The fate of the gym at the Chifley Health and Wellbeing Hub has hung in the balance since the Y Canberra Region closed it in April. But now a new provider, Equipd Allied Health, will take over its running, in an upgraded facility.
Clinical services will begin from 1 August. These include a new clinical treatment room and testing equipment, and exercise and resistance training equipment for National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and Department of Veteran Affairs (DVA) community members. The gym has many members with disabilities, chronic health complaints, or who are elderly.
All gym services will re-open on 1 September. These include new cardiovascular training equipment, pin-loaded fixed weights and strength equipment, free weights, balance balls, yoga equipment and accessories.
“The opening of the Chifley Health and Wellbeing Hub marks an exciting opportunity where specialist clinical and gym services can recommence for community members,” Equipd’s Dylan Grubb said.
“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.”
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.
“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,” health minister Rachel Stephen-Smith said.
“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.”
Local MLA Chris Steel said: “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.”
Stakeholders who want to re-establishing referral pathways should do so via:
Website: www.equipdalliedhealth.com.au
General Enquiries: [email protected]
Referrals: [email protected]
