Australasian Leisure Management Issue 163 2024

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR DIGITAL ECOSYSTEM

Your scalable open software platform for fitness clubs and leisure centres.

Published by

Leisure Media Limited

c/o 45/30 Nobbs Street Surry Hills NSW 2010 AUSTRALIA

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E-mail: leisure@ausleisure.com.au www.ausleisure.com.au www.facebook.com/ausleisure

Editor Karen Sweaney

Publisher Nigel Benton

Managing Director Lindsay McGrath

Advertising Inquiries

Nigel Benton Tel: 0411 551 731

E: nigel@ausleisure.com.au

James Croll Tel: 0488 090 904

E: jcroll@ausleisure.com.au

Declan Gillard-Martin Tel: 0404 725 554

E: declan@spasa.com.au

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The views contained in Australasian Leisure Management are not necessarily those of Leisure Media Limited or the Editor.

While every care is taken with advice given, Leisure Media Limited and the Editor can take no responsibility for effects arising therefrom. Views expressed by contributors may be personal and are not necessarily the views of their employers or professional bodies/associations.

© Leisure Media Limited, 2024. ISSN 1446-1374

From the Publisher

Perpetual Change

Many indicators appear to show that leisure has - as shown by the latest Themed Entertainment Association (TEA)/AECOM Theme Index and Museum Index - ‘closed the chapter’ on recovery (as we report on page 42).

As the TEA/AECOM Index shows, people have returned to theme parks and waterparks, but it also shows a move to learning-based experience as is evident with attendance increases at cultural institutions, children’s museums, aquariums, botanical gardens and zoos; the growth of forprofit ‘edutainment’ venues; and the growth of eco-tourism and similar self-enrichment type vacations.

With physical activity, while it was predicted that the COVIDinspired home fitness activities might spell the end of regular studio workouts, research from a number of sources, including Les Mills International, suggests the majority of members have returned to out-of-home exercise, in part attracted by new brands and entrants to the market.

This issue also covers how traditional retails spaces - malls and high streets - are turning to leisure in the face of consumers’ changing spending habits (see the feature on page 28).

By contrast, some sectors are struggling - with cinema being a prime example where changing habits through Covid and several years of poorly performing movie releases have led to massive challenges for operators.

A topic widely reported in mainstream media has been the cancellation and postponement of festivals - along with wider pressures on smaller live music venues and emerging artistsanother topic addressed in this issue (see the feature on page 52).

However, it appears that, as evidenced by new figures from Flight Centre, Australians are moving away from music festivals towards stadium and arena acts.

The Flight Centre research showed 89% of young people (aged 18 to 35) cited multiple reasons - including bad weather and rising costs - as deterring them from attending festivals.

Welcoming IAKS ANZ members as readers

Having reported on the activities of the Germany-based International Association for Sports and Leisure Facilities (IAKS) since the early issues of this magazine - particularly its biennial awards, it has been pleasing to note the growth of IAKS’ Australia and New Zealand subsection.

This publication’s links with IAKS ANZ also sees its members now automatically receive Australasian Leisure Management as a member benefit.

Online News and this magazine

It’s something we need to make clearer, but features from the printed Australasian Leisure Management magazine aren’t available in our online news.

We make a distinction between the two media based on news being just that, and almost everyone gets their news online these days while the longer form nature of features in the printed Australasian Leisure Management magazine - presenting case studies, learnings and an overview of key issues - is more insightful content that demands longer engagement from the reader, and that is where print remains the best medium to engage the reader.

The value of the content in the printed magazine is that it sits on the desk of most industry managers in Australia and New Zealand.

This content is not paid for

A series of recent discussions about our content prompts me to highlight our editorial policy and clarify some misconceptions about what you are reading.

While journalism is changing and many news-based industry websites are moving to a model where editorial is no longer that but is paid ‘advertorial’, that is not Australasian Leisure Management’s approach.

It may be a bit ‘old school’ but, based on a belief that paid ‘advertorial’ is useless our content is unpaid for, independent and, I believe, credible.

So, at all times, we welcome editorial contributions, press releases, research, opinion and similar input - which we publish without charge.”

Nigel Benton, Publisher

Two Months in Leisure

Some of the industry headlines over recent months. Daily industry news can be read at www.ausleisure.com.au

Australians spent more than $3 billion on fitness clubs and gyms in 2023

A newly released survey on the fitness and health market has revealed that Australians spent up to $3.5 billion on fitness clubs and gyms in 2023 and that one in five Australians over 18 have a gym membership.

The information, released by retail intelligence platform GapMaps and based on data powered by CommBank iQ - which tracks the largest 27 brands within the industry - shows that the top fitness chains across Australia have over 3,000 locations.

GapMaps’ 2023 Australia Annual Health & Fitness Centres Report, covering the last calendar year shows that Sydney residents spend more on fitness than those in Melbourne, with 16% higher gym spending per capita and a 13% higher ratio of major gym locations per capita. However, there are major variations in both gym spending per capita and gym store provisions across each city as outlined in detail within the GapMaps platform.

Anytime Fitness remains the largest chain nationally with 561 locations, adding a net additional 11 locations over 2023. 61% of all Australians live within three kilometres of an Anytime Fitness including 89% of Sydneysiders.

Viva

Leisure reports 15.9% growth in annual income

Leading health club group Viva Leisure has reported that its income in the 2023/24 financial year increased by 15.9% to $163.6 million, with EBITDA increasing 21% to $35.4 million for the period.

Advising that performance was “driven primarily by strong organic growth”, the group’s financial statements for the year ending 30th June, provided a comprehensive overview of the company’s fiscal performance and operational developments.

With the group having reached more than 360 locations, the 2023/24 financial year saw its corporate membership increase 10% to 200,067 and membership across the network rise 6.5% to 372,354.

The full year results presentation also reveals $18.2 million in investment in new sites, acquisitions, technology and site upgrades, along with an ongoing refurbishment plan and the completion of a full roll out of Viva Pay and hub technologies access the group’s franchise network.

Overall, Viva Leisure now owns and operates the secondlargest health club network in Australia and is ranked the 20th largest club operator in the world by the Health and Fitness Association (formerly IHRSA).

ASTN spotlight leaders in recently released ‘Women

in Sports Innovation’ report

The Australian Sports Technologies Network (ASTN) has released the 2024 edition of the ‘Women in Sports Innovation’ report spotlighting and celebrating leaders who are helping to shape the future of sports innovation in Australia.

This second edition of the report recognises the outstanding contributions of over 100 emerging and established leaders in sports innovation. Spanning across data, digital and technology within sports, entertainment, esports and digital health. These leaders work in government, industry, sporting institutions and universities across Australia. The inclusive list represents a diverse array of talent, expertise, leadership and innovation within the sportstech ecosystem.

Luna Park Sydney up for sale

Luna Park Sydney - one of Australia’s most recognisable attractions - has been listed for sale for the first time in 20 years. Management of the Milsons Point amusement park announced the news in a move property experts say is expected to generate significant interest from domestic and overseas buyers.

Luna Park, which is currently controlled by global investment firm Brookfield, is expecting the park to be sold for approximately $70 million for the buildings and long-term lease over the land.

Belgravia Academy backs reopening of remote Northern Territory pool

The recent reopening of the Wadeye Swimming Poolidentified as a strategic priority in improving social, health and wellbeing outcomes of a remote community in the Northern Territory - has reopened thanks to essential lifeguard training delivered by Belgravia Academy.

Reopened in November 2023, after a $4.8 million refurbishment project ended half a decade of closure, the pool was closed again by January 2024 due to challenges with qualified personnel shortage and no available lifeguard training.

As a registered training organisation (RTO) Belgravia Academy worked with facility owner the West Daily Regional Council to deliver lifeguard, first aid and CPR training to 22 participants, upskilling and certifying staff to allow the swimming pool to reopen its doors to the community.

Aussie World has submitted a development application to Sunshine Coast Council to build a multi-faceted $60 million waterpark on privatelyowned land to the north of the existing theme park.

Banana Shire Council has announced a new operator for the Biloela and Moura Aquatic Centres, with the Splash-A-Bout Swim School Management Company named as the new contractor.

After a thorough evaluation process, Albury City has awarded Peddle Thorp Melbourne the $2.7 million tender for detailed design work of the Albury Entertainment Centre Convention Wing.

New playground and picnic facilities at Malua Bay in southern NSW have been opened, with hundreds of people enjoying a family fun day hosted by Eurobodalla Shire Council.

The final designs have been unveiled for the Adelaide Football Club’s new headquarters at Thebarton Oval, with work expected to commence this year.

Bringing Sydney a new modern golf experience, Swing Factory Terrey Hills has opened –offering a purpose-built, stateof-the-art precinct combining industry-leading technologies, entertainment and hospitality.

After years of the once popular attraction sitting dormant, Village Roadshow Theme Parks has announced that Sea World’s monorail is to be retired and demolished.

A multi-media sensory entertainment complex - Dreamskape - offering an augmented reality (AR) entertainment space with six activity zones and over 100 games and 50 immersive experiences – has opened in Melbourne’s Docklands.

The ecologically sustainable and fire resistant $19.5 million Flinders Chase National Park Visitor Centre located at Karatta on Kangaroo Island’s wild west coast has been officially opened.

The concept designs for Hobart’s new AFL Stadium have been released with work continuing on the application to assess the multipurpose stadium through the Project of State Significance process.

Latest project supplied by Parkequip Waterplay

Parkequip supplied the water features for the indoor Splash Park at

Aventuur receives resource consent for Auckland Surf Park

Aventuur has received resource consent for the Auckland Surf Park - which will be New Zealand’s first surf park - and will include a 56-module Wavegarden ‘Cove’ lagoon.

The consent was granted by the Ministry of the Environment, following the project’s referral to an expert consenting panel for consideration under the New Zealand Government’s COVID19 Recovery (Fast Track Consenting) Act 2020.

Tourism & Transport Forum data

shows visitor surge in Australia’s city centres

Tourism & Transport Forum has released their latest DSpark commissioned report which shows visitors on weekends and after hours are booming in Central Business Districts (CBDs) across Australia, but hybrid working looks likely to stay.

The DSpark report analysed, anonymised and aggregated mobility data to examine the movement of the Australian adult population across Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane and Perth CBDs.

The report revealed nightlife and weekend events have led to a surge in visitors to Australian CBDs in the past 12 months, helping counter lower levels of workers.

Queensland attraction the ‘Big Pineapple’ relaunches

The Sunshine Coast’s Big Pineapple - the largest of Australia’s ‘Big Things’ - has been officially relaunched.

The first stage of the Big Pineapple regeneration includes the launch of a new café, new children’s playground, new viewing platform and fully restored train.

The extensive renovation project has been undertaken by owner Peter Kendall and his company CMC Property.

Newcastle Jets announce Maverick Sports Partners as new owners

Newcastle Jets have confirmed Maverick Sports Partners as the club’s new ownership group.

The new ownership group will focus on strengthening the club’s connection to the local region, growing attendance figures, securing financial backing from corporate and government partners and fostering young, local talent through the club’s academy to shine in the Liberty A-League Women and Isuzu UTE A-League Men.

The new ownership group/consortium, led by former Western United Chief Executive Maurice Bisetto, will take control of the Jets from a group of fellow A-Leagues clubs that has funded the club since 2021.

Adelaide Zoo farewells Giant Pandas Fu Ni and Wang Wang

Zoos SA has advised that Giant Pandas Fu Ni and Wang Wang will be leaving Adelaide Zoo and returning to China, while a new pair of Giant Pandas will be arriving at Adelaide Zoo at a future date.

The announcement was made during a recent visit to the Zoo by Premier of the People’s Republic of China, Li Qiang, along with Premier of South Australia, Peter Malinauskas, Minister for Foreign Affairs

Penny Wong, Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell and representatives from the China Conservation and Research Center for Giant Panda (CCRCGP).

Zoos SA Chief Executive Elaine Bensted advised “we have had the pleasure of 15 wonderful years of hosting Fu Ni and Wang Wang at Adelaide Zoo but, as per our conservation cooperation agreement, it is time for the two to return to their homeland in China.

“Since 2009 the pair has been seen by over five million visitors. Every single one of those visitors has learnt something about these unique animals and been drawn into their story of survival and the need for their conservation.”

White Bay Power Station contributes to success of 24th Biennale of Sydney

The 24th Biennale of Sydney, titled ‘Ten Thousand Suns’, attracted more than 771,000 visitors over a record breaking three months.

White Bay Power Station, one of seven sites for the edition, was revitalised and opened to the public for the first time in over 100 years, and welcomed 172,000 visitors alone, making it the most attended non-museum site in the history of the Biennale.

After 50 years of presenting the most dynamic contemporary art in Sydney’s unique cultural hot spots, the Biennale continues to innovate, inspire, and captivate audiences, both locally and internationally.

NBL and WCGS form consortium to acquire majority interest in WNBL

The National Basketball League (NBL) and the Wollemi Capital Group Syndicate (WCGS) have formed a consortium to acquire a majority interest in Australia’s premier women’s basketball league - the WNBL - following the completion of the 2024/25 season.

The deal will see the consortium acquire approximately 75% of the WNBL with a term sheet being signed, which provides up to 60 days to finalise the proposed transaction and allows any conditions to be met. Basketball Australia will maintain a minority interest in the League.

WCG - whose founder is current Tesla Chair Robyn Denholm - has invested significantly in Australian basketball over the past two years. Earlier in 2024, WCG assumed the majority ownership share of Hoops Capital Pty Ltd, the owner of the Sydney Kings and Sydney Flames.

Carlton FC breaks club attendance records in 2024 AFL season

Attendances at Carlton FC 2024 AFL Premiership have broken records with four of the club’s 13 games this season played in front of over 80,000 people - the first ever time the Blues have ever achieved such a feat.

The 88,510 AFL fans who attended the MCG on the evening of Sunday 9th June for the Essendon against Carlton clash was the second biggest home-and-away crowd that the Blues have ever achieved against their arch-rivals.

This followed 83,881 fans attending the MCG for Carlton’s first home game of the season against Richmond in Round one while, six weeks later, Carlton helped Geelong set its own club record for a home-and-away game when 87,775 attended the historic venue in Round seven.

VenuesLive to provide catering and hospitality services at Industree Group Stadium

Leading Australian management company VenuesLive is expanding its footprint on the NSW Central Coast by providing catering and hospitality services at Industree Group Stadium (pictured above).

(Personal protection equipment manufacturer and distributor, Industree Group, acquired the naming rights to the Central Coast Stadium in Gosford in 2022).

The services will be delivered via VenuesLive’s catering arm - now branded as VL Catering which was awarded Caterer of the Year in Australia at the prestigious National Restaurant & Catering Awards for Excellence in November 2023.

New facilities at Kawana Aquatic Centre to create ‘dynamic sporting heart’ for the community

A $14 million, multi-year upgrade of the Kawana Aquatic Centre by the Sunshine Coast Council is on track to deliver benefits to the facility’s more than 200,000 visitors each year.

Completed in April this year, Stage One of the aquatic centre upgrade included a new 20-metre, five-lane indoor heated pool, along with new structures, new plant and equipment.

Stage Two, now underway, will deliver a new entry building, amenities, kiosk and additional car parking, supplemented by a $938,000 contribution from the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

Jetts Fitness and ABC Fitness partner for Membership Management solutions

Jetts Fitness, a global fitness franchise brand with over 260 gyms worldwide, has partnered with ABC Fitness, a leader in providing technology for fitness businesses everywhere.

ABC Glofox, known for its expertise in providing comprehensive member management solutions, will empower Jetts Fitness franchisees with tools to effectively manage their gyms and drive business growth.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Jetts Fitness’ commitment to providing exceptional support and resources to its franchise network as the brand continues to grow in Australia.

Thredbo opens new $9 million alpine coaster

While snow cover has been erratic over Australia’s alpine region this winter, Thredbo opened an exciting new experience to attract guests.

The much-anticipated $9 million Thredbo Alpine Coaster is an all-weather, all-year attraction that features as one of a series of major enhancements to ‘futureproof’ the resort and widen its appeal beyond the peak winter and summer seasons.

The 1.5-kilometre track mountain coaster begins with a 410-metre ascent before a heart-pumping 1.4-kilometre downhill track snakes and circles the alpine slopes through snowgums at up to 40km/h with speeds controlled by individual riders.

Revo Fitness expands

with new locations in South Australia, Western Australia and Victoria

Fast growing Perth-based gym chain Revo Fitness has announced it will open 11 new gyms across South Australia, Western Australia and Victoria before the end of the year in its most ambitious expansion plans to date.

Founded in 2012 by former Western Australia Sheffield Shield cricketer Andrew Holder, Revo Fitness offers access to pin and plate loaded machines, cardio equipment, free weights and functional training areas for high-intensity interval training (HIIT) circuits along with Pilates.

Revo Fitness founder and Managing Director Andrew Holder. Credit: Revo Fitness.

MAGEN Heat pump at Coffs Harbour Olympic Swimming Pool now fully operational

A project to install a heat pump in the 50-metre pool at the Coffs Harbour War Memorial Olympic Swimming Pool has been completed, with users expected to be able to experience a year round temperature of 27 degrees Celsius while the operator benefits from lower energy costs

Funded by the City of Coffs Harbour ($200,000) and a grant from the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund ($797,308), the 50-metre pool project follows the installation of a heat pump in the facility’s 25-metre pool late last year.

The upgrade will result in an extended swimming season at the War Memorial facility, which will flow through to programs such as learn-to-swim, squad training, therapy sessions and aqua fitness.

Expanded operations for the 50-metre pool is also expected to take the pressure off the indoor 25-metre pool in the traditional off-season.

Initiated in 2021 following a Council resolution, the project has seen the upgrade of mains power to support the heating system of the 50-metre pool which included a new sub-station and associated easement update.

Works were undertaken by Magen Eco Energy.

STWS invites entries for 2024 Australia and New Zealand Sports Technology Awards

STWS, organisers of the annual Australia and New Zealand Sports Technology Awards (ANZSTA) have opened entries for the program for 2024.

The awards, which celebrate excellence and innovation in technology across the sports, media, entertainment, health and technology ecosystem are presented as a centrepiece of Australia Sports Innovation Week (ASTW) and are supported by the Australian Sports Technologies Network (ASTN).

Winners will be presented in Melbourne on Wednesday 23rd October during ASTW.

The Conference brings together leaders from around the world along with industry panels covering key topics in the sports tech industry in Australia, as well as internationally.

Entries for the awards close on 11th October with finalists announced on 16th October 2024.

HYROX indoor fitness competition expands across Australia

Following HYROX’s impressive reception in 2023, the world’s fastest growing indoor fitness competition which combines endurance and functional challenges, is this year staging events in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth.

HYROX Australia and New Zealand Country Manager, Mat Lock advised “in just 12 months, the popularity of HYROX has skyrocketed across Australia. Responding to this incredible uptake, we have doubled the number of races to make the sport of fitness racing even more accessible nationwide. This expansion will see over 20,000 everyday racers joining the HYROX family as they run onto the finisher stage under the bright lights.”

Christchurch’s new Te Kaha stadium secures One New Zealand as naming rights partner

Telecommunications company One New Zealand has acquired the naming rights to the Te Kaha stadium currently under construction in Christchurch.

The 10-year deal with Venues Otauhtahi, Christchurch City Council’s event management company, will see the new multi-purpose venue, scheduled to open next year, known as the One New Zealand Stadium until 2036.

Collaboration announced between Australian Regional Tourism and Australian Institute of Tourism Officers

Australian Regional Tourism (ART) and the Australian Institute of Tourism Officers (AITO) have announced a coming together aimed at enhancing support for regional tourism across the country.

After more than 30 years, AITO members voted to wind up the organisation and transition its membership base and residual funding of approximately $70,000 to ART, marking a significant step forward in bolstering resources for regional tourism professionals.

Mushroom Group launches talent management and partnerships agency

Mushroom Group, Australia’s largest independent music and entertainment company, has unveiled a new talent management and partnerships agency named Mushroom Connect.

Founded by Mushroom Group Chief Executive Matt Gudinski, the new arm consolidates Mushroom’s expansion into representing influencer talent, alongside musicians, comedians and television personalities offering specialist talent management services, influencer marketing and artist representation to, according to a company statement, “deliver authentic digital collaborations.”

Motorsport Australia won the Esports category award at the 2023 Australia and New Zealand Sports Technology Awards. Credit: Motorsport Australia.

Western

Australia Government paid $8 million subsidy to Live Nation Entertainment for 2023

Coldplay concerts

The Western Australian Government has been reported as having paid millions of dollars to Live Nation Entertainment and its subsidiaries over the past four years, including $8 million to subsidise two live concerts by Coldplay in November last year.

As revealed by Guardian Australia, Coldplay’s 2023 concerts in Perth, hailed by the Western Australia Government as a “major tourism coup”, came on top of a further $4.65 million to be paid to Live Nation during the coming three years “to run a commercial food and wine event in” Margaret River, which regional outlets say is still bouncing back from a lockdowndriven tourism downturn.

AALARA advises of wage increases under Amusement and Travelling Shows Awards

The Australian Amusement, Leisure and Recreation Association (AALARA) has released advice to employers that wage rates and all work related allowances in the Amusement, Events and Recreation Award 2020 and the Travelling Shows Award 2020 have increased from the first full pay period commencing on or after 1st July 2024.

The increases in minimum wages and work-related allowances are the result of the 3.75% adjustment to minimum weekly wages awarded by the Fair Work Commission in the Annual Wage Review 2024.

TAFE NSW launches new course to meet growing entertainment industry demands

Football Australia to delay commencement of national second tier competition

Football Australia is set to delay the start of its national second division while also considering a change to its proposed format as a result of having failed to attract sufficient suitable teams and the impending prospect of having to resume operations and financial support of the A-League competitions.

The long planned second-tier competition was set to launch in 2025, featuring 10 to 14 clubs across the country playing a home-and-away season run through the winter months.

However, only eight ‘foundation’ clubs - all in NSW and Victoria - were unveiled when Football Australia announced the second tier in November last year, with the governing body apparently unable to find the additional two to four clubs that it believes it needs to get that structure off the ground.

Victoria’s alpine resorts highlight their contribution to the economy and wellbeing

Victoria’s alpine resorts have highlighted the industry’s massive annual contribution to the State’s economy and delivery of more than 12,000 jobs in regional economies.

The report into the Economic Contribution & Benefits of Victoria’s Alpine Resorts found the resorts - Mt Buller & Mt Stirling, Mt Hotham, Falls Creek, Mt Baw Baw and Lake Mountain - collectively attract 1.38 million visitors a year - more than the Little Penguins, F1 Grand Prix and Melbourne Cup Carnival combined!

With live events and productions thriving, TAFE NSW Enmore Design Centre is delivering a new course in Certificate III in Live Production (Scenery and Props) to address the growing skills gaps in the entertainment industry.

With the live performance industry contributing over $4 billion annually to the Australian economy and employing nearly 40,000 people nationwide, data from Live Performance Australia’s January 2024 Skills Priority List highlights critical shortages in staging technicians, stagehands, technical directors, set and scenic designers, and costume makers/ wardrobe assistants.

Swimming Australia launches Pool for Purpose legacy initiative

Swimming Australia has launched the Pool for Purpose initiative - marking its first major project under the SwimAus Foundation. Launched during the 2024 Australian Swimming Trials, the Pool for Purpose initiative aims to raise funds for community projects across Australia to help build a legacy and connect communities through swimming.

With a goal of raising $2.5 million, a dollar for every litre of water in an Olympic size swimming pool, the funds will go towards projects such as First Nations Participation programs via Deadly Little Dolphins, Para Participation programs, coaching education for regional and remote communities and assisting with funding the gap for school swimming programs.

Enmore theater SWAG

Coldplay at Perth’s Optus Stadium in 2023 Credit: David Etherton.

Royal Life Saving releases finalised National Aquatic Workforce Framework

Royal Life Saving Society - Australia (RLSSA), on behalf of the National Aquatic Industry Committee, have announced the release of the first edition of the National Aquatic Workforce Framework.

Compiled following extensive Industry Consultation, including the release of a draft for consultation in May, the Framework responds to the calls in the Australian Water Safety Strategy 2030 to spotlight aquatic careers, advocate development pathways and reinforce systems which strengthen the capability and professionalism of the sector, particularly in relation to safeguarding community safety.

Golf federations back Sports for Nature initiative

Leading international golf federations have become signatories of the Sports for Nature initiative championing the protection and restoration of nature and the environment across sports around the world.

The Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) has joined with the International Golf Federation (IGF), the Swiss Golf Federation and the French Golf Federation, along with Le Golf National, the host venue for upcoming men’s and women’s Olympic golf competitions in Paris.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) was one of the founding partners which first launched the initiative in 2022 to deliver transformative action across the sporting world and enable it to champion nature and contribute to its protection and restoration.

Dreamworld owner reports improved ticket sales over past year despite severe peak season storms

Coast Entertainment Holdings Limited, the owner of Gold Coast theme parks Dreamworld and WhiteWater World has reported a 3.1% rise in ticket sales over the past financial year, overcoming severe storms that disrupted trading in the peak Christmas-New Year’s holiday period.

Parliamentary inquiry looks at future of Australia’s live music industry

A Federal Government inquiry into the current state of Australia’s live music industry has heard about the challenges facing emerging artists and small venues while also hearing calls for ending “anticompetitive” practices.

Input from a range of stakeholders to the Standing Committee on Communications and the Arts has heard the musicians’ arm of the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA) call for an end to the market dominance of Live Nation, the world’s biggest concert promoter and ticketing company.

With hearings being conducted across the major capital cities, in Brisbane, the inquiry heard that venues in the city are struggling to survive because of declining alcohol sales that underpinned their live music business model while barriers for regional musicians included distance, availability and cost.

Griffith University’s Dr Ben Green, who was speaking on behalf of the Regional Music Research Group, told the inquiry “there’s evidence that the benefits of live music - economic, cultural, and social, including for health and wellbeing - can be significant and keenly felt in regional and remote Australia.”

www.ausleisure.com.au for all the latest industry news

Revealing a preliminary update of its unaudited trading performance for the year ended 25th June to the Australian Stock Exchange today, Coast Entertainment reported ticket sales at their highest levels since 2015/16, up 3.1% from the previous year and 42.1% above pre-COVID levels.

Overall, the company saw a 14.3% increase in total visitation, driven by new attractions and strong sales of annual passes, anticipating a positive EBITDA and an improved revenue of $87 million.

Emerging artist Ishan performs at the the inaugural Nando’s Chicken Shop Sessions in Melbourne

The Claw, one of Dreamworld’s signature rides operating during Dreamworld After Dark: Snowy Nights.

YMCA SA to manage refurbished Thebarton Aquatic Centre

The Thebarton Aquatic Centre, located in Torrensville, adjacent to the future Adelaide Crows training facility, has reopened following an extensive $8.7 million refurbishment.

YMCA South Australia (the Y) has partnered with The Department of Education and the Office of Sport, Recreation and Racing to manage the Thebarton Aquatic Centre.

YMCA SA operates a range of venues across South Australia including The Parks Recreation and Sports Centre, the Purruna Spencer Newton Centre at Scotch College and the St Clair Recreation Centre.

Technology entrepreneur Mark Arena announced as new

Perth Wildcats majority owner

Western Australian businessman Mark Arena has been revealed as the new majority owner of the NBL’s Perth Wildcats.

Arena, who resides in Perth after an international career in technology, has purchased the 10-time NBL champions from Sports Entertainment Group Ltd (SEG) which will become minority shareholders.

Arena (pictured left), who apparently plans to increase his ownership stake over future years, says he will bring a Western Australia-first mentality to the Wildcats, taking inspiration from long-time and highly-respected former owner Jack Bendat who turned the club into a powerhouse of the competition.

Clean Health announces acquisition of Nutrition Coaching Institute

Clean Health, the trusted source of fitness education for personal trainers worldwide, has announced its acquisition of the Nutritional Coaching Institute (NCI) of the USA.

The acquisition is Clean Health’s first international acquisition, further accelerating its mission to educate over a million fitness professionals by 2028 and, in turn, positively impact the health and wellness of tens of millions of global clients.

Based in Phoenix, Arizona, NCI is North America’s leading provider of evidence-based nutrition courses and fitness business development programs for fitness professionals.

UNSW research indicates confusion over beach signage

New research has suggested that beach safety signage designed to save lives are instead putting lives at risk with messages that are unclear to the people they are supposed to help protect.

Following an earlier study that found around 30% of beachgoers misunderstood the ‘swim between the flags’ sign, new research led by the UNSW (University of NSW) Beach Safety Research Group has indicated a concerning lack of understanding about the meaning of common beach safety signs.

Published in the journal Safety Science, the study surveyed a total of 220 local and international students and found many terms and icons were dangerously misunderstood, in some cases prompting young people to behave very differently to the sign’s intended message.

Almost half of both the local and international students thought the swim between the flags sign was a message for both swimmers and surfers, so surfers need to stay between the flags.

Terms including ‘shore dump’ and ‘shore break’ were poorly understood with more than half the local students and threequarters of international students not knowing what they mean. Of those who claimed to understand them, some described ‘shore dump’ as “rubbish on the shore”, and “shore break” as “two currents split by a reef or rock”.

Community gymnastics facilities end affiliation with Gymnastics Australia

More than 90 gymnastics facilities across Australia have ceased affiliation of their recreational programs with the sport’s governing bodies.

As reported by the Code Sports website, the ongoing conflict between community facilities and Gymnastics Australia and its state bodies over affiliation fees has seen 98 operators now affiliate their recreational programs with private provider Recreational Gymnastics Australia (RGA) which offers accreditation and other essential services at a much lower cost than those charged by state associations.

Australian Grand Prix organisers ordered to pay over $2.8 million to promoters over cancelled Robbie Williams concert

The Australian Grand Prix Corporation (AGPC) has been ordered to pay $2.84 million in compensation to a Melbourne touring company over the cancellation of a Robbie Williams concert in the early days of pandemic lockdowns in 2020.

Concert promoters World Touring Melbourne Limited (WTML) took legal action in the Supreme Court of Victoria against the AGPC over the scheduled concert, which was set to take place during the Formula 1 weekend in March 2020, until the race was cancelled shortly beforehand in the wake of COVID-19 restrictions.

Beach signage on a Broome Beach Credit: Shire of Broome.

The AGPC’s promotion for Robbie Williams’ 2020 concert.

Legends completes ASM Global takeover

Sport, entertainment and venues service provider, Legends has announced the completion of its US$2.3 billion acquisition of ASM Global, to create what it calls “the world’s preeminent premium live events company dedicated to providing fans with outstanding experiences globally”.

Initially agreed in November, the deal had been subject to a regulatory review during which Legends was requited to pay a US$3.5 million penalty as part of a legal settlement with United States Department of Justice (DOJ) over alleged ‘gun jumping’ breaches of antitrust rules.

The announcement sees the two parties advise that their “next era starts now”, in providing “a data-driven, customisable solution across all areas of venue operations and revenue generation focused on the sports, entertainment, attractions, conventions, and leisure industries”.

South Australian Aquatics Conference and Awards to focus on collaboration

The aquatics industry in South Australia is to again come together for the South Australian Aquatics Conference and Awards to be held at the SA Aquatic and Leisure Centre on 3rd October.

With the theme ‘Harnessing the Strength of Collaboration’, Surf Life Saving SA will again be partnering with AUSTSWIM SA and Royal Life Saving SA to deliver what is expected to be the biggest event of its type in South Australia.

The event will commence with the 2024 Aquatics Industry Awards of Excellence, which aims to celebrate the achievements and impact of respected individuals and organisations within the South Australian Aquatics Industry.

Launch of new body for NSW Tourism industry

An important milestone in the advancement of the tourism industry in NSW has seen the official launch of the NSW Tourism Association.

Dedicated to supporting and advocating for the robust growth and sustainability of the tourism sector, the NSW Tourism Association aims to be the pivotal voice and champion for the industry, addressing the evolving needs and fostering a collaborative, thriving visitor economy.

With tourism industry interests and related award programs in NSW having long been managed by Business NSW, the launch of the NSW Tourism Association brings the state into line with the rest of Australia.

Aquatic and recreation industry stakeholders come together to consider united industry representation

Consideration of ways to better represent the aquatic and recreation industry in Australia saw a coming together of stakeholders on the Gold Coast on the day after this year’s SPLASH! exhibition.

Staged under the auspices of the Aquatic Recreation Network Australia (ARNA), the Aquatic Industry Strategy Summit/ Uniting the Agenda Workshop, brought together more than 50 stakeholders representing key organisations, businesses and industry suppliers to consider better connections in the industry.

The full-day event saw the presentation of a rationale for uniting the industry, looking back at the challenges of the pandemic and the need for an “aligned voice”.

The day concluded with Kathy Parton, Chief Executive of Aquatics and Recreation Victoria (ARV - the body which coordinates ARNA) and Justin Scarr, Chief Executive of Royal Life Saving Society - Australia (RLSSA) agreeing to compile a ‘statement of intent’ for circulation on representation of the aquatic and recreation industry.

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Attendees at the Aquatic Industry Strategy Summit/Uniting the Agenda Workshop.

Courtesy of SA Aquatic and Leisure Centre.

Countdown to the biggest shop window for Australian fitness

With AusFitness Expo and AusFitness Industry to be held in October, Australasian Leisure Management interviews event founder Shaun Krenz

Shaun Krenz, a pivotal figure in transforming the Australian fitness industry through dynamic live experiences, has led the evolution of fitness exhibitions throughout the Australian market since 2009.

Under his leadership, The Fitness Show was developed into a robust portfolio of events. Originally a singular annual B2B event, it expanded under his guidance into a series of four annual events across Sydney, Melbourne (launched in 2014), Perth (launched in 2013), and Brisbane (acquired in 2015),

each catering to both B2B and B2C audiences. This growth culminated in the sale of the Fitness Show business to Reed Exhibitions in 2017, which Krenz continued to lead until 2020. Currently, Krenz is spearheading the launch of AusFitness Expo with National Media. This new venture re-establishes a vital platform for fitness suppliers and provides in-depth content designed to pave the way for future success across the community.

His global recognition in the fitness sector is built on an extensive network and a profound ability to connect suppliers with buyers. Renowned for creating memorable experiences that transcend traditional exhibitions, Krenz focuses on meaningful engagement and innovation. His forward-thinking approach continues to drive change and inspire growth in the global fitness industry, championing the development of platforms that connect and empower fitness communities worldwide.

Australasian Leisure Management: It’s been a challenging few years in the events and exhibitions industry. How has National Media and AusFitness emerged from this?

Shaun Krenz: The pandemic brought unprecedented challenges, but instead of transitioning to virtual elements, we used this period to realign closely with our community, particularly our exhibitors. We took the hiatus as an opportunity to reinvent, starting with a blank slate to craft an event experience finely tuned to the needs our stakeholders expressed. It was undoubtedly tough on our resources, but we were confident in the return of a strong appetite for live experiences and genuine human connections, which is exactly what has happened. Our events have evolved to better meet these expectations, providing richer, more aligned experiences than ever before.

Consumers enjoy the AusFitness Expo (above) and AusFitness founder Shaun Krenz (below).

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ALM: An event like AusFitness must be a good barometer for the state of the fitness industry, how do you see the industry as we approach the Sydney expo?

SK: As we approach the Sydney expo, the fitness industry is not just recovering - it’s expanding rapidly. More individuals are prioritising health and wellness, and the market size is growing correspondingly. We’re witnessing more international brands entering the Australian market directly, a rise in the number of fitness facilities, and cutting-edge sports supplements becoming mainstream.

Strength training is more popular than ever, supported by advancements in equipment. This reflects a broader shift towards holistic health and comprehensive recovery practices, highlighting fitness as a fully integrated lifestyle choice.

ALM: Among exhibitors, what do you see as the key trends?

SK: Exhibitors at AusFitness are showcasing significant trends that reflect the industry’s innovative spirit and response to evolving consumer demands. Among these, advanced recovery techniques such as ice baths, sauna sessions, and cryotherapy are gaining prominence. These methods are increasingly sought after for their benefits in speeding up recovery, reducing muscle soreness, and enhancing overall athletic performance, appealing to both serious athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike.

Additionally, there is a substantial rise in the integration of technology within the fitness sector. Wearable tech and smart fitness equipment have become more sophisticated, offering real-time feedback and personalised workout suggestions that cater to the individual’s specific health metrics and fitness goals. This technology not only enhances the user’s experience by making fitness regimes more effective and engaging but also

helps in tracking and analysing health data to deliver optimised, result-oriented fitness solutions.

These trends, showcased by our exhibitors, are a testament to how the fitness industry is rapidly adapting to include more holistic and technologically advanced approaches to health and fitness, ensuring that attendees at AusFitness are exposed to the latest and most effective fitness solutions available.

ALM: And how does this reflect the wider industry?

SK: The trends we’re seeing among our exhibitors reflect wider shifts within the industry. There’s an increasing focus on community-driven fitness, with more programs designed to build connections through outdoor activities and fitness festivals. Mental wellness is becoming an integral part of fitness regimes, emphasising mindfulness and stress reduction.

Additionally, virtual reality workouts are on the rise, offering immersive fitness experiences from the comfort of one’s home. These trends underscore a holistic approach to health that considers nutrition, sleep, and mental well-being as foundational elements.

ALM: You are presenting AusFitness as both an industry event and a more consumer-oriented exhibition. How challenging is this?

SK: Balancing the dual focus of catering to both industry professionals and general consumers presents unique challenges, particularly in ensuring the content and experiences are relevant and engaging for both audiences. However, this approach allows us to bridge the gap between industry insiders and fitness enthusiasts, creating a comprehensive platform that educates, inspires, and entertains.

AusFitness Expo highlights - above and opposite.

ALM: You’ve drawn a lot of partners together for AusFitnessmost notably AUSactive with its awards dinner and AUSactive business summit - how important is this?

SK: Partnerships are incredibly important for AusFitness. Collaborating with AUSactive for the awards dinner and business summit, for example, extends our reach and impact within the fitness community. These partnerships allow us to offer more diverse content and networking opportunities, and they help us align with respected organisations that share our mission to elevate the fitness industry.

ALM: Where do you see AusFitness heading in the future?

SK: Having established AusFitness as the premier fitness event in the Asia-Pacific region, our vision for the future is grandiose. We aim to be the foremost platform introducing cutting-edge products and state-of-the-art advancements to the Australian market. We are committed to being at the forefront of showcasing innovations and trends that will shape the industry, ensuring that AusFitness remains the pivotal meeting point for fitness professionals and enthusiasts seeking the very best the sector has to offer.

Australia’s largest fitness festival returns to Sydney

Redefining the landscape of health and fitness events, the upcoming AusFitness Industry and AusFitness Expo, AusFitness Expo will accelerate its position as landmark events in the fitness community.

Scheduled to take place from Friday 11th to Sunday 13th October at the International Convention Centre in Sydney, the event promises an electrifying atmosphere that celebrates the vibrant spirit of fitness and wellness.

The combined events bring together over 250 leading brands and cover more than 15,000 square meters of exhibition space. Attendees can expect a vibrant celebration of fitness culture, featuring a mix of competitions, workshops, and educational sessions. The AusFitness Industry segment specifically caters to fitness professionals with a trade show and summit that showcases the latest innovations and offers extensive networking opportunities, while the AusFitness Expo is open to all fitness enthusiasts and will feature live sporting competitions, including the debut of Expo Games, a DEKA Strong challenge, and more.

This unparalleled event gathers the entire market - big brands, innovative startups, and industry leaders - all under one roof. With the latest international products making their Australian debut and every conceivable fitness product on display, this is the ultimate destination for discovering cuttingedge fitness technologies, services, and trends.

Additionally, organisers have crafted an expansive program with over 25 sessions designed to challenge, inspire, and elevate your fitness career. From ‘Evidence-Based Nutrition to Enhance Performance’ to ‘Strategic Business Innovations

for Fitness Entrepreneurs’, and ‘Integrating Wellness into Traditional Fitness Models’, our lineup includes more than 50 expert speakers ready to share groundbreaking insights. These sessions are meticulously tailored to help fitness professionals expand their knowledge and directly apply new strategies in real-world scenarios.

Together, these events aim to inspire greatness and unite the fitness community under one roof, celebrating the power of health and wellness.

Building Community in your Club

Grant Gamble explains how fostering community in your club can revitalise and elevate your brand

My consulting work in the fitness and wellness industry is focused on helping companies be the best that they can be, much like people.

In some cases, the brand has faltered over time; in other cases it is a new brand trying to break through. But in all cases, there are common challenges that prevent these brands from optimal performance.

Most often, they are struggling in the communications department. This usually means they are not communicating their unique selling proposition (USP) to the market very well, and equally are not communicating well within their business. The latter can be seen in a lack of consistent, clear communications with their members, which almost always begins with a lack of internal communications with their team.

This often impacts the other common failing within these brands, and that is creating community within. A sense of community is created through a sense of belonging and being a part of something bigger than one’s self. Very often, failing or stagnant brands are on the ropes, have lost their way and are just battling to keep their heads above water, let alone investing time, energy or money into the ‘niceties’.

And yet, the ‘niceties’ of communications and community building are the very things that ultimately rebuild struggling brands and underpin their future success.

This is especially true in today’s highly competitive fitness and wellness sectors. Fostering a strong sense of community can significantly enhance member loyalty, retention, and referrals. Community building goes beyond individual fitness goals and taps into the human desire for social connection and belonging. A club that successfully cultivates a supportive and inclusive community not only stands out in a crowded market but also creates an environment where members are motivated to stay, participate, and advocate for the brand.

The Role of Community Engagement

Community engagement in fitness and wellness clubs plays a pivotal role in creating a positive and supportive atmosphere that encourages members to engage more deeply with the club

and with each other. This engagement can lead to numerous benefits, including:

Enhanced Member Loyalty: When members feel they are a part of a community, their loyalty to the club strengthens. They’re not just coming in for a workout; they’re participating in a shared experience with like-minded individuals, which can significantly enhance their emotional connection to the club and enhance the ‘why’.

Increased Retention Rates: Clubs that communicate well with their members and team members foster a strong sense of community and see proportionately higher retention rates. Members are more likely to stick with their fitness journey if they feel informed and supported by both the team members and their fellow members.

Word-of-Mouth Referrals: A vibrant community can be a club’s best marketing tool. Satisfied members are more likely to refer friends and family, expanding the community and bringing in new business through the most trusted form of advertising:

Grant Gamble (centre) at the COM Fitness Marketing Summit.

personal recommendations. This applies to team members as well; the likelihood of a team member to recommend their club as a place to work is a direct function of their level of engagement. When you get a high net promoter score (NPS) or employee net promoter score (eNPS) score, that is a signal of willingness to refer and should be encouraged and leveraged.

Enhanced Motivation and Accountability: When members are part of a community, they are more likely to stay motivated and hold themselves accountable to their fitness goals. The support and encouragement from fellow members and team members can provide the extra push needed to maintain consistency and perseverance.

Mental and Emotional Well-being: Building a community within your club can positively impact members’ mental and emotional well-being. Social connections and a sense of belonging can reduce feelings of isolation and stress, leading to a more holistic approach to health and wellness. This again is true of team members. When departments and club sites communicate well and support each other, brands flourish. When there is siloing of departments or clubs, the collective struggles.

Diverse and Inclusive Environments: A strong community fosters diversity and inclusion. By welcoming individuals from various backgrounds and fitness levels, clubs can create an environment where everyone feels accepted and valued, enhancing the overall club experience. Equally, a diverse team creates a broader appeal to the market and grows your potential audience.

Tips for Creating and Nurturing a Sense of Community Building a community within a fitness business requires deliberate strategies and consistent effort. Here are some tips for creating and nurturing a strong community:

Create Congregation Areas and Opportunities: In many clubs that I have helped design, we have created seating areas, cafe areas, relaxation and stretching areas with the goal to encourage people to hang out and chat. It’s tough to socialise and mingle when you’re pushing hard on a cardio piece, in a class environment, or working to your max on the strength

floor. Seating and social areas, and other more gentle exercise areas lend themselves to people chatting and connecting. Encouraging this will make your club environment more ‘sticky’ and build community organically within your walls.

Host Social Events: Regular social events, both in and out of the fitness context, can help members get to know each other and build bonds. These can range from workout challenges and group hikes to social gatherings and wellness workshops.

Leverage Social Media and Digital Platforms: Social media and online forums can extend the sense of community online, allowing members to connect, share successes, and offer support beyond the physical confines of the club. Highlighting member and team member achievements and stories can also foster a sense of belonging and pride.

Encourage Group Fitness Classes and Small Group Training: Group classes naturally foster a sense of community as members work out together, share experiences, and encourage one another. Offering a diverse array of classes can cater to different interests and fitness levels, further enhancing the community feel. And leaving a space before and after classes for people to congregate encourages community as well. That might be time on the timetable, between classes, or entry/exit areas with seating and space to congregate before or after a class.

Create Member Ambassador Programs: Identifying and nurturing member ambassadors can be a powerful way to strengthen the community. These individuals can help welcome new members, facilitate introductions, and act as a bridge between the club and its members. They can also be influencers on social media, generating encouraging content and reflections on the community elements of your club (and not their abs).

Offer Community Support Initiatives: Engaging the club in charitable activities or community support initiatives can strengthen the bond among members and reinforce a shared sense of purpose and values. Most clubs I have been involved with have participated in charitable events and activities that really bonded members and team together. This could have been pooling for the local RSPCA, or a community building program for affordable housing. Usually one of our team members would champion these initiatives and recruit participants from the membership and the team. It always helps to have a passionate ‘champion’!

Provide Personalised Attention: Recognising members’ and team members’ milestones, preferences, and achievements can make them feel valued and seen as individuals within the larger community. AFFINITYOS. ai provides a powerful communications tool that surfaces actionable insights, allowing club managers and brand executives to build community through engagement and the art of active listening.

The Investment in Community Building

Investing time, money, and energy into building a community within your fitness and wellness club is not just a strategy; it’s a long-term commitment that can yield substantial returns. Here’s why this investment is worthwhile:

Member Retention: It is no secret that retaining existing members is more cost-effective than acquiring new ones. A strong community can lead to higher retention rates, reducing churn and stab ilising revenue streams.

Increased Revenue Opportunities: Engaged members are more likely to participate in additional services such as personal training, workshops, and special events, driving up revenue.

Brand Advocacy: A satisfied and connected community can become powerful brand advocates, promoting your club through word-of-mouth and positive online reviews.

Competitive Differentiation: In a saturated market, a thriving community can set your club apart from competitors, attracting new members who value connection and support.

Team Engagement and Retention: A positive community atmosphere can also enhance team engagement and retention. When team members feel seen and heard and also see the impact of their work in fostering a supportive environment, it can increase their job satisfaction and loyalty to the club.

Long-term Growth: Building a community is a sustainable growth strategy. As your community grows and evolves, so does your club’s reputation and member base, ensuring longterm success.

Conclusion

Fostering a strong sense of community in your fitness and wellness club is a powerful strategy that goes beyond enhancing member loyalty, retention, and referrals. It taps into the fundamental human need for social connection, creating a supportive and inclusive environment where members and team members thrive. By investing in community building, club owners, managers, and team members can create a unique and valuable experience that drives long-term success and growth.

Grant Gamble has over 30 years of experience in leading teams to create innovative customer experiences, building engaged workforces, and developing leaders who prioritise mindfulness in their approach.

His book, The Affinity Principle™ presents a formula for business success through a people-centric, mindful leadership approach.

Most recently, he has served as the Chief Executive of TotalFusion Australia, the largest health and wellness campus in the Asia-Pacific.

The Changing Contractor versus Employee distinction

Katherine Stewart urges caution for fitness businesses using contractors

There are many reasons why engaging instructors and trainers as contractors benefit the fitness industry.

However, whether a worker is an employee or a contractor has significant legal implications. Businesses may suffer significant financial consequences if they get the classification wrong.

The introduction of a new definition of ‘employee’ in the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) (FW Act) draws attention to the distinction once again. This new statutory test replaces the current common law test for identifying the status of a worker. It increases the risk that ambiguous contractor arrangements may be found to be employment relationships at law.

Fitness businesses would be wise to take a proactive approach to navigating the changes instead of waiting for a complaint to open Pandora’s box.

A return to the multi-factor test

In 2022, the High Court made it easier for organisations to engage workers as independent contractors. The test for who was an employee was set out in the seminal cases of CFMMEU v Personnel Contracting Pty Ltd and ZG Operations Australia Pty Ltd v Jamsek.

For a period of time, the ‘contract was king’. A comprehensive written contractor agreement provided a strong defence to claim that a contractor was actually an employee at law.

This changed as of 26th August 2024.

With the Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Closing Loopholes No. 2) Act 2024 (Cth), the Federal Government is reversing the effect of the two High Court decisions. The legislation inserts a new section 15AA in the FW Act that defines who is an ‘employee’ and ‘employer’ for Fair Work obligations and entitlements.

When determining whether a worker is an employee, ‘the real

substance, practical reality and true nature of the relationship’ must be considered under the new definition. This requires consideration not only of the written contract, but of ‘other factors relating to the totality of the relationship’, including ‘how the contract is performed in practice’.

This assessment of the true substance of the relationship is commonly referred to as the ‘multi-factor test’.

The return to the multifactor test will make it harder for some in the fitness industry to defend a claim or complaint that a contractor is actually an employee.

Who is an employee?

There is no single factor that classifies a worker as an employee or a contractor.

Instead, different factors or ‘indicia’, are weighed up to assess the true nature of the relationship. These can include:

1.Who has the contractual right of control over how, when and where work is done?

2.Can the worker subcontract or delegate to others?

3.Who carries the risk of making a profit or loss?

4.Is the worker provided with paid leave?

5.Is the worker wearing the uniform or the branding of the fitness business?

6.Does the worker operate their own business or are they part of the fitness organisation?

A hypothetical situation where a gym books an instructor’s appointments, informs the instructor how to run group classes, and requires them to wear their branding, may be high risk.

Just labelling a trainer or instructor as a contractor in an agreement is not enough. The distinction relies on the actual substance of the relationship under the new test.

Changes to the FW Act do permit contractors to ‘opt-out’ of

the new definition if certain notice requirements are met. Optout will only be available to those above the contractor highincome threshold and can be withdrawn at any time. These limited opt-out provisions are unlikely to have wide application in the fitness industry.

Sham contracting

Misclassification of workers can have serious consequences for tax, superannuation and employment obligations. Another risk is sham contracting.

Sham contracting occurs under the FW Act when an employer misrepresents an employment relationship as a contracting arrangement. It is also an offence to dismiss an employee only to re-engage them as a contractor.

Sham contracting, if proven, carries significant penalties. The recent case of Fair Work Ombudsman v Doll House Training Pty Ltd (No 2) [2024] FCA 811 is one example. A health and wellness research company terminated the employment of three workers with disabilities and required them to sign independent contractor agreements. The Fair Work Ombudsman successfully secured $197,000 in court awarded penalties against the company for contraventions including sham contracting.

Importantly, the stakes have been raised by the Albanese Government. There is now a fivefold increase in maximum penalties for some contraventions under the FW Act, including those relating to the National Employment Standards, modern awards and sham contracting.

The current maximum penalty for sham contracting contraventions is $93,900 for businesses with fewer than 15 employees and $469,500 for other businesses. Penalties can be imposed not only against the employer but also against individuals within the organisation who were involved in the sham contracting (such as directors and HR managers).

To defend a claim, a fitness business will need to prove they ‘reasonably believed’ the contract to be one for services and not employment. This will be extremely challenging when a business has ignored advice or simply buried its head in the sand without having regard to correct worker classification.

What about superannuation?

The new definition of ‘employee and ‘employer’ only applies to the FW Act. It does not extend to PAYG withholding, payroll tax, superannuation and workers compensation laws (amongst other obligations).

Each of these obligations continues to have distinct tests. Each requires careful consideration when a fitness business engages contractors.

For superannuation, there is sometimes an assumption that contractors will always need to make their own contributions. This is not always the case.

Some contractors will be employees for superannuation guarantee purposes. Under the Superannuation Guarantee (Administration) Act 1992 (Cth) (SGA Act) ‘employee’ has:

1.Its ordinary meaning as set out by the High Court in Jamsek and Personnel Contracting; and

2.An extended meaning.

This extended meaning captures contractors who work under a contract that is ‘wholly or principally’ for their labour (s12 of the SGA Act).

Recent case law and guidance from the ATO have helped clarify when the extended meaning applies to contractors.

In JMC Pty Ltd v Commissioner of Taxation [2023] FCAFC 76, the Full Federal Court affirmed that a contract is not ‘wholly or principally’ for labour if it contains a right to delegate, subcontract or assign work. This means a delegation clause in the contractor agreement of a trainer or instructor can be an important protection against claims for superannuation entitlements.

Further, in the case of Jamsek v ZG Operations Australia Pty Ltd (No 3) [2023] FCAFC 48, the Full Federal Court confirmed that s12(3) of the SGAA only as an application where a person is a party to the contract in their individual capacity, rather than in any other capacity, such as partner of a partnership or trustee of a personal service trust. This means that a contractor agreement between a gym and an instructor’s company or trust provides a much higher degree of protection against a claim for entitlements than if the contract was with the individual.

The application of the extended meaning of employee should be carefully considered.

What should fitness businesses be doing?

The test for who is a genuine contractor can be complex. However, fitness businesses can take proactive steps to help ensure their relationships are properly categorised. Some steps can include:

1.Having a well-drafted contractor agreement. While this can’t fully mitigate risk, it remains an important first line of defence;

2.Consider adopting internal criteria for engaging contractors;

3.Seek advice confirming the application of the extended meaning of employee for superannuation purposes and the multi-factor test under the FW Act;

4.Contractor arrangements between the business and a company, partnership or trust provide greater legal protection than a contractor who only has an ABN;

5.Remember – be wary of sham contracting. Even a welldrafted contract cannot protect against this.

For personal trainers, instructors and others working under potentially ambiguous arrangements, a business may need to reassess their status.

Moving forward

The use of contractors in the fitness industry is here to stay. However, businesses would be wise to proceed with caution.

The return to the multifactor test focuses on the substance of the employment relationships and how this works in practice. A robust contractor agreement is no longer a shield to hide behind.

Even where no employment relationship exists, businesses must still consider whether their contractors could still be deemed employees for superannuation guarantee purposes under the extended definition. This is often a trap for the unwary.

Fitness businesses should navigate the contractor v employee distinction carefully to avoid the pitfalls of misclassification. Closing your eyes to these issues is not an option. Katherine Stewart is Senior Associate with Velocity Legal. The views in this article do not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Readers should seek legal advice or other professional advice in relation to any particular matters you or your organisation may have.

From Retail to Experiential Precincts

From axe-throwing bars to swim schools, gyms, basketball courts, public libraries and other ‘leisure-tainment’ offerings, Gwen Luscombe explores how shopping malls are evolving into lifestyle precincts

With online shopping more popular than ever, traditional shopping centres are transforming into so much more than a collection of retailers and supermarkets.

Offering much more than retail therapy, it’s a shift that’s not only about survival but also about creating destinations where people can unwind, work, play, and enjoy unique, in-person experiences that cannot be replicated online.

Here’s how just a few are leading the charge and bringing a more engaging experience while boosting the evening economy in their respective locations.

Shopping centres across Australia, such as Victoria’s Westfield Knox are undergoing total transformations to reflect the broader trend of creating spaces that encourage people to visit and stay longer, even if they aren’t there to shop.

Engaging and Entertaining Local Community

Following a $355 million redevelopment in June of last year, Knox Westfield unveiled approximately 20 new retailers, but also a full-sized FIBA-grade basketball court in partnership with the Knox Basketball Association. The community court has become a hub for training and competition games for junior teams, school holiday clinics and more.

With Australian basketball personality, Bec Cole shooting the first hoop to commemorate the official opening, Westfield Knox Centre Manager, Kristian Nicholls called the reimagined Westfield Knox “just the beginning of the retail evolution we will see come to life.”

Among traditional retail outlets, the centre also includes a

variety of lifestyle brands such as KX Pilates and the largest ‘rcx’ (rebel Customer Experience) format store in Victoria, focusing on interaction and immersion. The rcx store features virtual gaming and an Innovation Room where visitors can experience the latest technology and adventure products.

Westfield Knox Centre also offers a variety of community initiatives and services including a nature-inspired outdoor playspace, calm room, bathroom amenities with an accessible Changing Places facility and a new 2,000 metre² public library among a dining precinct, MANIAX Axe Throwing, a cinema, and other entertainment and dining options. It truly is more than a ‘pop down to the shops.’

The new Knox Library is located in a former Myer department store (right, credit: Raeco), the Maniax Axe Throwing (above) and Aquatic Achievers swim school (below) at Westfield Knox.

Rounding up the community services was the addition of a new swim school, operated by Aquatic Achievers, featuring a 25-metre pool and offering children’s swimming lessons and seven contemporary large-scale artworks, selected by aMBUSH Gallery set over multiple levels of the Active Play area and basketball court and throughout the venue.

The shift towards experience-based retail is evident in the huge variety of activities and services available in shopping centres Australia-wide. Besides axe throwing, other Westfield centres have added extras such as escape rooms at their Chermside, Brisbane location and Peloton workouts take place at the Westfield Bondi Junction, all catering to a wide range of interests and demographics and making the centres offering more than a place to go for the weekly grocery shop.

Australia’s largest shopping centre, Victoria’s ChadstoneThe Fashion Capitol, last year unveiled its latest expansion with further lifestyle additions to the already existing HOYTS 13-screen cinema complex, LEGOLAND Discovery Centre and the 250-room Hotel Chadstone Melbourne-MGallery by Sofitel.

The expansion included a new dining terrace with a variety of restaurants, and a brewery. A nine-story commercial office building and upgrades include new spaces for retail, food and beverage, health, well-being and childcare services, a fresh food precinct, and a co-working area.

A new area also included the addition of Funlab’s ‘leisuretainment’ venues including Archie Brothers, Hijinx Hotel, Holey Moley and Strike Bowling.

Mirvac too, has recognised the essential evolution of creating

more than a shopping destination with their Sydney and Birkenhead Point Outlet Centre offering pop-up experiences such as Santa photos with your pets, cooking workshops, and markets. It’s a move, a spokesperson says, that offers hospitality, entertainment, lifestyle services and even opportunities for personal growth.

Communities are now looking at centres as a goto for medical appointments, fitness, health and beauty appointments, childcare, entertainment and community services such as libraries and community spaces, all in one location.

Upon the opening of the new $5.4 million Knox Library in March last year, located within the former Myer department store and creating double the footprint of the previous library, Knox Mayor Jude Dwight praised the move.

Calling the new location a win, Mayor Dwight said it’s made the essential services offered by the library far more accessible to the larger community, commenting “as well as an impressive collection of books… and other items to borrow, and many purpose-built areas for community use, the library has a dedicated space for young people called The Youth Hive, a space for children, a garden room, computer area, lounges, study booths and meeting rooms.

“Knox Library is already one of our busiest branches and we expect the new library will attract even more community members.”

Included in the library’s design is Indigenous artwork by a local Aboriginal artist, reflecting and celebrating the link to

Chadstone Melbourne has a Holey Moley mini-golf bar (above), Ambush basketball at Know Westfield (below left) and Skywood Climbing in the Freshwater Shopping Village, NSW (below right).

Country and the concept of the library being a community meeting place.

The local council invested more than $4.9 million in the library development, with a $450,000 contribution from the Victorian Government’s Living Libraries Infrastructure Program.

Yamanto Central

Since its opening in 2021, Yamanto Central, in Brisbane’s outer south western suburbs, has set out to innovate with leisure offerings alongside its retail outlets. These include a Rackley Swimming swim school and Club Lime and HIIT Republic facilities from Viva Leisure.

Vicki Leavy, General Manager of property manager JMK Retail, commented “Yamanto Central is being embraced by the people of Ipswich as a much-needed community hub where you can do your grocery shopping, catch up with friends for coffee and cake, pick up a gift for a loved one, decorate your home with all the latest essentials or head to the gym for a much needed workout.”

Speaking at the time of the opening, Rackley Swimming Chief Executive, Reece Rackley, noted “we could not pick a better location and neighbourhood to expand our family swim school.”

Departure of Major Retailers

Arguably, the transformation of shopping centres has been partly driven by the changing retail landscape. Major department stores like David Jones and Myer, which once served as key anchors for these centres, are reducing their physical footprints or closing stores altogether, such as the case with Myer closing several locations over the last few years in cities like Brisbane’s CBD and in the Melbourne subutb of Frankston.

Rather than viewing these departures as setbacks, shopping centre operators see them as opportunities. For instance, Scentre Group’s $355 million investment to upgrade Westfield Knox began following Myer’s departure in 2021. The investment allowed them to reimagine the space, move away from a reliance on department stores for foot traffic and ultimately boost visitor numbers by 14%.

Blending Online and Offline Experiences

Despite the rise of online shopping, shopping centre operators are finding ways to integrate digital and physical retail experiences. Hugely driven by the pandemic, online shopping with major retailers utilising tools such as click-and-collect services pushed this hybrid experience forward.

Now many are enhancing in-store experiences with augmented reality and immersive activities to create compelling reasons for customers to shop in person and ‘dwell’ a little longer.

The future of shopping centres is still very bright, with a strong emphasis on creating multifaceted destinations to best serve the community around them.

Commercial real estate services firm, CBRE predicts significant growth in shopping centre investments, with a forecasted increase from $4.2 billion in 2023 to $6.3 billion by 2025. Sheree Griff, CBRE’s head of retail property management, attributes this growth to the rise of experience retail, which includes everything from product demonstrations to immersive sensory encounters and leisure facilities.

This shift towards experience-based and communitycentred retail is helping shopping centres remain relevant and profitable, even as online shopping continues to grow. By offering entertaining and engaging experiences and essential community services that cannot be replicated online, shopping centres are redefining themselves as essential lifestyle precincts where people can shop, socialise, and engage in a range of activities.

It’s a transformation that not only ensures their survival but enhances their role as integral parts of the community, providing valuable experiences that go beyond traditional retail.

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.

Rackley Swimming (above) and Club Lime (right, above and below) are located at Yamanto Central, Queensland.

Requirements

•Min 500 members

•Min 400m2 premises

•Profitable over the previous 24-36 months

•Opportunity to grow

•Multi-club operations (desirable but not essential)

•Will consider franchised locations if the franchise can be terminated

Olympic Dreams and Green Goals

James Croll looks at a pioneering innovation in sports technology which was chosen for this year’s hockey at the Paris Olympics - Poligras Paris GT zero turf – and how it promises to protect its environment for future generations

In January 2024, 32 hockey teams, evenly divided between men and women, competed fiercely for the prestigious opportunity to play at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The men’s competition took place in Muscat, Oman and Valencia, Spain, while the women’s contests were held in Ranchi, India and Valencia, Spain.

This global event not only showcased the athletes’ remarkable skills and sportsmanship but also highlighted a groundbreaking innovation in sports technology: Poligras Paris GT zero turf.

Poligras Paris GT zero, used in Muscat, set a new standard for sustainability in sports. Manufactured from 80% sugarcane and powered by green energy, it is the world’s first carbonneutral hockey turf. This revolutionary surface stands out for its ability to be played on when either wet or dry. The turf features ‘Turf Glide,’ which reduces friction and abrasion, requiring less water to maintain Olympic-quality play and meeting the FIH Innovation standards for dry hockey.

During the Olympic Qualifiers, the turf was lightly irrigated, providing an Olympic-quality surface that gave the world’s best players a preview of the field conditions at the Paris Olympic Games. The following week, the turf’s versatility was showcased again when it was used as a dry surface for the firstever Hockey 5s World Cup. Thanks to its unique crossover play wet/play dry performance, clubs and facilities can effectively manage their water usage, adding only what is necessary based on competition and training needs. The turf has gained worldwide acclaim and has been installed in over 30 locations across 14 countries.

Pioneering Hockey’s Future at the Olympic Games with Poligras

Olympic field hockey has undergone a powerful transformation over the years, fundamentally altering the pace, technique, and appearance of the game for the benefit of both players and fans. The story of Poligras at the Olympic Games is not just about a product but a relentless quest to elevate the game, making it faster, more dynamic, and environmentally sustainable.

The Montreal 1976 Olympic Games introduced the world to the first AstroTurf hockey turf. It rained during the Games, which revealed the enhanced playability of wet surfaces, a hallmark of modern elite hockey. Poligras made its debut as an official supplier at the Moscow 1980 Olympics, which was also the first Olympics to feature a women’s hockey competition.

The turn of the millennium brought significant technological advancements for Poligras and hockey. The Sydney 2000 Olympics introduced colour to the turf for the first time, which opened hockey’s eyes to new possibilities. Shortly after, Poligras turbo-charged the game by introducing turf made from polyethylene fibres, which were more durable and softer. This softness allowed the ball to hug the surface, giving players more control and allowing the ball to move at higher speeds. This led to an explosion in playability, allowing for faster, more precise, and more dynamic play, known as the ‘skills revolution,’ exemplified by players like Jamie Dwyer (AUS), Teun de Nooijer (NED), and the legendary Luciana Aymar (ARG).

Following on from Poligras’ success at Beijing 2008, Polytan dramatically improved visibility and made the sport more

Poligras Paris GT zero in use at this summer’s Olympics. Credit: Polytan.

spectator-friendly than ever with its revolutionary blue colour for London 2012, in what affectionately became known as the ‘Smurf Turf’.

Poligras once again changed the world of hockey turfs with the introduction of its groundbreaking texturised turf technology in time for Rio 2016. This innovation, characterised by a significant change in fibre shape, resulted in a more fluid and multi-directional game, allowing players to elevate their skills with unprecedented control, 360 degree 3D creativity, and speed. This era of turf innovation not only propelled the game to new heights but also marked a significant stride in environmental sustainability, with the new turf technology boasting substantial water retention capabilities, requiring up to 50% less water for match play.

The Tokyo 2020 Games saw the unveiling of the world’s first climate-positive hockey turf, made from 60% sugarcane. This landmark achievement was further refined for Paris 2024, with Poligras Paris GT zero, the world’s first carbon-neutral hockey turf. In many ways, from Moscow to Paris, and as we head to Los Angeles for 2028, Poligras emerges not just as a turf brand but as a shining example of pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the world of sports.

Poligras Paris GT zero?

Poligras Paris GT zero is essentially the next evolutionary stage of Poligras, developed by Polytan and its parent company Sport Group. Polytan is the world’s leading company dedicated to the design, construction, manufacture, installation, and maintenance of synthetic sports surfaces. Poligras has been the first choice for major global hockey events and Olympic Games since it was chosen as the official surface for the Moscow 1980 Olympic Games. Paris 2024 saw Poligras being chosen as the official hockey surface for its 5th successive Olympic Games, and 8th in total.

Paul Kamphuis, General Manager of Polytan Asia Pacific and Head of Hockey for Sport Group, explains “the development of Poligras Paris GT zero involved extensive research and innovation over two years.

“Launched in November 2022, it marks a new Olympic standard for player and environmental performance. The turf is made from 80% biobased material (sugarcane) using 100% green energy.”

Using sugarcane as a bio-raw material means the Poligras Paris GT zero turf saves 73 tonnes of CO2 compared to conventional turf. The carbon footprint of the turf has been certified as climate-neutral by Berlin-based DAkkS accredited

consulting company GUTcert. The Paris turf features a new and proprietary friction-reducing technology called Turf Glide, which reduces friction and abrasion, allowing the turf to meet the FIH Innovation standards for dry hockey.

Turf Glide not only ensures better performance when dry but also requires less water to lubricate the turf for elite hockey. In many locations, atmospheric moisture, such as light rain or dew, will be enough to transform the turf to Olympic level performance. This gives facilities the flexibility to do a dry installation (i.e., without an irrigation system) and benefit from an upgrade when there is moisture in the air.

Aligning with Hockey Australia & the FIH’s Sustainability Goals

Parallel to Polytan’s sustainability developments, both the International Hockey Federation (FIH) and Hockey Australia have launched sustainability strategies. Sustainability developments in hockey turf, such as using bio-based yarns, carbon-neutral products and minimising water consumption align closely with these sustainability strategies.

Hockey Australia launched its first Climate Sustainability Strategy in June 2024, outlining its commitment to environmental responsibility, reducing climate impact, educating for climate action, promoting sustainable consumption, and advocating for climate action. The strategy aims for a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2040.

Emphasising the importance of the strategy, David Pryles, Chief Executive of Hockey Australia, stated “we’re looking forward to working with our member associations, clubs, and the hockey community as we strive to protect the environment of our sport.”

Melissa Gmeiner, Social Impact & Sustainability Manager of Hockey Australia, added “’our Sustainability Strategy allows Hockey Australia to start small and impact what we can directly control while inspiring positive change.”

Poligras Paris GT zero represents a remarkable leap forward in the evolution of hockey turf, merging superior playability with an unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability. Prior to the Paris Olympics, Jon Wyatt, FIH Interim Senior Director, expressed his delight, noting “hockey is a progressive sport, and this turf helps Paris 2024 meet its environmental goals and puts hockey at the forefront of sustainability”.

Polytan (Poligrass) has no formal association with Hockey Australia.

James Croll is Head of Partnerships for Australasian Leisure Management.

Poligras Paris GT zero in use at the Yves du Manoir Stadium during this summer’s Olympics. Credit: Polytan.

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Front Runner

ASTN’s 2024 Sports Innovation report charts an industry worth over $4 billion

The impressive evolution of Australia’s sports technology sector from growth to maturity stage has been revealed by the Australian Sports Technologies Network (ASTN) in their recently released 2024 Sports Innovation report.

This transition is highlighted by market consolidation, increasing investment from sophisticated investors and the widespread adoption of technologies across the sports sector.

The third edition of ASTN’s annual report provides a comprehensive census of Australia’s sports innovation sector, with the analysis extending beyond the Eastern Seaboard to include South Australia and Western Australia, offering a broader perspective on the national landscape.

ASTN’s research indicates that the industry life cycle of the sports technology sector is shifting from the ‘growth stage’ to ‘maturity stage’. The report also shows that while the growth rate for established businesses has slowed, the industry still experience an increase in revenue of approximately 10% over the last 12 months and is now worth $4.69 billion per annum.

ASTN Chair, Dr Martin Schlegel advised “since the establishment of ASTN in 2012, we have witnessed an extraordinary evolution in the sports tech landscape.

“The sports tech sector’s shift to a maturity stage reflects not only the advanced adoption of innovative technologies but also the sector’s substantial economic and employment contributions.

“As the industry matures, it becomes increasingly attractive to investors and stakeholders, promising continued innovation and development. This marks a new chapter for Australia’s local sports tech ecosystem, showcasing its resilience and adaptability in a rapidly evolving market.”

The report identifies the following markers of the maturity stage:

A global surge in sports technology innovation adoption

On a global level, the sports technology sector has seen rapid growth with the integration of digital technologies. These advancements have moved beyond elite sports, enhancing operational efficiencies and driving commercial outcomes for teams, leagues, and federations. Consumer adoption of smart watches, connected fitness systems, and training apps has also surged, contributing to a 177% increase in new sports technology companies from 2012 to 2024.

Dr Schlegel explained “technological innovation is at the heart of the sports tech sector’s growth.

“From mobile solutions and big data analytics to wearable technology and advanced materials, the diversity and sophistication of technologies being developed are truly impressive.”

Changing industry dynamics and market consolidation

As of June 2024, there were 765 Australian sports technology companies in operation. The industry experienced accelerated growth from 2014 to 2018, followed by a slower rate of new company establishments from 2022 to early 2024. Despite challenges posed by the COVID period, the sector showed resilience, with 87 new sports technology companies established, reflecting the industry’s continued allure for local startups.

Dr Schlegel continued “while we’ve seen some consolidation and closures, the resilience and innovation within the sports tech sector is commendable.

“The industry’s ability to adapt and grow revenue and employment, even in challenging times, highlights its robust foundation and future potential.”

Strong profitability and employment growth

Despite an increase in company closures, ASTN’s sector appraisal indicates positive trends with industry revenue and employment both rising by over 10% in 2024. The sector now generates $4.69 billion in annual revenue, employing 14,906 people.

Aircast is the world’s fastest in-venue, real time video and audio streaming technology for sporting events. Credit: ASTN.

Rico Rogers, professional ex-cyclist and the Box Altitude team, including Callum Taylor, Engineer, are pioneering stateof-the-art altitude sleep and training solutions to improve performance, health and wellbeing. Rogers participated in the ASTN Accelerator program as well as the ASTN trade mission to Europe in 2023, which has helped to open many doors for Box Altitude. Credit: ASTN/Box Altitude

Dr Schlegel added “the sports tech sector’s contribution to the Australian economy is significant.

“Representing approximately 12% of the Australian sports industry, which is valued at $40 billion, the sector is a vital component of our national sports ecosystem.”

Investment into the sector

Despite challenging capital-raising conditions, the sports technology sector continues to attract significant investment. ASTN estimates that the sector’s mergers and acquisitions and capital raising activity in the 2023/24 financial year was around $500 million, with increased interest from both domestic and global investors.

Regional dominance and future opportunities

The establishment of a globally significant sports technology cluster along Australia’s Eastern Seaboard, particularly in Victoria, underscores the region’s prominence in the industry.

As Australia’s second most populous state with one quarter (25.6%) of Australia’s population, Victoria is a clear front runner with 40% of sports technology companies headquartered in the state.

The upcoming Brisbane 2032 Olympics and other major sporting events, along with significant sports infrastructure investments, are expected to drive further growth and innovation in the sector.

Australian sports technology company eo’s SwimBETTER is an electronic wearable device that accurately quantifies swimming techniques right on the pool deck.

As the fastest way to improve your swim is to improve your technique, eo SwimBETTER marks a game-changing moment for the sport.

Dr Schlegel concluded “Australia’s outstanding sporting culture, combined with professional achievements and worldclass sports education, provides a solid foundation for the sports tech sector’s expansion. Sports tech intersects with many of the enabling capabilities which are part of the priority areas of the Australian economy identified by the National Reconstruction Fund. The next decade promises exciting opportunities for growth and innovation both domestically and internationally.

“We can expect advancements in artificial intelligence, positioning, timing and sensing, advanced information and communication technologies as well as advanced manufacturing and materials or quantum technology will help to shape the future of various industries.”

Key 2024 Report Findings

•Maturing sector: The sector is shifting from the ‘growth stage’ to ‘maturity stage’, marked by widespread adoption of technologies

•Market value: The sports technology industry is now worth $4.69 billion annually, experiencing a notable 10% increase over the past 12 months. This figure represents 12% of the total sports industry.

•Rapid global growth: Since ASTN’s inception in 2012, the global sports technology sector has seen substantial growth, expanding beyond elite sports to include various operational and commercial applications.

•Local growth slowing: There are 765 Australian sports technology companies as of June 2024. The rate of new company establishments has slowed since 2022, reflecting the sector’s maturation.

•Company closures and startups: Between 2022 and early 2024, 76 companies closed, while 87 new companies were established, showing continued sector attractiveness despite numerous challenges.

•Stable M&A and Capital Raising: 2023/24 saw consistent $500 million in activity from previous year.

•Emerging Investors: 2023/24 saw the rise of strategic and sophisticated investors not previously seen in the sector.

•Revenue and employment growth: The sector’s revenue increased from $4.25 billion in 2023 to $4.69 billion in 2024, with sector employment rising from 13,438 to 14,906 people.

•Market leaders: The top 15% of companies generate 85% of the sector’s revenue and employ 70% of its workforce.

•Sector composition: The majority of companies (58%) serve the mass participation & active living market, followed by the business of sport & entertainment (43%), and professional & elite sport (18%).

•Technology utilisation: Most companies (66%) use information and communication technologies (ICT) for their solutions, with significant applications in mobile solutions, performance science, and big data analytics.

•ASTN Accelerator success: Over half of ASTN’s alumni from the Growth-Stage Accelerator raised more than $75 million over the last five years.

•Investment landscape: Despite challenging conditions, new strategic and sophisticated sports technology investors emerged in 2023, attracting domestic and global interest.

•Eastern seaboard dominance: 92% of the industry is located along the Eastern Seaboard, with Victoria leading in sports technology activity (40%), followed by NSW (30%) and Queensland (19%).

•Future growth drivers: Major sports events, infrastructure commitments, and emerging and enabling technologies are expected to drive future growth in the sports technology sector.

Revitalising the Gold Coaster

Peter Dickson and Jason Hazell explain how the replacement of electrical and control systems helped revitalise one of Dreamworld’s signature rides

When Gold Coast theme park Dreamworld prepared for reopening from the pandemic lockdowns of 2020 it set out to offer new elements for guests.

In advance of the completion of its all-new Steel Taipan rollercoaster in late 2021, the theme park also undertook a low key relaunch of one of its most popular rides.

With a 1970s theme, the newly named Gold Coaster, which stands at 40 metres high, takes guests through a 360 degree loop at up to 85km/h.

The third iteration of the Arrow Dynamics manufactured looping coaster - once known as the Cyclone, and then the Hot Wheels SideWinder (and originally operated as the Big Dipper at Luna Park Sydney) – saw the ride reborn, immediately gaining positive guest feedback.

Key to this was the replacement of electrical and control systems by Theme Park Support (a division of manufacturing and engineering service specialists Plane Support).

With the ride having been in constant service since its first opening at Dreamworld in 2001 while its passenger restraint system and pneumatic braking systems had been recently upgraded, its control system and electrical components were approaching obsolescence.

The project proposed was to replace the existing ride control system (RCS), track sensors and Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) together with other improvements including upgraded train carriages and restraint systems from Vekoma as well as a new PLC (programmable logic controller - an industrial computer that has been adapted for the control of machines and activities that require high reliability, ease of programming and process fault diagnosis) for restraint supervision. This brought the ride up to the latest standards, extending its life for a further 15 years.

Theme Park Support’s solution

(Utilising specialist Electrical Engineering and Trade Services of multi-discipline engineers, mechanical fitters and fabricators, Products For Industry, the solution included:

•Control System Design and Development

•Electrical and Instrument Design

•Functional Safety Planning, Design and Implementation

•Panel Manufacture

•Demolition of existing systems

•Installation and commissioning

•Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) commissioning and testing

•Regulator Compliance and handover to Dreamworld Solutions

TPS replaced the existing control system and its electrical components in their entirety. The electrical and control cabinets in the electrical switch room were demolished and replaced with a new suite of cabinets.

The main switchboard and isolation switches were upgraded or replaced and a new variable-frequency drive for the lift motor installed.

A new operator console including an enhanced HMI (human machine interface) replaced the existing main operators console at the station. The features of the HMI were expanded to include ride status and alarms together with details of the passenger restraint system.

The ride’s new RCS utilised the latest control system products and was designed to be compliant to the latest standards for functional safety and electrical design. In general, new field sensors were installed and gate control systems upgraded for reliability and appearance as well as safety performance.

Together with Dreamworld operational and maintenance personnel, new functional descriptions for ride operations, ride control parameters and ride sequence were designed, implemented, tested and modified to produce a better ride for all stakeholders.

The original system architecture was improved by bringing all the ride functions from the train and track together into the one safety PLC while remote I/O (input/output) modules replaced field cabling as much as possible and communications used the established safety protocols.

The ride went offline immediately following the September school holidays 2023 and the ride was back on line for use by Dreamworld guests in time for the Christmas holiday period. The project was completed on time and on budget.

Peter Dickson is Senior Electrical & Control Systems Engineer at Theme Park Support.

Jason Hazell is Director of Engineering for Plane Support/ Theme Park Support.

Theme Park Support (TPS) was established on the Gold Coast to provide trusted services to the theme park industry.

With significant experience in the aviation sector, TPS was developed to use best practice and transition it into a parallel industry.

Professional Engineers covered by specialist insurance with key disciplines in structures, mechanical systems, electrical and control systems have provided support to major theme parks in Australia in many key areas.

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‘Closing the Chapter’ on recovery

Attractions around the world are approaching or exceeding their pre-pandemic attendance figures according to the latest the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA)/AECOM Theme Index and Museum Index.

Released in August, the report notes how 2023 marked the global end of COVID-19 restrictions, as governments around the world ended travel quarantines and restrictive operating guidelines.

Presented by Storyland Studios, the 2023 TEA/AECOM Theme Index and Museum Index explains that attractions around the world, eager to return to a sense of normalcy, lured guests in with new attractions or exhibitions, incentives for repeat visitation, and special events. Many were successful, and the top 25 attended theme parks around the world collectively increased attendance by an impressive 23% over figures for 2022. Museums, having been more negatively impacted throughout the pandemic, increased 95%.

The largest jumps in year-over-year figures (78%) came out of attractions in China, which saw the most restrictive operating environment throughout nearly all of 2022, while the Americas saw a small 3% increase and Europe remained relatively strong, with a 5% increase driven largely by parks that have invested in more expansive resort offerings.

Explaining that the report sees the industry looking to the future, TEA International Board President Melissa Oviedo of B Morrow Productions, advised “the industry depends on the information and data from the TEA/AECOM Theme Index and Museum Index.

“The trends identified within this study are vital for planning for the future in the cultural attractions and theme park markets. TEA is honoured to work with AECOM on this valuable resource.”

Now in its 18th annual edition, the definitive resource of attendance information on the world’s most-visited theme parks, waterparks and museums, the calendar-year study is produced in collaboration with the TEA and the Economics practice at AECOM.

The 2023 TEA/AECOM Theme Index and Museum Index studies the sector by region - The Americas, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA), in addition to the global market as a whole. This year marks the return to attendance rankings for all parks and museums.

During the pandemic years (2020-2022) the set of lists in the 2019 edition were held in place without re-evaluation by attendance. With a return to even and consistent operating conditions, the traditional annual ranking resumes, resulting in the addition of several new facilities to the lists.

John Robinett, Senior Vice President of AECOM’s Economics + Advisory practice, added “2023 was really a major turning point for the industry.

“The pandemic was largely behind us at the start of the year and parks and museums could start focusing on investment plans for the future.

“Additionally, many operators continued to report higher per capita spending throughout the year.

“Not only were guests spending more per transaction, but the number of transactions also increased, pointing to a revenue trend that might greatly influence how parks strategise for future growth.”

Asia-Pacific - Theme and Water Parks

China’s parks saw massive gains over 2022 and ultimately rebounded to their pre-pandemic numbers, helped in large part by expanded properties from multiple major operators, and in some cases free or reduced-price tickets. Outside of China, parks continued to fare well and are expected to continue to grow as travel in the region starts to regain momentum.

Beth Chang, the Executive Director of AECOM’s Economics practice for its Asia-Pacific region, stated “arguably, the AsiaPacific market saw the biggest and longest impacts from the pandemic.

“And while the numbers have returned to pre-Covid levels, it remains to be seen whether or not the region will return to the exponential growth observed previously.”

Museums

Museums remain only 6% below 2019 levels, but activities in different regions of the world vary greatly and point to market share shifts occurring in cultural attractions. Asia - and in particular China - has emphasised and incentivised museum development and visitation, resulting in a larger share of the Top 20 Museums Worldwide list being held by Chinese institutions.

Linda Cheu, Vice President with AECOM’s Economics + Advisory practice, noted “museums have really started embracing more interactive and dynamic exhibits as a means to attract audiences and retain interest in their institutional mission.

“While the digital or virtual footprint of museums dramatically expanded during the peak of the pandemic, we are now seeing the physical spaces being revitalised through reinvestment. The resulting experiences are indicative of a bright future for cultural institutions around the world.”

The TEA website and AECOM website are the official sources to view and download the 2023 TEA/AECOM Theme Index and Museum Index, as well as past reports dating to 2006, free of charge.

Aquatopia Waterpark, Prairiewood, NSW

Cockburn Aquatic & Recreation Centre, Cockburn Central, WA

Splash Aqua Park and Leisure Centre, Craigieburn, VIC

Dubbo Aquatic Centre, Dubbo, NSW

North Star Holiday Resort, Hastings Point, NSW

BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park, Gold Coast, QLD

Oak Park Sports And Aquatic Precinct, Pascoe Vale, VIC

The Big Banana Fun Park, Coffs Harbour, NSW

42nd Battalion Memorial Pool, Rockhampton, QLD

Raging Waters, Sydney, NSW

Dreamworld - Whitewater World, Gold Coast, QLD

Tattersalls Hobart Aquatic Centre, TAS Outback Splash, Bullsbrook, WA

Bigger than ever

Phil Heads charts the history, management and increasing success of Venues NSW

In 1950, when then NSW Minister for Lands Jack Renshaw announced the merger of the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) Trust with the Sydney Sports Ground Trust, the intention was to pave the way for a 120,000-seat stadium in the precinct.

The big new stadium never arrived, but Minister Renshaw had created a unified body to run Sydney’s two major venues. The Sydney Cricket and Sports Ground Trust continued the legacy established in 1876 when Philip Sheridan, Richard Driver and William Wilberforce Stephen were given responsibility for the SCG, which had been established two decades earlier by the British Army.

Minister Renshaw, a future Premier and SCG Trustee, saw sense in consolidating management of the neighbouring venues, ensuring that they would be operated in the interests of the sporting public, rather than played off against each other as was common in the sports’ battle for primacy.

The decision created a single body to manage the stadiums, leading to a golden age in attendances and achievements at the SCG and Sports Ground. Betty Cuthbert rose to prominence on the Sports Ground’s famously fast track, Pele played his only match on Australian soil there too, while Muhammad Ali also fought an exhibition bout, and the grounds hosted the biggest domestic and international matches of many sports, as well as concerts and all manner of large-scale gatherings.

Why is this relevant? Well there is much that is familiar about the 1952 merger in recent shifts in today’s sporting and entertainment landscape in Australia’s largest city.

The Sydney Cricket and Sports Ground Trust has now evolved to become Venues NSW, formed after a 2020 merger that brought under single public ownership the Sydney 2000 Games main stadium, and home of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, Accor Stadium, as well as the SCG and Allianz Stadium, CommBank Stadium at Parramatta, McDonald Jones Stadium and the Newcastle Entertainment Centre, WIN Stadium and WIN Entertainment Centre in Wollongong.

Entertainment and sport at Venues NSW’s many locations. AFL action at Accor Stadium (above) and Rolling Thunder Vietnam at the WIN Entertainment Centre (below).

Test cricket at the SCG. Credit: Amanda Bracks.

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Venues NSW will also manage the redeveloped Penrith Stadium when it is completed, fulfilling an election commitment by the NSW Government for a $309 million facility in Sydney’s west.

Some 70 years on, the modern merger is as significant as the change in 1952, if not more so. Venues NSW is chaired by David Gallop, the respected sporting administrator and former Chief Executive of the National Rugby League and Football Federation Australia. Its Chief Executive is Kerrie Mather, who led Sydney Airport for more than a decade.

Mather (pictured below), has brought her focus on customer experience to the Venues NSW network, first partnering with Justin Hemmes’ Merivale empire at the SCG and Allianz Stadium.

The Merivale experience has revolutionised the match day experience in the SCG precinct. Now, it is the turn of the Western Sydney venues. In December 2023, The Gema Group was confirmed as the catering partner at Accor and CommBank stadiums, succeeding in a competitive tender process against major domestic and global operators.

The Gema Group is proudly a Western Sydney business, and it was their promise to bring the best of the region’s diverse culinary culture into the stadiums that underpinned their success.

As Accor Stadium prepared for the arrival of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, the first outlets showcasing Cabramatta’s Sushi Hub appeared around the concourse. They are to be joined

by Granville’s legendary El-Jannah charcoal chicken, as well as award-winning Australian Lebanese restaurant Al Aseel and widely recognised brands such as Five Guys Burgers, Meat and Wine Co, Ribs & Burgers, Oakberry and Melbourne’s Roll’d.

Gema will also provide similar offerings at Venues NSW’s Newcastle and Illawarra facilities, again partnering with local suppliers and brands to highlight the regions’ distinct offerings.

On confirmation of the Gema Group’s successful bid, Venues NSW transitioned Accor and CommBank stadium operations into its existing management structure, having owned Accor since 2016 and CommBank since its opening in 2019.

Both had been operated by VenuesLive under seven- and four-year contracts respectively, which expired in December 2023 - with VenuesLive continuing to operate the awardwinning Optus Stadium in Perth on behalf of the Western Australian Goverment, as well as Industree Group Stadium on the NSW Central Coast.

Mather and her senior leadership team assumed control of Accor and CommBank stadium operations from 1st January 2024, with 80% of operational staff transferring to Venues NSW.

For Venues NSW, there has been no ‘running in’ period. The first event to be delivered came on the same day the change became official, a 1st January A-Leagues match at CommBank Stadium.

From there, it was on to the traditional New Year’s cricket Test at the SCG, which attracted 125,292 spectators through the gates, in part because of the visiting Pakistan team’s entertaining approach to the sport, but also because it served as a farewell Test for David Warner.

The New Year’s Test remains the biggest annual sporting event in NSW, with the in-stadium attendance in 2024 complemented by a television audience of more than five million on free-to-air TV alone in Australia.

Add to that the partnership with the McGrath Foundation, which this year saw $6.44 million raised and 322,000 virtual seats sold.

As January rolled on, Venues NSW delivered the Juicy Fest concert at Accor Stadium and a busy summer content schedule around the network.

P!nk started her 2024 Summer Carnival Tour at Allianz Stadium, setting a new venue record crowd on her second night. Then she took her show to Newcastle’s McDonald Jones Stadium, becoming the third major international artist to perform there in the past 12 months. The visits of P!nk, Sir Paul McCartney and Sir Elton John to Newcastle highlight the

CommBank Stadium.

Taylor Swift at Accor Stadium.

P!nk at McDonald Jones Stadium.

benefits of the consolidated approach Venues NSW takes to event acquisition.

The packed start to the year was the ideal preparation for what was to come when Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour arrived at Accor Stadium in February.

The US superstar sold out the MCG three nights in a row -Australia’s largest three-day event attendance (288,000) - before becoming the first artist in Accor’s 25-year history to play four nights back-to-back. Swift attracted crowds of 80,693, 83,847, 84,116 and then 84,702 on a record-breaking final night.

Venues NSW worked with Swift’s team and Frontier Touring to increase capacity each night, offering slightly sight-restricted seats to ensure as many people as possible could attend what stands as the busiest and biggest event period since the Sydney Olympics.

The Eras Tour was an event unlike any other on many levels. While more than 330,000 people secured tickets, there was demand for six million. The merchandise sales at Accor Stadium eclipsed the previous record - Harry Styles Love On Tour concerts - even before the first show had started.

Then there was the sheer scale of the event set-up, some 50% more staging and equipment than had been seen at Accor Stadium for a concert previously. Much of this was the concert’s unique stage set-up, with a 75m all LED hydraulic catwalk, large-scale multimedia screens, lights and distinct sets to match each of the Eras.

As the glow of the Eras Tour faded, Accor Stadium also celebrated its 25th anniversary in March, calling together sporting greats to recall their first impressions of the venue. This included Sydney 2000 Games stars Louise Sauvage and Lynda Holt, Wallabies captain Stirling Mortlock, two-time NRL premiership winner Mitch Aubusson, GWS Giants foundation player Adam Kennedy and Socceroos goalkeeper Mark Bosnich.

Bosnich, who played in the first official match at Accor

Stadium in 1999, recalled “my first memory here was the official opening of the stadium. It was an Australian XI against a World XI. Then a month later, we toured down here with Manchester United and played against a younger Australian side.”

Accor Stadium’s anniversary celebrations will continue for the next 18 months, leading up to a quarter century celebration of “the best Olympics ever” in 2025.

To provide some perspective, on 15th February this year the Sydney Cricket Ground marked the 170th anniversary of its first recorded sporting match, coinciding with its final match of the summer season, a Sheffield Shield match between NSW and Victoria.

The constant throughout has been the people behind the scenes who work to make events possible - an unbroken responsibility that Venues NSW continues.

Phillip Heads is the Group General ManagerCommunications, Heritage and Community for Venues NSW and is a former journalist with more than 20 years’ experience in newspapers, magazines and digital publications.

Aerial view of the SCG and Allianz Stadium.

Positive for All

Greg Campbell looks into Quayclean’s creation of safe and inclusive environments

When Daniel Nicholls commenced work as National Workplace Health Safety and Compliance Manager at Quayclean Australia late last year, he immediately went on the tools.

As a newcomer to the company, Nicholls worked as a cleaner at many of Quayclean’s major customer sites across the country where he observed first-hand how staff approached and implemented WH&S practices and if there were any operational pinch points.

Nicholls explains “being onsite alongside the workforce was designed to get a direct understanding of onsite operations and the policies and procedures that govern how these are executed.

“We have a duty of care for all workers, and I wanted to see if we are using the right equipment to complete a job, what were the levels of compliance and training, if short-cuts were being taken, and how we can share learnings.

“Pleasingly, it didn’t take long to notice there was a high level of importance on safety beliefs and attitudes which were shared cohesively with our clients across Quayclean’s diverse portfolio.”

As the chief provider of cleaning, waste management, and hygiene services to stadiums, private schools, and public sites across the country, Quayclean Chief Executive Mark Piwkowski hired Nicholls to ensure WH&S standards were universally upheld and exceeded.

Originally from Sydney, Nicholls shifted to Quayclean’s Melbourne Head Office and sits on the senior executive team reporting directly to Piwkowski. He works closely with Quayclean’s Executive General Manager Operations, Tom Mills, and co-Founder, Loui Petrevski.

Piwkowski states “Daniel’s role is highly strategic and tactical to support our states and regions as we aim to provide and maintain the best practice health and safety standards and achieve even higher on-site compliance with our WH&S processes and systems.”

Piwkowski said Quayclean aims to have a positive safety culture that is committed to promoting and working together, celebrating diversity and the need for a holistic approach to supporting teams, commenting “we are also seeking continuous improvement of the Safety Management System through regular evaluation, audit review and customer/employee satisfaction with regards to safety performance and keeping up to date with the latest legislation requirements.”

With over 15 years’ experience in senior WH&S and Facilities Management, Nicholls has a comprehensive understanding of the cleaning industry from a client engagement viewpoint having previously used and tendered for contractors.

Commencing in 2002 with a staff of three and two customers, Quayclean has expanded to 300 customer sites and now has

Quayclean’s team in training and at work in some of their many operational locations.

5,250 full-time, permanent part-time, and casual employees (51% female/49% male ratio) all of whom are fully employed under the Modern Cleaning Award.

Piwkowski noted “we have experienced tremendous growth, particularly over the past six years, and our number one priority is always Zero Harm.

“We want every person to go home the way they came to work, to visit a venue safely, and to set a standard of wellbeing that is not only expected but entitled.”

Quayclean has enjoyed a phenomenal start to 2024 with over 1,000,000 spectators attending the 15-day Australian Open tennis championship at Melbourne Park, over 600,000 fans enjoying the seven Taylor Swift concerts at the MCG and Sydney’s Accor Stadium, and more than 500,000 fans packing into Accor Stadium, Allianz Stadium, Marvel Stadium, McDonald Jones Stadium, Optus Stadium and Adelaide Oval to watch a series of P!nk concerts.

Then in April, almost 800,000 visitors attended the 12-day Sydney Royal Easter Show at Sydney Olympic Park.

This is in addition to the more than 90 private schools, colleges, and institutes that Quayclean manages, and its regular daily work at some of Australia’s biggest specialist facilities such as Southern Cross Station, Melbourne Market Authority, Sydney Opera House, Government precincts, other public sites, and leisure centres.

With back-to-back, high-volume events like the Australian Open, Piwkowski is aware of the potential risks, advising “when we are busy getting on with business, we are also vulnerable.

“When driving cars, utes, buggies in public environments, when using machinery including scrubbers, high pressure washers, high reach equipment in public environments, and in understanding the importance of fatigue management our first priority and mindset is the safety of all staff, their fellow workers, of patrons, and the general public in addition to property.”

In recent months, Nicholls has established the on-site safety

supervisor network and created sector specific safeguarding working groups across portfolio areas such as arts, commercial, education, health, racecourses, stadiums, and government.

Piwkowski added “along with our broader policies and procedures, I want to adopt a sector specific approach toward WH&S to ensure best practices are at the core of what we do. Within these sectors, our workforce participates in ‘toolbox’ discussions aimed to review workplace safety, operational enhancements, and fostering team connections.

“Simple things like having a good night’s sleep before coming to work and operating machinery, maintaining healthy eating habits and avoiding heat stress are important when it comes to WH&S.”

Nicholls has also adopted a collaborative approach to his role working closely with stakeholders such as the venue operator

and other venue contractors including catering companies, commenting “I want us to be proactive with WH&S and not be reactive. It is best to adopt a multi-channel approach to sharing safety topics and safety incentive programs, while continuing to review operational compliance.

“WH&S is a shared responsibility. It is best for all site stakeholders to work harmoniously together and not in isolation to each other.

“Collaboration allows stakeholders to understand the venues and sites we operate in so we can better equip ourselves with the potential risks and hazards associated within those specific environments.

“Cleaners are the ‘eyes and ears’ of venues. They are often the first respondents to witness or provide support following an incident.”

This collaborative approach extends to state base WH&S regulatory bodies such as WorkSafe.

Nicholls went on to say “I regularly invite WorkSafe representatives onto our sites and into our leadership meetings to provide legislation guidance and industry advice as an additional knowledge resource for our team.

“With risk comes opportunity to learn and grow. The measure of our success is transparency through reporting of incidents such as near misses, hazards, injuries, complaints and working with all stakeholders during the investigation and corrective actions process.”

It is common for workers in the cleaning industry to have English as a second language and this presents challenges said Nicholls. However, he adds “like many other cleaning providers, Quayclean has a multicultural and diverse workforce, and we are constantly thinking of ways to universally translate the key messages on safety and wellbeing and developing programs aligned to leading safety philosophies and practices.

“It’s all about creating safe and inclusive environments where our staff, stakeholders, patrons can thrive and have a positive experience.”

Greg Campbell is the Principal and Founder of PRISM Strategic Communications.

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Backing Local Acts

Impacted by digital media and the rise of streaming music services, artists now rely on making a living from live performances. However, as Michael Sainsbury explains, that is also under threat

Federal Arts Minister Tony Burke has a guitar strapped on for his Instagram profile pic. He regularly posts shots of himself at gigs and was vocal in his support of the local live music industry during his time in opposition.

However, under the current Federal Government it’s the multinational music and ticketing companies that are receiving most support, not the local music industry.

As a Minister, Burke has followed through with launching the first serious national arts initiative in living memory in the shape of Revive, a national cultural policy whose centrepiece is Creative Australia, backed with $286 million. Long ignored by governments, the live music sector is currently under the microscope, with a Federal parliamentary inquiry into “the challenges and opportunities within the Australian live music industry” finally underway.

Venues struggling

Yet for all of Minister Burke’s good vibes - and a small slice of the new government-funded cultural pie - the local live music sector remains in trouble.

As Howard Adams, Chairman of the Australian Live Music Business Council (ALMBC), advises “small venues are a crucial step in the ladder to success that is widespread enough to earn a living from having enough monthly listeners on Spotify and playing bigger venues.”

The fallow years of COVID saw many venues close and continue to struggle, along with ill-conceived projects like Sydney’s long-standing lockout laws. Today, rising costs for energy, insurance, and security, as well as fans watching their spending due to the cost-of-living crisis, have seen venues close, leaving local artists struggling to be heard.

And venues are still struggling post COVID. Great Club in Marrickville and The Zoo in Brisbane are two important venues that closed their doors recently, Adams cites, adding “there is constant chatter about the viability of venues.”

According to musician (and Michael West Media video producer) Joshua Barnett, “insurance companies are continuing to charge extortionate amounts after COVID and local venues like the Zoo simply can’t afford that on top of raising rents.”

Multinational domination

One major concern is that the $3 billion local live music industry is increasingly dominated by overseas corporations like Live Nation and its subsidiary Ticketmaster and private equity firms, such as US-owned and Cayman Islands-domiciled Silverlake, which owns other major players, including Ticket Entertainment Group (TEG).

This model favours big-name offshore artists performing at mega venues.

Live Nation’s vertically integrated model sees it promote everything from mega-shows such as Taylor Swift, Coldplay and Billie Eilish to festivals like Splendour in the Grass and Harvest Rock - neither of which will be held in 2024. Along with ownership or controlling interest in venues, ticketing companies also clip the ticket on merchandise and on-site concessions.

In Australia, it has bulked up with a string of acquisitions across the sector in recent years in ticketing and promotions, as well as building and buying a number of major venues.

Brian ‘Smash’ Chladil (pictured right), founder and Managing Director of local ticketing company OzTix, explained “if a promoter company owns the ticket company, they get all sorts of advantages.

“Ticket companies have both a lot of data and a lot of cash. Both are usually protected by consumer law and privacy law. The promoter company is able to gain access to the cash and data.”

Coterie perform as part of the Nando’s Chicken Shop Sessions.

Chladil says - and Live Nation’s financials bear him out - that the promoter realises that they don’t need to make money by promoting anymore because they make so much in ticket fees, selling their customer’s data and investing the cash.

Last year, Live Nation reported a 2% profit margin in its concerts division, while ticketing made 38% and advertising and sponsorships 62%.

Chladil notes “if you are a promoter trying to make money on a tour, how can you compete with a company that doesn’t need to make money on the promoting side? It’s inherently anti-competitive and should never have been allowed.”

An analysis provided to this author shows that concerts ticketed by Ticketmaster take from 19 to 24% of the ticket’s face value, compared to only 9 to 11% by Australian vendors Oztix and Moshtix. Ticketmaster also takes up to 20% of merchandise sales at the venues.

Ticketing oligopoly

In the USA, the Federal Department of Justice wants to split Live Nation’s ticketing and promotion businesses. It was joined in an anti-trust lawsuit filed in May by Attorneys General from 29 states, and the District of Columbia joined the federal antitrust lawsuit.

As one industry insider who did not want to be named commented “because Ticketmaster or Ticketek has exclusive control of venues there is no regulation to stop them charging what they want and calling various invented charges whatever they want.”

The integrated model is increasingly prevalent in Australia, where independent promoters and ticketing companies say money is being sucked from consumers by international acts and global companies - that pay little or no tax in Australia - increasingly starving smaller venues and local artists. Yet in Australia the company - in tandem with its fellow ticketing oligopolist the TEG-owned Ticketek, continues unimpeded.

Venues need support

It’s a widespread problem, but solutions are emerging.

In 2022, the Spanish Government funded a Youth Cultural Bonus that saw Spanish young people given the equivalent of $660 of vouchers to spend on the arts when they turned 18. This constituted up to $330 on live events or activities up to $165 on physical products and up to $165 on digital products and services, including music streaming subscriptions.

Here, the ALMBC is gathering industry support for an arena ticket levy that would involve collecting a small amount - projected at $1 - from each ticket sold for major events in large arenas. The funds would be managed through a trust specifically established to support smaller, independent venues that are crucial to the nurturing and development of local talent.

The levy would directly support the maintenance and upgrading of small to medium-sized venues. This would also provide financial resources to venues that are foundational

to the music ecosystem, ensuring they can continue to host new and existing talent. The idea is to encourage a healthier balance between large-scale events and grassroots music scenes, fostering a diverse and vibrant cultural offering.

ALMBC’s Adams comments “we need broad support; we simply can’t have grassroots venues fall out of the market.”

In terms of what the government can do, Adams says that it’s “a big education piece - they mean well, but can’t be expected to know the details about an industry that has been happy to be quite opaque for years.

“So the same vested interests are sounded out each timethis will take time as well as some genuine thought and a new approach.”

Support local musicians, not mega-artists

Recent news emerged that the Western Australian Government handed $8 million to Live Nation to subsidise exclusive Coldplay’s 2023 concerts at Perth’s Optus Stadium, adding to $16 million previously reported that was given to Live Nation or companies it owns by state and federal government programs.

Compare this to June’s announcement that Music Australia, the new body to promote local music under the Creative Australia umbrella, would give $1.45 million to support 98 projects involving a range of artists, from solo acts to bands, producers, composers and songwriters.

This disparity highlights the need for plenty of education on how taxpayers’ money should be spent in the sector and the urgency of regulation.

Based in regional Australia, Michael Sainsbury is a former China correspondent with more than 25 years’ experience writing about business, politics and human rights in Australia and the Indo-Pacific.

He has worked for News Corp, Fairfax, Nikkei and a range of independent media outlets and has won multiple awards in Australia and Asia for his reporting.

This article was first published by Michael West Media, michaelwest.com.au/

Live Nation’s Harvest Rock - postponed for 2024.

Coldplay at Perth’s Optus Stadium last year, and below left.

From the birth of the internet to AI

Industry veteran, Craig Carter, Chief Executive of New Zealand’s Community Leisure Management, shares his journey with James Heffield

With a career spanning more than 30 years in New Zealand’s aquatic and recreation industry, there’s not much Craig Carter hasn’t seen. He’s worked through computerisation, the rise of email and smartphones, and more recently the start of what he believes may be a major shift with the arrival of artificial intelligence (AI) technology.

Now working as the Chief Executive of facility management leader Community Leisure Management, Carter feels that staying open minded and identifying trends and opportunities are one of the keys to success in the industry.

He should know, he’s been involved with CLM’s growth from a fledgling operation managing six leisure centres in Auckland and Whangarei to a nationwide organisation managing 32 aquatic, leisure and community centres, as well as community recreation through the Community Leisure Charitable Trust.

His willingness to try new things and be at the front of a wave is also one of the reasons he entered the industry in the first place, joining the first sports and recreation management course run by Auckland Institute of Technology (now Auckland University of Technology) in 1990, fresh out of Pukekohe High School.

Carter said people now took computers and email communication for granted, but they were some of the most significant changes he had seen during his time in the industry.

As well as saving hours of time for staff, they also dramatically improved the way leisure centres could keep customers up to date with new programmes and opportunities, as well as any postponements or changes of plan.

He explains “good communication is all part of making sure you’re giving customers the best possible experience they can have.”

Noting that the marketing landscape had also changed significantly over the years and modern advertising allowed audiences to be targeted more easily, he advises “you used to run an advertisement in the local newspaper or radio, whereas now the majority of our leisure and community programme advertising spend is on social media.”

Increasing cultural awareness and appreciation is another major shift in the leisure and recreation space that Carter has noticed, making people from different ethnic groups and backgrounds feel more welcome and comfortable about participating in sport, and improving engagement.

As he notes “people are a lot more aware of the Treaty (Te Tiriti o Waitangi) now and Te Reo Maori - we’ve seen massive changes in that space.”

CLM facilities Parnell Baths and Point Erin Pool fly the flag of the Ngati Whatua Orakei iwi (Maori social units), recognising its status as tangata whenua (Maori people of the locality).

Carter is particularly proud of CLM’s Aroora leadership development programme for young Maori staff, supporting their career and personal development, stating “it gives people a real shift, allows them to feel more rounded as an individual and gives them a closer connection to their past and their iwi.

“Maoridom is what stands New Zealanders apart from the rest of the world and it should be celebrated. We incorporate Maori design in our uniforms, we’re a really proud Aotearoa business.”

Carter said industry association Recreation Aotearoa had played a big role in driving a shift in the involvement of Te Ao Maori (the Maori worldview) in the leisure and recreation industry.

Having focussed on creating more opportunities for Maori to upskill and progress within CLM, with Maori making up 25% of its current senior management team, he states “we feel like Te Ao Maori is part of our DNA now as an Aotearoa business.”

As part of his role as Chief Executive, Carter also works with a team of 25 who make up the Community Leisure Charitable Trust, supporting community sport mainly in the Counties

The CLM managed Point Erin Pool in Herne Bay, Auckland (above) and Craig Carter (below).

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

Manukau region, with a focus on system building and getting more people active and moving.

Carter comments “when the last census results came out it highlighted there are more people playing secondary-school sport in Counties Manukau than any other area in Auckland. That’s something we’re really pleased with.”

Acknowledging the Trust’s success as being down to a combination of factors, Carter explains “we’ve got great people on the ground, we’re not afraid to try things and do things a bit differently, we’re not afraid of failure, we’re just keen to roll up our sleeves and make a positive difference in the Counties Manukau region.”

An example of this is the Toshiba Leadership Breakfasts run by his team to bring leaders from the various sporting bodies in Counties Manukau together on a quarterly basis to connect and hear from industry speakers.

Carter says these allow the sporting bodies to connect, upskill and have a free breakfast paid for by Toshiba, CLM’s photocopy supplier - ‘wins everywhere’.

The trust has also worked closely with schools and the Healthy Active Learning initiative and partnered with Aktive to manage the Tu Manawa Active Aotearoa funding grants in the Counties Manukau area, supporting programmes that help young people create a lifelong love of being active.

Commenting on how the modern New Zealand sporting landscape meant activities had to be offered in more flexible ways to fit in with people’s busy lifestyles, Carter says “sporting and community organisations are becoming more customer-centric, they’re making their decisions based on what their participants want, rather than telling participants how things are going to be.

“As long as we’re getting more people moving and active, then that is a good thing for all.”

Realising that despite the positive participation rates in Counties Manukau shown by the recent census, there was still more work to be done, he adds “we know that approximately 50% of people love sport and getting active, but there’s another 50% out there who we could engage with to reap the benefits of being active - that’s the challenge.”

Carter said another key focus for the industry was environmental responsibility. CLM is deeply invested in this space, with energy saving initiatives at its facilities, such as using pool covers and being efficient with lighting, saving more 550,000 kWh of energy in the nine months to March this yearenough to power 125 electric cars for a year.

In the near future they were looking to be even more innovative by utilising water flow at aquatic centres, with Carter going on to say “watch this space”, noting “it’s been great to be able to measure the success of the initiatives we’ve put into place. The savings we’re making cover the salary of our environmental and sustainability manager.”

When asked how recreation facility managers need to adapt to ensure recreation and leisure opportunities meet the needs of customers, Carter mentions two key things “customers’ expectations will continue to grow - they’ll expect better service and results.

“We’ve got to work hard at keeping our brightest and smartest within our industry, not just New Zealand, and one aspect of that is to pay people more money. We need to improve all areas to keep our best people in the game.”

Carter said with the advent of AI there is potential for it be used in a host of different ways in the industry whether it be through automation, virtual reality or operations, but he was on the fence about whether all changes would all be positive.

Here he noted the use of AI driven anti drowning technology that could reduce the number of lifeguards required poolside.

Carter said after all the years he hasn’t lost his love for working in the industry. The secret to success for leisure centres and in the community was to give customers a great experience and make sure they enjoy themselves.

He concludes “there are so many good people throughout the industry and your customers are people who want to improve themselves, whether learning to swim or getting active and general wellbeing.

“It’s simply about making sure people have a good experience and leave with a smile on their face so they want to come back.”

James Heffield is Director at Wellington-based communications consultancy Last Word.

The business’ past clients include some of New Zealand’s most trusted brands, from Tourism New Zealand and the New Zealand Rugby Union to PricewaterhouseCoopers and the New Zealand Mountain Safety Council.

Values and achievement are at the heart of CLM’s activities.

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TRIED, TRUE, & PROVEN FILTER

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Guiding Swim Schools to a new era of opportunity

With multiple business interests, former triathlete Reece Rackley is best known for the eponymous Rackley Swimming and its related City Venue Management venture while also being a co-founder and manager of fashion and apparel brands.

In addition, he has been President of the Australian Swim Schools Association (ASSA) since last November.

From a swimming family - with parents who ran a swimming pool, a father who coached and a brother who swam competitively - he competed in elite level triathlon before injury prompted a move into swim teaching and coaching at his parents’ swim school at the Burleigh Heads Swim Centre.

Moving on to assist in the management as of 2003 he took over the business which became the basis of what expanded into Rackley Swimming and City Venue Management (CVM).

As he recalls “the business evolved from being just a swim school leading to our rebranding to Rackley Swimming some years later.

“There was then a brief period where we partnered with Todd McCarthy and BlueFit.”

This venture came to an end in 2012 with BlueFit focussing on NSW and Victoria and Rackley Swimming covering Queensland.

Rackley remembers “we rebranded at that point, our management business becoming City Venue Management while we kept Rackley Swimming as our core swim school and aquatic brand.”

Taking an increasingly strategic role in the business over time alongside long-time business partner Jay Clarke. In 2016/17 he was one of the founding board members of ASSA, based on a strong belief of the need for an independent swim school focused association.

On top of his activities in the swim school and facility

management spaces, Reece and CVM have been strong supporters of competitive swimming. This has seen the recruitment and support of many elite coaches including Damien Jones & Richard Scarce who placed 5 swimmers on the team for Paris as well as previously Denis Cotterell, Matt Brown & Tracey Menzies, some of Australia’s most decorated coaches and the Rackley Athlete Support Program, while, 2024 this has included backing swimmers on their campaign to the trials through the Rackley Race to France initiative.

Explaining his becoming ASSA President, succeeding former President Wayne Pollock, Rackley states “this was prompted by Wayne having served his term and there being a need for a new President to step up in that position.

“I was the Vice President previously and the board obviously felt that I was suited to take that position.

Rackley Swimming (above) and Reece Rackley (below).

“While I was a little bit reluctant to put my hand up, I did see the opportunity to serve an organisation that I’m proud to be part of.

“So it was a bit of an honour to be considered worthy of taking on that seat of the President.

“It’s difficult to do remotely at times (Rackley is based in the Spanish city of Barcelona, ed), but we have an engaged board and Luke Daly as our new Chief Executive and I saw a need for transition.”

Commenting on the state of the swim schools industry, Rackley advised “I think Aquatic Education as an industry has really come of age in the last 20 years.

“If you go wind the clock back to the 1980s and 1990s, it was very much a small fragmented operator space and less sophisticated business models as an industry than what it is today.

“There have been a few things which have been integral to driving that transition including improvements in teaching and facility operations, where, like the health club industry for instance, we’ve seen a real transition with the introduction of technology. Importantly, we have also seen swim schools become the lifeblood of revenue for many aquatic centres around the country.

“It’s also the feeder program to elite swimming, and the safety aspect of being a life skill that develops a love and respect for the water and assists with drowning prevention and establishing those early childhood skills that are necessary in the aquatic environment.

“Various things have driven this coming of age and we’ve still

got a long way to go.

“For example, we still only have about 20% of the nation’s population participating in structured regular learn to swim lessons, not including some of the school swimming programs and so forth.

“And with growth in the population and growth in market penetration, the industry is poised for many years of growth to come.

“And the goal of the association is to help govern that growth, facilitate entrepreneurialism, assist with support for those businesses as they launch and come up against challenges and to be there to assist them through that journey of running their businesses.”

Asked about the role Australia has to play in sharing its experience and expertise globally, including supporting the International Swim Schools Association (ISSA), Rackley replied “swim teaching is an exportable service and we’ve already seen a lot of our swim coaches do stints overseas in the elite coaching world because of how prominent we are as a competitive swimming nation.

“But I think we’ve got a lot to offer the world from a swim school management and aquatic tuition point of view as well, so I see that we’re only at the early stages of starting to see some of that occur.

“I know of a number of instances where swim teachers from Australia while traveling the world have got jobs and work in other groups and help establish swimming curriculums and structures along with charitable projects that Australian swim schools run overseas.

“I believe there’ll be commercial opportunities in what is a growing market globally where Australia’s very advanced.

“Beyond that, from an ASSA point of view we will support ISSA and aligned associations.”

Mindful of the Aquatic Industry Strategy Summit - being held after the 2024 ASSA National Conference - that is looking at the potential national approach to a more unified value chain among the many different bodies representing the aquatic industry and its stakeholders, Rackley sees merit in coming together in some areas but is committed to the demarcation that exists in key areas.

He explains “the aquatic industry can be confusing and I think potentially there is a need for some coming together of different groups, but I think one of the challenges is if you merge everything together, then something will get neglected.

“I believe that there is enough scope across the industry for really focused associations to offer significant value to their core customer. The way I see it is you have Swimming Australia as the national sporting organisation that’s focused purely on the participation in the competitive nature of swimming, the sport of swimming.

“Royal Life Saving Society - Australia has a clear drowning prevention mandate, while Swim Coaches and Teachers Australia (SCTA) representing the interests of swim coaches is also critical.

“Likewise, ASSA saw a need representing private swim schools and swim schools in publicly-owned aquatic centres, along with the interests of the business owners - which is different to the facility management industry.

“The facility management industry specifically looks mostly at local government aquatic centres and larger scale facilities that are multi-service offering but the private swim school patch and swim schools within aquatic facilities are really a niche area, not dissimilar to what AUSAactive does in the health and fitness industry.

“I know that as a business, we are members of all of those associations that I’ve just mentioned because of their value proposition and maybe we could avoid duplication.

“But every time I’ve seen someone try to do too much, they generally follow the money rather than the value.”

Members of the City Venue Management team (from left): Corey Radcliff, Lynn Rackley, Jay Clarke, Reece Rackley, Gerry Lambert and Andrew Smith.

However, Rackley does see the value of national, rather than state-based bodies, commenting “ASSA is a national body - a single organisation that represents Australia - so we don’t have that issue of having state chapters that are fighting for every dollar and having to carve up revenue.

“I do think that there may be a benefit to the replication of that structure in say the aquatic facilities management area. I think that would probably benefit that patch, but I don’t necessarily think that any one association should have an umbrella control over the others because they serve different purposes.

“While I think there’s room for collaboration in coming together in the industry to discuss common challenges and encourage growth, I don’t necessarily think that any one organisation should take an oversight position over the rest of the industry.”

Looking forward, Rackley sees that “the industry is in a really great position from a number of perspectives, but still has a long way to go in evolution.

“I think Australia’s got some really strong skillsets, knowledge and strong businesses but expect that there will probably be some further consolidation with bigger groups coming into the market.

“But I would also say that I think there’s a lot of opportunities still to expand and serve different audiences that either have lack of access or different pricing brands while also looking to export our services.”

Remarkably, Rackley manages his businesses remotely, having been based in Barcelona since 2022 and having previously lived in Canada between 2017 and 2020.

With family and lifestyle reasons having motivated these moves, and his ability to do so a testament to the use of technology, he concludes “with a fantastic group of people on the ASSA board we provide the governance function

that manages the CEO and the operational team, but it really is the operational team that does the day-to-day side of things.

“My role is to chair the board meetings and work with the CEO periodically on making sure that the board’s strategy is being implemented and add that layer of governance exists.

“That can be done from anywhere.”

Reece Rackley was talking to Nigel Benton.

More than just Fun and Games

In recent years, the Australia’s state and national tourism awards have witnessed a surge in recognition for adventure tourism operators. This dynamic sector, characterised by its thrill-seeking activities and immersive experiences, has captured the hearts of travellers seeking excitement and authenticity. As 2024 advances, the success of adventure tourism presents a compelling opportunity for traditional outdoor providers to diversify their offerings, ensuring business sustainability in an ever-evolving market landscape.

The Rise of Adventure Tourism

Adventure tourism has emerged as a dominant force within the travel industry, drawing adventurers from across the globe to explore Australia’s diverse landscapes and adrenaline-pumping activities. From exhilarating hikes through rugged terrain to heart-racing water sports and breathtaking wildlife encounters, the appeal of adventure tourism lies in its ability to offer unique, memorable experiences that transcend the ordinary.

The NSW & ACT Tourism Awards and subsequently the annual Qantas Australian Tourism Awards have played a pivotal role in spotlighting the achievements of all tourism operators, showcasing their commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. This recognition has not only elevated the profile of adventure tourism but has also spurred its growth, driving economic prosperity and cultural exchange in local communities.

This recognition has not only elevated the profile of adventure tourism but has also spurred its growth, driving economic prosperity and cultural exchange in local communities. Operators such as Ocean Rafting in Queensland, Sydney By Kayak in NSW and Urban Camp in Victoria are great examples of adventure outdoor operators that have achieved accolades at the most recent Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.

Opportunities for Outdoor Providers

Outdoor recreation and education has traditionally provided the ideal immersion in nature that brings educational outcomes, health and wellbeing benefits, and life lessons that instil

resilience and social connection. The recipe of what they provide can also be seen in adventure tourism, yet the two areas are often found in silos, where the streams sometimes don’t cross. Some of our operators remain very committed to educational outcomes, and there is nothing wrong with that.

A business consultant would say that this is, of course, a decision of the business as to the market they wish to target that matches their business, their values, their price point, and their vision.

Amid the success of adventure tourism, traditional outdoor providers, such as activity providers, camp facilities, and recreational providers, find themselves at a crossroad of opportunity. While they have long been custodians of Australia’s natural wonders, the shifting landscape of recreation and education needs to be balanced with tourism opportunities that deliver the same outcomes to a different audience. However, it does demand a fresh approach to stay relevant and competitive.

Factors that Drive Adventure Tourism

Tourists are increasingly seeking authentic experiences. In an age of digital saturation, travellers crave authentic, immersive experiences that connect them with nature and culture. Adventure

Lori Modde explains the potential of adventure tourism

Credit: Ocean Rafting Queensland.

Credit: Urban Camp in Victoria.

tourism offers a unique opportunity to satisfy this demand, providing travellers with unforgettable memories and meaningful interactions, combined with educational opportunities.

With growing concerns about environmental conservation and climate change, sustainable tourism practices have become a priority for travellers and industry stakeholders alike.

Adventure tourism operators are at the forefront of implementing eco-friendly initiatives, from carbon-neutral tours to wildlife conservation efforts, setting a precedent for responsible tourism.

In my role for the peak body for outdoor adventure activities, I provide one-on-one strategy sessions with members. Some may use that ‘P’ word that we became very familiar with over Covid (pivot), but it is the nature of business today that ‘pivoting’ is part of a business to remain relevant and sustainable.

Looking Forward

Despite the promising outlook for adventure tourism and traditional outdoor providers, several potential issues loom on the horizon for business sustainability, and reviewing your strategy is a sound process to evaluate your priorities. Walking in with your eyes wide open is a start to any strategy and here at Outdoors NSW & ACT, we work with our members to understand economic situations, geopolitical tensions, and global health crises but local challenges of changing demographics, government policy, and social trends that can impact our industry.

Diversifying into the tourism space presents traditional outdoor providers with a golden opportunity

to leverage their existing assets and tap into new revenue streams. By embracing adventure tourism activities such as guided hikes, wildlife safaris, and eco-adventures, these providers can attract a broader audience of thrill-seekers while preserving the integrity of their natural environments.

While diversification into tourism may not be for everyone, it is an option worth discussing.

Adventure tourism underscores the transformative power of immersive experiences and authentic encounters, something that we know most, if not all, Outdoors NSW & ACT members believe in. For outdoor providers looking to thrive in 2024 and beyond, diversifying into the tourism space may be a strategic pathway to sustainable growth and enhanced visitor engagement.

Lori Modde is Chief Executive of Outdoors NSW & ACT.

Mt Alexandra NSW rock climb. Credit: The Outdoor Education Group.

Zoofari Dubbo Zoo. Credit: Taronga Conservation Society.

People moving on

ICC Sydney Chief Executive Geoff Donaghy

After more than 30 years of being immersed in venue management, Geoff Donaghy, Chief Executive of ICC Sydney and Group Director - Convention Centres, ASM Global (APAC), has retired from his full-time rolealthough he will stay on as an advisor to the business until the end of the year as ASM Global embeds its succession strategy.

Dunedin Venues Chief Executive Terry Davies

Terry Davies, Chief Executive at Dunedin Venues, has departed the Dunedin City Council owned-organisation after 10 years in the role.

His role included heading up management of the Dunedin Centre, including the Town Hall, and Forsyth Barr Stadium, and attracting concerts to the stadium.

SIA Chief Executive David Sharpe

David Sharpe has stepped down as Sport Integrity Australia (SIA) Chief Executive, saying the organisation has achieved much in the four years since inception.

Sharpe was appointed as the inaugural SIA Chief Executive in June 2020, charged with overseeing the build of the new agency which replaced the Australian Sports AntiDoping Authority (ASADA).

Cricket Australia Chief Executive Nick Hockley

After five years in the role, Nick Hockley has announced that he is to step down from his role as Chief Executive of Cricket Australia at the conclusion of the upcoming home summer.

Hockley is expected to finish in the position he has held since 2020 at the end of March next year, although Cricket Australia Chair Mike Baird confirmed he will remain in the job until a successor is appointed and a smooth transition is completed.

NBL Commissioner Jeremy Loeliger

The National Basketball League (NBL) has announced that Jeremy Loeliger, its Commissioner since 2019, will be stepping down from the role.

In a statement, the NBL advised of “its heartfelt appreciation to … Loeliger for his immense contribution to the organisation over the past nine years as he steps down from the role to pursue other interests.”

Aeromic Microphones co-founder

John Penhallow

John Penhallow, co-founder of Aeromic Microphones Australia (AMA), has retired after a 30 year involvement in the business.

Founding the company alongside Peter Paisley in 1994, the duo designed and manufactured the world renowned Aeromic fitness microphones.

Since then, AMA has developed into a full service audio supplier with export and trade sales, as well as a very successful online store.

Joel Edmondson named VMA Chief Executive Venue Management Association (VMA) has appointed Joel Edmondson as its new Chief Executive, replacing Michael Brierley, who has served in the role for more than six years.

Edmondson has more than 15 years of senior management experience, including a decade of strategic development within the music industry, most recently as Chief Executive and Creative Director for Queensland Music Festival (QMF).

Prior to that, Edmondson served as Chief Executive of QMusic, the Queensland music industry development association, best known for delivering BIGSOUND, the Southern Hemisphere’s premier music industry conference, export showcase and festival of new music.

The VMA has also announced the results of its 2024 Board Election to fill five vacant Active Board positions and one Allied Board position.

The result sees Adam Lister and Meagan Walker return as Directors with four new directors to commence a three-year term. The new Directors are:

•Helen Fairclough, Chief Operating Officer, Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre

•Daryl Kerry, Chief Executive, VenuesLive Management Services Pty Ltd

•Stuart Lyon AVM, Director of Strategy and Partnerships, Venues West

•Steve Mackenzie CVE, Chief Innovation Officer, Momentus Technologies

Vicsport honours Dr Peter Brukner

Recognising his more than 50 years of service to sports medicine, nutrition and volunteering in a career that has spanned half a dozen sports and two Olympic campaigns, Dr Peter Brukner has been presented with the 2024 Outstanding Contribution to Victorian Sport Award.

Aligned Leisure’s Shane Dunne named new Chief Executive at AFL’s Richmond FC

The AFL’s Richmond FC has named Shane Dunne as its new Chief Executive, replacing the outgoing Brendon Gale.

Dunne, who has been Chief Executive of Aligned Leisure, the club’s aquatic, fitness and recreation division business since 2017, is also Richmond FC General Manager.

Described as a “surprise choice” for the role by Melbourne newspaper The Herald-Sun, Dunne has been behind the growth of the AFL club’s commercial operations and its current financial security.

New appointment to drive Australasian Leisure Management growth

Australasian Leisure Management has announced the appointment of Declan Gillard-Martin as SPASA Brand Manager, a role in which he will drive the growth of Australasian Leisure Management and SPLASH!

Adelaide-based Gillard-Martin comes with a solid industry background, holding a number of roles across the commercial and community aquatics industry - most recently with Royal Life Saving SocietySouth Australia, as General Manager Operations, and as Chief Executive of public safety-focused organisation, Quack Group.

Michael Cassel Group announces key appointments

Leading Australian live entertainment producer Michael Cassel Group has announced two significant appointments to the organisation’s production and creative development teams.

Annelies Crowe (pictured), who was the Associate Producer for the Australian and international tours of Hamilton and Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, has been promoted to Deputy Head of Production overseeing all Australian productions.

The company also revealed the appointment of Anna Fox as Creative Development Manager, based in London.

AUSactive announces two new director appointments

Aiming to broaden and strengthen its skillset and bolster its role in Australia’s preventive health environment, AUSactive has announced the appointment of Dr John Petrozzi and Dr Bikram Karmakar as two new Non-Executive Directors to its board.

The appointments back AUSactive’s focus on supporting its members to improve the health and wellbeing of Australians, with Dr Karmakar and Dr Petrozzi having joined the board as of 1st July.

The appointments follow the recent departures of Kate Corkery and Sally Anderson from the AUSactive board.

Advising that the two new board appointments play a pivotal role in the strategic direction of AUSactive and that the pair’s expertise will elevate the collective board’s skillset, AUSactive Chairperson, Jayne Blake stated “we are delighted to welcome Bikram Karmakar and John Petrozzi to the AUSactive board and extend a very sincere thank you to Kate Corkery and Sally Anderson for their dedication during their time with us.

Rainbow’s End appoints new Chief Executive

Auckland’s Rainbows End theme park has appointed Susan Mudie as its new Chief Executive - succeeding Karen Crabb, who signalled her intention to step down earlier this year.

Mudie, previously Business Development and Marketing Manager at Rainbow’s End, has been instrumental in driving the Park’s growth and innovation.

Under Mudie’s leadership Rainbow’s End is poised for continued growth and innovation, ensuring its place as one of New Zealand’s premier destinations for fun and adventure.

Roger Field reveals new Further Afield live events advisory agency

Roger Field, the former Live Nation - Asia Pacific President, has launched Further Afield, a new live events advisory agency aimed at assisting parties looking to enter the sector.

Field, who departed Live Nation in April following 14 years with the group, has created the new venture to advise businesses looking to interact with the live events industry, focusing on business development, market insights and industry advocacy.

Richard Quail appointed as Kingswim new General Manager

The Y (YMCA) has named Richard (Rich) Quail as General Manager at Kingswim.

Quail’s appointment is significant as he started his professional career at the Y back in 2011 before progressing into various leadership roles over more than 10 years. His more recent positions at the AFL, leading the Safeguarding Children functions and NAB AFL Auskick.

Send your people news to leisure@ausleisure.com.au

Rob Abernethy is joining Masters Swimming Australia as General Manager.

Gary Barclay has joined Swimming Australia in the newly created position of Executive General Manager - High Performance Pathways, Coaching & Participation.

Arts Centre Melbourne has announced the appointment of Kim Berkers to the role of Executive Director, Destination and Audience.

The organising committee for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games has appointed Francois-Xavier Bonnaillie as Chief Commercial Officer.

Jennifer Bruce has started a new role as National Manager - Membership, Standards and Partnerships at the Australian Tourism Export Council.

The Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCCEC) has appointed Anna Case as Executive Manager of Sales.

Kristin Davies, the National President of Parks and Leisure Australia, has been named Principal Strategist and Team Lead - Strategy at Melbourne-based landscape architects and environmental consultants Emerge Associates.

Former Governor of Victoria Linda Dessau and former Victorian Commissioner for Environmental Sustainability Dr Gillian Sparkes have been appointed to the Australian Grand Prix Corporation Board.

Jessica Ducrou, co-founder of the Splendour in the Grass music festival and co-Chief Executive of the Secret Sounds entertainment brand, has departed the company she helped create eight years ago.

Respected venues industry leader, Anthony Duffy, has been appointed to head the Quay Academy - Quayclean Australia’s on-site staff leadership, training and mentoring program.

Alistair Edgar has transitioned from his role as Chief Executive at Gymnastics Victoria into the role of Chief Executive Gymnastics Australia.

Mel Elkin has commenced in the role of Senior Occupational Health and Safety Officer at Frankston City Council.

Natalie Godward has taken on the role of Chief Executive at the newly formed NSW Tourism Association.

Phillipa Harrison has been reappointed as Managing Director of Tourism Australia for the next five years.

The Maverick Sports Group has appointed Ben Hawes as General Manager - Commercial, Marketing and Digital for the Newcastle Jets Football Club.

Brodie Hicks has started as Operations Manager at the National Health and Fitness Academy.

Cameron Jones has taken on the role of General Manager at the Queensland Country Bank Stadium.

The Geelong Arts Centre Trust has appointed Rhys Holden as their new Chief Executive and Creative Director.

Matt Inglis has been promoted to the role of Vice President Global Leisure at Perfect Gym Solutions.

US-based sport and entertainment experiences brand Legends, which recently acquired ASM Global, has announced Dan Levy as its new Chief Executive.

Peter Loxton, ASM Global’s Asia Pacific Chief Operating Officer, has been named on Billboard’s 2024 International Power Players List for the second consecutive year.

Creative Australia has appointed Wendy Martin as the Director, Creative Futures Fund.

Hamish McLauchlan has joined Royal Life Saving SocietyWA as Remote Pools Program Coordinator.

Graham McLaughlin has been named General Manager of Club Operations for PCYC NSW.

Steve Meikle has been appointed Managing Director at Commercial Aquatic Australia (Vic).

YMCA Victoria has appointed Nathan Prosser as Centre Manager at the Kensington Community Aquatic Recreation Centre.

Queensland Tennis has appointed Cameron Pearson as its new Chief Executive, marking a return to a role he previously held from 2010 to 2016.

Tim Richardson has been appointed Chief Executive of The Ville, Ardo and Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre.

Disability Sports Australia has announced that Ayden Shaw, who has been leading the organisation as General Manager, has been elevated to the role of Chief Executive.

Live entertainment, ticketing and technology leader TEG has appointed Belinda Shaw as Group Chief Financial Officer.

Maytronics Australia has appointed David Stennett to the newly created role of Commercial Manager.

Football Australia has appointed Caroline Veitch as Chief Financial Officer and David Mason has been appointed General Manager - Men’s National Teams.

Data insights platform ActiveXchange has announced the promotion of Callum Warner to the role of General Manager for the APAC region.

Big Red Group - Australia and New Zealand’s largest experience network - has appointed Toni Westlake as its new Head of Brand and Marketing.

The Board of Sydney’s City Recital Hall has appointed Kate Wickett, formerly of Sydney WorldPride, as its new Chief Executive.

Send your people news to leisure@ausleisure.com.au

Sports Environment Alliance appoints new Chief Executive

The Board of Sports Environment Alliance (SEA) has appointed Adam Cheyne (pictured left) as its new Chief Executive. With an extensive background in urban and sports planning, environmental leadership, sport, member organisations, and strategic management, Cheyne replaces Jan Fitzgerald (right).

SEA Chair, Margot Foster shared “whilst politicians regularly trot out the ‘I am leaving to spend more time with the family’ line this is genuinely the case for Jan. She is committed to giving those close to her, some not well and others ageing, more of her time while that opportunity remains open, whilst seeking more flexible work and board options.”

BlueFit’s Botanic Ridge swim school

showcases flexibility of Myrtha modular pools

Leading community leisure management and learn to swim program provider BlueFit has released a video highlighting the ease of installation of a modular pool from Myrtha Pools at its newly opened swim school at Botanic Ridge Village south east of Melbourne.

The dedicated heated learn-to-swim facility offers lessons not only to children but also to people of all ages and abilities.

It offers a quiet, distraction-free environment with BlueFit’s experienced swimming instructors guiding them through their journey.

Commenting on the project, Myrtha Pools Export Manager, Alessandro Fochi wrote “thanks BlueFit for the great opportunity given to take part to such a fantastic, inspirational journey together with you.

“It might look obivious to say that in partnership - companies share the same values - but here - this is more than a logic consequence, we do share the same DNA and the interpretation of tailor made approach.”

Installation was undertaken by Commercial Aquatics Australia. Contact Chiara Cenati on 0499 715 085, E: chiara.cenati@myrthapools.com, www.myrthapools.com

Jonas Leisure’s new Envibe Ticketing Module boosts access to

New Zealand council facility events

The introduction of Jonas Leisure’s new Envibe Ticketing Module by Manawatu District Council for events held at its aquatic centre and library has been well received by the community, with attendance at one of its most recent events‘Dogs in Togs’ - increasing by 8%.

Jonas Leisure expanded its Envibe leisure management software in March with the release of the Ticketing Module so its clients no longer had to bring thirdparty software onboard to create, manage and sell tickets online or at point of sale events for events they manage.

The module can track attendance numbers, handle email and SMS (text) communications and does not charge a service fee per ticket as many third-party providers do. It can also handle redeeming and validation of tickets, as well as confirmation of purchase for customers.

Contact 1300 858 840, E: customercare@envibe.com.au, www.envibe.com.au

YMCA Victoria facilities complete migration to PerfectGym

Perfect Gym Solutions - Australia and New Zealand has announced that with the Warragul Leisure Centre and Numurkah Aquatic and Fitness Centre having transitioned to PerfectGym technology, all The Y Victoria locations have now migrated to the facility management platform.

The completion of this project, which commenced in August 2022, has seen 39 aquatic and recreation centres and 32 outdoor pools from legacy systems to PerfectGym’s operating system.

PerfectGym Country Manager - Australia and New Zealand, Matt Inglis advised “this incredible project has been a testament to the power of collaboration and partnership between YMCA Victoria and PerfectGym.

“The successful completion of this migration is a reflection of the strong partnership we have built with YMCA Victoria. We are proud to have provided a seamless transition to an innovative and scalable open platform that will enhance their operations and member experience.”

Active in Australia and New Zealand over eight years, PerfectGym has completed numerous successful migrations with Inglis describing the company as being “the vendor of choice to replace legacy on-premise solutions.”

Contact 1300 088 922, E: info@perfectgym.com.au, www.perfectgym.com.au

GripFactory UltraGrip treatment offers solution for slippery aquatic surfaces

Aware of the large number of slips and trips that occur in aquatic and recreation environments - and the insurance claims that often follow - GripFactory Australia has released a new surfacing product that enhances slip resistance.

UltraGrip, an ‘invisible’ anti-slip solution against slippery and damp floors, stairs and other surfaces - can be applied to concrete and ceramic tiled surfaces - permanently altering the surface by creating microscopic pores that enhance slip resistance.

GripFactory has a mission to create safer environments where people can live, work, and play without fear of slipping, ensuring everyone goes home safely every day.

UltraGrip has been extensively tested in aquatic and recreation facilities across Australia, with treated surfaces attaining a P4 slip resistance rating compared to untreated P2 tiles. (A tile with a rating between P0-P3 is generally considered suitable for indoor flooring while a P4 or P5 has a lower slip risk and can be used in outdoor areas, changerooms or on pool decks).

Contact GripFactory at 1800 864 747 or visit gripfactoryantislip.com.au

Credit: Warragul Leisure Centre

Fluidra maintains support for Royal Life Saving WA’s Swim and Survive program

Aquatic supplier Fluidra’s ongoing support for industry programs around the world has seen it name Royal Life Saving WA’s Swim and Survive program as one of 11 global winners from its 2024 Fluidra Day.

Royal Life Saving WA will receive US$6400 from Fluidra which will go towards bringing the benefits of swimming to underprivileged groups who are more at risk of drowning.

In Western Australia 21% of children are missing out on learning to swim each year and Royal Life Saving believes there should be no gaps. Thanks to the financial support from Fundació Fluidra approximately 60 children will receive one term of swimming lessons delivered in both the Perth metro and regional Western Australia.

Through their foundation, Fluidra puts the knowledge acquired over the years in serving the most vulnerable groups. With an aim to ensure everyone has access to pools, swimming and its therapeutic benefits to both local and international audiences, Fluidra and the foundation carry out ‘Fluidra Day’, an initiative that encourages projects submissions from employees from all over the world.

Contact 07 3812 2283, E: au-commercial@fluidra.com, fluidra.com.au/commercial

EGYM launches in Australia

As part of its global expansion, which includes integration with leading equipment suppliers, fitness technology leader EGYM has been launched in the Australian market, linking with distribution partner NovoFit.

The launch coincides with the release of EGYM Genius - its new AI-based software innovation -

EGYM Genius creates fully automated personalised training plans that are precisely tailored to the respective club and all of its equipment - including free weights - enabling trainers and members to benefit from the insights from seven billion EGYM data points.

The new driver of the entire EGYM ecosystem, EGYM Genius connects its components: EGYM Smart Strength (including the Fitness Hub and connected Smart cardio), training plans, workouts of all kinds (including classes and training outside the gym recorded with apps and wearables) as well as motivational and community tools such as Gameday and the Branded Member App.

Contact NovoFit on 1800 628 824, E: info@novofit.com.au, www.novofit.com.au

AAC ID Solutions offers innovative Sustainable EcoBands Wristbands

AAC ID Solutions, Australia’s leading manufacturer of wristbands and lanyards, offers an innovative product - EcoBands - designed to combine functionality, style, and eco-friendliness.

Environmental sustainability is now more critical than ever. As businesses and individuals strive to reduce their ecological footprint, innovative solutions are needed to make a tangible impact.

AAC is committed to sustainability and EcoBands offers an ideal choice for events and promotions.

EcoBands are wristbands made from 100% recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable paper materials. These wristbands are not only environmentally friendly but also offer the high-quality standards and vibrant designs that AAC is known for. They are designed to break down as quickly as regular paper and cardboard, ensuring minimal impact on the environment when disposed of. Whether you recycle them in your regular recycling bin or dispose of them in a landfill, you can be confident in their environmental compatibility.

The environmental credentials of EcoBands are backed by rigorous testing and certification. The base material used in EcoBands has been certified for compostability by ISEGA Cert GmbH, a highly regarded certification body. This certification ensures that the materials comply with the stringent requirements of the EN 13432 standard, which governs the biodegradability and compostability of materials.

Contact 1300 797 478, E: sales@aac.com.au, www.aac.com.au

Xplor Gym promotes guide to

fitness studio member retention

Gym management software platform Xplor Gym is promoting a guide to help boutique fitness studios with their marketing.

Compiled by Mariana Tek, which has been integrated into Xplor Gym’s operations since its acquistion by Advent International in 2019, ‘8 Ways to Supercharge Member Retention & Fuel Your Studio’s Growth’ aims to help owners and managers focus on membership retention efforts.

Including tips and tactics that operators can immediately put in place, Xplor Gym introduces the guide by stating “when you think about marketing your boutique studio, your focus immediately goes to attracting new members.

“You want to get as many new members through the doors as you can. As you get more new members, your business can grow even more. But don’t forget that your success is also built on your existing members.”

Contact sales@xplortechnologies.com, www.xplortechnologies.com/au/

Stakeholders and clients at EGYM launch in Sydney.

Life Floor a key component at Dreamworld’s refreshed Ocean Parade

Since opening late last year, the refreshed children’s aquatic play space at Dreamworld’s Ocean Parade precinct has proven to be one of its biggest drawcards.

PicoPlay’s design for the retheming concept for the wellestablished and well-loved area included integration of new waterplay features and a nautical theme as part of a future master plan.

Dreamworld selected Life Floor as a key component of the project, with the soft fall surfacing leaders providing a colourful base in three shades consistent with the undersea/seaside themed design.

Life Floor partner Grassports Australia (QLD) installed 168 square metres of Ripple 2.0 texture floor in the colours Ocean, Aviator and Turquoise.

Contact 1300 721 135, E: info@lifefloor.com.au, www.lifefloor.com.au

Send your product news to leisure@ausleisure.com.au

Swimming Victoria announces Mattioli partnership

Swimming Victoria has announced a partnership with Mattioli, that will see the Melbourne-based company become the body’s official Aquatic Facility Maintenance Partner, connecting their skills and expertise to the Victorian swimming community.

With a legacy spanning five decades, Mattioli is recognised as a leader in the preservation and rehabilitation of physical assets across commercial, industrial and civil sectors.

At the forefront of asset management in Australia, the partnership will see Mattioli not only supporting clubs and aquatic facilities, but also providing athlete and coach scholarships and become naming right sponsors of the Victorian Long Course Championships.

Mattioli Director, Gianni Mattioli, noted his enthusiasm for the partnership, commenting “we have identified a gap in the aquatics industry that we have tailor-made solutions for. Our aim is to help preserve pools, extend their asset life, and enable communities to continue enjoying their swim centres.”

Contact 03 9544 9555, www.mattioli.com.au

New Les Mills program looks to exploit growing popularity of Pilates

Looking to link in with the growing interest in Pilates, Les Mills has launched a new Pilates program scientifically proven to enhance flexibility, endurance and more.

With the Les Mills program licensed to 20,000 health clubs around the world, the launch of Les Mills Pilates repurposes the classic exercise modality in a new format to attract Gen-Z fitness enthusiasts.

Developed through 50 rounds of tests and revisions, Les Mills says its new program delivers a marquee Pilates experience that will insert into any studio with ease.

Intended to help long-term member retention, the program differs from traditional Pilates classes, ushering in new music and the uplifting coaching style Les Mills is famous for.

The ease of the program is aided by a speedy instructor certification process and with a mat being its lone equipment requirement.

Contact 02 6282 8192, E: myclub@lesmills.com.au, www.lesmills.com.au

ROLLER and Tanda partner to deliver streamlined roster management for attractions industry

ROLLER, a leading provider of venue management software for the attractions industry, has announced its new integration with Workforce. com (also known as Tanda in Australia), a global industry-leading payroll, scheduling, HR and workforce management software.

The integration allows ROLLER customers to automatically sync their sales data with the Tanda platform, enabling them to build rosters based on projected demand automatically. This ensures staffing levels are perfectly aligned with how busy the venue will likely be that day, eliminating the risks of over or understaffing. By leveraging actual sales data, venue operators can make informed decisions that optimise labour budgets and enhance operational efficiency.

Contact sales@rollerdigital.com, www.roller.software

Products

Hussey Seating Company announces acquisition of Camatic Seating’s product lines

USA-based seating manufacturer Hussey Seating Company has announced the acquisition of select assets from Victorianbased Camatic Seating which entered administration in March.

The acquisition by the seventh-generation family-owned business, based in the US state of Maine, will be limited to Camatic’s intellectual property, trademarks, designs and tooling on select seat products and does not include Camatic Seating as a whole or any of Camatic’s liabilities.

In a press statement, Hussey advised that “the deal fills a key gap in Hussey’s product line, allowing the company to make rail mounted exterior beam seating, considered to be the de facto standard in new outdoor stadiums.”

The statement notes that “Camatic’s recent and sudden financial problems are not linked in any manner to the quality and worldwide acceptance of the product lines that are being acquired by Hussey.”

The creditors report indicated that Camatic Pty Ltd had accrued debts of $29 million when it entered administration. Contact + 1 207 676 2271, E: ereavey@husseyseating.com, www.husseyseating.com

KOMPAN releases new research on inclusive play

Play and outdoor fitness equipment leaders KOMPAN have released an online publication offering new insights and recommendations for universal and inclusive playgrounds.

The publication/whitepaper ‘Play for All - Universal Inclusion in Playgrounds’ centres on the most recent research and user observations on inclusive play conducted by the KOMPAN Play Institute, including inspirational cases of accessible playgrounds and recommendations for universal play design.

The KOMPAN Play Institute has engaged in testing and developing play activities for children of all abilities since the early 1990s. Inclusive design has been a cornerstone of their focus from the very beginning, based on the understanding that play is necessary for all children, no matter who they are, where they live, or what their abilities are.

The publication is free to download and supported by KOMPAN’s team of local play experts should playground planners wish to collaborate on a design.

Contact 07 3865 2800, E: sales@KOMPAN.com.au, www.kompan.com.au

Algae Shield solution for algae in commercial pools

Water treatment, chemical manufacturing and sourcing company IXOM is promoting Algae Shield, its one-step solution for the control of algae, slime, blackspot and unwanted wall growth in commercial pools.

Promoted as a highly cost-effective means to control algae with just one litre of the ground-breaking solution required per 100,000 litres, it also promises a simple treatment application with no premixing required, as the solution simply needs to be poured directly into the pool.

Introducing Algae Shield, IXOM Product Manager, Brendan Murray explains “commercial pool operators will find it highly effective (as) Algae Shield can control harmful algae after just one application and prevent growth for up to 30 days.”

For further information and orders contact Brendan Murray at IXOM on email: au.orders@ixom.com and 1300 559 262/0422 003 721

In New Zealand contact 0800 222 277, E: nz.orders@ixom.com and Fiji contact +679 336 1144, E: sales@ixom.com.fj

Chemtrol passes 10-year milestone in manufacture and supply of high-performance pool controllers in Australia

Leading automated water treatment solutions company CHEMTROL® Australia is this year marking 10 years of operations.

Recognised as a pioneer in the industry, Chemtrol’s controllers offer robust and reliable solutions that ensure the highest standards of water quality and safety for various applications, from public swimming pools to industrial water treatment systems.

Started in California, USA, Santa Barbara Control Systems (SBCS) have been refining the brand’s range of digital, programmable and integrated controllers for more than 45 years.

Globally, the brand’s expertise in chemical automation and water chemistry has seen it develop equipment that is relied upon by clients around the world, with more than 100,000 installations, while CHEMTROL® Australia has established itself as a leading supplier of automated water treatment solutions for clients in the residential, commercial, municipal, industrial and agricultural sectors.

Contact 1300 585 820, E: sales@chemtrol.com.au, www. chemtrol.com.au

Camatic seats at Las Vegas' Allegiant Stadium.

CoverMe

Fitness studio management app

launches in Australia

CoverMe Fitness, an innovative studio management app for the fitness industry, has launched in Australia, with industry veteran Tony Zonato leading the rollout as Managing Director for the region.

Designed exclusively for the fitness industry, the CoverMe app is aiming to revolutionise studio management by providing a comprehensive platform for recruiting, recognising, rewarding and managing group exercise staff - all in one user-friendly app.

In less than a year since its launch in the UK, the app has been adopted by more than 100 clubs and 4,500 instructors, including global brands like Virgin Active. CoverMe also has an impressive 100% retention rate and 97% class cover record.

CoverMe Fitness is also expanding in the US fitness market. Contact Tony Zonato on 0421 555 900, E: tony.zonato@covermeapp.co, www.covermeapp.co

Polytan designed and constructed field for Forestville Hockey Club now complete

The Polytan designed and constructed all-weather, multi-use field for the Forestville Hockey Club at Netherby in Adelaide’s inner south is now complete with the facility located at Unley High School.

The surface installed by Polytan is their new Poligras H2OZ GT sand-dressed system, which includes bio-based yarn ‘Green Technology’ as used in their premium Olympic-quality water-based turfs.

Forestville Hockey have funded the project with support predominantly from the South Australian Government, a little from local government City of Mitcham, and Department of Education supplying the land.

The multi-sport pitch at Unley High School is 100% Australian made by Polytan and complies with all relevant Australian standards for construction materials suitable for use in schools.

The Forestville Hockey Club has been working closely with Unley High School with the first key stage in the project - the laying of the 6000 square metre synthetic pitch, giving Unley High School students daily access to an all-weather surface for hockey, netball, six-a-side football and touch football from this term.

Contact 1800 663 812, E: enquiry@polytan.com.au, www.polytan.com.au

Technogym advises of Kinomap integration for immersive experiences

Leading exercise equipment supplier Technogym has integrated with Kinomap technology to enrich cardio workouts by offering exercisers updated and immersive real-world landscapes.

Accessible seamlessly on Technogym cardio equipment, the integration provides user-friendly, engaging and personalised fitness experiences by accessing Kinomap’s platform and community of library video footage from real world locations.

Kinomap - the world’s largest geolocated video sharing platformis an interactive training app for indoor cycling, running and rowing that connect exercisers with the most scenic and popular routes around the world.

The open-platform nature of the Technogym Ecosystem means that it seamlessly combines artificial intelligence, on-demand content, software, apps, fitness equipment and wearable devices.

The seamless integration of Kinomap enables users to dive firsthand into interactive workouts directly from Technogym’s cardio equipment, with no need to download the Kinomap app, or to connect to third-party screens as the immersive path (chosen from over 40,000 global locations, continuously updated) smoothly launches on the screen of Technogym’s built-in product console.

Contact 1800 615 440, E: info.au@technogym.com, www.technogym.com

INTIX announces partnership with Football Victoria and

La Trobe University’s Home of the Matildas INTIX has been selected by Football Victoria as the exclusive ticketing supplier for all of its managed events and will be the preferred provider for events at the Home of the Matildas at La Trobe University.

By partnering with INTIX, Football Victoria aims to further streamline operations and better communicate with all fans and sponsors, aligning with this purpose and vision.

Looking forward to helping Football Victoria achieve their goals by providing them with the tools for success and exceptional customer support, INTIX Head of Commercial, Skye Larson explained “we are excited to partner with Football Victoria to help them unlock greater value from their audience, reduce costs, and improve communications with fans and sponsors through the integrated CRM.”

The Home of the Matildas serves as the main base for the Australia women’s national football team.

It also hosts Melbourne Victory matches in the A-League Women’s competition.

Contact help@intix.com, www.intix.com.au

Products

Pilates Reformers Australia launches new Align Pilates reformer bed

Pilates Reformers Australia - the Australasian Distributor and co-designer of Align-Pilates Equipment - has launched the new C8-Raven Reformer Bed, the latest innovation in their AlignPilates C-Series Reformers.

Adrian Burgess, Chief Executive of Pilates Reformers Australia shared “we are incredibly proud to introduce the C8Raven to our C-Series lineup.

“This Reformer represents the pinnacle of our innovation and dedication to enhancing the Pilates experience. Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or new to Pilates, the C8-Raven is designed to support your fitness journey with unparalleled performance and versatility.”

Pilates Reformers Australia highlights that the C8-Raven is the “culmination of extensive research and development, reflecting Align-Pilates’ commitment to quality, durability, and user-centric design”.

Align-Pilates Australia remains committed to advancing the Pilates industry with products that blend functionality, durability, and aesthetic appeal. The C8 Raven is now available for purchase through their website and authorised retailers. Contact 1300 107 331, E: info@pilatesreformersaustralia.com.au, www.pilatesreformersaustralia.com.au

Sprintr launches world first 100% recyclable kiosk

Sprintr, a curator of event technology, has launched their new event offering - EcoKiosk - a sustainable, light weight, modular designed kiosk option for delegate registrations, to support the events industry in reducing its carbon footprint.

Made from Re-Board® Technology, a durable, versatile, lightweight, printable and 100% recyclable product, this impressive design gives the business events industry the option to reduce their environmental impact and deliver on sustainability KPIs.

The EcoKiosk is customisable, reusable, and portable with a modular function allowing for free standing or desk sitting designs.

For more information go to www.sprintr.com.au

Eventfinda announces ticketing partnership with two New Plymouth venues Eventfinda, New Zealand’s largest independent ticketing provider, has announced a new partnership with two of the New Plymouth District Council venues - TSB Showplace and TSB Stadium.

The collaboration with Eventfinda’s dynamic ticketing and marketing platform will become the exclusive service at both venues.

The multi-purpose TSB Showplace (formerly the New Plymouth Opera House) is a theatre and conference hub that houses two main auditoriums - The TSB Theatre and the Theatre Royal - hosting theatrical performances, conferences, orchestral shows, comedy nights and cabaret.

Explaining how the platform supports the ambitions of venues by providing flexibility and efficiency for all stakeholders Eventfinda’s Head of Ticketing, Anna Magdalinos stated “(our) technology will help ensure they continue to create opportunities for the community to attend an array of events and sporting activities. Our platform’s flexibility offers all the layers of traditional ticketing with the advantages of self-service functionality, complementing the multiple needs of these venues and meeting their challenge of adapting and future-proofing their ticketing.”

Contact sales@eventfinda.com.au (in Australia) and sales@eventfinda.co.nz (in New Zealand), www.eventfinda.com.au/www.eventfinda.co.nz

Royal Life Saving Society - Australia and Lynxight announce safety partnership

Aiming at strengthening drowning prevention and safety at Australian aquatic facilities, Royal Life Saving SocietyAustralia and Lynxight have announced a collaboration that will use data insights from the lifeguard technology company’s artificial intelligence (AI)-enhanced analytics to strengthen research, policy and practices.

Founded in 2019, Lynxight’s prevention technology combines specialist AI and swimmer behaviour analysis to deliver realtime insights directly to the lifeguard’s smartwatch, often with minimal capital outlay for pool owners and operators.

Daniel Mulvey, Lynxight’s General Manager for Australia and New Zealand, explained that the Israel-based company “is very excited to collaborate with Royal Life Saving Australia, who share a common vision to eliminate preventable drowning and ensure Australians have world-leading safety delivered at their aquatic facilities.”

Contact Dan Mulvey on 0408 057 626, E:dan@lynxight.com, www.lynxight.com

TSB Showplace. Credit: New Plymouth Events Venues.

Maytronics launches Mineral Swim V2

Maytronics has advised of the opening of the production line for its new Mineral Swim V2 product, with their first unit recently coming off the production line at their head office in Oxley, Queensland.

Mineral Swim V2 utilises minerals from the Dead Sea between Israel and Jordan, creating a rejuvenating swimming experience, while the advanced ozone purification technology sanitises and disinfects the pool water, effectively destroying bacteria, viruses and other contaminants while reducing the amount of harsh chemicals needed in the pool. Its modular design allows customers to upgrade at a time that suits them.

Maytronics has also announced a significant expansion of their operational capacity with the investment in two new stateof-the-art warehouse facilities.

In Victoria, Maytronics have more than doubled the floorspace of their Dandenong facility from 500 metre² to a 1050 metre² warehouse.

In Western Australia, they are moving from a constrained 475 metre² warehouse to a more than 1000 metre² facility in Forrestdale. This expansion is aimed at facilitating growth and supporting channel partners in the region, while ensuring quicker delivery times and improved service quality for partners and consumers.

Contact 1300 693 657, E: infoau@maytronics.com, www.maytronics.com.au

Myzone spotlights its global efforts in championing physical activity policies

Myzone recognises the urgent need to address the rise in physical inactivity levels on a global scale and is intensifying its efforts to educate governments and promote policies that encourage physical activity and healthier populations.

With a vision of making ‘movement a movement’ and encouraging people to be physically active for their own health, the wearable fitness brand has been engaging with policy makers about the critical role of physical activity for public health and wellbeing.

In Australia, Myzone was a key supporter of AUSactive’s Million Moves initiative in May. Highlighting the fact that 75% of Australian adults don’t meet the WHO guidelines for physical activity, Million Moves challenged those living in the Sunshine Coast’s electorates of Fisher, Fairfax and Longman to complete 75 moves or Myzone MEPs every day for 21 days. With local MPs including Andrew Wallace, Ted O’Brien, Llew O’Brien and Terry Young driving the initiative, more than 1,300 children and adults squatted and jumped, stepped and pedalled their way to complete over two million moves in three weeks.

Contact 03 5292 8959, E: enquiriesapac@myzone.org, www.myzone.org

Send your product news to leisure@ausleisure.com.au

Hydrilla shares Whyalla Recreation Centre project works

Hydrilla, the lead contractor on the recently completed upgrades at the Whyalla Recreation Centre in South Australia, has shared its experience on working on the project.

Featuring a 25 metre lap pool, a recreation pool with beach entry and water features, along with a spa pool, prior to the works it had fallen behind SA Health’s Standard for the Operation of Swimming Pools and Spa Pools.

In a case study, Hydrilla advised “the foundation of the aquatic upgrades were centred around the critical infrastructure, the plantroom and associated equipment.

“The existing sand filters for the 25m lap pool were at the end of their usable life and the whole hydraulic system was not able to meet the SA Health requirements of water turnover rates for commercial swimming pools.

“Furthermore, the community was desperately calling out for

the spa pool - that has been out of commission for almost four years, due to severe leaks in the pipework - to be returned to use.

“Lastly, the replacement of a number of tiles, regrouting, new water features and Life Floor installation made up the total scope of works of the refurbishment.

“Renovation works at Whyalla Recreation Centre had been tendered twice in the past, always falling short of moving forward with the completion of critical works due to budget restrictions.”

However, Hydrilla was able to work with Whyalla City Council to reconfigure the overall scope of works to ensure critical refurbishment could occur while staying in budget.

The Adelaide-based company explained “we were able to achieve this by changing the filtration system and refining the filtration design with revised water turnover rates to suit the centre bather loading.”

In addition, Hydrilla found that “the leisure pool, consisting of an overhead slide, water features and beach entry needed some major cosmetic and safety upgrades.

“The slide had reached the end of its usable life and was removed, and the water features were upgraded to be more child friendly.”

Contact 08 8169 9500, E: info@hydrilla.com.au, www.hydrilla.com.au

Celebrating the Mineral Swim V2 rolling

ff the production line in Brisbane

For Offi

(Australia) launch. Emmett Williams (Myzone) Addressing attendees. Credit: AUSactive

Valo Motion unveils dynamic sequel to ‘Climball Legends’

Valo Motion, the Finnish developer of active mixed-reality attractions, has unveiled ‘Climball Legends’ for ValoClimb, the dynamic sequel to their viral hit game Climball which offers significantly enhanced gameplay, cutting-edge motion tracking, and a sports legend vibe, taking climbing action to new heights.

Designed to be a compelling game for venues with Valo Motion’s ValoClimb attraction, Climball Legends caters to a wide range of players. Experienced climbers can engage in the full climbing experience by playing while scaling the wall, enhancing their reach for well-aimed shots. For those seeking a more casual challenge, players can opt to run and jump on the floor to interact with the ball.

The game sessions are designed for efficiency, with each match lasting approximately 75 seconds. In the event of a tie, a 15-second overtime period is added, during which the ball becomes progressively faster until a goal is scored with the last ball in play. This ensures that games always end with a goal. The fixed length of the initial match time ensures predictable throughput for venues, accommodating both single and multiplayer experiences.

Contact Valo Motion distributor The Highgate Group on 02 9999 0055, E: admin@highgategroup.com.au, www.highgategroup.com.au

Insurer offers molestation liability cover for organisations

Precision Underwriting has advised that it is able to offer a comprehensive insurance, risk management and response solution for organisations and businesses entrusted with the care of minors and vulnerable adults.

Offering access to a product from Beazley, the specialist London-based specialist insurer, Precision Underwriting will consider submissions from all industries and six key markets in particular: educational institutions; not-forprofit organisations; transportation providers; healthcare providers; religious institutions and aquatic, recreation and sport facilities

The Beazley Safeguard abuse product is designed to help clients reduce the risk of abuse within their organisation, as well as to respond effectively if an incident does occur.

For further information or to discuss cover requirements contact the Precision Underwriting team:

Suzanne Connors: 0414 599 403; Paul Douglas: 0402 100 205; Allan Lee: 0488 778 589

GoXPro transforms fitness industry with gamified digital challenges

GoXPro, a global leader in SaaS solutions for Personal Training, has launched its ‘Digitalised Challenges’ feature with the new offering enhancing client engagement and retention.

GoXPro’s Digitalised Challenges generate new corporate leads and Personal Training clients, making it a must-have for gyms and studios looking to stay ahead in a competitive market.

GoXPro’s Digitalised Challenges crank up the excitement with gamification, turning mundane exercises into electrifying contests. Real-time leaderboards and pure results boards, accessible both in-club and via the client and coach apps, show participant’s progress and keep the motivation sky-high.

Jason Thomas, GoXPro’s Chief Executive and Co-Founder enthused “Gamifying challenges makes exercise fun, rewarding, and social. Our ultra-configurable digital challenges feature real-time leaderboards in our apps and on an in-club TV screen. With multi-category winners, points and dynamic animations, competition stays fierce and motivation stays high. What’s more, our pure results boards, used in body transformation challenges, are a key influencer on Personal Training sales.”

More information at www.goxpro.com/