AusLeisure

AUSactive is launching its new and exclusive members-only exercise business network and business administration program - ConnectX - next Thursday 20th February.

The ConnectX and XBA Discovery Webinar will be followed by the first ConnectX live event, XBA Live, to be held on Saturday 29th March at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre - coinciding with the AusFitness Expo.

The ConnectX program is designed to support small, medium and independent businesses through XBA live events, webinars, and on-demand education content.  

ConnectX is free for AUSactive members and is targeted at business owners and operators who are seeking additional resources to help their day-to-day business operations, while keeping ahead of the curve with industry insights and knowledge to propel their business.

AUSactive Chief Executive Barrie Elvish said with record growth in independent gym operators and more than 7,300 gyms and fitness centres in Australia, ConnectX was about helping owners and operators take their business to the next level.

Elvish enthused “running a successful health and fitness business means navigating complex challenges while staying ahead of industry trends and AUSactive is thrilled to announce the launch of ConnectX, a network, administration and education program to support our members and the industry to operate more effectively and efficiently.

“ConnectX will give our members exclusive access to live events, webinars and on-demand content through our iLearn Platform which will cover important business topics such as finance, marketing, wellness, HR and legal.”

The first ConnectX live event, XBA Live, will be held on 29th March at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre and is designed to offer a transformative experience for fitness businesses and showcase what ConnectX can offer.

XBA Live will align with the AUS Fitness Expo, running in Melbourne from 29th to 30th March.

The XBA Live program already includes an impressive lineup of guest speakers including Dr Betul Sekendiz, Associate Professor of Business and Sport Management, ICMS; Christie Boucher, Risk Services Manager, Guild Insurance; Christopher Melotti, Brand Comms Consultant, Marketing Adviser, Strategic Copywriter and AI Ethicist: and Dr Marc Cohen, Medical Doctor, University Professor, Author and Entrepreneur.

Adding that XBA Live in March will be the perfect event to kick off the dedicated ConnectX program given the all-round business focus and emphasis on providing valuable insights to help owners and operators take their business to the next level, Elvish added “At XBA Live attendees will gain valuable insights into managing risks, leveraging technology, boosting profitability, and tapping into emerging opportunities from a high calibre lineup of guest speakers and panellists.

“The one-day event is ideal for independent gym owners, franchisee, boutique studio operators, and fitness entrepreneurs looking to take their businesses to the next level. It’s a fantastic opportunity to future-proof your business and connect with the best minds in the industry.”

Key Topics Include:

1. Work Health & Safety (WHS): Beyond Compliance: Discover strategies to identify and manage common risks in fitness facilities, engage staff and members in creating a culture of safety, and implement proactive policies to protect your business.
2. Wellness Trends and Market Opportunities: Explore the rise of recovery services like saunas, ice baths, and mindfulness spaces, and learn how personalised wellness experiences and contrast therapy are reshaping member expectations.
3. Marketing and Member Engagement: Master the art of creating authentic social media content, craft a compelling brand story to showcase your unique selling points, and implement strategies to build long-term member loyalty

More speakers and panellists for XBA Live 2025 will be announced by AUSactive in the coming weeks.

ConnectX Official Launch
Join AUSactive next Thursday, 20th February for the ConnectX and XBA Discovery Webinar. Register now  

ConnectX Key Highlights:

• ConnectX Facebook Group for networking and expert discussions
• XBA Mini MBA-style education series covering finance, HR, and marketing
• Live Event in Melbourne (29th March 2025) aligned with the AUS Fitness Expo
• On-demand courses and monthly expert webinars starting February 2025.

XBA Live Event Details

• Date: Saturday 29th March 2025
• Time: 9:00AM - 3:30PM
• Venue: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC)
• Tickets 
  Early bird AUSactive Member tickets $50 (plus processing fee)
  Early bird Non-Member tickets $80 (plus processing fee)

More speakers and panellists for XBA Live 2025 will be announced by AUSactive in the coming weeks.

Click here for more details on XBA Live in the Australasian Leisure Management Industry Calendar

Click here for more details on the AusFitness Expo Melbourne in the Australasian Leisure Management Industry Calendar

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