Golden North Social Connections in Bendigo has a new accessible gym on-site thanks to the support of the local business community.
The project was funded by a grant of more than $10,200 from The Honda Foundation, with the backing of Scott Innes, Dealer Principal at Innes Motors, who endorsed our grant application.
The gym equipment – which is suitable for all abilities – was provided by Intersport Bicknells who helped source the equipment at lower costs.
This support has allowed Golden North Social Connections to offer clients an accessible and safe space to exercise to support their physical and mental wellbeing.
The Golden North Social Connections gym is a fully supported space for clients to exercise.
People with disability often experience barriers to physical activity, including gyms that aren't accessible or don’t have specialist equipment and support.
Kylie Rowe, Coordinator of Golden North Social Connections, said her team noticed these challenges among their clients and wanted to fill the gap.
“We saw a real need within our community. Many of our clients, especially those with complex and multiple disabilities, were not able to access local gyms or find the specialised equipment that would allow them to participate in regular physical activity, especially with the increase in costs,” said Kylie.
“The gym has already been in use every single day this year showing just how much demand there is for a space like this.”
Jenn and James are already enjoying the new gym.
The gym provides more than 70 clients living in the Bendigo area a fully supported space to improve their strength, mobility, coordination, and flexibility. But it’s about more than just physical activity.
“It’s about helping our clients set and achieve exercise-related goals, provide greater opportunities for social interaction, boost physical and mental health, build confidence, and improve quality of life,” said Kylie.
“We believe everyone, regardless of their abilities, should have the chance to engage in physical exercise and this gym provides the perfect private setting for that.”
Jamie loves participating in sports and is looking forward to building his strength in the gym.
Jamie loves to attend the sport and exercise programs offered at Golden North Social Connections – and has been making great use of the gym.
“I like using the weights,” said Jamie.
Jamie, who uses a wheelchair, recently required a hip replacement because of deterioration in his joints. Now that he has access to regular and well-structured exercise activities, his likelihood of further joint deterioration is reduced.
But the benefits extend far beyond the physical.
Jamie relies on his upper body strength to maneuver his wheelchair and complete daily tasks. Building and maintaining his strength in a gym that meets his needs means he can remain independent for as long as possible.
The Golden North Social Connections team officially opened the gym on Friday 17 January with clients, support workers, and members of the local community in attendance.
Carolyn McMahon, Chairperson of The Honda Foundation, said they were proud to support the work of Scope.
"At the core of Scope's work is a commitment to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities, and it is this dedication to the community that drives The Honda Foundation's commitment to helping others," said Carolyn.
"By purchasing new gym equipment for their facility, we aim to enhance the resources available to those they serve, empowering individuals to reach their personal goals and improve their overall wellbeing.”
Kylie said Scope is incredibly appreciative of the support from The Honda Foundation and thankful to the local businesses who helped bring the gym to life.
“This space is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together as a community to support people of all abilities,” said Kylie.
“I’m excited to see the positive impact this gym will have on the lives of our clients and the wider community.”
Kylie Rowe (third from left) and Scope’s CEO Kate MacRae (right) with the gym opening management team.
The previous Rotary Club of Essendon president, Vera Maljevac, originally became involved with St Albans Social Connections when she worked at Kangan TAFE and conducted a fundraiser for the program. This got the ball rolling for future support, including when the Rotary group funded the purchase of $1,500 of musical instruments for a music therapy program two years ago, which further cemented connections.
Emma Olivier is determined to move the dial on disability inclusion and see people with disability lead in every corner of our society.
Entries are now open for Kaleidoscope 2026, Scope's annual art exhibition celebrating the creativity and talent of people with disability.
