Go for Gold inspires the community to get active

Published on 03 September 2026

Active Stonnington’s Go for Gold challenge has just wrapped up after six weeks of friendly competition, inspiring community members to get moving, explore new activities and embrace the spirit of the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

Running from 6 July to 16 August, participants were invited to complete 15 activities across our three leisure centres, collecting stamps in a special passport along the way. Once completed, passports were entered into a draw to win free memberships.

The response was overwhelmingly positive, with participants discovering new ways to get active, stepping outside their comfort zones, and finding fresh motivation to prioritise their health and wellbeing.

Gold winner finds his way back to exercise

Gold prize winner Roni said the challenge came at the perfect time after a period away from exercise.

"The challenge gave me the motivation to get active again " he said.

One of the highlights for Roni was playing pickleball at Margaret Connellan Stadium.

"I didn’t realise social pickleball was available with Active Stonnington. Being able to share the experience with my daughter was very rewarding.”

Long-time member embraces the excitement

For Catherine, the recipient of the silver prize, the challenge added an extra layer of fun and excitement to her regular fitness routine.

"I've been a member for years and loved the excitement of the challenge," she said. "I already enjoy coming in for my daily sessions, but having the passport gave me something extra to work towards."

Catherine said she was delighted when she learned she had won.

"I was thrilled to win and loved being part of something that brought members together."

A great introduction for new members

Bronze winner Xuan (Tran) joined as a member during the challenge and credits it with helping him make the most of everything the centres have to offer.

Xuan was looking for access to both gym and pool facilities and found the challenge was a great opportunity to get started.

"Go for Gold was a great introduction to the facility." he said. "I was interested in using the pool as well as the gym, and the challenge encouraged me to explore different areas and activities."

Xuan also praised the support he received from staff.

"The instructors have been very welcoming and helpful. Their guidance has made it easy to get started and feel comfortable trying new things."

Celebrating movement and coming together

From members returning to exercise after a break, to long-time users rediscovering their enthusiasm, and newcomers finding their place, Go for Gold captured the inclusive and active spirit of both the Commonwealth Games and our local leisure centres.

By encouraging people to explore new activities, connect with others and celebrate movement in all its forms, Go for Gold inspired lasting healthy habits and created memorable experiences.

Congratulations to Roni, Catherine and Xuan, and thank you to everyone who participated and helped make the challenge such a success.