Our Story
Belgravia Leisure is an Australian owned, multigenerational family run business.
From humble beginnings
Belgravia Leisure’s story began in 1974 when founder Geoff Lord, an Australian living in London’s Belgravia Square, set out to build something he could be proud of, and that would make a genuine difference to people’s lives.
Starting in the golf industry, Geoff steadily grew the business through acquisition and diversification. This journey led to the creation of Belgravia Group, named after the square where Geoff’s dream was born. In 1990, Belgravia Leisure was launched with a clear vision to increase participation for all in sport, recreation and wellbeing.
Growth followed quickly, with Belgravia Leisure expanding across aquatic, sport, fitness, tourism and wellness facilities, and internationally into New Zealand. Inclusion has always been central to the organisation’s purpose, leading to the establishment of the Belgravia Foundation and later Belgravia Foundation Aotearoa.
snapshot
Who is Belgravia Leisure today?
Venues
Team Members
Contract partners
How we got here
1974 – 1989
The Beginning
Belgravia Leisure’s story began in 1974 with the establishment of Austgolf Management. As the business grew, it was acquired by the Belgravia Group, laying the foundations for what would become one of Australasia’s leading leisure management organisations. These early years established the values, expertise and ambition that continue to shape the business today.
Highlights
- Austgolf Management founded (1975)
- Acquired by Belgravia Group (1985)
1990 – 2004
Building the Business
The formation of Belgravia Leisure marked the beginning of a new chapter. Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, the organisation established itself within the recreation industry, securing new partnerships and steadily expanding its portfolio of managed facilities.
Highlights
- Belgravia Leisure established (1990)
- Continued growth through new partnerships and management opportunities
2005 – 2009
Rapid Growth
This period marked one of Belgravia’s most significant phases of expansion. The organisation broadened its portfolio across sport, wellness and leisure, reached the milestone of managing more than 50 facilities, expanded internationally into Abu Dhabi and refreshed its brand to reflect its growing national presence.
Highlights
- Melbourne Victory joins the Belgravia family (2006)
- 50 facilities under management
- Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa joins the portfolio
- Belgravia Leisure rebrand
- Expansion into Abu Dhabi
2010 – 2016
Expanding Across Australasia
Building on its momentum, Belgravia expanded into new regions and strengthened its presence across Australia and New Zealand. The business welcomed alpine resorts to its portfolio, entered the New Zealand market and surpassed 100 managed facilities, cementing its position as an industry leader.
Highlights
- Alpine Resorts added to the portfolio
- Expansion into New Zealand
- 100 facilities under management
2017 – 2022
Diversifying Our Impact
As the organisation continued to grow, Belgravia expanded beyond venue management into new services, community initiatives and workforce development. This era reflected a broader commitment to creating healthier, more connected communities while continuing to grow nationally.
Highlights
- Belgravia Foundation established
- Launch of BelgraviaPRO
- More than 220 venues under management
2023 – Today
Leading the Industry
Today, Belgravia Leisure continues to set the benchmark for leisure management across Australasia. From opening world-class wellness destinations to achieving internationally recognised certifications and strengthening its commitment to reconciliation and community impact, the organisation continues to evolve while remaining focused on creating active, healthy and connected communities.
Highlights
- Opening of Wai Ariki Hot Springs & Spa
- ISO Certification achieved
- Reconciliation Action Plan launched
- Multiple industry awards and recognition
- 260+ venues across Australia and New Zealand
- 8,000+ employees
