New management secured for Chifley Health and Wellbeing Centre following closure by YMCA

The Chifley Health and Wellbeing Hub, located in Canberra, will reopen under new management following the closure of the gym by the YMCA in April.

Equipd Allied Health will provide members with access to clinical and gym services, opening the gym in two stages with clinical services starting from 1st August 2024.

Stage two of the reopening will see the resumption of all gym services from 1st September 2024. This includes access to new cardiovascular training equipment, pin loaded fixed weights and strength equipment, free weights, balance balls, yoga equipment and accessories.

The ACT Government has invested $350,000 for new clinical and gym equipment for the Chifley Health and Wellbeing Hub and an additional $123,000 for upgrades and improvements to the facility.  These investments will support a smooth transition for the August opening date and ensure current and future members have access to a fit-for-purpose and modern environment that supports their health and wellbeing.

There will be a new clinical treatment room and testing equipment, and exercise and resistance training equipment for National Disability Insurance Scheme and Department of Veteran Affairs community members.

The centre has been described as a safe place for people with disability, the elderly and those with long term complex health issues.

The YMCA's closure of the Chifley Health and Wellness Centre shocked members, who said they were losing an accessible, safe place to workout.

In April, Chris Walburn, 76, one of a group of upset senior members of the former Y Chifley Health and Wellness Centre, told CityNews “We might be old, we might be disabled, but we’re still part of the community.”

Former doctor Tom Walker, 88 also told City News “It’s a mental thing as well as a physical one. At the front, you’ll see a notice, ‘the gym that feels like family,’ and it does.”

ACT Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith noted “we heard clearly from gym members, health professionals and the wider community how much they valued the services provided at the Chifley Health and Wellbeing Hub.

“The continuation of this service will ensure people with disability, older people and those with chronic conditions can access support and services in a welcoming and tailored environment.

“The ACT Government has a strong focus on delivering more health services in the community and we’re pleased to have secured a new provider who understands the needs of members and shares our commitment to delivering evidence-based and holistic care.”

ACT Minister Chris Steel added “The ACT Government’s intervention to continue this service will ensure quality clinical, physical fitness and wellbeing services for Canberrans on the Southside.

“The gym at Chifley Wellbeing Hub is a unique model which has supported the positive ageing of our community and people of all abilities.

“We hope this new service will provide continuity for the community members under the management of Equipd Allied Health.

“I want to thank community group members for their support and involvement in helping to secure the future of this important facility.”

Dylan Grubb, Equipd Allied Health advised “The opening of the Chifley Health and Wellbeing Hub marks an exciting opportunity where specialist clinical and gym services can recommence for community members.

“My team will consist of both familiar faces and prospective new health professionals and administrative staff.

“We are dedicated to supporting the most vulnerable members of our community and fostering genuine connections through compassionate care, professional excellence, and evidence-based practices.

“Our number one goal as health professionals is managing risk in an exercise setting and we have clinical equipment coming that will ensure gold standard of care.

“For stakeholders considering reestablishing previous referral pathways, I would ask that they reach out through the contact following channels.”

Website: www.equipdalliedhealth.com.au
General Enquires: admin@equipdalliedhealth.com.au
Referrals: referrals@equipdalliedhealth.com.au

Image. Chifley Gym Credit YMCA