a growing appetite for year-round activities that don’t require full-day commitments or travel.
“Entertainment options haven’t really kept pace with how people want to spend their time now,” he said. “With tighter budgets influencing discretionary spending, more people are choosing accessible local experiences.”
X-Golf Morley will form part of X-Golf Group’s 33-venue network across Australia and New Zealand. The site features six golf simulators with ball retrieval and sensor technology, plus a “19th Hole Lounge” with a bar and kitchen. The venue will also offer live sport viewing, pool tables and dart boards designed to encourage visitors to stay longer.
Petrie said the business will employ nine local staff, with programming aimed at both regular golfers and newcomers. The venue will offer one-on-one coaching with PGA-qualified professionals, league formats including X-League and Your Tour, and community events such as Ladies Nights and junior programs.
“Indoor golf keeps the social and competitive side of the game, but makes it more accessible — time, weather and cost are much less of a barrier,” he said. “It opens the door for people who might never step onto a traditional course.”
X-Golf Morley opens to the public from March 27.
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