Safety, Respect And A Positive Start To The New Year With Fitness Cartel Mackay

As the new year begins, many Mackay locals are setting fresh intentions around health, strength and overall wellbeing. For those looking to reset, refocus or simply start where they are, Fitness Cartel Mackay has quickly positioned itself as a premier all in one gym and wellness destination, built around community, support and results.

Recently opened on 27th November 2025, the facility has already attracted a strong and growing membership base, offering an expansive and inclusive approach to fitness that caters to all levels. However, like many businesses navigating growth and innovation, Fitness Cartel Mackay found itself in the spotlight after a Mackay woman raised concerns on a community page about a camera allegedly positioned above shower stalls in the wellness area.

While the post sparked online debate, Co Franchisee Cliff Forster said the matter was addressed swiftly, transparently and in collaboration with authorities.

“One of our members raised a concern about the camera in the restrooms and we take that seriously,” Mr Forster said.

“As soon as police advised us the cameras needed to be removed, they were taken down. They are now in the process of being relocated outside of the bathrooms.”

Mr Forster explained the cameras were AI operated and installed by a security company as part of a tailgating prevention system, designed to ensure only authorised members accessed the Wellness Centre.

“The cameras were set up directly above the security swiper panel in the male and female restroom, positioned above the security door access into the Wellness Area,” he said.

“They are fixed lens cameras, which do not have capacity for panning, tilting, moving or zooming. Focused only on the swiper panel, they are activated by AI technology to ensure authorised access only. No member’s privacy was ever breached.”

He added that the system only recorded when more than one person entered at once.

“If one person walked through, it wouldn’t record. It only activated if multiple people entered together, to capture tailgating and help ensure safety for our members – which is our number one priority.”

Despite reassurance that no harmful or inappropriate footage existed, Mr Forster acknowledged the concern caused and apologised for any distress it may have caused members, as well as the general public.

“We absolutely understand the concerns of the public and the member who raised the issue,” he said.

“We apologise if this caused any sort of concern. The camera system was designed and installed by our security provider, and once we received guidance in conjunction with the Mackay Police, the cameras were removed swiftly.”

Fitness Cartel Mackay also issued a public statement confirming the cameras had been disabled and removed, working closely with Mackay Police to ensure full compliance. Footage shared proves the only shower cubicle in camera-shot had been blacked out, with only the doorway, entry, and card swipe access point visible.

“Our intention was always safety,” Mr Forster said.

“We strive to make this gym a respectful place for our members, and that will never change.”

More importantly, Mr Forster said the situation has not impacted the gym’s thriving membership base, with the facility continuing to operate as normal and welcoming members into the new year with confidence.

Beyond the headlines, Fitness Cartel Mackay remains focused on what it set out to do from day one, creating a supportive, inclusive and comprehensive health and wellness environment for the Mackay community.

More than just a gym, the centre offers a full spectrum of training and Wellness options under one roof. Members have access to extensive strength and cardio zones, functional training areas, Reformer Pilates, cycle studios and dedicated beginner spaces designed to remove the intimidation factor for those just starting out.

The Wellness Centre introduces premium recovery experiences including hot and cold plunge pools, hot rock sauna, compression therapy and red-light therapy, reinforcing the idea that recovery is just as important as training itself.

A wide range of group fitness classes is included with every membership, encouraging consistency, motivation and connection. Add childcare facilities, social spaces and a welcoming atmosphere, and many of the traditional barriers to getting started are removed.

As the new year unfolds, Fitness Cartel Mackay offers options to suit every lifestyle, every goal and every starting point. Whether you are returning to training after a break, stepping into a gym for the first time, or committing to long-term wellbeing, the new year is the perfect opportunity to set fresh goals and create healthy habits that last.

There has never been a better time to prioritise yourself, invest in your health and make fitness a regular part of your life. With a supportive team, world-class facilities and a community atmosphere, Fitness Cartel Mackay makes it simple to start strong, stay motivated and feel confident in your journey.

Now is the time to turn "One Day" into "Day One" and inspire a healthier you, at Fitness Cartel Mackay

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View from the AI cameras installed at the entryway of the male and female restrooms, designed to monitor and prevent tailgating, ensuring member safety. The cameras have now been removed and will be relocated to the outside of the restroom. Image supplied

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