Franchisees and their staff were up for a number of prestigious accolades at Anytime Fitness’ annual gala awards, which were held at the Ivy Ballroom in Sydney on 14 November. 

The brand’s master franchisors in Australia, Justin McDonell and Jacinta Jimenez-McDonell attended the awards along with 330 franchisees, staff and suppliers. 

Anytime’s US-based founders Chuck Runyon and Dave Mortensenn made a virtual appearance on the night, presenting a speech via a conference call. 

The Biggest Loser trainer and Anytime Fitness ambassador, Shannan Ponton presented winners the awards, which spanned eight categories.

Sandi Reay, the franchisee of Anytime Fitness clubs in Bondi Junction and Merrylands, took out the Franchisee of the Year award, meanwhile Kallangur franchisee Lachlan Creighton was named Emerging Franchisee of the Year.

Multi-unit franchisee Steve Ankers received the Franchisee Community Award for his active involvement in the communities in which his clubs are located – Campbelltown, Hoxton Park and Mount Annan.

The Manager of the Year award was presented to Rachel Puntel of Anytime Fitness Sutherland, meanwhile Dubbo franchisee Steuart Park took out the Turnaround Club of the Year award.

Anytime Fitness in Geelong, which is owned by Rob Panetta, was named Club of the Year and Travis Roche of Corrimal took out the Personal Trainer of the Year title. 

The Community Outreach Club of the Year was awarded to Wetherwill Park franchisee, Greg Cromie. 

While the gym franchise recognises every one of its franchisees and their staff members contributed to the brand’s success over the past 12 months, the aforementioned award winners really stood out from the pack.