Belgravia Leisure is proud to be leading the next chapter of Active Merri-bek, celebrating the dedicated team members who help create welcoming, inclusive and community-focused leisure experiences every day.
During July, Belgravia Leisure commenced management of six Active Merri-bek venues across Melbourne’s north: Brunswick Baths, Fawkner Leisure Centre, Coburg Leisure Centre, Oak Park Sports and Aquatic Centre, Pascoe Vale Outdoor Pool and Coburg Olympic Swimming Pool.
As part of this transition, Belgravia Leisure is building on the strong foundations already established across the precinct. The focus remains on providing safe and accessible opportunities for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities to connect through sport, recreation, health and wellbeing.
Supporting community wellbeing across Merri-bek
The team members working across the Active Merri-bek precinct bring decades of combined experience in aquatics, fitness, customer service, operations and community engagement. Their stories reflect the diversity, passion and local knowledge that help make these venues valued community hubs.
Aylie Spence, Business Operations Manager at Belgravia Leisure has led the operational transition across Active Merri-bek. Aylie said:
“Active Merri-bek venues play an important role in helping our communities stay active, build social connections and improve their wellbeing. We’d like to thank every team member who has supported guests, colleagues and our contract partners throughout the transition process.”
Aylie added that introducing Exercise Physiology services and launching community consultation are highlights the team are looking forward to seeing evolve in the months ahead.
Brunswick Baths – building on an iconic community legacy
Irene Smith, Venue Manager at Brunswick Baths has joined the team from Belgravia Leisure’s New Zealand operations and says she is excited to lead one of Melbourne’s most recognisable aquatic venues.
“This is a truly iconic venue with a rich history and a special place in the hearts of locals. I look forward to building on this legacy by strengthening our ties to community, expanding our program offerings and ensuring we continue to meet the evolving needs of our patrons.”
A passion for helping people thrive
Health Club and Group Fitness Instructor Phil Grace has proudly supported the Merri-bek community for more than 27 years across multiple sites.
“I am proud to be working in the health and wellness space at Active Merri-bek, continuing to share my passion and experience with others. Some of the most rewarding moments for me come from celebrating the achievements of members and guests.”
Health Club team members and Personal Trainers Mehdi Mashhoutpour and Enaam Dayoub share Phil’s commitment to helping community members achieve their goals.
“I’m passionate about my work here making a difference in the community, especially coming from a country where women don’t have the same political or legal rights,” said Enaam.
“Being a Syrian woman living in Australia gives me the freedom to be who I want to be. I love helping others build confidence and improve their wellbeing.”
Fawkner Leisure Centre – creating welcoming experiences every day
At Fawkner, Kiosk Coordinator Jasmine Thompson is looking forward to growing within a dynamic team environment.
A biomedicine science student with a strong passion for music, coffee and connecting with people, Jasmine has worked as a barista for over four years, developing a genuine appreciation for the hospitality industry.
“I’m naturally people-oriented and I enjoy creating welcoming experiences through thoughtful service, strong communication and small interactions that can genuinely brighten someone’s day.”
Oak Park Sports and Aquatic Centre – strong teams creating positive outcomes
Tim Debono, Venue Manager at Oak Park Sports and Aquatic Centre commented:
“At Oak Park, we are creating a culture where people feel safe to speak up, empowered to take initiative and confident to solve problems, knowing that ownership will be supported and their effort will be recognised.”
Tim added that when people feel valued, trusted and challenged to grow, that flows directly into the exceptional experience the team creates for members and communities.
Coburg Leisure Centre – creating a destination for health and wellbeing
Brad Norton, Venue Manager at Coburg Leisure Centre, added:
“My goal is to build on Coburg Leisure Centre’s legacy as a venue where our members, guests and team feel valued, supported and inspired. By focusing on exceptional customer experiences, team member development and our community, we can provide a safe, welcoming destination for health and connection.”
What this means for the Merri-bek community
Belgravia Leisure remains focused on providing inclusive, community-centred experiences across all Active Merri-bek venues in Brunswick, Coburg, Fawkner, Oak Park and Pascoe Vale.
By building on existing strengths and supporting local teams, the organisation aims to enhance opportunities for participation, wellbeing, social connection and active lifestyles.
The transition also creates opportunities to strengthen programs, partnerships and experiences that support long-term community health and wellbeing outcomes across the City of Merri-bek. To learn more about Active Merri-bek, visit the website here.
Key facts:
- Belgravia Leisure commenced management of six Active Merri-bek venues in July.
- The venues are located across Brunswick, Coburg, Fawkner, Oak Park and Pascoe Vale.
- Active Merri-bek includes Brunswick Baths, Fawkner Leisure Centre, Coburg Leisure Centre, Oak Park Sports and Aquatic Centre, Pascoe Vale Outdoor Pool and Coburg Olympic Swimming Pool.
- The focus of the transition is maintaining safe, welcoming and inclusive experiences for local communities.
- Belgravia Leisure is committed to supporting health, wellbeing, participation and community connection through accessible leisure services.
- Belgravia Leisure partners with more than 100 local and state government authorities and manages more than 260 venues across Australia and New Zealand.
