Phillip Island Leisure Centre took out the top honours as Facility Management of the Year of its category in the 2024 Aquatic and Recreation Victoria (ARV) Awards announced at Melbourne Park on Friday 21 June.
PILC is managed by YMCA Victoria (the Y) on behalf of Bass Coast Shire Council. The centre offers inclusive programming for all ages plus youth programs both from the centre and via its partner site YES Youth Hub.
The Y’s Bass Coast Area Manager Rebecca Wilson thanked the Y team and Council for the ongoing support that makes PILC a standout performer in the industry for its commitment to community wellbeing.
As a not-for-profit the Y invests funds directly back into the Bass community and we respond to what our community tells us they need.
Our health and wellness programs, gymnastics programs for those experiencing disadvantage and a free meals, food pantry and laundry for young people at risk of homelessness are examples of how we deliver impact where its needed,” Rebecca said.
Responding to community needs pays off. The decision to transform gym access to 24/7 in 2023 to enable shift workers and those needing a quieter time to exercise led to a 35 per cent jump in memberships.
Group fitness classes also pumped up in popularity with a 25% growth in the last half of 2023. EVOLT body scan technology was also included to the Personal Planning process for members at no cost – helping members with personal data and goal setting
The ARV Award category Facility Management of the Year (Small) compares centres of a similar financial scale on key criteria including innovation, environmental goals, business performance, community partnerships and impact.
“At PILC our team cares about every person that comes through our doors or may have an issue to overcome to become healthier and more connected. Community is always at the heart of everything we do,” Rebecca said.
We can’t wait to share this award with the Bass Coast community who make our centre so remarkable.
Recent social impact research from PILC members:
- 94% of respondents met the Physical Activity Guidelines (regardless of if they were aware of them or not), more than 40% higher than the state average (54%).
- 95% of respondents engage in physical activity at the centre
- Participants reported an average life satisfaction score of 8.58 out of 10 surpassing the state average (7.22%).
- 100% of respondents stated that the Y contributes to their life satisfaction, whether significantly or to some extent.
- 73% of respondents connect with others through the centre and around 70% feel more connected to their community as a result.