Mal McLeod, owner of Hobby Boss, welcomes racers and hobbyists alike to a place where fun and friendly competition come alive.
Photo by
Megan Fisher
As adults, we all need a place where we can leave our troubles at the door, switch off and reconnect with that carefree spirit we had as kids — where fun comes first and worry takes a back seat.
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Well, what if I told you that such a place exists in Shepparton?
A vibrant space for hobbyists of all ages and backgrounds — young and old, male or female — a place where bright lights shine, engines hum and the buzz of competition fills the air.
And whether you’re into remote control vehicles, model kits or slot cars, Hobby Boss has something for everyone.
The centrepiece of this space is the slot car racetrack that comes complete with a live commentator and, on Wednesday nights, a crowd of people cheering each other on — or occasionally getting a little too competitive.
“Sometimes cheering each other on,” owner Mal McLeod said.
“The competition can get pretty fierce.
“People see the red mist, and they go crazy.”
Wednesday night race action costs $20 per person, with participants bringing their own vehicles.
But if you don’t have one — no worries — you can purchase one when you arrive.
For many, race night is the highlight of their week.
Whether it’s the thrill of the competition or just the chance to get out of the house and enjoy some good old-fashioned fun, it’s a place where everyone feels welcome.
For Mal, it’s about much more than just racing — it’s about offering people a break from the real world.
“I say to everybody that we all have our issues and our problems — but try to leave them at the front door,” he said.
“Come in here, get away from whatever’s bothering you, get away from whatever’s a problem in your life, and have some fun, and then you can pick them back up on the way out, if you need to.”
Race nights are best suited to those in their teenage years and up, but Hobby Boss also offers corporate team-building events, which can be booked on other days of the week.
Winners take home mini trophies, and while podium places are competitive, the atmosphere remains fun and inclusive.
Some events are even live-streamed and can be viewed via the Hobby Boss Facebook page.
But at the end of the day, it’s not just about who wins — it’s about showing up, stepping up, taking a controller and feeling the thrill of the race.
“They’re not expensive trophies by any means,” Mal said with a grin.
“We go to the op shop and buy old cars or find things like steering wheels at swap meets — then we just chuck a sticker on it.
“It’s all about just having a bit of fun.”
From V8 replicas to lightweight speedsters, four-minute laps, marshals, breakdowns and fully kitted-out slot cars — Hobby Boss has it all.
Whether you’re racing or watching the action, it’s high-speed fun in miniature form.
And if you’re more into the hobby side of things, not the racing, you’ll love the huge range of models, kits and gear on sale in store.
Come and check it out for yourself — you might just find your new favourite escape.
Hobby Boss is located at 15 Glenn St, Shepparton.
For more information, check out its Facebook page and stay up to date with race nights, events and all things hobby-related.
The sprawling slot car racetrack at Hobby Boss, where bright lights, fast cars and lively crowds create a thrilling atmosphere.
Photo by
Megan Fisher
Shelves stocked with model kits, remote control vehicles and all the gear hobbyists need to build, race and repair their favourite mini machines.
Photo by
Megan Fisher
The view from the commentator’s box — where every lap, overtake and near-miss is called with excitement at Hobby Boss race night.
From V8s to vintage, racing enthusiasts gathered for a night of thrills, laughs, and lap records at Hobby Boss.
