Families line up and strap in for Wagga's newest entertainment centre

Wagga’s newest entertainment venue, Vortex, is already proving to be popular after reaching capacity for most of its first day. Photo: Jarryd Rowley.

The Riverina’s newest family entertainment centre opened its doors earlier this week with families lining up in anticipation to try out a mix of rock-climbing walls, high ropes, bumper cars and obstacle courses.

Vortex has already become popular with Wagga’s youth after booking out its first session early on 2 January.

Located next to Forum 6 Cinema and The Wagga Wagga Bowling and Entertainment Centre in the old Toys R Us building, Vortex has cemented the area as the go-to entertainment hub in the city.

Owners of the new venue Adam Drummond and Andrew McCabe said they were blown away by the overwhelmingly positive reception following a successful first day.

“We were overjoyed with the support from the community; we had close to 300 guests come through our gates on the first day,” Mr Drummond said.

“We received very positive feedback from a lot of people saying they were happy they didn’t have to split the kids up.”

The co-owner also said many parents expressed that the venue delivered value for money.

For $25 for students and adults and $15 for children, climbers get 90 minutes of access to the rock walls, high ropes and play equipment, while for $5 each, visitors can also try out the impressive VR (virtual reality) rides or bumper cars.

Sam and Jordan were among the first to attempt the climbing walls. Photos: Jarryd Rowley.

There was little time throughout the day when the rock walls weren't in action.

Millie braved the heights of the climbing pillars.

Kids young and old embraced the high ropes challenge.

Fixed play structures like the ball pit provided an exciting place for children to play and hide.

Transformers such as Bumblebee and Optimus Prime greet visitors from the moment they enter.

Staff quickly adjusted to the frantic pace of the opening day.

“Being between the bowling alley and the cinema, Trail Street really has become an affordable entertainment hub,” Mr Drummond said.

“We had people tell us that they came out of the rain to try out Vortex before heading to a movie, which shows rain, hail or shine, it is a great precinct with something for everyone.”

Sam and Jordan were among the first to try the climbing equipment, both trying to beat each other’s time to the top.

“It’s been a lot of fun; it has been cool to be the first to try it out,” Sam said.

Following the first day of trading, Mr Drummond said it became clear what each person’s favourite attraction was.

“For the little ones, they loved the bumper cars and the fixed play structures,” he said.

“Kids over 12 as well as some adults, really enjoyed the high ropes challenge and the rock climbing. That remained quite popular for the entire day.

“It was a pleasure seeing families really enjoy the space.”

Despite being at capacity for most of its first day, Mr Drummond said the team at Vortex quickly found their feet and got into the groove.

“We couldn’t be prouder of the team we’ve got working for us,” he said.

“The was an overwhelming number of people, particularly early, but they took the challenge on and it became a memorable day for a lot of people.”

There are still plenty of sessions available this school holiday period. To book a time at Vortex, click here.