Accelerate your business with AUSactive’s new ConnectX
Exclusive exercise business network and administration program
AUSactive is kicking off 2025 with the official launch of ConnectX Thursday 20 February, a new and exclusive members-only exercise business network and business administration program 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 CEO Barrie Elvish said with record growth in independent gym operators and more than 7,311* gyms and fitness centres in Australia, ConnectX was about helping owners and operators take their business to the next level.
“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,” Mr Elvish said.
“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.”
ConnectX Official Launch
Join AUSactive next Thursday, 20th February for the ConnectX & XBA Discovery Webinar.
Register now here.
ConnectX Key Highlights:
- ConnectX Facebook Group for networking & expert discussions
- XBA Mini MBA-style education series covering finance, HR, and marketing
- Live Event in Melbourne (March 29, 2025) aligned with the AUS Fitness Expo
- On-demand courses & monthly expert webinars starting February 2025.
The first ConnectX live event, XBA Live, will be held in March in Melbourne and is designed to offer a transformative experience for fitness businesses and showcase what ConnectX can offer.
Hosted at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on Saturday 29th March 2025, the 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.
AUSactive CEO Barrie Elvish said XBA Live in March was 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.
“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 panelists.
“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.”
XBA Live Event Details
- Date: Saturday, 29 March 2025
- Time: 9:00AM – 3:30PM
- Venue: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC)
- Tickets via https://events.humanitix.com/
ausactive-xba-live - Early bird AUSactive Member tickets $50 (plus processing fee)
- Early bird Non-Member tickets $80 (plus processing fee)
Key Topics Include:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 panelists for XBA Live 2025 will be announced by AUSactive in the coming weeks. Secure your tickets now to take advantage of early bird discounts.
For more information about and to purchase tickets to the XBA Live event on Saturday 29 March head to https://events.humanitix.com/
Barrie brings over 20 years’ CEO experience of successful organisational change, strategic development and business growth across a range of sectors such as Education, Health and Community Services.
You’ll regularly hear Barrie talking about his passions and experiences including surfing, Triathlons, keeping his mental health and wellbeing strong through exercise, trekking the Kokoda Trail and Macchu Pichu, Led Zeppelin and Hot Rods – all for the purpose of making meaningful connections. Barrie has a longstanding personal and professional interest in adventure play for children and is currently completing a Doctorate in Early Childhood Education.
Today Barrie is proud to be the CEO of AUSactive, the peak national health and fitness industry association activating everybody, every way, every day.