The race for entertainment dominance is more fierce than ever—and this story exemplifies how traditional motorsport history is giving way to cutting-edge hospitality experiences. But here's where it gets controversial: many might assume that a sports-themed venue is all about fast cars and adrenaline, yet today’s modern entertainment hubs are redefining what 'entertainment' really means. And this is the part most people miss—that behind the scenes, innovative technology plays a vital role in crafting seamless guest experiences.
Nestled approximately 60 kilometers southwest of Sydney, the area famously known for speedway racing since 1962 has transitioned into a bustling entertainment precinct. Historically, this location thrived on the roar of engines and high-speed thrills. However, as property developers expanded nearby throughout the early 2000s, a new community emerged—locals living in neighborhoods named after racing legends who demanded diverse entertainment options, all within a single venue.
The new Oran Park Hotel was designed not just as a replacement for the old racetrack but as a vibrant hub capable of hosting a variety of activities—from live music and DJ sets to sporting event screenings and social gatherings. With an estimated investment nearing AU$60 million, it proudly claims the title of Australia’s largest pub entertainment complex.
Created by Momento Hospitality with architectural input from Sydney’s Archebiosis Architects and collaborative planning with Greenfields Development, the venue spans three floors. It features seven diverse bars—each offering a different atmosphere—including an all-day dining Bistro, a lively Sports Bar, the popular Papi’s Pizzeria, an Asian-themed rooftop bar, and a well-stocked bottle shop. Covering an impressive 7,500 square meters, the complex also hosts a grand ballroom, boutique cinemas, a children’s indoor play area, and a lush garden atrium.
Art also plays a central role, with many pieces created by local and emerging artists, giving the venue an inviting, culturally rich vibe. For example, a large, hand-painted racing mural in the Sports Bar celebrates Oran Park’s storied motorsport history. At the heart of the space stands a native Australian bottle tree in the central atrium—an intentional focal point—illuminated by natural light filtering through a glazed roof, casting a warm glow on raised seating areas and curved balconies.
A key technical accomplishment is the sophisticated AV system designed and integrated by Vestec Electro, a systems integrator subcontracted through Versatile Construction. Led by project managers Mark Versic and Neville Hanna, the AV setup utilizes the Q-SYS Core platform to control and monitor everything from sound to visuals seamlessly. The audio system’s design, crafted in collaboration with the Australian distributor TAG and engineered with EASE software, ensures a balanced, immersive experience.
The venue’s audio infrastructure incorporates a range of QSC products—such as CX-Q series amplifiers, Core 110f processors, and various loudspeakers—managed via Q-SYS touchscreens and interfaces. An essential feature is the central subscription server that streams music over fiber optic cables through a dedicated network switch, with pre-set audio levels automatically adjusted by software to eliminate the need for manual intervention. Ambient microphones from Audio-Technica are installed in busier areas, capable of automatically adjusting volume levels based on crowd activity.
According to Salvatore Bellamo, General Manager of Momento Hospitality, the shift toward an advanced IP-based AV setup significantly simplifies system management. “Our goal is always to make operations smoother for our staff,” he explains. “Thanks to the Q-SYS system, they can effortlessly switch between different audio modes—like DJ playlists or background music—simply by pressing a button. Adjustments happen instantly, thanks to the software’s DSP configurations being set and ready to go.”
At the core of this intelligent AV control is the Q-SYS Core 110f, which uses Q-LAN technology to link audio, video, and control functions over the venue’s IP network. It provides a robust 128x128 network channels and can connect to non-networked devices through GPIO-connected expanders, ensuring compatibility with a variety of control systems. Safety and emergency features are also built-in, with a fireman’s panel capable of overriding or shutting down audio systems immediately if necessary.
On the ground floor, the audio distribution includes QSC CX-Q amplifiers and a variety of ceiling- and surface-mounted speakers—like the AD-S4T, AD-S5T, and AD-S6T models—supporting announcements and background music throughout the complex. For venues needing higher sound pressure levels and clearer foreground sound, TAG recommended premium Martin Audio enclosures, including CDD5B and SX110 subwoofers, which are located strategically to cover the sports bar’s big screens and gaming areas. The DJ stage and live music zones are equipped with large coaxial cabinets (such as CDD12B) and subwoofers (like the Blackline X118), with ambient microphones activated when needed to elevate the atmosphere.
The Bistro, with its striking terracotta ceilings and terrazzo floors, also benefits from Martin Audio speakers—especially the CDD5B and SX110 models—carefully tuned using Display 3 software to control reverberation times and acoustic energy, ensuring clear sound in a space with many reflective surfaces.
For more private or specialized functions, two boutique cinemas on the first level were designed by industry expert Peter Williams, ensuring adherence to Hollywood standards for film projection. These theaters feature advanced QSC cinema sound systems with dual 15-inch speakers and dual 18-inch subwoofers, complemented by surround speakers, powered by multiple CX-Q amplifiers. Projection is provided by Barco laser projectors, synchronized with Dolby processors and servers for high-quality visual experiences.
Adjacent to the cinemas, the Crush Bar offers an intimate space inspired by classic movie theaters, with vinyl records playing through Martin Audio speakers and subwoofers, creating a nostalgic yet modern ambience. The connecting foyers are filled with natural light and feature discreet audio systems using QSC ceiling speakers, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal.
The first floor also includes additional rooms equipped with standalone Core 110f processors—perfect for small meetings, seminars, or training sessions. These rooms are integrated into the Q-SYS environment, offering videoconferencing capabilities via HDMI matrices and IP cameras. Multiple Dante wallplates connect laptops and other devices for seamless audio and video transmission, making these spaces versatile for various activities.
The grand ballroom is a versatile space used for weddings, corporate functions, and celebrations. It features custom AV wall plates with integrated control for audio, video, lighting, and data, allowing clients to supply their equipment if desired. The audio system here includes ceiling-suspended and floor-standing Martin Audio speakers powered by dedicated amplifiers, with microphones ranging from wireless bodypacks to handheld units, all synchronized through the venue’s sophisticated control system.
Concluding his thoughts, Bellamo emphasizes how the advanced AV infrastructure has transformed operational efficiency. “Thanks to Q-SYS, our staff can manage over 100 displays across the venue from a simple tablet or even a mobile phone,” he says. “Whether changing music sources or adjusting volume levels, the entire process is streamlined. Neville from Vestec Electro and the team at TAG have done a fantastic job designing a system that truly fits our needs—making technology an invisible yet powerful partner in delivering exceptional guest experiences.”
So, as entertainment venues continue to evolve, one question remains: Will future innovation make operations even easier—or will it introduce new challenges that we’re not yet prepared for? Share your thoughts in the comments!
