VIC Active questions remaining caps on Victorian gym operations

VIC Active spokesperson, Tim Schleiger has questioned measures associated with Victoria’s last step Coronavirus measures, asking who “who is expected to pay for the mandated COVIDSafe marshals?” and highlighting disadvantages faced by 24/7 facilities needing to have marshals “in place around the clock”.

Welcoming the Victorian Government taking the state into the last step of its Coronavirus restrictions, Schleiger advised “the fitness industry has a sense of optimism for the first time since March and we acknowledge that today’s re-opening announcement by the Premier goes some way to normality for Victorians.”

However, Schleiger (pictured) went on to state “the patron cap of 150 people is a start but who is expected to pay for the mandated COVIDSafe marshals? 24-hour facilities are now operating at a major disadvantage because marshals must be in place around the clock while in the past no staff would be on site from 10pm to 6am … an additional 8-hour shift for a business to carry.

“Marshals are no longer required in NSW and Queensland even though case numbers in both states are now higher than found in Victoria (and) why are group classes limited to just 20 people? Would 25 people in one room be any riskier than 19? I doubt it!”

“Fitness centres around the state have been financially smashed during (Victorian) Government imposed lockdowns. Owners received a token $5000 grant to keep us at bay. This is despite the Premier on numerous occasions saying that he would consider additional financial support for owners because lockdowns have impacted our sector incredibly harshly.”

Schleiger went on to say “VIC Active remains worried for the survival of our sector. Business owners have staff to pay, rent on premises and equipment and some have mortgages to meet.

“Why then - on the back of 23 consecutive days of zero infections and zero deaths - are fitness centres allowed to operate only under severe restrictions. Surely, it’s time for the Premier to acknowledge our argument that we are COVID Safe as has been proven in every other state and territory around Australia.

“To use a boxing analogy - let us fight fairly and allow us to use both hands instead of having one tied behind our backs.

“Victorians have formed bad habits during lockdowns. People have put on weight, stopped moving and we know many indicators are pointing to a long-term physical and mental health catastrophe. It may sound dramatic but the fact is fitness centres and outdoor operators with professionally trained staff will play a central role in helping Victorians get back into shape.”