Veda Dante, Dr Neil Gibson, James Heffield, Gwen Luscombe.
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From the Publisher
The Year Rolls On
So how is 2025 shaping up for those who manage locations and deliver programs and services in the industry that covers aquatics, attractions, entertainment, events, fitness, parks, recreation, sport, tourism and venues - somewhat awkwardly known as leisure?
Five years on from when the pandemic shut the industry down, across the sectors that this publication covers it is reassuring to survey a landscape marked by innovation, challenges and evolving consumer expectations.
As we enter a season of major industry conferences and trade shows, I offer a brief overview of how the industry currently sits.
Among major attractions my recent attendance at a resurgent 2025 Australian Amusement, Leisure and Recreation Association (AALARA) conference saw a sector expressing renewed confidence - driven by investments and openings in the Gold Coast’s theme parks.
Globally, the Katapult 2030 Trends Report highlighted megatrends influencing themed entertainment, such as the integration of AI, personalisation and sustainability. These trends underscore the need for attractions to balance technological advancements with authentic guest experiences.
In aquatics, investment in the nation’s remarkable facility provision continues although the sector is impacted by the implications of drowning and the need to improve water safety skills and accessibility of facilities.
In addition, there is the challenge of violence towards pool staff where Life Saving Victoria is leading an industry-wide response.
Simultaneously, the aquatic fitness sector is seeking greater recognition. A report from the 2024 Aqua Summit and Aqua Industry Forum calls for modernisation in marketing, training, and leadership to revitalise the sector and to move away from the notion of ‘aqua aerobics’.
The fitness industry is adapting to technological advancements and shifting consumer preferences. AUSactive’s unveiling of emerging fitness and wellness trends for 2025 highlights the increasing focus on active ageing and the integration of exercise with health promotion.
Also, the recent Fuel Summit helped chart the growth of women in fitness management.
Security has become a paramount concern for sports venues following incidents such as the alleged smuggling of firearms into the MCG during an AFL match in April.
This breach has prompted a comprehensive review of security protocols, emphasising the need for rigorous manual screening alongside technological measures.
Following the recent Federal election another interesting development has been the shift in responsibility for sport from the Federal Department of Health and Ageing to an enlarged Federal Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts.
Across all sectors, sustainability and workforce development are pressing issues with the industry increasingly focusing on energy management and the transition to renewable energy sources.
Many of these issues were highlighted at the recent Sports Environment Alliance annual conference.
Workforce development is also a priority, with initiatives aimed at diversifying the talent pool and enhancing training programs.
And I haven’t even mentioned the Brisbane 2032 Olympics and Paralympics where the ever-changing plans for facility infrastructure appear to have been finalised with the release of the 2032 Games Delivery Plan at the end of March. … or maybe they haven’t! A topic this publication will address in upcoming issues.
Nigel Benton, Publisher
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Two Months in Leisure
Some of the industry headlines over recent months. Daily industry news can be read at www.ausleisure.com.au
Federal departmental responsibility for sport moves from health Cabinet positions announced by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese following the recent Federal election, which saw Anika Wells remain as Minister for Sport while acquiring the Communications portfolio, has been followed by a change in departmental structure in relation to sport.
Responsibility for sport will now move from the Federal Department of Health and Ageing to enlarged Federal Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts.
Traditionally a ‘minor’ departmental function, the move of the sport function would seem to indicate a change of Federal Government emphasis from sport having a role in preventative health to its function in the development of infrastructure for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics and Paralympics.
AUSactive Chief Executive Barrie Elvish has suggested that the change has a potential upside for the active health and physical activity industry.
Eden Park Trust reveals multi-stage vision for stadium redevelopment
Seeking $110 million from the New Zealand Government for the first stage of the project, new details of the planned major redevelopment of Auckland’s Eden Park have been revealed.
Having been backed by Auckland Council - effectively winning the debate over the city’s major stadium needs - the Eden Park Trust’s Eden Park 2.1 proposal - which initially requires New Zealand Government funding - has been pitched to be completed in three stages.
The first stage aims to optimise the Eden Park field and fan experience with the proposal focusing on reconfiguration of the lower North Stand, including retractable seating in order to bring fans 14 metres closer to the action, enhancing proximity to play and atmosphere. The reconfiguration will also enable a full-sized, International Cricket Council-compliant field, with optimised boundary length and proportion - creating a perfectly circular layout for international formats, including Test matches.
Luna Park Melbourne’s historic Carousel secures prestigious award
Luna Park Melbourne’s 1913 Philadelphia Toboggan Company Carousel (PTC#30) has secured the esteemed Historical Carousel Award by the National Carousel Association (NCA) of the USA. This prestigious recognition celebrates Luna Park Melbourne’s commitment to preserving, maintaining, and ensuring the future of one of the world’s most treasured carousels.
Luna Park Melbourne Chief Executive Nathan Klassen noted “this award is a testament to the dedication and hard work of all those who have contributed to the preservation of our iconic carousel. We are honoured to receive this recognition from the National Carousel Association and proud to share this piece of history with our visitors.”
Australian ski resorts reveal investments in advance of 2025 winter season
Australia’s ski resorts have been investing in infrastructure in advance of the 2025 winter season.
As part of Falls Creek’s ongoing investment in the guest experience, a major snowmaking upgrade on Drovers Dream has been in the works over the summer season.
The summer months have also seen the Selwyn Snow Resort enhance its snowmaking capabilities with the addition of one TT10 and two TR10 snowmaking guns from TechnoAlpinthe advanced guns will be strategically positioned at the top of the Wombat T-Bar and the Township Triple Chair.
However, Charlotte Pass Snow Resort, which set about replacing its Guthries High Speed Poma (a staple of the resort since 1961) with a new double chairlift over summer has been forced to delay opening of the new Guthries Double Chair until winter 2026.
AALARA and Australasian Leisure Management announce new partnership
The 2025 Australian Amusement, Leisure and Recreation Association (AALARA) annual conference on the Gold Coast has seen the announcement of a new publication partnership between the peak national body representing the amusement, leisure and recreation industry and Australasian Leisure Management.
The partnership will see AALARA members receive a complementary subscription to the Australasian Leisure Management magazine and the twice-weekly industry newsletter - the industry’s leading resource for insights, trends and best practices across attractions, aquatics, recreation, venue and waterparks management.
In addition, AALARA members will be able to gain access to Australasian Leisure Management online news at no charge.
Federal Minister for Sport Anika Wells with Australian Diamonds
Hobsons Bay City Council has announced it will pause advocacy efforts for its proposed Western Aquatic and Early Years Centre in Altona Meadows pending a review of the project.
URBNSURF Melbourne officially marked its fifth anniversary with having welcomed more than 300,000 visitors and seen 102,450 people learn to surf at the park - making it the biggest surf school in Australia if not the world.
One of Orange’s popular recreational spaces, the Moulder Park velodrome, has had its ownership transferred from the Orange City Council to the Orange Local Aboriginal Land Councilaiming to deliver a fresh start for the precinct.
The NSW Government has begun construction on the $309 million redevelopment of Penrith Stadium with the project led by John Holland Group.
The City of Launceston Council has approved a Development Application for the $130 million redevelopment of UTAS Stadium.
The Sydney South Planning Panel has approved the Development Application to restore the Canterbury Olympic Ice Rink with upgrades including a new roof, concrete ice floor and barrier system, new skate hire facilities, upgraded changing rooms and modernised spectator seating areas.
Snowplanet, the largest indoor ski field in the Southern Hemisphere, has marked 20 years in business, during which it has welcomed more than 2.6 million visitors.
Major $5.2 million upgrades at Sullivan Logistics Stadium in Leederville, located in Perth’s northwest, are now complete, significantly improving playing conditions and the spectator experience.
Napier Aquatic Centre, on the eastern coast of NZ’s North Island, has reopened after 11 months of a $4 million maintenance and refurbishment project.
Design concepts for redevelopment of Sydney’s Leichhardt Oval - one of the home venues for the NRL’s Wests Tigers - have been submitted to the NSW Government for approval.
Coffs Harbour attraction The Big Banana Fun Park has broken ground on the construction of its highly anticipated $5.5 million attraction, The Plantation Coaster.
More than 63,000 riders have visited the extended Narooma Mountain Bike Trails in the first year since they opened - an almost 89% increase in visitors, compared to 2023 - delivering a major economic boost to NSW Far South Coast.
World Athletics Elite Label has designated the Launceston Running Festival as the first half marathon event with the title of ‘elite status’ in the Southern Hemisphere.
Nearly a quarter of a million football fans flooded the stands at Go Media Stadium as Auckland FC smashed records throughout the club’s debut A-League season.
Ninja Parc opened its latest location in the Canberra suburb of Fyshwick, bringing the nation’s capital its first-ever indoor childrens’ play centre and ninja-inspired obstacle course.
Village Roadshow has released details of a new waterslide attraction opening at Wet’n’Wild on the Gold Coast this summer. Replacing the recently retired Aqualoop slide, the new Zoom Zone will feature four new body slides.
Sunshine Coast Council in partnership with Belgravia Leisure and the Queensland Government’s Work’s for Queensland program have delivered a new Splash Park at the Nambour Aquatic Centre.
Cairns’ Tobruk Memorial Baths will enter a new era as City Venue Management (CVM) takes over operations from long-time lessee Luc Senent on 1st July.
Justin McDonell and Richard
Peil
to take control of Anytime Fitness UK
In a significant move for Australian fitness and franchising, Justin McDonell and Richard Peil, the pair who built Anytime Fitness Australia into the country’s largest gym network, are taking ownership of the UK and Ireland Anytime Fitness Master Franchise.
McDonell and Peil have acquired a majority stake in Anytime Fitness UK and are joined by RM UK, LLC, an indirect subsidiary of Purpose Brands (the global owner of the Anytime Fitness brand) and existing shareholder Marcello Jimenez, ensuring a strong, collaborative approach to the brand’s ongoing success in the market in the British Isles, where it operates more than 180 clubs.
Belgravia Leisure releases plan to cut waste, emissions and water use
Belgravia Leisure has rolled out a new fiveyear sustainability plan, focusing on reducing plastic, emissions, energy use and water waste across the more than 220 community venues that it manages across Australia and New Zealand.
The plan was shaped by feedback from over 1,100 people including local community members.
MI Global and Sports Environment Alliance combine to drive greater sustainability in Sport
The announcement by Sports Environment Alliance (SEA) of a renewed partnership with MI Global Partners (MI) marks a deeper collaboration to drive more effective and practical environmental outcomes in the sporting industry.
MI has stepped into a Partner role, after three years joining SEA as an Associate Member, reinforcing the shared commitment to ensure sport leads the way in environmentally responsible action.
Tasmanian
Government abandons public-private partnership looking for loans
to build new Hobart Stadium
The Tasmanian Government has announced that it has ruled out private sector partnerships to build the new Hobart Stadium, instead choosing a ‘design and construct’ model funded through loans.
The move comes after a market sounding process explored different delivery options for the major development at Hobart’s Macquarie Point.
MyVenue announces strategic investment partnership with Greater Sum Ventures Adelaide-based event venue point-of-sale (POS) leader MyVenue has announced it has secured a partnership and majority investment by family office and growth equity firm, Greater Sum Ventures (GSV).
The partnership offers MyVenue additional capital and specialised resources to accelerate global growth and research initiatives, while also fuelling its in-house software development and leadership teams.
Founded in 2020, MyVenue’s fast POS solution powers billions of dollars in credit card transactions annually at more than 190 of the world’s most renowned and culturally significant sports and entertainment venues in the USA, including Dodger Stadium, Little Caesars Arena, Hard Rock Stadium and the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, host venue of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
Allianz Australia partners with Football Australia to launch new fan digital platform
Allianz Australia, the official Insurance Partner of Football Australia has launched a new digital platform for Australian football fans, Fan Hub - with the offering being part of Allianz Australia’s ongoing commitment to bring communities, people and sport together.
Football fans are encouraged to continue visiting the Allianz Fan Hub to uncover a wealth of football content and keep up to date with new and exclusive perks, promotions, and competitions on offer.
Operator secures 10-year concession to run New Zealand’s Whakapapa ski field
Whakapapa Holdings Limited (WHL) will be the new operator of the North Island’s Whakapapa ski field after the Department of Conservation (DOC) granted a 10-year concession for the site.
The concession is the latest development for the ski field amid concerns about its commercial viability following the collapse of ski operator Ruapehu Alpine Lifts (RAL).
Department of Conservation Director-General Penny Nelson confirmed that the decade-long concession would allow WHL to run the ski field along six buildings in Whakapapa village for staff accommodation and a water pipeline easement.
www.ausleisure.com.au for all the latest industry news
Tourism Research Australia reveals record breaking year for Gold Coast tourism
The latest National and International Visitor Survey results from Tourism Research Australia has revealed the Gold Coast continues to set new records with visitor spending having soared to $8.1 billion for the year ending December 2024.
This marks an impressive 37% increase from 2019 and a 5.2% rise from the year ending September 2024, further cementing the city’s reputation as a premier destination for both tourism and business.
Visitor numbers also experienced a notable rise, with 13 million people visiting the Gold Coast in the year ending December 2024, up from 12.2 million in the previous year, signalling the region’s continued growth and popularity.
YMCA to manage new Adelaide Aquatic Centre
The South Australian Government has awarded the contract to manage the under-development Adelaide Aquatic Centre to YMCA Aquatics, a newly formed business unit of the YMCA Victoria.
Planned for a summer opening, recruitment of a staff team of 300 is set to commence.
New Soak Bathhouse Alexandria becomes brand’s latest urban wellness oasis
Soak Bathhouse has unveiled their latest urban spa with the opening of a 700 square metre location in the Sydney suburb of Alexandria.
The brand’s third location adds to its existing bathhouses on the Gold Coast and in Brisbane. Other facilities under development include those located in Melbourne’s South Yarra and Sydney’s Bondi Junction.
Tapping into the global interest in communal bathing and social wellness each of the business’ bathhouses provides access to nature-inspired communal bathing facilities designed to foster connection, alongside a selection of private wellness treatments.
Jetts Fitness announces expansion into India market
Australian founded fitness brand Jetts Fitness has announced its expansion into India, introducing their signature model of flexible, high-quality training facilities.
Having already expanded from Australia into New Zealand, Thailand, the United Kingdom and Netherlands, this new expansion marks a significant milestone for the group’s international growth.
Holistic Surf Park Management
Community feedback invited on Parramatta’s plans for reimagined Riverside Theatres
Redevelopment plans for Parramatta’s Riverside Theatres are moving forward with the community invited to have their say on this state-significant development being publicly exhibited on the NSW Planning Portal.
The reimagined Riverside Theatres will offer the people of Parramatta and the west a vibrant hub of creativity and attract major Australian works, Broadway style productions and opportunities for local talent to thrive.
The reimagined Riverside Theatres performing arts centre is anticipated to welcome over 400,000 visitors a year, with the proposed redevelopment including a 1,500-seat Broadwaystyle lyric theatre; refurbished 700-seat Riverside Playhouse theatre; all-new 325-seat black-box drama theatre; state-ofthe-art 110-seat digital studio; and a cinema with enhanced public spaces.
Jim’s Group relaunches personal training venture
Jim’s Group, described as the world’s largest home franchise business, has announced it will be relaunching its personal training venture.
The announcement from the franchising group of their re-entering the fitness space comes almost six years after Jim’s Group’s initial attempt to expand into this sector.
The initial venture was not a success, with Jim’s Group quietly closing its operations in circa 2021.
‘Jim’s Personal Training’ is once again offering a mobile fitness service delivering personal training to people’s homes, parks and communities.
The new Jim’s Personal Training division is headed up by Alex Zeissner, a longtime team member at Jim’s Group headquarters in Melbourne.
Redeveloped Jim Elphick Tennis Centre opens
in Wagga Wagga
The $9.15 million redeveloped Jim Elphick Tennis Centre at Wagga Wagga’s Bolton Park has opened offering a venue for tennis and sporting events – from grassroots through to elite level.
Delivered by Wagga Wagga City Council in partnership with the NSW Government and Tennis NSW, the transformation marks the completion of Stage 1 of the Bolton Park Sports Hub project.
NSC 2025 offers agenda to help navigate the future of sport
The upcoming 2025 edition of the National Sports and Physical Activity Convention (NSC) will bring together local and international leaders to share insights, strategies, and solutions to help the Australian sports industry navigate challenges and unlock opportunities.
Advancements in digital technology, the needs of participants, and rising societal expectations are driving the transformation of the Australian sports industry - reshaping the way sports are managed and delivered across the nation.
Being held on 25th and 26th June 2025, at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, the NSC event offers an agenda designed for sport to make its stance in society, its capacity to drive positive change, and the strategies needed to ensure long-term sustainability. NSC 2025 will serve as a vital platform for sports leaders, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to learn, connect, and evolve.
NSW Surf Life Saving Clubs secure $5.4 million funding boost
NSW Surf Life Saving Clubs have secured a $5.4 million funding boost via the NSW Government’s 2024/25 Surf Club Facility Program for upgrades, restoration or construction of surf lifesaving facilities to keep them modern and accessible for the community, and so that surf life savers can better protect beachgoers.
The funding is part of a four-year $16 million commitment from the NSW Government to support NSW Surf Life Saving Clubs to continue to deliver a world-class service.
Festival organisers invited to participate in survey on ongoing insurance challenges
Cancellations of music festivals due to climate-related events have increased dramatically in the last five years with some festivals also having to manage extreme weather impacts during events that have already begun.
The Black Summer 2019-20 bushfires drove away Falls Festival (Lorne, Victoria), Lost Paradise (Glenworth, New South Wales) and Yours & Owls (Wollongong, NSW).
Floods throughout 2022 held up Strawberry Fields (Tocumwal, NSW), This That (Newcastle, NSW) and Vanfest (Bathurst, NSW). Many other Australian festivals have also been affected.
Insurance premiums are becoming more expensive and, in some cases, won’t cover festivals for risks such as bushfirerelated cancellations.
Riverside Theatre Lyric theatre render
Rugby League Commission confirms entry of Perth-based club into NRL competition
The Western Australian Government and the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) have confirmed that a Perthbased club will join the NRL Premiership competition in 2027 as League’s 18th franchise.
Reviving the former North Sydney-based Bears brand, the club will join the competition a year before another new team debuts in Papua New Guinea.
To get the club off the ground, the ARLC will cover costs associated with running the club and guarantee its financial viability - not charging a licence fee - while the Western Australian Government will provide temporary direct financial support to the club of $60 million over seven years, commencing 2025/26, with $35 million ring-fenced for development, including grassroots.
Tasmania’s Three Capes Track welcomes its 100,000th walker
Tasmania’s popular multi-day walk - the Three Capes Track - has reached a significant milestone having welcomed its 100,000th walker.
The four-day, three-night walk along the Tasman Peninsula is managed through Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service and takes visitors on a journey through 48-kilometres including the tallest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere.
The Three Capes Track is renowned for its world-class ecotourism offering which attracts thousands of visitors to Tasmania every year.
Featuring some of Tasmania’s most spectacular coastlines and temperate rainforest, the walk attracts more than 11,000 walkers annually.
Draft program and further speakers announced for AFIC 2025
Organisers of the Australian Festival Industry Conference (AFIC) have unveiled its draft 2025 program and announced nine more speakers for its September event.
Due to be held at Rivershed, Howard Smith Wharves in Brisbane (the first time AFIC has been held in the Queensland capital) on 8th and 9th September, it will feature keynotes, presentations and panel discussions from 20 industry-leading personnel, as well as featuring a trade exhibition and networking events.
To view the draft program and to register, visit www.australianfestivalconference.com.au
Asia-Pacific Venue Industry Congress to consider smarter, more connected and more sustainable venues
As the premier gathering for venue industry professionals across Australasia and Asia, the Asia-Pacific Venue Industry Congress will deliver an unparalleled experience filled with education, networking and business development opportunities when it is staged at ICC Sydney from 22nd to 24th June.
The major annual event presented by the Venue Management Association (VMA), this year’s Congress will focus on the future of venue management, highlighting the latest trends, technologies, and industry best practices.
The Swim Factory becomes Victoria’s first private GOswim Australia venue
The Swim Factory in Cranbourne West has become the first private swim school in Victoria to offer the GOswim program - a next-generation swimming and water safety program launched in 2019 by Belgravia Leisure in partnership with Swimming Australia.
Since introducing the GOswim program in October 2024, The Swim Factory has seen a 10% increase in new registrations this quarter and an impressive 97.5% retention rate.
This milestone marks a significant step forward for private swim schools looking to enhance their offerings and improve student retention.
Revo Fitness opens new Melbourne base
Revo Fitness has advised that it has moved into an upgraded Melbourne office, expanding to an enhanced space just 12 months since first launching in the Victorian capital.
Explaining that the move to the larger space is to support the next phase of the fastgrowing chain’s growth, Revo Fitness founder and Managing Director, Andrew Holder wrote on social media that “this new space is built for the long haul and is a place ... for our team to grow, to push boundaries, and to keep making fitness more accessible for all Aussies.”
With demand for Pilates booming, fast growing fitness chain, Revo Fitness has debuted 24/7 reformer Pilates in the Western Australian coastal town of Australind.
It has also opened its largest gym in the eastern states with a new 2,700 square metres club in the Melbourne suburb of Frankston.
www.ausleisure.com.au for all the latest industry news
ROI 4 Events looks to support mass participation events through aggregation
With record number of participants registering for fun runs, marathons, ultra events, off-road events, obstacle races, cycling races, open water swims, triathlons and other community iterations, ROI 4 Events (ROI4E) is supporting operators in dealing with the challenges that are symptomatic of the industry.
Created by industry experts, Chris Heverin and Simon Allatson, ROI4E pairs the considerable consumer assets of MPEs with major commercial businesses to deliver four key outcomes for the events sector: generating revenue; reducing costs; alleviating cash flow impacts; and enhancing the experience of event participants.
Challenges that ROI4E address include: event income narrowing to being overly reliant on entry fees; sponsorships harder to come by; higher event costs across the board; increasingly unaffordable insurance; merchandise wastage; cash flow pressures; and, importantly, ensuring participants continue to enjoy their event experience.
Western Australian Government prepares for new entertainment and sport precinct next to Optus Stadium
The Western Australian Government has advised of necessary preliminary on-ground investigations for a new entertainment and sporting precinct adjacent to Optus Stadium. The investigations will include soil and ground water testing, which will support future design and delivery.
Paddle Australia launches new strategic plan
Paddle Australia has released ‘Paddle Forward 32’ - its new strategic plan which sets up a bold new vision for paddling in Australia.
Paddle Forward 32 has been developed in consultation with Paddle Australia’s broader paddling community, led by new Chief Executive Kim Crane. With the full support of state associations, and the Paddle Australia Board working hand in hand with the Paddle Australia management team, Paddle Australia is ready to implement their new roadmap.
Designed to create a ‘home of paddle sports’, by creating a world-class sport, a vibrant adventure focused lifestyle along with a community where everyone belongs, Paddle Forward 32 is more than just a plan, it’s a movement.
Construction underway on Geelong Arts Centre’s Church redevelopment
With access to affordable performance spaces being key to fostering a thriving creative scene, Geelong Arts Centre is strengthening its position as one of Australia’s largest regional performing arts centres with construction underway to transform a former church into a new and affordable live performance venue.
Geelong Arts Centre recently appointed award-winning local builders, Plan Group, to deliver the interior redevelopment project alongside LIMINAL Architecture. Work will include significant structural renovations, acoustic enhancements, and upgrades to create a fit-for-purpose performance space.
KAM Sports acquires majority stake in A-League’s Western United KAM Melbourne, a subsidiary of USA-based KAM Sports, has announced its agreement to acquire a controlling stake in Western United Football Club and its parent company Western Melbourne Group (WMG).
With Western United’s owners having faced a series of financial issues that have delayed its plans to construct a new 15,000-seat stadium at Tarneit in western Melbourne along with related residential and commercial development, the investment looks set to restart the model that underpinned the club’s entry into the A-League for the 2019/20 season.
Deloitte report suggests global revenues in women’s elite sports will exceed US$2.3 billion in 2025
Global revenues in women’s elite sports are expected to surpass US$2.3 billion in 2025, according to a new report from consultants Deloitte.
Exploring long-term success in women’s sport, the report ‘Beyond the billion-dollar barrier: Charting the next phase of growth’, suggests that ongoing growth requires a shift from short-term return on investment (ROI) to a venture capital mindset driven by values, long-term vision and a commitment to societal impact.
Cleland Wildlife Park attraction opens impressive $2.6 million koala home
A $2.6 million state-of-the-art koala loft has opened at Cleland Wildlife Park which benefits both the animals and the tens of thousands of visitors to the premier tourism attraction located in the Adelaide Hills.
The loft further enhances the park’s reputation for best practice in conservation and animal welfare while providing visitors with an exceptional educational experience year-round by having the option of hosting koala experiences in an indoor air-conditioned space.
It provides the koalas with the option to sit out in the sunshine or undercover, protected from the elements. There are also dedicated quiet areas where the koalas can enjoy some alone time.
Hyrox looks to make its group fitness programming available to gyms and studios worldwide
Mass participation fitness challenge, Hyrox, is looking to expand its global community by having its group fitness classes and educational content available to gyms and studios worldwide.
Dubbed ‘The World Series of Fitness Racing’, Hyrox offers a challenging format that combines running and functional workout stations in a race against the clock of 8 x 1km runs, each followed by a gruelling workout station. Open to individuals, pairs, and teams, the circuit-based competition welcomes everyday fitness enthusiasts and elite athletes alike.
Sport NZ new report on the future of disability sport and recreation
The latest report from Sport NZ on the future of sport and active recreation for disabled New Zealanders is now available. This report outlines key opportunities to shape the future and better understand the challenges faced by disabled people.
The latest data shows that one in six New Zealanders experience disability, and disabled people are currently less active than their non-disabled peers.
To improve outcomes for disabled people, Sport NZ collaborated with their national disability partners (Halberg Foundation, Paralympics New Zealand, and Special Olympics New Zealand). Together, they initiated a strategic foresight process with wider sector representatives to challenge existing assumptions, identify emerging trends, and explore alternative future scenarios.
New $1.4 million urban recreation park opens beneath Sydney motorway
The City of Parramatta has opened a new $1.4 million urban park built underneath one of Sydney’s major motorways.
Sited beneath the M4 Motorway, Junction Street Plaza offer facilities for parkour, basketball, table tennis and street skating.
Opened as part of a pilot program to transform about 1,000 square metres of underutilised space under the M4 Motorway into a multi-purpose park designed to encourage young people to stay active and healthy, City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Martin Zaiter said the innovative park was designed with young people in mind, providing the perfect space for everyone to get together and enjoy recreational activities outdoors.
Auckland Council advises of ‘new era’ for city’s aquatic and recreation centres
Transitioning to new contracts for the management of its aquatic and recreation centres as of 1st April, Auckland Council has advised that the change represents a ‘new era’ for its network.
Since the beginning of April, Auckland Council’s 20 outsourced aquatic and recreation centres are operating under new management contracts with Community Leisure Management (CLM) now operating 13 centres, including five seasonal summer pools while YMCA North Incorporated (The Y) will manage seven centres.
This follows a decision by the Council’s Revenue, Expenditure and Value Committee last October to award contracts to CLM and The Y.
Review into Rowing Australia’s
Olympic performance reveals ‘culture of fear’
A Rowing Australia review has found a “culture of fear and repercussion” within the sport’s high performance program.
The review was undertaken following the sport’s Paris Olympics performance, its worst in almost four decades, with Australia securing just one medal - a bronze in the women’s pair.
As first reported by Code Sports, the concerns over culture have been identified among a number of critical failings that have led to significant changes. for the sport ahead of the Los Angeles Games.
While it was found “positive practices and areas of excellence existed within the programs”, a comprehensive report completed after extensive interviews of athletes and coaches in the Olympic and Paralympic programs both before and after the Games, highlighted issues in the sport’s high performance that existed in the 2021-2024 cycle.
YOHKA flags growth of interest in fitness racing
Fast growing fitness racing brand YOHKA has advised how the mass participation trend is booming across Australia, with tens of thousands of enthusiasts testing themselves against event courses worldwide.
With the International Olympic Committee (IOC) having confirmed fitness racing will feature as Olympic sport as part of the Modern Pentathlon at the LA2028 Olympics, the Australianborn concept - which combines fitness racing with obstacle training - is confident about future growth.
A fast-paced, urban fitness sport designed for a new generation of athletes and fans, YOHKA advises that “it is a fun day out both for those who want to test their limits, and for those who just want to enjoy the DJs, village and party.”
Plus Fitness achieves 5 star FRANdata rating
Plus Fitness has advised that it has been recognised as a high performing brand through the Australian Franchise Rating Scale™ from FRANdata Australia - the country’s leading franchise business intelligence and information advisory business.
With FRANdata’s ratings allocated after an independent and fact-based assessment across seven key categories, in achieving this very strong (5 star) rating, Plus Fitness was able to demonstrate a high level of transparency and a very high level of franchise performance.
Commenting on the achievement, FRANdata’s Australian Chief Executive, Darryn McAuliffe, stated “a strong feature of the Plus Fitness franchise System is its success in positioning of franchisees for success from day one. A disciplined recruitment process and a highly effective initial and ongoing business planning program are both evident.
Rugby Australia reveal $37 million deficit on 2024 operations
Rugby Australia has confirmed that it accumulated a $36.8 million debt on its operations in 2024, attributing the loss to one-off costs and investments, including the integration of Super Rugby’s NSW Waratahs, ACT Brumbies and the now-defunct Melbourne Rebels, as well as financial injections into women’s rugby.
Releasing its latest annual report, Rugby Australia says it has “changed the trajectory” of the sport and is looking forward to the commercial windfall of the upcoming 2025 British and Irish Lions tour and the men’s 2027 and women’s 2029 World Cups.
The governing body also took the opportunity at its results announcement to criticise efforts to poach Australia’s best young talent, after the pursuit this year of multiple junior Wallabies by French recruiters.
The sport has also announced the appointment of past Wallaby lock second-row and former captain Nathan Sharpe as its new president.
PMY acquires EVENT360 and grows its EMEA presence
International venue, events and infrastructure technology solutions business, the PMY Group, has acquired UK-based EVENT360, a premier producer of match-day entertainment, immersive stadium ceremonies and memorable live experiences to grow its EMEA presence.
EVENT360 are trusted by Europe’s most prestigious sports clubs and governing bodies, and have earned a reputation for being industry innovators as well as an expert event delivery partner that have a deep understanding of stadium operations.
Under the acquisition, EVENT360 will be rebranded and integrated into KOJO, which is PMY’s global experience division, enhancing the company’s ability to deliver technologydriven fan engagement and world-class live event production.
GoCardless research reveals dishonour fees erode gym member loyalty
New research has revealed that fitness facilities across Australia are losing members to ‘dishonour fees’ charged by their payment providers.
The research from bank payment company
GoCardless, reveals thatfrom a survey of more than 1,000 respondents - 81% of Australians would take action if their gym payment failed and they were temporarily barred.
30% also advised they would cancel their membership outright if charged dishonour fees, highlighting the critical need for fitness businesses to have access to fairer, more flexible payment options to safeguard member loyalty.
Swimming
Australia launches strategic plan through to 2032
Swimming Australia has launched ‘Inspire Australia Through Swimming 2025-2032’, a strategic plan that sets the path forward for the organisation and the sport, with a focus on maximising the opportunity leading into the 2032 Brisbane Games.
The strategy covers how the broader ecosystem will be engaged to lead, partner and influence through its three key pillars of ‘Strengthen’, ‘Grow’ and ‘Win Well’.
Its release follows a strategic review that identified how the sport can continue to grow - both in and out of the water - to ensure success at the upcoming 2028 and 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games while also encouraging new generations of aquatic athletes. It also clarifies how the sport can lead and partner with member organisations to drive growth and success for all.
Record crowds drive third successive surplus
for Netball Australia
Record crowds and rising broadcast audiences have helped drive Netball Australia to its third consecutive operating surplus.
Netball Australia’s full year financial results for the year ended 31st December 2024published in its latest Annual Report - show an operating surplus of $650,883 for the year - up from 2023’s surplus of $235,657. The year also saw the sport again reduce its debt - by $1.2 million over the 12 months - putting it on track to clear the debt by 2027.
Consultation opens for
planned new Perth entertainment and sport precinct
The Western Australian Government has opened consultation inviting ideas on the design and development of the new multiuse community, entertainment and sporting precinct next to Optus Stadium at Burswood Park.
It has also released a request for proposal for contractors to lodge their interest in designing and delivering the new Burswood Entertainment and Sporting Precinct.
Included in the concept design is a new outdoor amphitheatre for live music and other events, with 15,000-20,000 capacity, complementing Burswood Park, Optus Stadium and Crown Perth.
On Court
Tennis has a long history in Australia, going back to at least the 1870s, with the game growing in popularity in subsequent decades.
In the last century, the sport grew beyond private provision, with municipalities across the country developing a significant court infrastructure with tennis in mind.
Today, the game remains popular, with the Australian Sports Commission (ASC)’s AusPlay data from December 2023 showing more than 1.4 million Australians participated in tennis during that year.
However, consistent with modified and short form versions of many sports - futsal, 3x3 basketball, rugby sevens - tennis has transformed with padel (pronounced ‘pa-DEL’), and pickleball variants experiencing significant growth in recent years, taking over courts and indoor sports centres (not only in Australia but around the world) combining the intensity and competitiveness of high-level tennis with enhanced accessibility coupled with a social element.
While the origins of pickleball and padel go back almost 50
Karen Sweaney looks at the surge in popularity of pickleball and padel
years, around the world both codes are attracting millions of new players, with celebrities LeBron James, Tom Brady and Michael B. Jordan being high profile investors in American pickleball teams.
As for how the sports differ, pickleball uses flat, unperforated rectangular paddles while padel is played with perforated paddles.
Padel players use a depressurised tennis ball, contrasting with pickleball which uses a lightweight, hollow plastic ball with holes.
Each is played on a rectangular court - either inside or outside - with pickleball using a small court, similar to badminton, while padel’s slightly larger courts are enclosed, with play allowing for rebounds off the walls.
Padel courts are generally enclosed by walls, often glass or wire mesh, making them more suitable for indoor play.
With both games, the smaller court and lower net makes it accessible for a broad demographic, with games often won through clever strategy and skill, rather than pure strength or speed.
Invented in Mexico but rapidly popularised in Europe during the pandemic, padel is played by an estimated 25 million participants across 90 countries. In Australia it is experiencing a surge in popularity, with new facilities being established and the number of courts expected to increase to more than 200 by 2026.
Pioneering the sport in Australia, Matty Thomas created the first padel club in the UK in 2013, then, along with partner Matt Barrelle, who subsequently became the inaugural President of what is now Padel Australia, brought the sport to Australia.
The pair established the nation’s first club in 2015, importing two padel courts from Spain and taking over a disused car park in Sydney’s Entertainment Quarter. They then opened four courts at the Sydney Sports Management Group (SSMG)managed Tennis World in North Ryde, at a cost of between $60,000 and $80,000 a court.
Royal Pickle Club paddle and ball (above left) and Padel Australia paddle and ball (above right).
Former US Open champion and Australian of the Year Pat Rafter took part in the Red Bull Rally Pro Padel tournament at this year ’s Australian Open.
Having first encountered padel in Spain in 2002, Thomas explains that it was the sport’s “fun, skilful aspect that really appealed to me”, noting “in tennis, certain shots like lobs or drop shots are more controlled, but in padel, all those fun, creative shots are encouraged.
“It felt like a weight had been lifted … that blend of enjoyment and skill was a big part of what drew me in.
“Plus, I saw an opportunity - padel was huge in Spain, but it hadn’t yet reached the UK.”
Now an ambassador for court surface provider Laykold, Thomas explained “first and foremost, it’s easier to play than tennis, which makes it more accessible.
“You serve underarm, the court is smaller, and the game gets going right away. Second, padel is more relaxed - there’s no strict dress code or membership rules like in traditional tennis clubs. You can just show up and play.
“And third, the events are a lot more dynamic. Brands sponsor these lively tournaments with music, blacked-out courts, and a festival-like atmosphere. It’s engaging, like an NBA event, compared to the more formal atmosphere associated with tennis.”
In terms of how the sport’s physical demands differ from tennis, Thomas explains “padel is definitely easier on the body.
“The courts are smaller, so there’s less running, and you’re playing on artificial grass, which is softer on the joints. Plus, it’s always doubles, so you’ve got more coverage and don’t have to move as much.
The softer surface and shorter distances make it a sport where people can play at a high level even as they get older.”
He goes on to state “padel makes business sense because it requires less space. You can almost fit three padel courts in the space of one tennis court, which means more players and therefore a higher return.
“The setup costs might seem a bit higher because you need to prepare the surface properly, but the return on investment is typically faster - some venues recover their costs in 15 to 18 months.”
Simultaneously, pickleball has experienced rapid growth in Australia, emerging as one of the fastest-growing sports in the country.
While played for around eight years in Australia, its popularity has surged in recent years, particularly since 2020, with Pickleball Australia playing a key role in promoting the sport.
AusPlay data from October 2024 identified that more than 90,000 Australians aged 15 and over had played the sport in the last year.
This growing popularity has seen pickleballers lobbying the ASC for official status to help with funding for court shortages and integrity measures to endorse burgeoning elite competitions.
This growth in pickleball and padel has prompted Tennis Australia to respond. The sport now governs padel through its Padel Australia subsidiary and is understood to be looking to expand its reach to include pickleball.
This interest also saw the 2025 Australian Open feature both pickleball and padel tournaments for the first time.
Tennis Australia’s Head of Game Expansion, Callum Beale, says the Australian Open has included accessible paddle formats like padel and pop tennis in recent years to expand the appeal of the broad tennis category, but this year’s first pickleball slam was a “symbolic” moment.
Beale explains “(the Australian Open) is the greatest platform we can provide, and at a minimum, it’s one way we want to show that pickleball is here, it’s here to stay, and tennis wants to play a leading role in how it is grown and developed.”
Suggesting that many like her have enjoyed tennis in their youth and are now drawn to a game that isn’t as demanding on their bodies but just as fun, skilful and competitive, Pickleball Australia Chair Jen Ramamurthy stated “you’re getting to see a lot of people in that older demographic that are picking up pickleball, but they have left tennis, and Tennis Australia are aware of that.”
Beale says there is little or no cannibalisation between formats like pickleball and padel, or even with traditional tennis, noting “they are fundamentally different products and different experiences.”
Nonetheless, there is competition between the sports in attracting players – Tennis Australia increasingly references participation in ‘racquet sports’ in its figures - and, in some cases, gaining access to facilities.
Padel pioneer Matty Thomas demonstrates a pop-up Laykold padel court at the 2024 National Sports & Physical Activity Convention.Credit: Laykold.
However, the need for sports to adapt their offerings to suit the needs and wants of today’s participants is a recommendation in the ASC’s Play Well strategy.
While both pickleball and padel remain a leisure pursuit for 99% of players, part of their joint appeal lies in the lower barriers to entry for those wanting to compete at the highest level. It costs less than $100 to enter a National Pickleball League event in Australia, for instance, where anyone can compete for prize money.
Yet the growth of these short form variants of tennis has not been universally welcomed.
In late 2023, the Woollahra Municipal Council in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs faced opposition to SSMG taking on the management of its Cooper Park tennis courts.
With SSMG proposing a “better program of multi-court uses” including padel (that would deliver a significantly larger return to the Council), a local community group raised objections to aspects of the council tender that asked new leaseholders to offer opportunities to use the tennis courts for other sports.
While this was consistent with Woollahra Council’s recreation strategy that encourages multi-use sports facilities objections to the change of management including statements such as “rambunctious sports would not befit this space” and that the changes would be “likely to attract children, who are characteristically enthusiastic and noisy”.
Neal Ames, Recreation and Open Space Planner at Midcoast Council in NSW and a member of Parks and Leisure Australia (PLA) National Advisory, recently took to social media to give his view of the impact that the increase in participation in pickleball is having on local government.
Advising that “pickleball is presenting some challenges … from an infrastructure perspective” Ames noted that it is “the impact on tennis that is the main concern”.
He explained “pickleball clubs aren’t speaking with council about building new courts. They want courts NOW (and) they are taking over multi-purpose courts (and) more significantly they are eyeing tennis courts.”
Ames went on to highlight noise as an issue, advising “we have had a number of residents complain to us about the noise
being generated by pickleball being played … near them (and) we are not the only (council) to be affected.
“Tweed Council has so many complaints about pickleball that they contracted an independent noise consultant to do testing and write a report. From the report Tweed Council has implemented restrictions on pickleball in some locations.
“The issue is that the pickleball ball is hard plastic, and it makes a loud noise when it hits the racquet and the hard ground.”
Ames went on to state “we acknowledge that getting more people active is our outcome, especially as pickleball is mainly popular with older people, who are attracted to the slower pace of the game.
“But we also need to protect our other sports, and the millions of dollars invested in their assets.
“Recognition by the ASC will give (local government) some authority on how to manage pickleball.”
Karen Sweaney is Editor of Australasian Leisure Management.
Sporty seniors playing doubles pickleball on indoor court (above). Credit: Shutterstock; and Pickleball game at Royal Pickle Club in Carrum Downs, Victoria (below).
Rede fi ning Recycling Solutions
RE4ORM, Australia’s first synthetic turf recycling facility is setting a new industry standard
In just over a year, RE4ORM has redefined how Australia manages synthetic turf waste.
As the nation’s first dedicated recycling facility for synthetic surfaces, RE4ORM has already recovered more than 4,200 tonnes - including turf from football/soccer fields, hockey fields, tennis courts and cricket wickets - diverting it from landfill and back into the circular economy.
With measurable CO2 reductions and certified client reporting, RE4ORM sets a new standard in sustainable infrastructure.
With its plant located in Barnawartha North, Victoria - on the Hume Highway near the NSW border - RE4ORM is an industry wide recycling solution capable of recovering all types
of synthetic turf from long and short pile sports products, to landscape, with almost no waste generated.
Once recovered, the turf is then broken back down to its base components where it can then be re-used. To date, over 1,000 tonnes of recycled infill have already been sold back to industry for use in new fields.
In order to quantify the positive environmental impact of its unique recycling process, RE4ORM engaged industry experts Lifecycles to undertake a Life Cycle Analysis.
The results indicate a 373kg reduction in CO2 equivalent emissions for every tonne of synthetic turf waste that was diverted from landfill and recycled with RE4ORM - equivalent to a 41% reduction.
RE4ORM team uplifting synthetic football/soccer surface in Melbourne (above and below left).
This means that RE4ORM have prevented the emission of over 1,560 tonnes of CO2 equivalent in just one year.
Advising that a key part of their process involves providing data and reporting to their clients, including tracking the circularity of the recycled materials, RE4ORM Spokesperson Myles Neville explains.
“Our clients are very interested in the quantum of waste we recover from their fields, as it assists them greatly in executing their council reporting and ESG obligations.”
In its first year of operations, RE4ORM has predominantly worked with local governments and state sponsored sporting bodies as part of large, sporting infrastructure projects.
Neville notes that these clients “have constituents/ members to appease and are looking for best practice from an environmental perspective.”
However, with the cost of recycling exceeding that of landfillalthough in NSW landfill costs are rising significantly - potential clients can be tempted to look for the easier option.
In addition, RE4ORM’s services are not offered as a standalone process, rather they are included as part of suppliers’ wider replacement tenders.
He explains “we often get approached by five or six companies as part of the tender process, as the tender will have specified the desire to have a proper option for recycling.
“While operators compete, RE4ORM very much stay at arm’s length by remaining price agnostic, as we have always been conscious to position ourselves as an industry wide solution.
Mindful of this, Neville explains “doing the right thing isn’t always cheaper. But it is becoming the smart, future-proof choice. As landfill costs increase and scrutiny rises, forwardthinking councils are demanding recycling, not just disposal.”
Neville also emphasises that while RE4ORM doesn’t tender directly, it is the preferred recycling partner to multiple installers and suppliers, helping ensure tenders meet sustainability requirements.
Circularity and Client Reporting
As part of its EPA Registration, RE4ORM are required to keep records of all waste that is received at their facility. This in turn allows them to provide detailed certificates to their clients, quantifying what was recovered and how it has been reused. A powerful asset for council reporting and ESG audits.
Myles Neville can be contacted on myles@re4ormrecycling.com.au
Industry Circularity
The recycling of a synthetic field at Rowville Secondary College in Melbourne’s southeast is a recent example of the circularity that RE4ORM can deliver.
RE4ORM recovered and recycled the school’s entire synthetic surface. Two months later, the same field was re-laid using 100% recycled infill supplied by RE4ORM - proving the circular economy in action.
Turf set for recycling by RE4ORM - proving the circular economy in action.
Rowville Secondary College’s new field being dressed with 100% recycled infill supplied by RE4ORM.
Back in the Game
James Heffield charts the reopening of the jewel in Taranaki’s sporting landscape
Located in New Plymouth on New Zealand’s North Island on a site with almost a century of sporting history, the rebuilt and rebranded Stadium Taranaki has recently reopened.
It’s taken $80 million and more than five years of work to get to this point, but the new jewel in the crown of Taranaki’s sporting landscape is now open for business.
Formerly known as Yarrow Stadium, the venue is owned by the Taranaki Regional Council (TRC) through the Taranaki Stadium Trust while it is operated by the New Plymouth District Council.
The venue was blessed by local hapu Ngati Te Whiti on 11th April, hosted a community day on 4th May, and will hold its first major sporting event on 11th June when the Taranaki Bulls’ play King Country for the Taranaki side’s first defence of the Ranfurly Shield it won in October.
It’s a fitting first big event for a venue that was originally developed as a rugby ground in 1931, but TRC Director of Corporate Services Mike Neild says the venue will need to cater for more than just rugby if it is to live up to its full potential.
Neild advises “when we designed the new facilities, we designed them to be flexible. We’re targeting community events for all ages - the local football team, marching girls, whateveras well as regional, national and international events.”
Neild believes its 23,000 capacity and modern facilities will make it an enticing proposition for even the largest and most high-profile events, looking to attract All Blacks tests, All Whites football matches, NZ Warriors rugby league matches, and also out-of-town touring matches for both Wellington Phoenix and Auckland FC in the A-League football competition.
He notes “Stadium Taranaki has previously hosted All Blacks tests and three games during the 2011 Rugby World Cup, so we see no reason why we can’t attract that calibre of match again.
“Money is the big driver and the finances have to stack up but if you are looking at hosting an event for 20,000 people, you are better to have it at Stadium Taranaki where you can pack it out and create a fantastic atmosphere.”
A long and winding road
There’s no question that the stadium’s recent history has been a fraught one.
In November 2017, the venue’s East Stand was declared earthquake prone and had to be closed for public safety then, in May 2018, the West Stand was also declared earthquake prone and closed, effectively rendering the ground unusable.
Stadium Taranaki set against the stunning backdrop of Mt Taranaki/Taranaki Maunga. All images courtesy of Taranaki Regional Council.
Lights up means Phins up in Redcliffe
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In the early part of 2019, the council came up with a series of proposals for how it might rectify the situation, with options ranging from demolishing and building a new stadium elsewhere, to repairing and rebuilding stands on the current site.
Work on repairing and upgrading the existing stadium began in 2019 after public consultation found three quarters of the community in favour of the option, but challenges soon arose, and the project went through several iterations before completion.
The original plan was to repair and strengthen the old grandstands, but the geology of the site meant a different tack had to be taken for the East Stand to avoid it sinking and becoming compromised again in the future.
Nield explains “the ground the stadium is built on is an old meeting spot for rivers. It’s swampy and waterlogged - an old swamp basically.
“We had to go through a major scope change and ended up having to demolish the East Stand and rebuild it. The key issue was that the original piles went down 10-12 metres, but we needed piles that went down 30 metres due to the ground conditions.”
The ground conditions made the project challenging, pushing out the original timeline, adding to the cost, and leading to heated community debate, with Nield noting “the community was divided, and while a good chunk wanted it repaired in some way, it was controversial.
“To this day there’s a group in our community that will go to their graves thinking we shouldn’t have done it, but as people see events there I hope they will change their mind.”
On a personal level, Neild says seeing the project come to fruition has given him “a whole lot of personal and professional satisfaction.
“There’s a lot of pride for our community, that we are now back to where we were before.
“Stadiums are a part of our lifeline and who we are here in Taranaki, possibly more so than in the big cities. Regional and provincial stadiums are more about community involvement because more of those going to the games know the players personally, they work with them, live near them, or they see them on the street.”
He says the upgrade has resulted in what is effectively a
Stadium Taranaki’s East and West Stands required rebuilding after surveys declared them earthquake prone.
The venue’s newly reopened East Stand (above and below).
Children take to the venue’s playing surface during a recent opne day (below).
brand-new stadium, with facilities built using modern thinking and a layout that enables big crowds to move around easily.
There are unisex toilet facilities, modern audio-visual equipment and kitchen facilities that can cater for everything from local matches through to weddings where high-end catering is needed. The new stands also include hospitality rooms that can be used for business events and conferences, as well as a large indoor space for trade fairs.
Nield notes “our vision for the stadium is for it to be the best regional stadium in New Zealand. We’ve been telling event promoters it will be open for business in 2025, and now that we’re finished we fully expect to be hosting major events.”
Venues that complement each other
Ensuring the region’s leisure and recreation venues serve different needs is an area Taranaki Regional Council has kept front of mind throughout the Stadium Taranaki project, Neild adds “there’s a lot of strategy work going in now because we want all our venues to be complementary. We don’t want them to be competing with each other - we are too small for that rubbish.”
For major music events, New Plymouth’s Bowl of Brooklands will continue to be the go-to spot for events expected to attract a crowd of 10,000-13,000 people. However, for larger shows that might attract 18,000 or more people, Stadium Taranaki will fill a gap.
The TET MultiSports Centre in Stratford remains an obvious choice for international hockey test matches, while TSB Stadium in New Plymouth provides an option for indoor events including basketball and netball - no competition with Stadium Taranaki there.
Beyond serving the recreation and entertainment needs of the current community, the range of venues across the Taranaki region adds to its appeal as a place to live and play, Neild explains “a lot of our young people leave the region to study but my view is that when people want to start a family, they will see Taranaki as a place with great sports, arts and community, and want to return.”
Ensuring the venues served different needs will continue to be a focus for the council when considering future investment in sport and leisure infrastructure, although Neild concedes that, having just got Stadium Taranaki over the line, it may be time to take a breath, concluding “that’s probably enough bigticket items for a while.”
James Heffield is Director of Wellington-based communications consultancy Last Word. He has written for some of New Zealand’s best known media publications and worked with some of the country’s most trusted brands, from Tourism New Zealand and the New Zealand Rugby Union to PricewaterhouseCoopers and the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council.
Mt Taranaki/Taranaki Maunga dominating the New Plymouth skyline.
Stadium Taranaki’s new East Stand (above).
Changing space in the new East Stand.
Security under the Spotlight
Karen Sweaney considers the implications of the recent firearm security breach at the MCG
A serious security lapse at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) during an AFL match on 3rd April 2025 has triggered both public debate and an industry-wide conversation about the effectiveness of venue safety systems, particularly the reliance on artificial intelligence (AI) technology without robust manual follow-up.
The breach, involving two men allegedly smuggling loaded firearms into the venue during a Collingwood v Carlton clash attended by over 82,000 fans, has triggered widespread concern, prompting venues across the country to review their security protocols.
The two suspects, Omar Salam and Mohamad Noori (each aged in their 20s), were arrested inside the venue after their suspicious behaviour prompted intervention by security personnel.
Upon being searched, both men - who were already on bail and known to police with one prohibited from owning a firearm - were found to be carrying loaded firearms. Despite the presence of AI-powered full-body scanners designed to detect weapons, the manual secondary screening process failed to intercept the weapons after the initial alert was triggered.
Authorities have emphasised that there was no indication of a planned mass shooting or direct threat to the public and that the men did not attempt to use the firearms, with Victoria Police
advising “there is no information to suggest they had planned to harm anyone at the venue”.
Reports indicated that the pair taking firearms into the MCG might have been linked to ongoing criminal activity or personal protection amid potential gang-related conflicts. Following the incident, Victoria Police have not confirmed any specific gang affiliations.
The men were subsequently charged with multiple firearms offences and have been issued lifetime bans from attending AFL matches.
Australia’s strict firearms regulations mean that, unlike the USA, shooting incidents are rare. However, that guns were smuggled into Australia’s largest sporting venue has to be a concern.
Following the incident, Stuart Fox, Chief Executive of MCG operator the Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC), acknowledged the
An apparent security failure during an AFL match at the MCG in April has prompted debate about the effectiveness of venue safety systems.
failure in protocols, describing the incident as “disappointing and upsetting”.
He went on to explain that an internal investigation had already pinpointed the cause: inadequate follow-up by security personnel, stating “our initial internal investigation identified a breakdown in the thoroughness of the secondary and manual screening process.
“As a result, we will be increasing the extensiveness of these procedures. Patrons may experience slight delays as they attend upcoming events.”
The incident drew a swift reaction from Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan who condemned the breach as “absolutely unacceptable”, stating “the MCG should be a place of celebration, not one where people carry weapons.”
Victorian Police Minister Anthony Carbines reinforced the need for accountability, adding “it’s concerning for all Victorians that people would enter the heart of the sporting precinct at the MCG with firearms. That’s not acceptable.”
The MCG underwent a significant security upgrade in 2024, including the installation of AI-equipped sensors intended to enhance public safety designed to detect concealed weapons. While the system successfully flagged anomalies during screening, the breakdown occurred during the secondary manual checks.
Technology and Human Error
The failure highlights the limits of technology when not complemented by robust human oversight. While the AI system did flag the individuals, the follow-up checks failed to locate the concealed weapons, allowing the men to enter the venue fully armed.
The AI-based scanning system, provided by USA-based firm Evolv, is now under intense scrutiny. The Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance (MEAA), which represents MCG staff, has demanded a full audit of the security measures, expressing serious concerns about the reliability of the technology.
Defending the MCG’s security staff, MEAA acting Chief Executive, Adam Portelli explained “while the alleged offenders were later apprehended, the security system’s failure to detect the weapon before it was brought onto the premises is very concerning.”
Portelli also called into question the effectiveness of the Evolv scanning system, referencing legal action by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission alleging false claims about the system’s capabilities.
This sentiment was echoed by AFL Players Association (AFLPA) Chief Executive Paul Marsh, who labelled the breach “frankly unacceptable.”
Marsh noted “every person who attends an AFL match, including the players, staff, and fans, deserves to do so knowing there are effective measures in place to protect their health and safety.”
Review and Call for Transparency
In addition to the lifetime bans, the AFL immediately announced an “end-to-end” security review in collaboration with MCC and Victoria Police, with findings yet to be delivered.
AFL Chief Executive, Andrew Dillon announced “we are committed to conducting a full review to understand how this occurred and how to prevent it in future.”
The MEAA has joined a number of stakeholders calling for this review to be transparent requesting that any investigation into the incident include input from frontline workers.
Portelli added “nothing is more important than the safety and security of the hundreds of thousands of sports and entertainment fans who visit the MCG every year.”
Impact on Fans and Venues
As the AFL season progresses, both the code and MCC have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening safety measures which is understood to include additional training for security personnel, revised screening protocols and regular audits.
An immediate consequence of this saw significant delays in patron access for AFL matches at both the MCG and Marvel Stadium.
At Marvel Stadium on 5th April, the new security measures plus technical issues involving closure of the venue’s roof further compounded the situation, with gates opening 40 minutes late.
Reacting to this AFL Fans Association President, Ron Issko encouraged patience from attendees, noting “we know security is necessary, and if there are changes to ensure safety, fans will accommodate that.”
In a related event just weeks after the MCG incident, Victoria Police thwarted an attempted breach at Marvel Stadium when a 15-year-old male allegedly approached the venue with a fake gun and a small knife.
He was detained and issued a caution.
Following this incident, the AFL advised that their screening processes had worked in this case.
Looking Forward
The MEAA call for an audit aligns with broader concerns that technology alone cannot guarantee safety and that the human component - security staff executing thorough, hands-on screening - is essential.
While advanced scanning systems offer significant potential, over-reliance on AI, particularly when under-tested, can lead to critical vulnerabilities.
While the MCG security breach has exposed gaps in existing protocols, it has also prompted a necessary reevaluation of how major venues balance innovation with practical safeguards.
A more cautious, collaborative approach - one that integrates smart technology with effective training and accountability for security personnel - appears to be the clear path forward.
Technology alone is not a panacea - and public trust depends on getting security right.
Karen Sweaney is Editor of Australasian Leisure Management.
Evolv’s AI scanning system in place at the MCG (below).
Forever Evolving
Victoria Zorin explains how businesses can benefit from crowd analytics
With a goal to be the world’s leading crowd analytics platform, Melbourne-based crowd and in-store analytics platform Nola has, since its launch in late 2022, made rapid progress in providing attractions, cinemas, family/social entertainment centres, retailers, snow fields, stadiums and theme parks with the tools they need to transform their operations and enhance profitability.
Co-founding the business in 2020 out of first-hand frustration with long queues at musical festivals, and a desire to improve those experiences, Nola Chief Executive Victoria Zorin explains “we offer affordable and easily accessible visitor insights that make a significant impact.”
Nola’s platform does this by utilising a location’s existing CCTV infrastructure to optimise operations and improve visitor experience. It has rapidly evolved from a simple queue waittime solution to a comprehensive crowd analytics platform.
Designed to be ‘anonymous by design’ and avoid collecting personally identifiable information, the platform leverages advances in computer vision and machine learning to provide cost-effective and accurate visitor analytics at scale, with no limit to the features that can be added over time.
Nola’s key differentiator is its proprietary visitor reidentification technology, which delivers anonymised per-visitor intelligence - not just aggregate data. This unlocks rich insights such as time spent in venue, individual trajectories and precise wait times, which traditional people counting systems can’t provide.
Its primary focus has been on the attractions industry and sporting venues, where the platform can provide real-time
operational insights and metrics on customer experience for various stakeholders. The platform is intentionally designed to evolve with customer needs, ensuring it never reaches end of life. Its flexible architecture allows for expansion into future use cases such as being able to detect faults in arcade machines or monitoring safety in swimming pools.
It has also partnered with UK-based TwinLabs.ai, who utilise Nola’s infrastructure to gain real-time gym behaviour insights and provide meaningful insights to gym operators.
Within the attraction space, where the vast majority of Nola’s clients operate, Zorin explains that there are so many use cases from a real-time operational perspective, whether that’s ride operators, customer experience teams, safety monitoring, or management assessing overall visitor satisfaction.
“Data can initially indicate how long visitors stay as a way of gauging experience.
“If people leave an attraction really quickly, you can pretty much assume they haven’t had a great experience while the longer they’ve stayed then we know they are more engaged.
“It’s all about customer experience. We focus on increasing average spend per visitor, enhancing the customer experience, and improving operational efficiency. We deliver insights either in real-time or historically, to help businesses achieve these goals.”
Nola’s system has been designed to stream thousands of CCTV cameras capturing a wide range of information, with Zorin noting “the beautiful thing about our platform’s machine learning is there is no ceiling - we are constantly hearing from our customers the new features they’re interested in based off their real lived experiences.
Jamberoo Action Park(above) makes use of Nola’s crowd analytics and Nola Chief Executive Victoria Zorin (right).
“For example, one of our customers - one of the biggest amusement arcades in the world - was saying ‘it would be really great if you could tell us when our machines have broken down’.
“We get requests on a daily basis and as customers ask us about a particular feature, we’ll prioritise that and put it in the pipeline.”
In addition to her festival queueing experience, Zorin attributes her career journey as the catalyst for her role with Nola. Her professional path began at a leading Australian e-commerce marketplace, where she was among the first
10 employees, then transitioning into the B2B technology sector, spending four years at the cloud software distributor now known as Crayon Channel, where she served as Global Marketing Director.
In a recent podcast she advised “it was during that time I really saw the power of AI and computer vision to transform industries.”
Her experience at a music festival prompted her to apply this to what she saw as a clear gap in the market.
She recalls “I was at a music festival, waiting in line for eight hours in 40-degree heat. I remember thinking, why does this keep happening? There has to be a better way.”
With that passion driving her, Zorin interviewed around 80 industry professionals across sectors like retail, events, stadiums and manufacturing identifying that there was a need for an effective solution for observing and understanding crowds in complex, high-density environments.
She initially focused on retail, where the market was more ready for adoption before a NSW music festival approached her - becoming Nola’s first customer.
Zorin recalls “that was our launchpad. From there, we raised pre-seed funding, completed more pilots, and secured our first paying customers.”
With entrepreneurial grit, a passion for emerging technologies, and a strong commercial backbone, Zorin launched Nola to reimagine how we understand the movement of people in physical spaces-starting with the industries that need it most.
Subsequently her success saw her recognised in the Forbes 30 Under 30 list for B2B enterprise technology in 2023.
As Australia’s outdoor visitor attractions cope with the seemingly growing unpredictability of extreme weather, Zorin notes that operators are increasingly turning to data to adapt and respond in real time.
Traditionally, weather was treated as a background variable in tourism forecasting. Today, it is becoming a frontline factor directly shaping visitor behaviour, revenue models and operational planning.
Data from Nola underscores this, with a nationwide analysis of venue traffic that it undertook in April 2025 revealing stark differences tied to localised weather conditions.
The analysis identified:
-Outdoor venues saw a 40 to 60% decline in entries on rainy days.
-Indoor attractions experienced a 10 to 16% increase in visitor traffic, often without warning.
-Across both types of venues average stay time is shrinking, impacting per-capita spend and disrupting staff workflows.
Indoor Venues Now ‘Plan A’
With outdoor attractions facing unpredictable drops in visitation, indoor venues such as amusement arcades, family/social entertainment centres, museums and cinemas are increasingly absorbing overflow.
Zorin explains “they’re no longer just the rainy-day fallback.
“On wet mornings, they’re the first stop - but the surges are often unplanned and overwhelming if you’re not ready.”
Advising that stay time patterns are also becoming less predictable, Zorin states “some guests linger longer because they’re short on alternatives. Others come in, dry off, and leave - so the operational challenge is bigger than just capacity.”
Australia’s ‘New Normal’ March 2025 was the hottest on record, with temperatures 2.4
degrees C above average and the fourth-wettest since records began, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.
The Gold Coast, impacted by ongoing rain and Cyclone Alfred, faced widespread disruptions to transport and tourism operations.
Zorin warned “these aren’t anomalies anymore - they’re the new normal.
“What we once treated as edge cases are now weekly operational realities.”
Actionable Recommendations for Operators
To help venues navigate this new landscape, Zorin suggests key strategies for data-led resilience:
-Measure More Than Footfall: Track stay time and movement patterns to uncover insights beyond basic entries.
-Overlay Weather Data: Identify and anticipate behaviours triggered by environmental changes.
-Operate Dynamically: Adjust staffing, layout, and activations in real time using live data signals.
-Design for Resilience: Incorporate flexible F&B areas, shaded zones, and weatherproofing to extend visits.
Platforms like Nola are enabling this shift by providing realtime visibility into entries, exits, and dwell time - paired with predictive weather overlays and integration-ready APIs for operational dashboards.
Looking Ahead
Zorin concluded “weather isn’t a seasonal concern anymoreit’s an operational input.
“Venues that embrace real-time data and design for agility will be the ones that adapt fastest - and thrive.
“The message is clear, with a changing climate the business of attractions must change with it.”
Nola was founded based on Victoria Zorin’s festival queueing experience.Pexels/Wendy Wei.
Climate impacts on live music attendance
A Green Music Australia report reveals the impact of extreme weather on live music attendance and ticket sales
Anewly released report from Green Music Australia (GMA) and RMIT University has explored how climate change and extreme weather are already impacting Australia’s live music sector.
The GMA’s Rain, Heat, Repeat: How Music Fans Are Experiencing Extreme Weather report, co-authored by Associate Professor Catherine Strong, Dr Ben Green and Dr Todd Denham of RMIT and Dr Lauren Rickards of La Trobe University, explores how climate change and extreme weather events are impacting music audiences in Australia, and influencing ticket purchasing decisions and event attendance.
GMA commissioned the study and research amid an escalating crisis. It comes after more than 50 music festivals across the country were fully or partially cancelled due to extreme weather conditions since 2015 while, in March this year, Cyclone Alfred led to the cancellation of more than 26 live music events in just one week. The organisation hopes the Report will offer early insights into this growing challenge for the music industry, and act as an inspiration for action from artists, event organisers, industry stakeholders and policymakers to safeguard live music in an era of increasing climate uncertainty.
The Report was compiled from interviews with attendees
at Billie Eilish and Lime Cordiale Australian tours, as well as festivals Party In the Paddock and St Kilda Festival with polling conducted by Green Music Australia at live music and events across NSW, Victoria, Queensland and Tasmania. 1,155 attendees aged from 18 to 60+ were surveyed.
85% of festival-goers have already experienced what they consider to be extreme weather at a music festival in the past 12 months. This figure rises to 88% for those in NSW and the ACT, and 87% for those from Queensland. In the 18 to 25-year-old demographic, 88% across the country said they had attended a music festival with extreme weather.
For some, this has already translated into changed behaviours, with 13% choosing to attend fewer events due to extreme weather. These worrying numbers could be set to rise further, with 34% saying they are more cautious about purchasing tickets due to extreme weather. For frequent attendees - those who go to live music weekly - it’s even higher, at 44%.
Extreme heat is the most common weather event noted by attendees, with 68% saying they have experienced it over the past 12 months at a music festival. And as extreme heat events occur more frequently, ticket sales look likely to suffer. 33%
Severe weather, particularly heavy rain and flooding, impacted Splendour in The Grass Festival in 2022 with the first day of the festival cancelled (above). Credit: Deb Kloeden; cover of Green Music report ‘Rain, Heat, Repeat’ (right); Green Music Australia’s NO MUSIC ON A DEAD PLANET campaign (opposite).
said their cutoff for attending a festival would be a forecast over 35 degrees. If the forecast climbs to over 40 degrees, 66% said they would avoid attending. The number of event-avoiders soars to 84% if the forecast is over 45 degrees.
Meanwhile almost half of respondents (45%) have experienced heavy rain at a live event, a phenomenon which appears to impact NSW attendees (52%) and Queensland attendees (51%) slightly more. 17%, meanwhile, have experienced flood impacts at a music event in the past year (rising to 19% for NSW).
Of those surveyed, an overwhelming majority (81%) believe Governments aren’t doing enough to protect the music scene from climate impacts. Only 5% believe enough is being done.
GMA Chief Executive, Berish Bilandernoted “while the live music industry has faced past crises - including the pandemic, which caused mass cancellations and economic hardshipclimate change presents an ongoing and escalating challenge.
“Unlike other disruptions, extreme weather is not a oneoff event, but a growing trend. Understanding how music audiences are responding to these changes is crucial in shaping the future of live music in Australia. Without stronger climate commitments, the future of Australia’s music festivalsand the communities they bring together -remains at risk.”
The Report also offered a number of recommendations including:
•Governments must act on climate science
•Elevate First Nations leadership in climate solutions
•Strengthen Government action to protect live music
•Improve transparency and risk communication for audiences
•Invest in sustainable infrastructure and climate-safe event design
•Introduce consumer protections for ticket holders
•Prioritise research for sector-wide collaboration
Associate Professor Strong added “music festivals are an important part of Australia’s cultural landscape.
“This research shows that the impacts of the climate crisis
are already making some audience members think twice about attending festivals, and this is likely to increase as more people encounter extreme weather at events. Action is needed now to ensure the sustainability of festivals - while remembering that music festivals are only one small part of what we will lose if we continue on our current path.”
The Report was launched as part of Green Music Australia’s NO MUSIC ON A DEAD PLANET campaign ahead of the recent Federal election, calling for music fans to vote climate. ‘Voting climate’ simply means considering whether candidates and parties would make the climate crisis a priority by supporting 100% renewable energy, saying no to nuclear and ending government support for fossil fuels.
Founded in 2012, Green Music Australia is the national peak body for music and the environment. Led by a staff and board of musicians and music industry leaders, its role is to organise, facilitate and inspire musicians and the broader industry to make changes to improve our environmental performance and to advocate for ambitious political climate action.
Karen Sweaney.
Live Music and Lasting Memories
The Winarch Group’s latest annual Australian Live Music Census
The Winarch Group’s second annual Australian Live Music Census has revealed that while Australians make lasting memories at live music shows, and are keen to attend shows more often, only a small portion of them feel that available venues and infrastructure are sufficient.
Commissioned each year to understand the pulse and perceptions of Australians when it comes to their live music consumption, the report also shows that fans have a long list of improvements which could be made to live music venues - and the process of getting there - to make the experience safer and more enjoyable.
Winarch Group Founder, Paul Lambess noted “understanding the priorities, perceptions and preferences of Australians when it comes to live music is key to ensuring we have a thriving local industry. The Winarch Group Australian Live Music Census paints a picture of an Australia that knows what it wants - more purpose-built live music venues, fewer issues with accessibility and transport, and the opportunity to create more lifetime memories.
“We need more people acting on this positive intent and sentiment, and getting out there and seeing more shows across the capital cities and our arts-loving regions. The data in this second annual Winarch Group Australian Live Music Census will help inform venue owners, promoters, policymakers and key stakeholders, to ensure they’re prioritising what people want and need from this culture-defining industry.”
Attending Live Music
Only 6% of the representative sample ‘strongly agree’ that there are sufficient live music venues in their area, while a further 37% ‘agreed’ with the statement - meaning it’s a net minority of people (43%) who feel there is adequate infrastructure around them to cater to their live music wants and needs. 24%
of people, meanwhile, ‘disagreed’ with the statement that they had sufficient live music venues in their area, and a further 7% ‘strongly disagreed’, bringing the net negative sentiment to 31%. The remaining 26% responded neutrally.
Despite a significant proportion of people believing there aren’t adequate facilities around them, the intent to attend more live music in the coming six months remains strong. 33% of the representative sample said they are ‘very likely’ to attend a live music event in the next six months, with a further 31% saying they are ‘somewhat likely’. 21% were ‘unsure’ of their live music plans, while only 7% said they were ‘unlikely’ to be at a gig in 2025, and 8% were ‘very unlikely’.
As things stand, 32% of people say they attend a live music event once every few years, with the remaining 68% attending more frequently - including one to three times a year (31%), four to 11 times a year (15%), once or twice a month (11%), three or four times a month (6%), once a week (4%), and the very keen more than ‘once a weekers’ (1%).
Frustrations With Venues and Industry
The data from the Census reveals an intent to attend more live music events, despite an overarching sentiment that there aren’t quite enough venues to do so.
So what else would encourage people to act on this sentiment and intent, and purchase more tickets, more frequently?
Cheaper ticket prices was the most popular option in response to the question ‘What would encourage you to see more live music?’ coming in at 74% of all respondents.
Half of respondents (50%) said having appropriate venues in closer proximity to where they live would get them over the line. Those responding from outside the capital cities felt this sentiment in stronger numbers.
61% of NSW residents outside of Sydney said closer
proximity of venues would encourage them to attend more shows (versus 45% of Sydney respondents). It was a similar story in Victoria, with 60% of those outside Melbourne saying better proximity would change the game for them (versus 49% of Melbourne respondents who said the same thing). 73% of those outside Adelaide (compared to 37% of Adelaide respondents), 67% of non-Hobart-based Tasmanians (versus 63% of Hobart respondents), 63% of those outside of Perth in Western Australia (compared to 48% in Perth), 57% in the ACT, 52% of those outside Brisbane in Queensland (versus 43% for Brisbane), and 40% of those in the Northern Territory felt the same way.
32% of people overall said better transport options would get them across the line to attend more shows.
The biggest frustration people feel when actually attending live events is toilet queues (59%). There was, however, a gender disparity with this frustration, with 67% of females listing this as a concern, versus 50% of males.
Booking fees (41%) and transport to and from the venue (also 41%) are the next most common concern. The inadequate transport concern was most likely to impact the younger cohort of those aged 18-24, with 48% of them listing it as a concern, compared to 32% of the respondents aged 65+. The city most frustrated by inadequate transport is Sydney, with 47% of Sydneysider respondents listing it as a frustration, compared to 44% for Hobart, 43% for Brisbane, 43% for Perth, 40% for Melbourne, 39% for the ACT, and just 29% for Adelaide.
Regionally, those most-frustrated by transport hailed from Tasmania (83%), compared to regional Western Australia (50%), regional NSW (41%), regional Queensland (35%), regional Victoria (30%), and regional South Australia (27%).
What Next?
The good news is, despite myriad frustrations, there is still an incredibly positive sentiment towards live music experiences in Australia.
54% of respondents agreed with the statement ‘The memories I make at live music events will last a lifetime’, with a further 23% strongly agreeing - taking the overall net positive sentiment to 77%. 20% responded neutrally.
There’s also a good mix of the types of events and genres of music that Australians enjoy. 60% of people attend indoor ticketed concerts, 56% free events or concerts, 39% ticketed outdoor concerts, 33% one-day music festivals, 26% theatrical productions, 21% live cover acts, and 14% multi-day music festivals. Pop was the most popular genre (57% of Australians said they attend pop music gigs), followed by rock (54%), musical theatre (34%), country (31%), hip hop (25%), jazz/ blues (23%), classical (23%), folk and traditional (21%), EDM/ dance (17%), and punk/ metal (13%).
Creating Exceptional Spaces
Backed by world leading manufacturers - the Kotobuki Group including Audience Systems and Interkal as well as internationally renowned Junckers Flooring, as Maxwood Technology - we have established ourselves as a leader in both sports flooring and audience seating solutions across the Australian and New Zealand markets.
Winarchs latest Census shows that Australians want more live music venues. Credit: Pexels.
Belgravia Group is a family owned, family run, multigenerational business servicing Australia and New Zealand.
Divided into activity-based and business services, Belgravia Group is delivering sport, fitness and wellbeing opportunities to improve the lives of as many Aussies and Kiwis as possible and bestpractice business support solutions allowing existing and emerging businesses to reach their peak.
Established 1990.
www.belgraviagroup.com.au
Beyond the Gym and Pool
Grant Connors advocates a whole-system approach to community wellbeing
For decades, community aquatic and recreation centres have been defined by their physical space - the gym, the swimming pool, the sports hall. But today, our purpose must go beyond simply providing spaces for activity as we are not just custodians of exercise venues; we are catalysts for community wellbeing.
In an era marked by escalating mental health concerns, rising chronic disease rates, and fractured social connections, our role has evolved. We must transcend the transactional and embrace a transformative role: adopting a whole-system approach, acknowledging the complexity of health and social factors, and working alongside a broad network of allies to drive meaningful change.
The Systemic Nature of Wellbeing
Wellbeing does not exist in isolation. It is shaped by interconnected systems - health, social care, education, urban planning, and economic policy. If we want to create healthier, more active communities, we must work collaboratively to influence upstream factors, ensuring that physical activity is embedded into everyday life and made accessible to all.
The barriers are systemic. To understand them, we must appreciate that certain parts of Australia, New Zealand and the world, have differences in mortality rates and ill health. If you were to get on a train in Sydney at Circular Quay and head out towards Western Sydney, life expectancy may well start to decline. Access, affordability, and trust are all relevant, and what is certain is that we must never impose solutions onto those who are so disenfranchised. Instead, we must engage in meaningful conversations, working closely with these communities to provide them with agency in shaping solutions that work best for their unique circumstances.
This approach aligns with the Eight Investments That Work for Physical Activity, as outlined in 2021 in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health, This framework highlights key strategies that contribute to a healthier society and ensures that physical activity is not only promoted but embedded into daily life:
1.Whole-of-School Programs: Encouraging active schools and physical literacy from an early age.
2.Active Travel: Promoting walking, cycling, and infrastructure that supports active commuting.
3.Active Urban Design: Creating spaces that encourage movement through parks, footpaths, and cycleways.
4.Healthcare Integration: Embedding physical activity into health services and social prescribing.
5.Public Education and Awareness: Changing perceptions and behaviour through targeted messaging.
6.Sport and Recreation for All: Ensuring inclusive access to community sport and activity.
7.Workplace Wellness: Encouraging physical activity within employment settings.
8.Community-Wide Approaches: Coordinating efforts across multiple sectors to create an active society.
Community wellbeing (above). Credit: Shutterstock; and students cycling to University (below). Credit: City of Sydney
Our primary role as a sector is not just about increasing participation; it’s to create activity opportunities for all, it’s about generating a ‘wellbeing dividend’ - a cascade of positive outcomes that strengthens the entire community:
• Improved physical health: Reduced risk of chronic diseases, enhanced cardiovascular health, and increased overall fitness.
• Enhanced mental wellbeing: Reduced stress and anxiety, improved mood, and increased self-esteem.
• Strengthened social capital: Increased social connections, stronger community bonds, and reduced social isolation.
• Increased community resilience: Enhanced ability to cope with challenges, improved quality of life, and greater overall wellbeing.
Addressing more than just Fitness
Community aquatic and recreation centres are uniquely positioned to address the broader determinants of health. Mental wellbeing, loneliness, social isolation, and lifestylerelated diseases require more than just a place to work out.
Mental Health and Physical Activity
Research consistently shows the positive impact of physical activity on mental wellbeing. Regular exercise reduces stress, anxiety, and depression while enhancing mood, cognitive function, and sleep quality. Aquatic and recreation centres must integrate activities such as mindfulness-based fitness, group exercise for social support, and referrals from mental health professionals.
Combatting Loneliness
With loneliness a pressing societal issue, research from Ending Loneliness Together (a national network organisations who collaborate to address the growing problem of loneliness in Australia) shows that nearly one in three Australians feel lonely, and one in six experience severe loneliness. The impacts of loneliness include poorer mental health, increased physical health risks, and higher mortality rates. Aquatic and recreation centres can play a crucial role in social connection, offering walking groups, community swim sessions, group training, intergenerational activities, and spaces for conversation and support.
Expanding Our Network of Allies
Adopting a systems-thinking approach allows us to leverage a wider network of partners. Too often, aquatic and recreation centres operate in silos, assuming responsibility for community fitness without engaging the broader ecosystem of stakeholders:
• Healthcare Partnerships: General practitioners, physiotherapists, and mental health professionals are key allies. Exercise referral schemes, social prescribing, and on-site wellness services can bridge the gap between healthcare and recreation. Belgravia Leisure’s Partners in Health initiative has been a key driver of this integration.
• Local Government and Urban Planners: Advocating for active urban design ensures local governments support movement at every opportunity through walkable neighbourhoods, safe cycling routes, and accessible green spaces.
• Schools and Universities: Embedding physical activity into educational settings helps establish lifelong habits and reduces the burden on health systems.
• Workplaces and Employers: Promoting corporate wellness programmes, gym partnerships, and flexible working arrangements that enable active lifestyles.
• Community Organisations: Leveraging existing networks to reach underrepresented groups and ensure inclusivity. By expanding our mindset beyond facility-based services, we unlock new opportunities for impact.
Leveraging Upstream Solutions for Change
To shift from reactive service provision to proactive health leadership, we must tackle barriers such as affordability, accessibility, safety and cultural inclusion:
• Accessibility: Ensuring all spaces and programs are inclusive, including adaptive sports and exercise for people of all abilities.
• Safety & Cultural Considerations: Creating environments where everyone - regardless of gender, ethnicity or background-feels welcome.
Policy advocacy is crucial. Aquatic and recreation centres can influence public funding, urban planning, and healthcare policy by demonstrating our role as a vital component of the wellbeing ecosystem.
Redefining
Our Role in the Community
The future of community leisure is not about competing for gym memberships; it’s about delivering wellbeing outcomes. By embracing a whole-system approach, we transition from being just facilities to wellbeing hubs where people move and connect.
Our role is no longer just about the 15-17% of us who have a gym membership; it’s about cultivating healthier, happier, and more connected communities through collaboration, innovation, and a deep understanding of the systems that shape our lives.
Our success should not be measured solely by treadmill usage but by the depth of social connections we nurture and the tangible improvements in community health.
The opportunity is immense. The challenge is complex. But the impact is profound. If we embrace this role with intention and strategy, leisure centres can become the heartbeat of healthier, more resilient communities, changing lives.
Grant Connors is General Manager Programs at Belgravia Leisure.
(Journal of Physical Activity and Health, 2021)
The Eight Investments That Work for Physical Activity, as outlined by Milton et al.
Swimming Lesson. Credit: Belgravia Leisure.
Moving Magic
Fluidra’s movable floors can offer flexibility for public pools
In a market where flexibility, sustainability and community impact are front-of-mind, aquatic facilities are seeking solutions that allow them to serve broader demographics with fewer resources.
Here Fluidra Commercial’s movable floor system offers unparalleled versatility, strength and sustainability with the potential to meet rising community needs - ranging from elite sport and rehabilitation to learn-to-swim and aqua fitness.
Fluidra Commercial Australia General Manager, Jeremy Smith explains “it’s about maximising usage while minimising footprint.
“With one pool we can now support different programs throughout the day - infant swim classes in the morning, lap swimming in the afternoon, and water polo training by evening.”
Movable floor technology allows centres to operate fewer bodies of water, reducing chemical use, water consumption, and energy. In zero-depth mode, the floor doubles as a pool cover, dramatically improving thermal efficiency.
This aligns with broader sustainability goals shared by peak bodies which continue to push for legacy infrastructure that serves both elite sport and the local community - particularly in the lead-up to Brisbane 2032.
The system is already in use at several high-profile facilities, where it’s delivering measurable benefits:
•Ashfield Aquatic Centre, NSW: A hub for community recreation and competitive water polo, the Ashfield Aquatic Centre has embraced the technology to host a wide range of activities in a single pool - helping cement its growing reputation in aquatic sports circles.
•Carnegie Aquatic Centre, Victoria: With a focus on inclusive programming, Carnegie Aquatic Centre’s implementation of the system has opened new opportunities in rehabilitation and learn-to-swim without the need for separate water spaces.
•Inverell Aquatic Leisure Centre, NSW: In a regional setting, the system supports multi-generational use, allowing the same space to be used for hydrotherapy, toddler splash zones and adult swim classes - all at a consistent water temperature.
Engineered for Excellence
At the core of Fluidra’s innovation is the Akvo Spiralift system, constructed from high-grade 316L stainless steel and engineered to withstand heavy loads, chlorine, and constant operation. The self-supporting structure is robust enough to meet international standards for safety and durability.
Smith advises “unlike traditional hydraulic systems, the Spiralift doesn’t require pits or intrusive mechanisms.
“It’s a clean, efficient system that can be retrofitted into existing facilities or installed in new builds.”
With a load capacity of 65kg/m² - and scalable up for larger venues - the floor system has found favour with architects, engineers, and facility operators looking for low-maintenance solutions that don’t compromise on design or safety.
Fluidra Commercial’s movable floor system is designed to provide adjustable water depths, allowing a single pool to be adapted for various uses. Whether for elite swimming, learn-toswim programs, rehabilitation therapy, water polo, or general recreation, the floor height can be modified to suit different needs - all within minutes.
This means facilities no longer need to build multiple pools for different activities.
Contact Fluidra Commercial on 07 3812 2283, E: au-commercial@fluidra.com, wwww.fluidra.com.au/commercial
The versatility of Fluidra’s movable floor system (top left) and as installed at Inverell Aquatic Leisure Centre (above left), Carnegie Aquatic Centre (above right) and Ashfield Aquatic Centre (below) .
Swimming, Safeguarding and Success
Wayne Goldsmith considers teaching learn to swim and developing young swimmers in the current child safeguarding climate
Before I start writing and you start reading, let’s be perfectly clear - we all need to ensure our swimming teacher and coaching practices are unreservedly and without compromise committed to child safety and wellbeing.
No argument. No discussion. No ambiguity. Safety first.
However…
I was motivated to write this article following some recent experiences with self-proclaimed child safeguarding experts who had been engaged to review and influence the child safety culture of a number of my clients in Australia and the UK. The experts typically suggested that a lot of accepted and effective learn to swim teaching practices were in their view ‘unsafe’ and that learn to swim teachers needed to change many of their teaching techniques to facilitate the shift to a more child-safe environment. This caused considerable stress - particularly for many senior, experienced teachers who felt their commitment to teaching swimming and their passion for water safety was being marginalised.
The aim of this article is to help teachers, teacher educators and trainers, learn to swim co-ordinators and learn to swim business operators navigate through the often complex, difficult, confusing and occasionally emotional issue of balancing safeguarding with successful teaching.
What is Safeguarding and what does it mean for Learn to Swim Teachers and Teaching?
In the document, Safe and Supported: the National Framework for Protecting Australia’s Children 2021-2031* there’s a wonderful, clear Vision statement: (Our Vision is that)… children and young
people in Australia reach their full potential by growing up safe and supported, free from harm and neglect.
Learn to swim teachers live a commitment to safety in their teaching and learning activities. They are passionate about helping children to learn to love aquatics experiences and to do so in a safe, enjoyable and engaging learning environment. There is no dispute that safeguarding and learn to swim teaching go hand in hand. They are two sides of the same coin. The issue here is one of interpretation and practical application.
The Real issue
No one in the aquatics industry would argue that keeping children safe in and around water is what we’re all here for.
Children’s swimmimg lesson (above) Credit: Shutterstock and Wayne Goldsmith (below).
However, we’re also here to get results, i.e. to teach children to learn to swim and be safe in and around water in the shortest possible time and in a learning environment which facilitates fun while nurturing a lifelong love of all things aquatics. In short, our role as teachers, as teacher-trainers, as coaches is to give children a chance to fall in love with water - because - if you love what you do - you do what you love, i.e. they keep connected to the water throughout their lives.
As it is with many issues, the challenge is getting the balance right.
If we become overly focused on the precise letter of the government safeguarding policy documentation, we risk changing the character and culture of teaching. For example, I’ve recently worked with learn to swim organisations overseas who have moved to a ‘zero-touch’ teaching policy - even for young students - where teachers teach from the pool deck and parents/carers are required to be in the water at all times for student safety and support.
While this ‘zero-touch’ approach may create a ‘safer’ environment in terms of minimizing direct physical contact with young learners, it’s impact on the effectiveness of the learning environment which has traditionally involved appropriate, direct physical contact for teaching and safety purposes is profound.
Another safeguarding expert - admittedly one with no teaching, coaching or aquatic education experience of any kind remarked to me: “in my view there should be no touching of any kind between teachers, coaches and kids”.
When I challenged the expert on this point, citing the importance of occasionally supporting children appropriately and safely to help them build and grow confidence, e.g. when attempting a back float for the first time, she replied, “No. There are no exceptions”.
There is a conundrum here. Safeguarding is about keeping children safe. So is learn to swim teaching.
An experienced teacher will identify appropriate teachable moments where a brief support will not just enhance learning and build confidence but also ensure the child’s safety - which is of course consistent with the principles of safeguarding.
However, If we don’t embrace a strong commitment to child safeguarding, we - as an industry - risk being labelled careless and potentially expose teachers, pool management and business owners to face possible litigation and other sanctions.
So where’s the balance point between outstanding and effective teaching and a commitment to appropriate child safeguarding practices?
How to get the Balance right: Safeguarding and Teaching / Coaching Effectiveness:
The real challenge for any learn to swim teacher, swim school manager or aquatic business operator is to find practical ways to embrace a culture of safeguarding with an ongoing commitment to outstanding teaching and learning practices.
When considering introducing any new teaching practice or curriculum / syllabus change etc, ask yourself these five simple questions:
1.Has this (i.e. new practice/policy/activity) been developed in collaboration and consultation with our teachers, our teacher-trainers, our swim school co-ordinators and industry / legislative experts?
2.Will this (i.e. new practice/policy/activity) make our lessons SAFER?
3.Will this (i.e. new practice/policy/activity) make our lessons MORE EFFECTIVE?
4.Will this (i.e. new practice/policy/activity) enhance the capability of our TEACHERS to be better at TEACHING and our COACHES to be better at COACHING?
5.Will this (i.e. new practice/policy/activity) improve the capability of our company to achieve outstanding results - safely?
Chances are, if you can answer Yes to all five questions, then the new practice you are introducing will work and take you a
step further in the essential need to balance safeguarding and brilliant teaching.
The S.A.F.E.R Principle: Balancing Safeguarding and Teaching/Coaching
This simple phrase could be a useful reminder for your frontline teaching and coaching professionals: an easy to remember ‘nudge’ of our industry commitment to get the balance right:
S: SAFEGUARDING - Safety in and around water is what we’re all committed to.
A: AQUATIC LITERACY AND WATER SAFETY SKILLS - In the end, we’re about saving lives through effective learning.
F: FUN - Strive to be serious at all times about safeguarding - while still being focused on fun and enjoyment.
Being committed to child safeguarding does not mean teachers can’t be brilliant aquatic professionals who achieve remarkable results through consistently highquality teaching.
The ‘art’ of great learn to swim teachers lies in their ability to make learning fun - leading to a happy, relaxed and enjoyable learning experience - one which will be ‘memorable’ for learners, teachers and even mums and dads watching from pool deck. Being committed to child safeguarding practices while delivering enjoyable learning is key.
E: ENVIRONMENT - Creating a positive, supportive space where children feel physically and emotionally secure to learn and grow. The physical and emotional environment you establish directly impacts both safety and learning outcomes. A well-structured environment with clear boundaries and expectations promotes both security and effective skill development.
R: RELATIONSHIPS - Building appropriate, professional connections with students and families that balance warmth with proper boundaries. Strong, appropriate relationships create the trust necessary for effective learning while maintaining safeguarding principles. These relationships extend beyond the student to include parents, caregivers, and the wider swimming community, creating a network of support that enhances both safety and learning progress. Safeguarding and swimming - take it seriously - but effective teaching and coaching still depend on the capability of teachers and coaches to build and grow real connected relationships with children (and their families) and making learning and improvement engaging and enjoyable.
The SAFER framework provides a balanced approach that honours both our commitment to protect children and our mission to develop skilled, confident swimmers through positive learning experiences.
Wayne Goldsmith.
Summary and Take Aways:
1.Integrate child safeguarding practices into every element of your learn to swim and coaching program - no brainer.
2.Ensure your safeguarding practices are blended and integrated into quality teaching and excellence in coaching techniques and your “teach-the-teacher” recruitment, onboarding and ongoing professional development programs.
3.Build simple learning resources, tools and education programs which enable you to teach your teachers and coach your coaches how to deliver exceptional learn to swim and water safety programs within a best practice child safeguarding environment.
4.Everyone can learn. Everyone can improve. But be careful blindly adopting the views and opinions of “experts” who might be well credentialled in safeguarding, but who lack an understanding of aquatics, learn to swim teaching technique or coaching practices. Managing a balanced teaching and coaching professional development model, where the talent, skills and experience of aquatic education practitioners is respected and listened to, while adopting relevant new ideas and progressive practices from experts and professionals outside the industry is important.
5.Keep up to date. This is a rapidly changing and evolving area of the aquatics industry in Australia, New Zealand and the UK. Governments and aquatic industry leadership groups are continually looking for ways to improve and enhance their commitment to child safeguarding and this has direct impact and influence on all elements of the aquatics industry.
Wayne Goldsmith is a globally recognised expert in the aquatics industry with over 25 years of experience across teaching, coaching, facility management and business operations.
Previously as Group Manager Aquatics at Belgravia Leisure, he led all elements of Australia’s largest aquatics program across Australia and New Zealand, overseeing delivery of over three million swimming lessons annually. His career includes leadership roles with Swimming Australia, Water Polo Australia, Diving Australia and Triathlon Australia, where he spearheaded highperformance programs and developed innovative coach education systems.
He has been honoured with the Outstanding Contribution to Swimming in Australia Award, the Eunice Gill Prize for Coach Education, and the Al Schoenfield Media Award from the International Swimming Hall of Fame.
A prolific author and thought leader, he has written three books and over 500 articles, while maintaining a vibrant digital presence through podcasts, online courses and social media platforms dedicated to aquatics excellence.
WAYNE GOLDSMITH AQUATICS INDUSTRY LEADER
Australia’s Premier Aqua cs Consultant with 25+ Years of Global Excellence
Transform your aqua c opera ons with Australia’s most experienced and innova ve aqua cs professional. From managing the na on’s largest swim program, to developing high-performance frameworks for Olympic teams, Goldsmith brings unparalleled exper se to every aqua c challenge.
SPECIALISED AQUATIC SERVICES:
•Aqua c Program ConsultancyStrategic development, opera onal excellence, and commercial growth
•Swim School Performance EnhancementComprehensive reviews and transforma on strategies
•Facility Design & Development AdvisoryEvidence-based planning for maximum func onality
•Teaching & Coaching Development - Innovative training, mentoring, and micro-learning solu ons
“Wayne’s unique ability to combine high-performance principles with prac cal business strategies delivers measurable results across all levels of aqua c opera ons.”
Children’s swimmimg lessons (above and below) Credit: Shutterstock.
Mickey goes East
The Walt Disney Company’s announcement that it will develop a new theme park resort on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island will be a significant new approach for the entertainment giant
The announcement in early May that the Walt Disney Company and Miral, the UAE’s leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences, of the development of the world’s seventh Disney destination on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island generated global media attention.
The announcement even prompted US President Donald Trump to state “it is going to be incredible”.
Introducing the development, planned for a waterfront location on Yas Island, Disney advised that the new attraction “will combine Disney’s iconic stories, characters and attractions with Abu Dhabi’s vibrant culture, stunning shorelines, and breathtaking architecture.”
Robert A. Iger, Chief Executive, The Walt Disney Company enthused “this is a thrilling moment for our company as we announce plans to build an exciting Disney theme park resort in Abu Dhabi, whose culture is rich with an appreciation of the arts and creativity.
“As our seventh theme park destination, it will rise from this land in spectacular fashion, blending contemporary architecture with cutting edge technology to offer guests deeply immersive entertainment experiences in unique and modern ways. Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be authentically Disney and distinctly Emirati.”
However, the model for bringing Mickey Mouse to the
Arabian Gulf will not follow Disney’s usual model of owning and operating its theme parks.
Instead, Disney’s agreement will see Miral - which operates Yas Island’s major attractions - Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros. World and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi - fund, develop and build the new theme park which will use Disney’s characters and Intellectual Property under a license.
In return, Disney is expected to receive royalties based on a percentage of the tickets and merchandise sales.
As reported by Forbes, Disney will also provide operational oversight though the attraction will be operated by Miral which is contracting Disney’s Imagineers - architects named after their imaginative use of engineering - to design it.
The model will not require any capital investment from Disney, while benefitting from Miral’s operational expertise in the Arabian Gulf region where, over the past 15 years Miral has developed a series of leading theme and water parks.
The other departure from Disney’s established model is that, like Miral’s major Yas Island attractions - Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros. World and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi - the attraction will be an indoor theme park, Disney’ first operation of this type.
Advising of Disney’s plans for its first indoor theme park, Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney’s Experiences theme park
Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi (centre) at the announcement of Disneyland Abu Dhabi. With him are, from left: Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Miral Group Chief Executive; Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi and Chairman of Miral; Bob Iger, Chief Executive of The Walt Disney Company; and Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences. Credit: Abu Dhabi Media Office.
division, recently told CNBC that in Abu Dhabi “we’re being incredibly ambitious in terms of the architecture, use of indoor and outdoor space.”
D’Amaro added that “one of the great things about the piece of land that we’ll be building on is it’s right up against the water and so we’ll be pulling water into this resort.”
The addition of a Disney park to Yas Island will enhance the location’s offerings which include a beach, arena, F1 racing circuit and a golf course which holds a round of the PGA
European Tour - all within walking distance of multiple major theme parks.
Yas Island also offers upscale residential communities, schools, a business district, deluxe hotels, a marina and a mega mall with 370 shops.
Currently projected to open in 2032 or 2033, the Abu Dhabi park will be Disney’s first since Shanghai Disneyland opened in 2016.
Nigel Benton
An early concept for Disney at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island.
A Bigger Splash
A South Australian town’s aquatic playground has been acknowledged as an ‘economic saviour’
Aonce controversial plan that saw the introduction of an aquatic playground and waterslides in the drought-affected town of Cowell on the eastern side of South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula has become a significant local attraction and driver of economic growth.
The $11 million development - that also included a marina, boat ramp and wetlands area - has made Cowell a tourist destination, rather than a mere ‘toilet stop’ for travellers en route to Adelaide.
Opened in October 2022 after a five-year development (impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic), the Cowell Splash Park and Waterslides is an all-ages water playground - complete with dual waterslides, a spray hoop tunnel and a splash zone with a tipping bucket - alongside a traditional playground, skate park and bouncy pillow.
The Cowell Foreshore Precinct also includes a new boat ramp, a 34-berth marina, a new road to divert oyster punt traffic away from recreational areas, a car park and around 20,000 square metres of landscaping. It also offers free barbecues, ample lawn areas and sheltered spots ideal for picnics.
Conceptualised by Franklin Harbour District Council and Magryn Engineering, Hydrilla took the concept through to a detailed design for construction of the splash pad and the water treatment plant.
The Council’s planning for the marina and aquatic park development began in 2017, when the community was suffering drought and its oyster industry was crippled by a baby oyster (spat) supply shortage when Tasmanian hatcheries were decimated by an outbreak of Pacific oyster mortality syndrome (POMS).
Cowell Splash Park images courtesy of PlayRope.
Every facility has a story to tell. Journeys from concept to grand celebrate.
Surfaces are the largest features present at any venue. They take up
Fortunately, Cowell became part of the solution for the $43 million industry, with a new spat hatchery built on its shores in late 2017 to provide independence for South Australian growers.
Since the opening of the attraction, also known as the Cowell Water Park, local businesses say the family-friendly project has become Cowell’s economic saviour.
As reported by ABC Eyre Peninsula, Franklin Harbour Hotel licensee Sue Blum said the playground and marina development had been a boost for local businesses, noting “once it was finished, then the crowd came and they’ve been here ever since.
“School holidays it explodes and it’s the best thing for the town.
“In 2017 it was a grand plan to start with and a lot were against
it, but they didn’t realise as a business you need anything you can to help promote yourself.”
Franklin Harbour District Council Chief Executive Shane Gill said the project was 80% grant funded, with the Council contributing mostly labour and machinery.
He recalled “it was controversial the amount of money council was proposing to spend but over time, as it has become a reality, I think the town is really proud of it.”
Cafe owner Amanda Oldfield started her business around the same time the playground opened in March 2023, and said “from the moment” she opened her doors it was busy.
Oldfield told the ABC “it’s just got progressively busier, we haven’t had a quiet season - it’s just been fantastic.”
Cowell Foreshore Caravan Park Manager Lauren Palmer said more families were booking into the park, stating “it used
to really be a lot of the fishermen who came here and now it has increased 40% with families, and a lot more people are staying instead of just travelling through.”
The project also involved improving degraded nearby saltmarsh that captured storm water runoff, which meant a cleaner environment for the oyster industry.
Gill added “the wetland captures that water and cleans it and very little of that water now ends up in the harbour.
“But if it does overflow, it will be clean water, so it’s quite a protective mechanism.”
Construction
Undertaking the water treatment work, Hydrilla General Manager, Himal Kandel advised “to ensure the safety of children playing in the water and enjoying the slides, we purposefully designed and installed a high-rate filtration system with turnover rates that exceeded SA Health Department guidelines.
“To ensure that the water quality and equipment operation status can be monitored remotely, we installed monitoring operations on the filtration and chemical dosing systems. The activator switch on this Splash Park turns on the water features and slides when pressed and automatically shuts down the park after a specific period, ensuring that power and chemicals are not wasted when the park is idle.
“This eco-friendly feature makes the park more sustainable and reduces its environmental impact. The Council was deeply committed to making the foreshore redevelopment project as environmentally sustainable as possible.
“One of the areas where we utilised sustainable products was in the concrete slab reinforcement, with a product called Emesh, a 100% recycled plastic fibre. It is used instead of conventional steel mesh reinforcement, which is known to rust and deteriorate in a marine environment.
“Additionally, as the splash pad is not supervised, the fountains and slides are activated by a button that automatically shuts down after a set period of time. This system reduces the power and chemical consumption when the park is idle.”
Looking back on the delays to the project, Mark Symons, Hydrilla’s Project Manager, noted that “the pandemic’s impact on the project was primarily felt in the form of delays from the waterslide supplier and other features, as well as global shipping disruptions. The practical works on the park were postponed due to these obstacles, compounded by difficulties in securing skilled tradespeople during lockdowns and state border closures.”
Awards
Hydrilla entered the Cowell Foreshore Redevelopment into the 2023 Swimming Pool and Spa Association Awards for Excellence.
The work was recognised by industry peers and achieved:
-Gold Winner - Commercial Water Display - South Australia
-Finalist - National Commercial Water Display
Kandel went on to say “the project is a shining example of excellence in commercial construction, demonstrating creativity, exceptional water quality and a strong commitment to environmentally sustainable practices.
“The park has not only enhanced the liveability of the region but has also become a major tourist attraction.”
Gill concluded “it’s made the town a better place to live, a more attractive place to visit.”
With a population of just over 1000 people, Cowell is approximately 490 kilometres northwest of Adelaide.
Aquatic play equipment for the project was from Vortex, supplied by PlayRope while waterslides came from Australian Waterslides and Leisure.
Karen Sweaney.
A new approach to civic centre provision
Sven Ollman explains how innovative regional councils are adding health and wellness into the core services of ‘greenfield’ civic centres
Traditional planning for a town’s civic centre has typically focused on a town hall for cultural events, libraries or local museums, council’s administration services and even courthouse facilities - everything to keep the city running in a civilised order.
As new regional towns continue to develop and thrive beyond our major cities - against a backdrop of hybrid work, the adoption of AI and general digitisation significantly altering how we liaise with civic services - the physical forms and service offerings of today’s plaza is evolving.
In addition, aquatic, recreation and sport centres are also featuring in these new neighbourhoods.
Whether it be courts, gyms, group fitness, park space, aquatic offerings or even allied health, we now know how important it is to keep ourselves in good working order and progressive city councils are incorporating health and fitness into their civic offerings.
At Warren and Mahoney (WAM), we are seeing this manifest in many of the new regions we are having the privilege to work on across Australia and New Zealand. As people begin to migrate beyond the major cities to seek the benefits of more affordable housing, greater space, shorter commutes, and more tight knit communities, they may now also enjoy access to the latest technologies in health at accessible prices.
Just some of the projects the practice has worked on, or is working on, that tie physical movement directly into the heart of everyday civic life include Oran Park Leisure Centre in the City of Camden, NSW and the Armstrong Creek Sporting Facility, now under construction in the heart of this emerging precinct near Geelong in regional Victoria.
Oran Park Leisure Centre (above and below). Courtesy of Warren and Mahoney.
Oran Park Leisure Centre (OPLC)
November 2025 marks the first anniversary of the OPLC, which has been a part of the City of Camden’s civic centre planning from early planning phases. Located 60 minutes Southwest of the Sydney CBD on former farmland, Oran Park is one of the fastest growing areas in the Macarthur Region and is already becoming nationally acknowledged as a suburb that delivers sustainable, family-friendly living with a diverse housing mix.
We recognised this presented a rare opportunity to help shape a new urban experience. The design brief gave us the unique opportunity to envelope three sporting activities within the heart of Oran Park. Our design theme of ‘sports on display’ perfectly aligns with Camden Council’s desire to promote the importance of physical activity. Our design for the 8390 square metre facility capitalises on its distinct location - sitting adjacent to both the Council Administration Building and Public Library - to promote an active lifestyle at the core of this thriving community.
The OPLC intentionally frames the civic square, making both a physical statement and creating an ideal place for public gatherings and celebrations. The strength of both the centre and its offering is the role it can play as a connector. The sporting facilities are easily seen from the plaza, pedestrian’s paths and streets to draw the community in.
It includes an aquatic zone comprising a 50 metre, eight-lane swimming pool, leisure pool with a lazy river feature - inspired by the original Oran Park Raceway and now fondly referred to as the Rapid River - and toddler splash pool. It also boasts four full-size indoor basketball courts as well as a gymnasium with training equipment and a variety of group fitness spaces.
The Centre also includes a separate sauna, steam room, spa, a gym retail facility and 155-space car park in its basement. A café offering a healthy and extensive menu enhances the broader experience and provides another point of connection for all visitors and users.
Both OPLC visitors and local workers are able to share certain facilities. For example, staff from the council offices, library and the shopping centre - including future `Eat Street’ and Perich Park opposite - have means to access the café alongside the gym, courts area and aquatic centre. The facility acts as a conduit for community connection, a way to continue to promote the incorporation of regular movement, while also supporting the business case for the centre.
WAM Senior Associate and Interior Designer, David Hoad, says the internal design of the OPLC reflects another key requirement of the design brief in that the centre must feel “open for all”, explaining “a strong theme that came directly from consulting with stakeholder groups was for the leisure centre to welcome people of all backgrounds and physical capability.
“This has been realised through our three core design pillars for this project of ‘Inclusivity’, ‘Placemaking’ and ‘Familyorientated’, which prioritise accessibility and creating different spaces and moments to connect within.
Oran Park Leisure Centre (above, below and opposite top left)
“If the foyer is the ‘beating heart’ of the OPLC, the organic forms circulating it provide intuitive wayfinding, employing soft edges and fluid delineation to remove a sense of boundaries and act as an invitation to explore. The goal is for the centre to be welcoming and ultimately gives all facets of the community a sense of ownership.
“And to further promote the theme of active lifestyles we set out to create an immediate visual connection between the ‘wet’ and ‘dry’ sports zones to drive curiosity and encourage the cross-pollination of users. Each zone is coloured to create differentiation, but a connection is clear.”
Sustainable design has also been a guiding consideration. WAM has placed priority on making the most of natural daylighting to all areas of the facility on the recognition that natural light promotes a healthier environment and is fundamental to our experience of a space.
We have employed various skylights techniques including ETFE- a durable, highly transparent, more sustainable and a lightweight alternative to glass. Other key sustainability
initiatives include 300Kw of photovoltaic solar panels and best practice mechanical design.
This commitment to energy efficiency and the use of low maintenance natural materials resonates with the sentiments of the local Camden community and reflects a wholly human-centred design approach employed across core civic service buildings.
It has been a truly rewarding experience to see the design concept ‘Sport on Display’ come to life at the Oran Park Leisure Centre and to reflect the importance of sport in the context of a modern constituency. We’ve created vibrant public spaces that go beyond the administration of running a civic centre, instead, transforming the outer edges of suburban Sydney into a true community where people can come together through wellness-led activity.
Warren and Mahoney (WAM) Principal, Sven Ollman, maintains an ongoing involvement in the life of a project long after it’s completed, including seeing projects like OPLC, to support them to flourish operationally, as the design has intended.
COMMERCIAL AQUATIC SOLUTIONS.
Schematic showing placement of the new Warren and Mahoney - designed OPLC in the heart of Oran Park’s developing civic centre.
Hot and Cold
Veda Dante delves into the intersection of therapeutic aquatics, fitness and wellness, as recreation and sport facilities increasingly position them as essential offerings rather than optional extras
As wellness trends continue to evolve, recreational and leisure facilities are embracing water therapy amenitiesfrom hydrotherapy pools and contrast therapy showers to ice baths - as essential components of the modern fitness and recovery experience. No longer just a luxury found in highend spas, these offerings are now seen as crucial for muscle recovery, stress relief, and overall well-being. With demand surging, facilities are integrating therapeutic aquatics to meet the expectations of health-conscious consumers seeking a more holistic approach to fitness and self-care.
Judy Chapman, a pioneer in the spa and wellness industry, has witnessed a wellness shift from a niche concept associated with beauty treatments and alternative therapies to a mainstream priority. As more people turn to water-based recovery methods, one question often arises: What’s behind the hype around ice baths? Are they truly a game-changer for recovery, or could a brisk winter swim offer the same benefits?
Chapman explains “well, you can! I’m a big advocate for ‘free’ wellness - hiking, swimming holes, waterfalls, lake dips - and wild swimming.
“However, not everyone lives by the ocean to embrace cold wild swimming, which is a growing movement in itself, or reap the benefits that come with bathing in 1.5-10 degrees Celsius when the average temperature of a cold shower at home hovers between 10 to 15.5 degrees Celsius.”
Citing The Future of Wellness: 2025 Trends report, released in January by the Global Wellness Summit, Chapman notes the growing demand for holistic experiences and the increasing integration of traditional healing practices into modern lifestyles.
She points to “the report shows that the global sauna market alone will top over US$195 billion over the next five years with a 7.43% annual growth rate while a wellness survey by market research firm Technavio found that 69% plan to increase their sauna time this year.
“Then there’s University of Finland’s 15-year study involving 1,500 participants, which found a 62% reduced stroke level for those who sauna-bathed four-to-seven times a week.”
Chapman emphasises that amid all the studies, it’s essential to remember that traditional sauna bathing has always included a cold plunge or cold shower, stating “in Northern Europe where people sauna, it’s always combined with cold therapysnow and cold lake dips - so it really is the contrast therapy that brings wellness benefits. Even a cold shower does wonders for our mood and vitality.”
With increasing evidence that contrast therapy - which alternates between hot and cold temperatures, as well as sauna - also benefits health, Chapman adds “this raises our core body temperature, improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure.
“It also boosts our ‘feel good’ dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain that help to reduce stress hormones like cortisol.”
Hot and Cold therapies. Credit: Shutterstock.
An essential escape from the hustle and bustle
Carolyn Cox, Director and Manager of float therapy, infrared sauna, and massage services franchisor City Cave echoes Chapman’s insights, emphasising that these amenities align with a broader shift towards holistic wellness, where physical and mental health are deeply connected.
Cox advises “the surge in popularity of saunas and coldwater therapy isn’t just driven by scientific research but also a fundamental shift in how we approach self-care.
“Life is moving faster, stress levels are prominent, and Australians are recognising the need to prioritise their wellbeing.”
While the physical benefits of sauna and cold therapy are well established, Cox notes that the mental advantages - offering a moment to breathe, reset, and disconnect - are driving their transformation from luxury to necessity.
This growing demand presents a valuable opportunity for aquatic, fitness and recreation facility managers. As guests increasingly seek ways to support both body and mind, integrating these services can enhance customer experience, boost engagement, and position facilities as wellness destinations.
Cox states “at City Cave, we see this firsthand every day. Our infrared saunas and cold showers aren’t just services with physical benefits; our guests see them also as a necessary pause in an increasingly hectic world.
“When we surveyed our customers, an astounding 61% said they would try cold therapy, reinforcing the growing appetite for these benefits. We also see this reflected in the feedback and reviews they leave after their sessions.”
Strengthening member retention
Plunge pools offer a powerful recovery solution through contrast therapy, alternating between hot and cold water to maximise physical and mental benefits. This simple yet effective technique helps reduce muscle soreness and inflammation, improve circulation, and accelerate recovery after intense workouts.
Beyond muscle recovery, contrast therapy supports the immune system by boosting blood flow and stimulating lymphatic drainage, helping flush out toxins and combat fatigue. Regular use of plunge pools also promotes relaxation, enhances mental clarity, and leaves you feeling refreshed, reenergised, and ready to take on the day.
Brisbane-based premium fitness and wellness brand TotalFusion, in collaboration with partners like Griffith University,
has developed a Research Strategy that underscores its dedication to innovation and industry advancement. With its own Medical and Scientific Advisory Board, Marketing Manager Sandra Keane says the company commits to pushing boundaries while ensuring its approach is rooted in sciencebacked best practices.
Keane explains “we integrated hot and cold plunge pools into our facilities as they are simple yet effective solutions that can help reduce muscle soreness and inflammation after a workout, improve circulation, and speed up recovery.
“They not only elevate the workout experience but also strengthen member retention by offering a sustainable, holistic routine for those committed to their health and fitness journey.”
Keane says these result in a number of member benefits, including:
Faster recovery: Ice baths minimise muscle soreness and inflammation, allowing for more consistent and effective training.
Mental wellbeing: Cold immersion challenges mental resilience and has been shown to release stress, boost mood, and aid sleep quality.
Greater membership value: Unique recovery offerings such as ice baths offer greater value to members and enhance the brand’s appeal for supporting a lifestyle of health and wellness for many.
Expanded demographics: By integrating holistic recovery options, facilities attract wellness enthusiasts, athletes, and those who are simply seeking a well-rounded fitness experience.
She goes on to say “TotalFusion continues to innovate, ensuring members get the most out of their experience while fostering a strong health and fitness community.”
Float therapy at City Cave (above) and plunge pool at TotalFusion (below).
Mineral-infused water enhances customer experience
With recreational and sporting facilities often under heavy loads and prolonged operations, providing a safe and hygienic environment for all patrons is only part of the picture.
For filtration and sanitisation product supplier Waterco, it’s not only seeing its commercial range installed in training, rehabilitation, sport and wellness facilities all over the worldfrom Essendon Football Club and Sydney’s Accor Stadium to luxury health clubs in London - but also growing interest in its Vitale Mineral Salts and Mineral Crystals ranges.
Chris Smith, Waterco’s ANZ Business Development Manager - Chemical Division, advises “consumers are increasingly looking for premium experiences that offer health benefits beyond basic functionality.
“The presence of minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and calcium can help soften the water, reducing skin irritation and promoting relaxation - features that wellness-conscious customers value.”
Mineral-enriched water not only enhance the bathing experience but also contributes to cleaner, clearer water.
Smith notes “they help improve water balance, reduce algae growth, and limit the need for additional chemicals like clarifiers and algaecides.
“This appeals to commercial pool operators, resorts, and wellness centres looking for cost-effective, low-maintenance solutions while ensuring a consistently high water quality for patrons.”
At City Cave’s multiple locations across the eastern Australia, adding 400kgs of magnesium-rich Epsom salts in 1000-litres of
water is designed to reduce all sensory input.
Carolyn Cox explains “our pools are roughly the size of a double bed and filled with so much magnesium salt that everyone is able to float effortlessly.
“The physical benefits of magnesium absorption and the weightlessness achieved ensures faster muscle recovery and relief of joint pain. These high magnesium salt concentrations also provide the best opportunity for absorption through the skin aiding in reducing inflammation and promoting collagen synthesis.”
As the wellness landscape becomes more inclusive - making health and fitness accessible to all rather than a luxuryChapman hopes to see amenities like saunas, ice baths, and communal bathhouses integrated into hospitals, public swimming pools, and community centres.
Cox concludes “these spaces have the power to enhance physical, mental, and emotional well-being on a much larger scale while serving as the perfect antidote to today’s fastpaced lifestyle.
“We’re currently seeing a shift away from the online world often described as ‘scroll less, live more’ toward a revival of pre-digital habits, where people are reconnecting with nature and embracing restorative activities.”
Veda Dante is Principal at Pitch Partners, a regionally based public relations and content creation agency that services clients across a range of sectors, including government, media and publishing, manufacturing, retail, medical, financial, recruitment, construction, technology sustainability and non-profit.
Do ice baths really work?
Produced by the Australian Fitness Academy, The Fitness Education Series on Spotify is a weekly podcast that focuses on a different health and fitness topic.
In this episode, host Tom Rock explores the question: Are ice baths beneficial?
Ice baths are becoming even more popular and accessible with people purchasing them for home use and gyms offering them as a recovery modality.
The literature is still trying to catch up on ice baths as there’s so many variables including duration of immersion, temperature etc. But there is quite a lot of information on Cold Water Immersion or CWI (the previous name for ice baths), which has been around for quite some time. The idea behind it is generally to reduce delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), speed up recovery, and reduce inflammation and swelling. Some contraindications for ice baths are high blood pressure, circulatory problems, diabetes; any conditions that would increase your sensitivity to cold.
However, recent literature has shown that ice baths can inhibit or lessen your adaptation to strength or hypertrophy training. So, if you are in the gym looking to increase muscle mass or increase strength, using ice baths to recover has been shown to reduce those hypertrophy adaptations over time. Cold water reduces metabolism, swelling, and inflammation, which in turn inhibits satellite cells in our muscles. This slows down the recovery processes and the signalling pathways that encourage the body to build more muscle in response to the stimulus.
If aiming for hypertrophy or muscle growth, leave ice baths at least 24 to 48 hours between your heavy resistance sessions. If it doesn’t fit in your week, a number of other things can be done to improve your recovery such as massage, sleep, and nutrition, which can assist in recovery without these negative consequences. But, If you have a short recovery time between matches or something physically demanding/competitive, ice
baths can have a positive application by reducing muscle soreness within that short window of time.
A study on cold showers found that participants who took them had fewer sick days, suggesting a correlation between cold water immersion and a stronger immune system.
Being in an ice bath activates the sympathetic nervous system, which can cause improvements in mood from increases in hormones such as oxytocin and dopamine - your feel-good hormone that tends to last 3-5 hours. Ice baths can help you build resilience by exposing your body to stress, which it then adapts to. Over time, this increased resilience makes it easier to handle stress in other areas of life.
The Australian Fitness Academy’s Optimising Recovery short course covers cold water immersion, sleep, nutrition, training periodisation, compression, cold therapies, stretching, active recovery, massage, foam rolling and electro-stimulation.
Empowering the World through Wellness
Rhys James shares the story of the Technogym Wellness Institute
At the heart of Technogym’s mission to promote a healthier, happier world lies a powerful engine of knowledge and inspiration - the Technogym Wellness Institute. As the education division of Technogym, the Wellness Institute plays a critical role in shaping the future of wellness, fitness, sport, and rehabilitation by equipping professionals with the tools, science, and skills they need to thrive.
Education has been part of Technogym’s commitment to the fitness and wellness industry ever since our school for personal trainers and technical staff was founded in 2002. Since then, leveraging on over 30 years of experience, the company has promoted professional growth through specific training courses and programs.
As a team and as individuals we value our role as Technogym Wellness Ambassadors, delivering outstanding structured education, programming, mentoring and support. We are committed to empowering our customers and consumers knowledge and training, delivering a first-class service that offers different pathways.
From high-performance coaches to physiotherapists, personal trainers to wellness directors, the Institute supports and uplifts an international community of change-makers who are dedicated to transforming lives through movement and health.
The Mission
The Technogym Wellness Institute (TWI) exists to inspire and educate the wellness industry with a future-forward, evidencebased approach that connects innovation with real-world
impact. It is built on the belief that education is the foundation of long-term behaviour change, and that through empowering professionals, we can positively influence the health trajectories of individuals, communities, and even entire nations. Operating globally, TWI delivers content across five key pillars:
Technogym Checkup is the new AI-based assessment device that leverages physical and cognitive tests to automatically create personalised training programs with Technogym AI Coach.
Discover more
From foundational learning to advanced ongoing professional development, Wellness Institute ensures that every individual who interacts with the Technogym ecosystem has access to meaningful, credible, and immediately applicable knowledge.
Why This Matters
In a world where the wellness industry is evolving faster than ever, education is no longer a luxury - it’s a necessity. Clients and members demand smarter experiences, and professionals must stay ahead of the curve to stay relevant.
The Technogym Wellness Institute is more than an educational department; it’s a global platform for transformation. Through science, community, and innovation, we are redefining what it means to be a wellness professional.
As we look toward the future, our mission remains clear: to elevate every professional with the knowledge, confidence, and creativity to build healthier futures - one person, one community, one nation at a time.
However, beyond professionals we regularly support the industry with Activation Days. These days are designed to engage consumers and end-users to support them achieving superior results faster. These are hosted at facilities which require that little push to build retention or attract new members.
Global Reach
Technogym Wellness Institute’s strength lies not just in its internal resources, but in the robust network of international partnerships that expand its influence and credibility.
Collaborations with organisations such as the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and locally AUSactive ensure that the education provided is aligned with global best practice.
These partnerships serve multiple purposes:
•Ensuring content quality through peer-reviewed research and expert validation
•Aligning certifications with continuing education credits (CECs and CPDs)
•Offering career pathways for professionals in various fieldsfrom elite sport to public health
•Providing access to global thought leadership via summits, publications, and speaker networks
As wellness becomes increasingly interconnected, Wellness Institute acts as a global translator of trends, science, and technology - tailoring universal concepts to regional needs while maintaining consistent standards of excellence.
Commenting on the workshops, Lauren Younan, FoxFit Redfern manager, advised “we recently held a Wellness Workshop at FoxFit Redfern in collaboration with Technogym and Rory Warnock, titled ‘Run Stronger: Master Your Breath and Technique’. This event was designed to enhance participants’ understanding of breath work and its application to both performance and recovery.
“During the workshop, guests explored the science behind
nasal breathing, and learned various breath work techniques to improve overall well-being and athletic performance.
“Following the educational segment, attendees engaged in a dynamic treadmill-based interval session, where they had the opportunity to put their new knowledge into practice. Rory did an exceptional job facilitating the session, and shared valuable insights on how breath work can positively impact our everyday lives. It was truly an insightful day, leaving participants with practical tools to enhance both their physical and mental performance.”
The event resulted in 20 attendees (sold out) who each took home tips and tricks to apply to their everyday living and exercise programs.
Education Events
Last year, Technogym hosted yet another Global Education Event which attracted more that 140 attendees from over 40 countries. A three-day immersive experience connected industry pioneers in fitness, sport and health for a transformative journey through cutting-edge workshops.
The event included international educators and gurus from Australia, UK, USA and Europe. Presenters included David Durante (Power Monkey), Dave Spitz (Cal Strength), Brooke Turner (Balance Fitness & Nutrition), Chris Hinshaw (Aerobic Capacity), Matthew Kampert (Cleveland Clinic) and Rory Warnock (Hale Breath).
Hinshaw, Elite Performance coach and owner of Aerobic Capacity presented on ‘Hybrid Training’ alongside ‘Pacing Strategies’ which saw attendees take home lots of practical tips and tricks to apply to their business.
Likewise, Warnock, a Breathwork and Performance Coach educated attendees on how they can use their Breath to either energise or relax themselves pre/post event.
The pair will be joining us this year for our annual Australian education event which will be hosted across Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane in September.
Building on the momentum from our global event, the Technogym Wellness Institute is hitting the road in September 2025 to bring world-class education directly to our Australian partners and communities.
These Education Events are being held as follows:
-Tuesday 9th September: Next Gen Doncaster, Melbourne
-Thursday 11th September: One Playground Haymarket, Sydney
-Saturday 13th September: Fitness Cartel Virginia, Brisbane Each session will offer CECs/ CPDs, practical takeaways, and access to Technogym’s latest educational resources and content library.
Rhys James is Wellness Institute and Community Manager at Technogym Australia. He can be contacted at rjames@technogym.com
More information of Technogym’s Australian Education Event can be viewed at www.technogym.com/en-AU/technogym-education/
Wellness Workshop at FoxFit Redfern in collaboration with Technogym and Rory Warnock. Credit: Technogym.
Trends shaping fitness
Jak Phillips from Les Mills
International spotlights some of the key trends shaping fitness in 2025
As the first half of 2025 draws to a close, the fitness sector is being shaped by a number of trends including a focus on positive ageing; an incorporation of weight loss drugs into member programming; an increase in female-focused offerings; an acceleration in functional circuit training; and the fusion of fitness with a festival culture
‘Perennials’ making their mark
Gen Z and Millennials have dominated fitness industry discourse in recent years, but another powerful demographic is taking centre stage in 2025 - Perennials. As we age better and people stay fitter for longer, traditional demographics are increasingly becoming redundant, as outlined in Mauro Guillén’s excellent book The Perennials
McKinsey and Company’s 2024 ‘Future of Wellness report’ found demand for healthy ageing services is increasing, with 70% of consumers in the US and UK and 85% in China purchasing a product in this category in the preceding year. McKinsey notes that by 2030, one in six people worldwide will be aged over 60, predicting a greater focus on healthy ageing as younger people look for preventative solutions and older people aim to improve their longevity and healthspan.
Reflecting the current focus on longevity, fitness programs for older adults ranked third in the 2024 American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Fitness Trends list. ACSM spokesperson Christian Thompson pointed out it’s important not to have a onesize-fits-all approach to older adults exercise programming, as fitness levels in this demographic are highly varied.
From a group training perspective, this is leading to new programming crafted through the lens of biological age vs actual age. New innovations include LES MILLS THRIVE™ - a low-intensity workout focused on lower body strength to keep people fit for life, without being targeted at a certain age group. It can be highly valuable for seniors seeking to maintain strength,
but also for people who may have become deconditioned due to illness, injuries or just a long period away from being active.
A growing number of operators and fitness suppliers are placing greater emphasis on supporting longevity in 2025, tapping into a large and prosperous demographic looking to add years to their life and life to their years.
Women’s Health takes centre stage
After years of marginalisation, the conversation around women’s health is getting louder and operators are stepping up to the plate with female-focused offerings to support reproductive health, hormonal balance and mitigating the impacts of perimenopause.
Among these areas, the impact of menstruation on training is far-reaching and significant. Three-quarters of female athletes suffer negative side effects based on their cycle (a figure thought to be even higher among non-athletes), while 79% of women take a day off exercise when their period starts.
Organisations like The Well HQ are leading the industry shift, with operators like The Gym Group and Everyone Active taking clear action to support this. Les Mills has created a suite of free resources to help women track their cycle and optimise their training, with further research and insights to follow.
Les Mills classes (clockwise from top left) Les Mills Thrive, Les Mills BodyPump, Les Mills Thrive Melbourne 2022. Credit: Les Mills.
In the year ahead, expect to see more offerings emerge across the industry to specifically support women, with a holistic approach that addresses both physical and mental wellbeing.
Coming full circuit
From the early days of the industry, through to the rise of F45 and numerous boutiques, circuits have played a vital role in bringing more people into exercise, and this longstanding trend looks set to accelerate in 2025.
Buoyed by the continued popularity of boutiques and the boom in fitness competition events, members are flocking towards functional circuit training that combines strength and cardio in thrilling class environments.
Les Mills International Managing Director, Phillip Mills explains “before BODYPUMP became a big hit, our circuit classes dominated the timetable (pulling in 150 members per class) and we’ve seen the resurgence of this trend since we launched LES MILLS CEREMONY in our New Zealand clubs.
“Now, many leading operators are making this exciting style of training a top priority in the studio and increasingly taking these classes out onto the gym floor to amp up the energy.”
Weight loss drugs
Weight loss drugs have already been blamed for falling gym attendances and a major shake-up of the industry. Some operators - particularly at the premium end - have responded quickly to the emergence of GLP-1 weightloss drugs by grasping the nettle and incorporating them into member pathways, while others maintain that eating well and exercising regularly means members shouldn’t need them.
once again find the opportunity amid the ‘crisis’ and convert enemies into friends. And with research indicating GLP-1 recipients lose large amounts of muscle as well as fat, there’s a clear need for strength training to help these recipients build strength and maintain a healthy weight.
Recognising the opportunity, Equinox has launched a ‘GLP-1 protocol’ - a targeted PT program that helps members on these medications retain and build muscle during the process - while other operators will surely follow suit.
Martin Seibold, Chief Executive of German-based LifeFit Group notes “with every change in society, people see it as an opportunity or a threat and we wouldn’t be where we are if we didn’t always take the glass half full view.
“We see the emergence of weight loss drugs as a big opportunity to drive more people into gym-based activity, both for restorative and preventative reasons. We know exercise offers so many more benefits beyond weight loss, so the stage is set for clubs to be bold and seize this opportunity.”
Fitness is the new festival
The fusion of fitness and festival culture continues to skyrocket in popularity, and 2025 is set to take it to the next level. As people shift their focus toward holistic, healthy lifestyles, fitness festivals offer the perfect blend of social engagement and wellbeing. Their appeal stretches far beyond the workouts - incorporating community, connection, and the celebration of health in a festival-like atmosphere. With music pumping and energy levels high, these events provide a unique, dynamic way to experience fitness in a social setting.
As group training expert and hardcore dance DJ Antony Stewart noted in a recent edition of Emma Barry’s Badass Bullets, nightclubs used to be where people came together and met each other, building bonds through a shared love of music, but Covid was the nail in the coffin for that world.
Mills adds “so where can young people go now to meet other people and move together? It’s the gym.
“If you can create experiences that bring music and young people together - a bit like Les Mills have done with their rave events that are touring all over the world - I’m predicting and seeing already a big demand for that.”
We’ll see a spike in rave-inspired fitness events filling the calendar in 2025, with major international brand-led events and a host of local fitness facilities getting in on the act, offering dynamic spaces for healthy hedonists to have fun and forge communities. Jak Phillips is Content, PR & Growth Director for Les Mills International.
What’s become clear is that weight loss drugs are here to stay, meaning gyms must
Les Mills Ceremony Class (above) and Les Mills Live, Sweden 2022 (below right). Credit: Les Mills.
Leaving a Legacy
Gwen Luscombe explains how Adelaide Venue Management’s socially responsible Community Impact Program is connecting event attendees and organisers to the destination
I
n an inspired step towards building a more responsible and connected events industry, the Adelaide Convention Centre (ACC), operated by Adelaide Venue Management (AVM), has recently unveiled its Community Impact Program.
This ambitious initiative is not only a reflection of the Centre’s commitment to sustainability but also a powerful call to action for event organisers to leave meaningful legacies in the South Australian community.
At the heart of the program is a clear purpose: to amplify social impact while supporting event organisers in creating enduring value beyond their event timelines. Rather than merely ticking boxes for corporate social responsibility, the Community Impact Program is designed to integrate real-world, community-first partnerships into the event planning processturning conferences, exhibitions and gatherings into platforms for positive change.
AVM Chief Executive, Martin Radcliffe explained “the events industry - and business events in particular - has an extraordinary power to drive positive change, not only for the sector or speciality related to the event, but also for the communities of the host destination”, adding that the initiative
will be “effective in facilitating opportunities and promoting collaboration between AVM, our clients (event organisers) and local South Australian community groups, creating immediate benefits and lasting legacies.”
The program is built around four key pillars: Community, Environment, First Nations, and Goods Donations. Each pillar is supported by carefully selected local partners, offering event organisers practical ways to align their activities with social and environmental goals.
Leading the charge is AVM’s principal community partner, Operation Flinders. This extraordinary South Australian organisation is known for its life-changing adventure therapy programs that support at-risk youth aged from 13 to 18 years. Through eight-day treks in the Flinders Ranges, young people are encouraged to develop resilience, leadership, and a renewed sense of purpose. Through the Community Impact Program, organisers can sponsor participants, donate supplies, or even feature speakers and workshops from Operation Flinders to reinforce wellbeing themes at their events.
Adelaide Convention Centre General Manager, Sarah Goldfinch notes “it’s a great community program. Through
Sarah Goldfinch, General Manager Adelaide Convention Centre (above) and aerial view of Adelaide Convention Centre location (right).
our partnership with Operation Flinders as a centre, we have donated boots to students, because some of these kids, they’ve never had something new, and a new set of hiking boots is pretty special.
“What I love about the partnership with operations Flinders, is that equally, these students, after they’ve been facilitated through this program, will often come and speak at an event and share their life experience.”
On the environmental front, the ACC has joined forces with Trees For Life to help restore biodiversity and support carbon offsetting initiatives across the region. Event organisers can take part by planting trees for each attendee, offsetting travel emissions, or hosting biodiversity-themed sessions with Trees For Life representatives. Field trips to local restoration sites also provide immersive ways for delegates to connect with South Australia’s natural environment.
The program also places a strong emphasis on cultural inclusivity through its collaboration with Reconciliation South Australia. Acknowledging and celebrating the Kaurna peoplethe traditional custodians of the Adelaide Plains-is a vital element. The ACC is already weaving native ingredients into its menus through its Honest Goodness food philosophy, but now, organisers can go further by incorporating local First Nations art, performances, ceremonies, or guided cultural walks into their events, ensuring a deeper connection to place and history.
Another cornerstone of the program is its focus on repurposing and redistribution. Through relationships with organisations like Vinnies, Faithworks, Foodbank SA, Hutt St Centre, and OzHarvest, AVM is helping reduce waste while addressing community needs.
Unused event items-from furniture to food-are redirected to those who need them most. Event organisers are encouraged to donate surplus materials, invite guests to contribute food or clothing, or even visit redistribution centres to engage with these important efforts firsthand.
What sets the Community Impact Program apart is its intentional design to be accessible, actionable, and adaptable. Whether it’s a large-scale international congress or a boutique local conference, every event has the opportunity to contribute to the well-being of people and the planet alike.
Goldfinch says that the program does far more than help an organisation meet their corporate social responsibility
obligations, adding “our Community Impact Program is connecting our delegates and our clients to local organisations to make a lasting impact in the destination that they’re conferencing in.”
Gwen Luscombe is an award-winning journalist and a former recipient of the Write It Fellowship with Penguin Random House Australia. She is also a Publisher’s Australia Bell Award-winning editor.
Through relationships with organisations such as OzHarvest, Adelaide Venue Management is helping reduce waste while addressing community needs (above).
Martin Radcliffe AVM Chief Executive and Sarah Leo Operation Flinders launch AVM’s new Community Impact Program (above) and Adelaide Venue Management partnership with Operation Flinders (below).
People
Vale: Frances Crampton
Australasian Leisure Management is saddened to learn of the death of Frances Crampton AM, a respected sporting leader, advocate and mentor, who championed the values of respect, equality and inclusion.
A Life Member of both Sport NSW (of which she was a founder), Gymnastics NSW and Gymnastics Australia, she passed away peacefully following a long illness.
In a tribute, Sport NSW wrote that her “immeasurable contribution shaped the landscape of sport in New South Wales and beyond, noting that “her legacy stretches across generations, codes and communities.”
Sport NSW’s tribute went on to state that “in the early 1990s, amid threats to the funding of state sporting organisations, Frances worked with fellow sport leaders to establish the NSW Sports Federationnow known as Sport NSW. She was elected Chair of its first council and served as both Chair and Chief Executive from 1991 to 2009. Under her leadership, she founded the Sport NSW Annual Sports Awards, a testament to her commitment to celebrating excellence at all levels of sport.”
She was also a Gymnastics Australia Board Director from 2012 to 2016 and held leadership positions in other sporting codes including Golf Australia and Softball NSW.
Vale: Dr Dion Klein
Australasian Leisure Management is saddened to learn of the death of Dr Dion Klein. Originally from the USA, Dion brought with him a wealth of experience in health, physical education, media and sports journalism. After relocating to Australia in the early 1990s, he quickly became a respected figure in the industry, lecturing at the University of Canberra and influencing the careers of countless students and professionals.
His entrepreneurial drive led to the creation of numerous initiatives, from the ACT Health and Fitness Expo to the Australian Get Healthy Challenge and the award-winning Corporate Health and Fitness Challenge. Through The WISE Academy, he championed education as a vehicle for empowerment in business, health, and fitness.
In 2012, Dion was inducted into the Fitness Australia Roll of Honour in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the industry. He also played a pivotal role in implementing the National Accreditation program and volunteered his time generously over many years.
In a tribute, AUSactive advised that Dion “was a visionary, a passionate educator, and a dedicated advocate whose legacy continues to shape the fitness and education sectors across Australia and beyond.
“Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dion was admired for his authenticity, resilience, and openness. By sharing his personal journey as a transgender man, he gave voice to others and helped foster a more inclusive and compassionate industry.”
Maytronics Australia announces new leadership team following Focus Products acquisition
Following its successful recent acquisition of Focus Products, Maytronics Australia has unveiled its new leadership team that includes Steven Humphris, Tamaryn Kwaczynski, Steve Adam and John Charles.
Steven Humphris, General Manager Focus Products, is responsible for overseeing the business unit and its continued growth within Maytronics. He will also lead operational excellence across both businesses and joins the Executive Team.
Tamaryn Kwaczynski, Business Manager, will spearhead overall revenue growth, customer programs, commercial and export markets. She is also leading the sales integration of the businesses.
Steve Adam, Maytronics National Sales Manager, will drive sales strategy and execution with a primary responsibility for the Maytronics product range. Adam will also focus on strengthening Builder network relationships.
John Charles, Focus National Sales Manager/Joint Network Manager, will focus on strengthening Service and Retail network relationships and enhancing the company’s distribution networks, in addition to primary responsibility for the Focus product range.
The company has also announced the promotion of David Stennett promoted to the role of Commercial Manager for Maytronics Commercial.
VMA reveals results of 2025 Board Election
The Venue Management Association (VMA) has announced the results of its 2025 Board Election.
With this year’s election having called for nominations to fill three vacant Active Board positions, the Association has welcomed back a pair of returning Directors:
-Brett Caldwell AVM: Head, IT Infrastructure at Arts Centre
Melbourne
-Heather Clarke AVM: Precinct Manager, Walsh Bay Arts Precinct
In addition, new Board Member Megan O’Reilly - Chief Operating Officer at Melbourne Park - commenced a three-year term as of 12th May.
New AUSactive Director appointment
AUSactive has made the recent appointment of Ailish Hanley as a Non-Executive Director to its Board.
Hanley is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD) and has served on industry associations and working committees, providing her with deep understanding of member organisations and stakeholder engagement.
AUSactive Chief Executive Barrie Elvish, who is set to leave the peak body, has announced that he will be retiring when he leaves the position.
Advising that Elvish’s contributions will leave a lasting legacy, AUSactive Chair, Emmett Williams stated “Barrie’s leadership has been nothing short of transformative. He brought clarity and stability during a time of uncertainty and positioned AUSactive as a powerful advocate for the industry.”
Co-Chief Executive model not sustainable for Theatre Network Australia
The Board of Theatre Network Australia has advised of the mutual agreement in December 2024, between the co-Chief Executives, Erica McCalman and Joshua Lowe and the TNA Board that the co-Chief Executive model was not sustainable.
TNA is now making organisational changes to ensure the organisation continues to serve as a champion of the sector.
TNA made the decision to have co-Chief Executives following the departure of the founding Executive Director Nicole Beyer after 14 years as Chief Executive.
Appointments expand ROLLER support for karting venues
Attractions and entertainment management platform ROLLER has welcomed three new team members to support its involvement in the family/social entertainment centre sector by expanding its support for karting attractions.
Wes Ratcliff has taken on the role of General ManagerKarting while Matt Newell and Christina Bartlett have each been appointed as Customer Success Managers - Karting.
The trio bring decades of hands-on experience in venue operations and karting-specific technology, ensuring ROLLER remains closely aligned with the needs of operators on the ground.
SPASA appoints new Chief Executive
The Swimming Pool and Spa Association of Australia and New Zealand (SPASA) has announced the appointment of Kristin Brookfield as its new Chief Executive.
Announcing the appointment, SPASA Chairman, Anthony Grice stated “Kristin brings a wealth of experience in policy, advocacy, and industry leadership that dovetails perfectly with SPASA’s strategic direction.
“We are confident that her extensive leadership experience and proven track record will be instrumental in driving the association’s next phase of growth and innovation.”
Brookfield brings more than 30 years’ experience across residential building, construction, government relations, and member engagement, including over two decades with the Housing Industry Association (HIA). During her time at HIA, where she has been Deputy Managing Director since August 2023, she led the national policy team and oversaw state-level advocacy on key issues such as workplace relations, planning, building and environmental legislation, industry skills, and economic policy.
Through Leisure Media Limited, SPASA is the owner of Australasian Leisure Management.
Tennis Australia Board appoints new Chair and Deputy Chair
The Tennis Australia Board has unanimously selected senior business leader and strategist Chris Harrop (pictured right) as the successor to Chair Jayne Hrdlicka when her term ends following the Tennis Australia 2025 AGM at the end of the year.
Harrop, a lifelong tennis fan and social player, is an advisory partner for global strategy consulting firm Bain & Company with more than three decades experience in business in Australia, the US and UK. He joined the Tennis Australia Board in December 2023.
The Tennis Australia Board has also appointed Dan Bisa ( pictured left) as the Deputy Chair. Bisa will take on this responsibility following the AGM. He brings deep tennis experience to the role following his five years on the Tennis Australia Board which was preceded by four years as the Chair of Tennis ACT. Bisa is a successful hospitality and property entrepreneur in both the ACT and NSW.
Hrdlicka joined the Tennis Australia Board in February 2016 and became the organisation’s first female Chair in October 2017. She has overseen the expansion and success of the Australian Open, strong growth in participation numbers, Australian success on the court in Grand Slams, the Olympics and Paralympics, the introduction of the United Cup and the establishment of a strategic direction that positions Australian tennis as a global leader on multiple fronts.
Products People in Brief
Former Director and Chief Executive of the National Art School, Steven Alderton has been appointed as Mosman Art Gallery Director and Mosman Council’s Manager of Cultural Services. Rachel Anker has been promoted to the role of Head of APAC Communications at Merlin Entertainments.
Caitlin Bancroft has taken on the role of Group Chief Brand and Marketing Officer at the Collective Wellness Group.
Following the delivery of her sixth Brisbane Festival, Louise Bezzina will take up her new dual role of Chief Executive and Artistic Director of Brisbane Powerhouse at the end of October 2025.
The A-League’s Central Coast Mariners have announced the appointment of Greg Brownlow as their new Chief Executive.
The Australian Rugby League Commission has announced the appointment of media executive Anthony De Ceglie as Chief Executive of NRL expansion team the Perth Bears.
The Australian Olympic Committee has appointed Ana Croger, to the newly created role of Executive Manager, a strategic advisory role to the President and Chief Executive.
Gillian Doreian has joined SPASA and the Australasian Leisure Management team as Commercial Growth Manager.
A-League club the Newcastle Jets have announced the appointment of Tain Drinkwater as Chief Executive.
The Phonographic Performance Company of Australia (PPCA) and the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) have appointed Nick Esmore to the newly created role of Finance Director.
Rohan Gunton has been appointed Manager Parks and Recreation at the City of Canning, WA.
City Venue Management has announced the strengthening of its leadership team with the appointment of Glen Heidke as Chief Commercial Officer.
Robbie Hunter has been named National Key Account Manager NZ for Fitness Passport.
The International Olympic Committee has appointed former equestrian athlete and IOC Executive Board member Mikaela Cojuangco Jaworski as the new Chair of the Coordination Commission for the Olympic Games Brisbane 2032.
Blake Johnson has started a new position as Regional Franchise Manager NSW & SA at BFT International.
Hyrox has appointed Mat Lock as its inaugural Technical Director for Elite Racing.
Lee Miezis has been named as the new Chief Executive of Parks Victoria.
Justin Rossi has joined REP Fitness as Senior Manager Business Development - Asia Pacific.
Chris Rutherford has started a new position as Spaces and Places Manager at Thames-Coromandel District Council, NZ. International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC Sydney), managed by ASM Global, has promoted Marc Singerling to the role of Director of Event Delivery.
The New Zealand Olympic Committee has chosen former Olympian Glen Sowry as its new Chair, replacing Diana Puketapu-Lyndon.
Frontier Touring’s Andrew Spencer is to move to UK-based AEG Presents Europe - the joint venture partner for Frontier Touring, an affiliate of Mushroom Group - as Chief Operating Officer.
The Anytime Fitness franchise network has announced the promotion of Simon Thompson to Managing Director of Anytime Fitness Australia.
Send your people news to leisure@ausleisure.com.au
ProSlide set to unveil reinvigorated
waterslide concept
ProSlide Technology Inc. has advised that it will unveil a new iteration of its acclaimed LIM technology at Chimelong Water Park in the Chinese city of Guangzhou when the attraction’s expansion opens in the coming months.
Having launched its HydroMAGNETIC LIM Rocket, Krakatau, at Volcano Bay in Orlando, Florida, USA in 2017, the next evolution of the world’s leading water ride technology is at Chimelong, the world’s most attended waterpark.
As Chimelong prepares for its opening, it is setting the stage with two world-first ride complexes: HIVE 35, ProSlide’s newest family tower complex, and the world’s first launched HydroMAGNETIC LIM water coaster, a ProSlide innovation that brings LIM water coasters back to centre stage.
Both attractions will anchor from a new tower design - the tallest family complex ProSlide has ever built, engineered for guest experience, operational efficiency and maximum capacity.
Eventfinda collaborates with the Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts
New Zealand’s largest independent ticketing provider, Eventfinda, has partnered with the Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts - the University of Waikato’s world-class Hamilton venue - known for its award-winning facilities.
This partnership is designed to enhance event experiences for event organisers and attendees, offering a flexible, and personalised solution for ticketing, marketing, and audience engagement.
Since its opening in 2001, the Gallagher Academy of Performing Arts has become a celebrated hub for performing arts in New Zealand, offering an array of stunning and versatile event spaces. The Academy features two main theatres, including the Dr John Gallagher Concert Chamber and the Playhouse Theatre, alongside two multi-functional studios and a smaller mezzanine-level lounge.
Founded in 2006 and now the fastest-growing ticketing company in New Zealand, Eventfinda connects event organisers with their audiences through a comprehensive suite of ticketing, marketing, and audience engagement tools. Contact sales@eventfinda.co.nz, www.eventfinda.co.nz
PMY Group named Official Technology Partner for Grand Slam Track
The PMY Group, has been named the Official Technology Partner for Grand Slam Track™, the global home of track competition launched by four-time Olympic champion Michael Johnson.
Rina Thakker, Chief Technology & Product Officer for Grand Slam Track shared “we’re pleased to welcome PMY as our Official Technology Partner, a global tech and experience leader that aligns with our vision to create a memorable live event experience for both competitors and fans.”
As Official Technology Partner, PMY will provide event technology and fan experience solutions dedicated to supporting high-intensity races featuring track stars such as Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, Gabby Thomas, Melissa Jefferson-Wooden, Kenny Bednarek, Grant Fisher, Sasha Zhoya and Matthew Hudson-Smith.
PMY Chief Executive Paul Yeomans said the company was thrilled to support the new major event, which matches up the fastest track racers in the world, on a consistent basis, vying for the largest prize pool ever offered in the sport.
Vortex International launches new ‘VECTORY’ splashpad collection
Vortex Aquatic Structures International, a manufacturer and world leader in aquatic attractions and solutions, has launched VECTORY™, an innovative Splashpad® collection designed to ignite movement, creativity and engagement through dynamic play.
As families and communities grow, so do their recreational needs. VECTORY™ was created to offer an inclusive, intergenerational play experience that brings people of all ages together. Whether it’s toddlers experiencing water play for the first time, children running through thrilling sprays, or parents and grandparents joining in the fun, VECTORY™ fosters movement in a fun aquatic environment.
Evolt integrates with Technogym’s open platform Mywellness
Leading provider of body composition technology, Evolt, has announced a strategic integration with Technogym.
The collaboration responds to customer demand, as fitness professionals, wellness clinics and individuals have voiced the need for an enhanced, seamless experience combining the strengths of both platforms.
The integration within Technogym’s open platform Mywellness enables collection and tracking of profiled Big Data from all Technogym Digital Ecosystem touchpoints and from a wide variety of integrated software or equipment. Through its open platform architecture, Mywellness integrates more than 200 partners: membership software, fitness equipment from many brands, payment methods, professional body analysis devices, as well as end-user apps and wearables.
The integration between Evolt and Technogym will provide customers with a unified, holistic fitness experience, combining Evolt’s cutting-edge body composition analysis with Technogym’s state-of-the-art fitness equipment and wellness solutions. This partnership reflects both companies’ commitment to delivering innovation that empowers users to take control of their health and fitness.
Contact Evolt on 07 5535 6227, info@evolt360.com, www.evolt360.com
Contact Technogym Australia on 1800 615 440, E: info.au@technogym.com, www.technogym.com
Eltee Sydney named period-safe swim underwear partner of Swimming Australia
A new partnership between Swimming Australia and Eltee Sydney is aiming to break down the menstrual barriers facing girls and women in swimming.
Australia-owned and operated, Eltee Sydney offers innovative, functional period wear for active women and girls.
Puberty, and the start of periods, is a time when girls’ participation in grassroots sport falls off sharply and then continues through the pathway system which is why Eltee Sydney has become the period-safe swim underwear partner of Swimming Australia.
In 2023, Eltee Sydney surveyed more than 2300 Australian tween and teenage girls about their participation in sport and the research found 67.6% of girls have quit or avoided swimming due to challenges tied to period management.
The partnership was launched in April at the 2025 Age and Open Nationals at the Brisbane Aquatic Centre.
Pavigym introduces new flooring solution for efficient gym spaces
Fitness flooring leader Pavigym has announced the launch of Connect, a new flooring solution for connected, safer and more efficient gym spaces
Launched at FIBO in Germany in April, the new flooring solution is designed to enhance safety, organisation and flexibility in fitness spaces.
Developed after extensive research and testing, Connect addresses a growing challenge in fitness locations: how to manage power and connectivity without compromising design or functionality. As connected strength machines and digital cardio equipment become the norm, gyms are increasingly limited by where their power outlets are located.
Connect integrates a discreet cable management system directly into the flooring tiles, allowing electrical cables to be routed safely and invisibly beneath the floor. This eliminates trip hazards and improves the overall look of the space, while giving gym owners the freedom to place or relocate powered equipment wherever it’s needed - without relying on wall sockets or fixed wiring points. Its efficient design also simplifies installation, significantly reducing downtime and removing the need for costly or disruptive construction work.
Gymnastics Australia has announced ‘Sylvia P Sportswear’ as the Official Gymnastics Wear Partner, providing high performance apparel for the Australian Gymnastics Team.
An Australian brand with a long history in gymnastics, Sylvia P Sportswear understand what gymnasts need to perform at their best. This partnership ensures the Australian team will compete in bespoke, highperformance leotards.
Felton Industries launches new solar-lit sheltered seating Eco-Trend Solar
Felton Industries, Australia’s leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of premium Australian-made aluminium outdoor furniture is expanding its innovative customisation options with the launch of Eco-Trend Solar, a new solar-lit sheltered seating.
The lights are available as an add-on for the Felton Eco Trend shelter, offering an additional layer of functionality to enhance outdoor spaces. The lights integrate seamlessly with the Eco Trend shelter, giving users greater flexibility to customise their facilities. The new product reinforces Felton’s commitment to sustainability and safety while offering additional customisation options for its outdoor solutions.
The 500-lumen solar light range operates entirely on solar power, eliminating the need for A/C power or manual switches. The solar lights are fitted with a motion detector that adjusts brightness to conserve energy, glowing at 30% when not in use and increasing to 85-100% upon detecting movement. They hold up to 40 hours of light on a single charge, making them a reliable and energy efficient solution for outdoor areas where safety and sustainability are paramount, including schools, sporting facilities, local council areas, agriculture, construction, and mining and industrial sites.
Fitness and Wellness unveils concept store with Decathlon
In collaboration with sporting retailer Decathlon, Johnson Fitness and Wellness Australia (JFW-AU), a division of Johnson Health Tech, has opened its first concept store in Sydney’s CBD.
The dedicated concept space at the Decathlon outlet on Sydney’s George Street features a showroom offering a premium fitness shopping experience, featuring a curated selection of JFW-AU’s top-tier fitness equipment and massage chairs.
Ranging across men’s and women’s artistic, trampoline, acrobatic and aerobic gymnastics, the designs will reflect the identity and legacy of Australia’s national team.
For Sylvia P, the partnership represents a continued commitment to supporting Australian gymnasts at all levels.
Through the partnership, Sylvia P will work closely with Gymnastics Australia to develop bespoke competition and training leotards.
Contact 07 3390 2902, E: info@sylviap.com.au
The launch of the Sydney concept store marks a key milestone in JFW-AU’s retail expansion strategy. Located within Decathlon’s 220 square metre George Street store, the 60 square metre showroom will allow customers to explore, test, and experience premium fitness solutions firsthand.
This partnership aligns with both brands’ commitment to making high-quality fitness equipment more accessible.
Decathlon, operating in Australia for over seven years, continues to expand into urban markets with innovative retail concepts.
By collaborating with JFW-AU, Decathlon enhances its instore offerings with industry-leading equipment.
Quayclean Australia has advised of its support for the hugely successful AFL Gather Round where it was responsible for facilities cleaning, waste management and presentation services for seven fixtures over four days, including two on the same day at Adelaide Oval.
While South Australia Premier Peter Malinauskas was preparing for his third Gather Round, alongside Nick Addison, Chief Executive of Adelaide Oval Stadium Management Authority (AOSMA), Quayclean arranged to deploy over 250 staff for 4,500 hours of work across more than 800 shifts to capture 110 tonnes of waste, 90% of which was to be recycled.
To enhance the growing popularity of the Gather Round experience for 260,000 local and interstate patrons at Adelaide Oval and Barossa Park, Quayclean mobilised over a dozen interstate leaders to support local workers for the round.
Paying tribute to his senior leaders and the dedicated work of his staff, Quayclean Chief Executive, Mark Piwkowski stated “the unique feature of Gather Round was the 90-minute Saturday afternoon turn-around following Carlton’s win over West Coast Eagles in the mid-day match before Essendon defeated Melbourne later in the afternoon.
“It was a first of this scale for an AFL stadium in Australia and the plan was executed with perfect precision to ensure the presentation of Adelaide Oval was maintained at the highest of standards for patrons and players to enjoy.”
Sunshine Coast Council looks to improve mobility mapping
Sunshine Coast Council has engaged Briometrix, a leading provider of technology solutions for people with disabilities, to conduct more mobility mapping to provide easy wayfinding information for all in the community.
Equity and inclusion are key principles of Council’s values, which is why this project is essential in identifying accessible routes suitable for everyone.
The additional locations currently undergoing mapping include Palmwoods, Buderim, Woombye and Landsborough.
Wheelchairs with specially trained ‘pilots’ and tracking devices are mapping how easy - or difficult - it is for those in wheelchairs, pushing prams, using mobility aids or with vision impairment, to get around certain areas.
The information will be incorporated into Sunshine Coast Council’s mobility maps and help inform footpath refurbishment and upgrades to improve accessibility.
Contact 0412 123 775 www.briometrix.com
Fluidra invests in Lynxight anti-drowning technology
Fluidra, through its investment fund Fluidra Ventures, has invested in Lynxight’s AI-powered anti-drowning technology for commercial pools.
Lynxight drowning prevention technology uses camera and artificial intelligence (AI) technology to scan swimmer activity for signs of potential drowning incidents.
Fluidra says investing in next-generation safety systems is a fundamental part of the vision that pools should be a sanctuary of well-being, fun and safety.
With public and commercial pools welcoming thousands of swimmers daily, Lynxight’s AI technology helps facility managers and lifeguards gain new levels of insight and control, ensuring faster response times, proactive risk detection, and an overall safer environment.
Fluidra says that by integrating AI into its extensive ecosystem of commercial pool solutions, the company is enhancing the future of aquatic safety.
Fluidra has also acquired 100% of the shares of Softwareas-a-Service (SaaS) company Pooltrackr – the platform that streamlines every aspect of operations for pool professionals. Contact Lynxight’s Dan Mulvey on 0408 057 626, E: dan@lynxight.com, www.lynxight.com
New additions to Hammer Strength lineup
Life Fitness Australia has announced the arrival of three new additions to the Hammer Strength lineup - built for serious athletes and facilities ready to raise the bar on strength training.
Engineered with the biomechanics, durability, and unmistakable feel that Hammer Strength is known for, these latest launches deliver uncompromising performance and precision.
The additions are:
-The Plate Loaded Pendulum-X Squat for lower-body training.
-The Plate Loaded Super Fly which adds versatility to chest training with both flat and decline fly positions, allowing athletes to attack the chest from multiple angles for maximum muscle engagement.
-The Plate Loaded Adjustable Decline Bench which offers quick, secure adjustments between a -10 degrees and -25 degrees decline - with no makeshift plate stacking required. Contact 03 9535 4600/1800 689 622, E: enquiry@lifefitness.com.au, www.lifefitness.com.au
Products
Polytan named as Official Turf Partner of Hockey Australia and Hockey One League
Leading surfaces supplier Polytan is to become the Official Turf Partner of Hockey Australia and the Hockey One League.
The new two-year partnership with Hockey Australia and the Hockey One League will see Polytan improve pitches and facilities across Australia - a huge coup for current and future hockey players nationwide.
Polytan remains the official turf partner of the International Hockey Federation (FIH). As part of this, Polytan’s hockey turf range, Poligras, has featured at eight Olympics and three World Cups and has recently been confirmed as the official hockey turf of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
The agreement with Hockey Australia and Hockey One League also sees Polytan secure the presenting rights to Australia’s National Championships events. The National Championships features a suite of eight events, which showcase the best age-grade players from the Under 14 Championships to the Under 21 Championships, the leading regional players at the Country Championships, every age group from 34+ at the Men’s and Women’s Masters Championships and the best of all age groups at the Indoor Championships. Contact 1800 663 812, E: enquiry@polytan.com.au, www.polytan.com.au
Waterco achieves coveted listing on the ASX All Ordinaries Index
Waterco Limited has reached a significant milestone, securing its place among Australia’s top 500 publicly listed companies with its inclusion in the prestigious All Ordinaries Index (XAO).
Explaining that being part of this key benchmark further solidifies the company’s position as a leading player in the market, opening doors to increased visibility, investment opportunities, and long-term growth, Waterco Chief Operating Officer, Bryan Goh advised “this recognition is a testament to the dedication and innovation of our global team, as well as the trust our investors and customers place in Waterco.”
Founded in Sydney in 1981, Waterco has evolved from a local wholesaler into a global leader in filtration and sanitisation. Since its ASX listing in 1989, the company has continually advanced manufacturing and technology, delivering innovative solutions across diverse industries worldwide.
Swimming Australia continues arena apparel partnership
Swimming Australia has announced its continued partnership with global swimwear brand arena having signed a new fouryear swimwear and team apparel partnership extension with arena that will see the Dolphins through to the 2028 LA Olympics and Paralympics.
The deal pushes the long-standing partnership into an impressive second decade and reinforces arena’s commitment to Swimming Australia and its athletes at every levelfrom age group through to the international level.
As the official apparel partner, arena will be worn by all Australian national teams in the lead-up to LA, and by Swimming Australia’s junior and youth squads across able and para programs.
Contact arena on 02 9670 0600, E: sales@arenaswimming.com.au, www.arenaswimming.com.au
Greater Geelong delivers on ocean beach accessibility with MobiChair
The City of Greater Geelong is partnering with the Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club to provide an accessible beach wheelchair for public use at Ocean Grove Beach.
A formal agreement between both parties was recently signed, with the City providing the MobiChair to OGSLSC at no cost, making it available free of charge to the community.
The City has long supported accessibility at local beaches with three MobiChairs now available for use, adding to those at Eastern Beach public pool and at the Indented Head Boat Club.
The new arrangement marks the first time the City has made a MobiChair available at an ocean beach, with the existing chairs both at bay beaches.
Designed to provide a seamless beach experience for individuals with mobility challenges, MobiChairs allow users to move easily from the car park to the beach and into the water.
The large armrests also serve as flotation devices when entering the water.
Cost effective electric heat pumps installed at Sydney’s Victoria Park Pool
The City of Sydney has advised of energy efficient upgrades to Victoria Park Pool, a facility which attracted more than 55,000 people in the summer months after it reopened in October 2024.
The heat pumps at Victoria Park Pool in Sydney, which replaced ageing gas heaters with a fully electric, energyefficient solution, were installed by Image Air Conditioning.
The new system uses three EvoHeat CS-i 250 commercial inverter heat pumps to keep the 50 metre outdoor pool warm year-round with the system powered by 100% renewable electricity.
Victoria Park Pool, located in the inner Sydney suburb Camperdown, is home to an eight lane, 50 metre outdoor heated pool, and a splash pool with water features set amid a nine-hectare park, plus a swim shop, cafe and fitness centre.
The upgrades included replacing end of life gas water heating systems with efficient electric heat pumps, and a new smart control system that optimises performance.
Victoria Park Pool is the first of six City of Sydney pools to have its gas infrastructure replaced.
Theatre Royal Sydney confirms ticketing partnership with Tixly
Fast growing performing arts ticketing software company Tixly has announced its expansion into Australia, agreeing a partnership with Theatre Royal Sydney.
The collaboration marks the Iceland-based company’s first venture into Australasia, building on its successful relationship with Theatre Royal Sydney’s parent company Trafalgar Entertainment, which began in the UK in 2023.
Announcing the partnership, Theatre Royal Sydney General Manager, Houri Tapiki stated “we are excited to announce a transformative partnership between Theatre Royal Sydney and Tixly, designed to enhance the customer experience in unprecedented ways.
“This collaboration is a testament to our dedication to providing an exceptional experience for both our producers and patrons. By leveraging Tixly’s cuttingedge technology, we are introducing features such as self-exchange options for tickets, offering our customers the flexibility they need.”
Theatre Royal Sydney will go live with Tixly in June 2025, offering an enhanced ticketing experience for both patrons and venue staff. Tixly have also appointed Hayley Dobbs as Australian Operations Manager.
NZSki expands ‘Superpass’ to include access to 10 ski resorts across New Zealand
NZSki has expanded its ski ‘Superpass’ to now offer access to 10 ski resorts across New Zealand. Superpass gives skiers and riders the option to visit any of the 10 ski resorts, or swap day pass credit for après experiences when a break off-piste is needed.
Previously, Superpass included NZSki mountains onlyCoronet Peak, The Remarkables and Mt Hutt.
Superpass now includes the following resorts: Coronet Peak, Queenstown; The Remarkables, Queenstown; Mt Hutt, Methven; Snowplanet, Auckland; Turoa, Ruapehu; Whakapapa, Ruapehu; Porters, Castle Hill; Roundhill, Tekapo; Mt Dobson, South Canterbury; and Ohau, Mackenzie.
NZSki Chief Executive Paul Anderson enthused “bringing together 10 of New Zealand’s most iconic ski areas under one pass is really exciting. More flexibility gives guests peace of mind when purchasing their pass allowing them to explore more mountains, chase the best conditions, and make the most of winter. Details at www.nzsuperpass.com/
Interactive Strength acquires Wattbike to expand its fitness portfolio
Interactive Strength has signed a binding transaction agreement to acquire Wattbike, the pioneering indoor performance training bike business.
Wattbike, established in 2008, has sold over 100,000 bikes and is recognised for its use by elite athletes and professional sports teams. The brand’s product line includes the Air-Pro and AtomX for fitness businesses, and the Atom, Proton, and Air models for direct-to-consumer sales. The Wattbike Hub app, which offers a range of workouts and training plans, is available without subscription fees.
Wattbike is available in Australia through NovoFit. Contact 1800 628 824, E: info@novofit.com.au, www.novofit.com.au
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Sydney Showground and ENGIE Stadium partners with WOSUP
to save over 2,200 single-use cups per event
Sydney Showground and ENGIE Stadium has announced a three-year partnership with sustainable aluminium cup provider, WOSUP, which will save over 2,200 singleuse cups per event via the upgrade of all cups for draught beverage options at the venue.
Made from lightweight aluminium, WOSUP is a premium, durable and reusable cup that not only helps reduce single-use plastic at live events but also helps to keep drinks colder for longer, making for a better beverage experience.
Having transitioned to reusable cups back in 2019, Sydney Showground has continued to explore evolving food and beverage sustainability options and embarked on a trial with WOSUP late last year to determine the suitability of their product for use.
From this trial, WOSUP have confirmed that Sydney Showground has saved over 42,000 single-use cups since November 2024.
Contact WOSUP co-founder Martin Salter on 0419 223 414, E: pr@wosup.com.au
Technogym showcases its eco-conscious Pilates Reformer at FIBO 2025
Technogym showcased its Healthness™ products and services at Germany’s FIBO fitness industry trade show in April 2025.
Having introduced the concept of wellness 40 years ago, Technogym’s Healthness delivers a new vision aimed at transforming the future of wellness and prevention.
Leveraging the company’s years of investments in cutting- edge technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI), Technogym founder and Chief Executive, Nerio Alessandri introduced the new vision of Healthness at the 25th Wellness Congress, in the presence of 2,000 people from 100 countries.
Among Technogym’s new Healthness products and services showcased at FIBO 2025 is a new addition to its lineup: a sleek, modern Pilates Reformer.
The newest addition to the Technogym ecosystem - dubbed Technogym Reform - was developed in collaboration with leading Pilates instructors. Designed for enthusiasts of all levels, the Reformer features easy, intuitive adjustments to enhance accessibility and performance.
The launch of Technogym Reform comes as demand for Pilates reaches an all-time high.
