Security boost to help women feel safer at local gym

Women attending early morning and evening fitness classes in Nambour will be able to feel safer following a Queensland Government grant to strengthen security at a local gym that has been targeted by vandals.

Fit Kat Bootcamp, a boutique women-only gym, is among 62 small and family businesses awarded funding under the latest round of the $40 million Secure Communities Partnership Program.

The funding will allow the business to install upgraded surveillance systems, improve lighting and introduce additional measures aimed at deterring crime and anti-social behaviour.

Fit Kat founder and owner Katija Wilkinson said the business had experienced graffiti, vandalism, smashed windows and break-ins during the past few years.

“While thankfully nothing of significant value was taken, the damage left behind has created considerable stress, disruption, and expense for our business,” Ms Wilkinson said.

“As a ladies-only gym, safety is one of our highest priorities. Many of our members attend classes before sunrise or after dark, and we have had growing concerns from members about anti-social behaviour in the area.

“Women should never have to feel anxious walking into a gym to improve their health, yet for some of our members this has become a genuine concern.”

Ms Wilkinson said repeatedly cleaning up broken glass and graffiti, repairing damage and reassuring members had taken time and resources away from supporting the community.

“The funding will allow us to significantly strengthen security around our facility through upgraded surveillance systems, improved lighting, and additional security measures designed to deter criminal and anti-social behaviour,” she said.

“We hope these improvements will provide greater peace of mind for everyone who visits Fit Kat. Our members come to us not only for fitness but also for support, connection, and improved mental wellbeing.”

The program provides eligible Queensland small and family businesses with funding for measures including CCTV cameras, bollards, secure fencing, alarms and improved lighting.

Ms Wilkinson said security improvements benefited more than individual businesses.

“Safer businesses create safer public spaces, encourage community participation, and contribute to the overall wellbeing of the people who use those facilities every day,” she said.

Queensland Small Business Commissioner Nicolle Kelly said the program was an investment in the future of the state’s small businesses.

“By helping create safer environments to run a business, customers will feel comfortable and secure, which strengthens local businesses and builds thriving, connected communities,” Ms Kelly said.

Member for Nicklin Marty Hunt said small businesses shouldn’t have to deal with the financial burden and disruption caused by vandalism and anti-social behaviour.

“As a former police officer, I know that effective crime prevention measures such as improved lighting and surveillance can help deter offending. 

“This funding will help make the area safer for women attending classes early in the morning or after dark, while strengthening safety across our broader community.”

Applications for the current funding round remain open until June 30, or until all available funding has been allocated.

Fit Kat offers women-only training, combining bootcamp-style workouts with boxing, strength and cardio sessions, alongside one-on-one and group training options. www.fitkat.info

Fit Kat founder and owner Katija Wilkinson.