Wests Group members blindsided by news the not-for-profit organisation has permanently closed two of its five Balance Collective health clubs have expressed shock and disappointment at the decision.
Gyms in NSW were forced to close their doors in March due to the coronavirus pandemic but were given the green light to reopen with restrictions from June 13.
But Balance Cardiff and Nelson Bay members who were looking forward to getting back into the gym after nearly three months off were met with what Shoal Bay 64-year-old Neil Edwards described as "devastating" news instead.
A Wests Group spokesperson told the Newcastle Herald members were notified through email and SMS last week but Mr Edwards said many members only learned of the closure through the Balance Collective website, which states: "Due to the COVID-19 government imposed restrictions we have made the difficult decision to not reopen Balance Cardiff and Nelson Bay clubs."
A Balance Collective media statement provided to the Herald, stated the gyms have "not been economically viable for some time" and that it was "consolidating its operations to three health clubs being Balance Mayfield, City and New Lambton".
Gym memberships for Cardiff and Nelson Bay have been suspended. Members can instead access another club or have any amount paid in advance refunded.
"We're all devastated," Mr Edwards told the Herald. "The feeling, that most of the people are feeling, is that the Wests club are not there for the community; they're only there for their profit. On their website, they state they're there for accommodation, entertainment and fitness and health, and they promote that across the region. Now, they're not going to do that by not opening up Cardiff and not opening up Nelson Bay.
"It's a not-for-profit club and to me it stands for the community. They give donations to community sports and schools and put back into the community, but one of the greatest things is promoting health in the community ... It's pretty disappointing. Talking to all of the people I know who go there, they're all gutted."
Fingal Bay's Gloria Doyle, 65, is among members urging Wests Group to reconsider its decision.
"Surely the health and well-being of your members is of paramount importance, especially in these current times," Ms Doyle said.
"The Balance gym offered so much more than just an exercise room. This intimate gym became a social hub of the club forging many friendships and camaradarie. It was also a rehabilitation gym for our older members who require continued support."
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