On Tuesday 1 July, Bayswater Council adopted its 2025/26 Budget and made the difficult decision to close the gym and crèche at Morley Sport and Recreation Centre.
This decision was not taken lightly and considered the current usage of the gym, its financial sustainability and the number of both City-owned and privately operated gyms in the nearby area.
The gym, group fitness classes and crèche at the Morley Sport and Recreation Centre will continue operating, as usual, for the next three months while City officers work on a transition plan.
This transition plan will consider both the relocation of existing programs and transfer of gym memberships to existing City recreational facilities.
We thank you for your patience and will continue to keep you informed as more information becomes available.
Please read the below FAQ’s for further information. If you have any further questions, please contact the Recreation team at any of our centres.
Why is the City closing the Gym and Creche services at Morley Sport & Recreation Centre?
- The decision to close the gym and crèche at Morley Sport & Recreation Centre was not taken lightly. It followed careful consideration of several factors, including low usage levels, the aging condition of the facility, limited accessibility, and the ongoing financial sustainability of these services.
- The City also considered the availability of other gym and fitness providers in the area, both City-owned and privately operated, which offer a range of accessible alternatives for the community.
- Looking ahead, the City will be developing a masterplan for the Morley Sport & Recreation Centre during this financial year. This will guide the future of the facility and identify the upgrades needed to better meet the evolving needs of the community.
When are the Gym & Crèche services closing?
- The Morley Sport & Recreation Centre Gym and Crèche will continue to operate until 30 September 2025. During this time, we welcome members to enjoy all our services as usual. In addition, we’re pleased to offer access to Bayswater Waves for members who’d like to explore its fantastic facilities.
How will the City be communicating the closure of the gym and creche facilities?
- We will keep the community informed through regular updates on our website.
- Gym and crèche members will also receive direct updates via email.
- Our team at Morley Sport & Recreation Centre will be available to answer any questions in person or over the phone to support a smooth transition.
Is the Group Fitness program ending?
- Most of our Group Fitness classes will continue to be delivered at Morley Sport & Recreation Centre, so you can keep enjoying your favourite sessions with familiar instructors and community.
What’s happening with the Spin Room?
- To continue delivering a high-quality and safe experience, Spin and RPM classes will be relocated to Bayswater Waves.
- The current Spin Room at Morley Sport & Recreation Centre can no longer accommodate the growing number of bikes and participants safely.
- Moving these classes to Bayswater Waves ensures we can maintain safety standards while supporting the continued growth of these popular programs.
What will happen with bookings on the courts for programs for the community?
- This decision will not impact existing bookings of the City’s court facilities at Morley Sport and Recreation Centre. Programs delivered by community groups such as Prime Movers and East Perth Basketball Association will continue without disruption.
Will Strength for Life be relocated?
- The City is committed to continuing the Strength for Life (SFL) program in collaboration with COTA (Council on the Ageing), the program’s governing body.
- Gym-based Strength for Life classes will be relocated to Bayswater Waves, where appropriate equipment and facilities are available.
- At the same time, the City is exploring alternative Strength for Life classes at Morley Sport & Recreation Centre that do not require gym equipment, to keep the program accessible at both venues.
- Our aim is to offer diversified Strength for Life options across the two sites, with minimal disruption and consistent class times at Morley where possible.
- Participants will be kept informed as plans are finalised, and we’re committed to supporting a smooth transition.
What will happen with my membership?
- While the City is still finalising the transition plan, we’re pleased to confirm that all members will continue to have access to all City of Bayswater recreation facilities. Memberships will be upgraded at no additional cost. This includes access to the gym and group fitness programs at Bayswater Waves and the RISE, as well as the group fitness program at the Morley Sport and Recreation Centre.
- Alternatively, members may choose to cancel their membership without any penalties or cancellation fees.
- More details about membership options and support during the transition will be shared with members soon.
When are Bayswater Waves and The RISE gyms less busy?
- Both Bayswater Waves and The RISE typically experience quieter periods between 11:00am and 2:00pm each day.