Is This Australia’s Most Expensive Gym?

Manly Swim centre (Sydney) is under fire for projected high price of getting fit at top-class facility

MANLY’S new Andrew Boy Charlton Swim Centre could be home to the most expensive gym on the northern beaches, charging more than $2700 a year for membership.

Fees listed in the council’s draft Community Strategic Plan lists an annual “fitness centre” membership fee of $2,766.40 a year, or $1,729 for six months. This equates to more than $55 a week for year members and $72 for half-yearly memberships.

Manly Mayor Jean Hay said she initially questioned the high cost and requested a review.

Councillor Candy Bingham slammed them as “insane”. “Is this the most expensive gym in Australia for what your membership covers?” she said.

“The independent councillors have been asking for a business plan for six months … this is supposed to be providing revenue to counter the cost of the new swim centre and all it will do is send people away in droves.”

According to a Manly Council spokesman, the fees will give members “access all areas” as well as use of all state-of-the-art equipment, pools, a sauna, steam room and spa. It also includes classes.

“Pricing of comparable high-standard services informed the pricing structure which is heavily discounted to attract and retain members,” he said.The spokesman said there would be about $400,000 worth of gym equipment.

Cr Hay said she thought the “introductory offer” pricing was fair, which offers yearly memberships for $1990 and half-yearly memberships at $1245. The deal expires on January 31, 2017. A casual visit to the gym will cost $19.00.