Fitness Australia names new Chief Executive

Fitness Australia has today announced the appointment of Barrie Elvish as its new Chief Executive, tasking him with continuing to drive the development of the association, as it evolves to meet the needs of members, the industry and its consumers.

Announcing the appointment, Fitness Australia Chair, Jayne Blake advised “Barrie offers some great expertise and a relevant new perspective in an area that he knows well from his experience with similar not-for-profit organisations.

“Having spent the past five years in CEO roles in the health sector including Autism SA and Wimmera Uniting Care, I’m very confident that Barrie will take Fitness Australia to the next level.”

With his key skills comprising teaching, marketing and business development, Elvish aims to build on Fitness Australia’s well-established foundations to support the Association in achieving its vision of empowering the industry to have more Australians be more active, more often.

Elvish advised “I’m here to ensure that any necessary changes are made, whilst being guided by our members, and the needs of the fitness industry.

“I want to build a professional association that continues to support the fitness industry in delivering services to create healthier communities.”

With a passion for his family, running and water sports, Elvish began his career began his professional career as a senior secondary teacher focusing on outdoor education and history.

Upon leaving teaching he was appointed as the South Australian Manager of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and after completing his MBA, Barrie took up several marketing and business development roles in the not-for-profit and Association sectors, working for such organisations as the National Trust, St John Ambulance and the independent school sector.

His life achievements include completing the Kokoda Trail and Machu Picchu treks.