Melbourne's Next-Gen Hybrid FEC
How Funlandia Blends Tech and Active Play for a Sustainable Model
Project Overview
Located in Melbourne, Australia, this brand-new family entertainment center (FEC) was developed by an experienced investor who previously ran a tech-heavy amusement park featuring VR and simulator-based attractions. While the earlier park gained early traction thanks to novelty and high-tech appeal, the operator faced critical limitations in the long run—limited capacity, high operating costs, and declining visitor retention.
With this Australian project, the client aimed to break out of that model and build a new generation of FEC that could balance cutting-edge appeal with long-term profitability. That’s where Funlandia came in.
The Challenge: How to Move Beyond Short-Lived Tech Gimmicks?
In the client’s previous project, most attractions relied heavily on advanced technology like VR headsets and ride simulators. While these installations drew attention during the first few months of operation, three persistent issues emerged:
Low throughput
Many attractions only accommodated 1–2 users at a time and required constant operator involvement.
Short novelty cycle
Players quickly grew tired of limited, repetitive experiences.
High cost structure
Expensive equipment, manpower, and ongoing maintenance drove up operating expenses.
These pain points created significant barriers to scaling up the business. In planning the new FEC, the investor set out to build a more efficient, scalable model.
The Solution: Combining Immersive Tech with High-Capacity Active Play
After learning about Funlandia’s capabilities, the client realized our modular soft play products and adventure play attractions could serve as the perfect complement to their new technology-based installations.
Funlandia’s project team—including our design consultants and project manager—worked closely with the client to:
Analyze spatial flow and player behavior
Integrate different product categories into a unified layout
Maximize visitor capacity without sacrificing experience quality
The Final Solution
Thrill Arena is Funlandia’s flagship attraction that combines challenge courses with an immersive Interactive Tagging System. Drawing inspiration from obstacle-based competitions, this modular arena combines physical challenges and gamified engagement through electronic wristband tagging and timed play. The attraction enhances interactivity, boosts player participation, and increases repeat visits by turning every session into a thrilling, competitive experience.
Super Runio
Interactive obstacle-based structure that encouraged movement, exploration, and repeated visits.
Visual and operational synergy with the client’s tech attractions—designed as complementary zones, not competing ones.
The Outcome: A Flagship Mixed-Experience FEC
The new park successfully launched as a hybrid amusement space—one that blends the immediate appeal of high-tech rides with the lasting value of active play zones. Compared to the client’s earlier park, this Australian project achieved:
- 3x higher daily capacity thanks to scalable throughput.
- Reduced manpower needs and operating costs.
- Greater family appeal, including activities suitable for different age groups.
- Higher return visits due to the dynamic, physically engaging experience.
- Extremely positive client feedback, praising Funlandia’s expertise, responsiveness, and product quality.
The project set a new benchmark for FECs in the region, proving that strategic product mix—not just flashy technology—is key to long-term success.
Ready to Future-Proof Your Park?
Talk to our expert team to explore how Funlandia can help you design and build a high-performance, hybrid amusement space.