Team at the Green Apple have been specially handpicked. They have been chosen because of the person they are, and not just for what they look like (which is not always the case in our industry). The technical staff at the Green Apple genuinely like what they do and it shows. Team members Barbara, Brian and Victoria have been at the Green Apple for more than 30 years and are all ageing gracefully together! Staff attrition is very low which provides a very stable environment for members.
The team are fully qualified and are registered with Fitness Qld and/or Exercise and Sport Science Australia (ESSA). They remain current in the latest research and methodology within the industry and, as a group, do resuscitation annually and First Aid every 3 years.
Victoria
Managing Director
Owned and Managed the Green Apple Since 1978.
- Diploma of Clinical Remedial Therapies
- Certificate IV in Fitness
My vision has been to help willing people achieve extraordinary health and happiness outcomes! We have an integrated service of allied health, natural therapy and fitness practices under one umbrella. For over 35 years I have looked for the best people to help with this vision, and the Green Apple Team is the end result. Each team member has been specially chosen because of their attitude and passion and they are committed to learning and growing.
I constantly question the “whys” in our business and “who” we look after, which helps me decide how and when to introduce services and staff to meet community needs. This is why we introduced programs for Type 2 Diabetes, Osteoporosis and heart disease more than a decade ago and this health direction has been very rewarding. We are seeing very significant results.
I really want a happy environment for the Green Apple Team and every member — it makes life so much more rewarding and enjoyable.
Fitness Professionals
Brian
Brian
Fitness Professional with the Green Apple since 1981.
- Certificate IV in Fitness
- Freestyle Aerobics Instructor
- Mr Fix-it and Jack of All Trades (qualified sheet metal worker)
I am multi-skilled and I multi-task daily.
This includes:
- Keeping the Centre facilities and equipment totally functional
- Purchasing equipment
- Designing specialised equipment
- Being responsible for all renovations at the Centre
As a qualified registered Fitness Professional you may see me:
- At Reception
- Taking a Stretch or Step Class
- Or generally chatting with members
There are some great characters at the Green Apple with wonderful stories to share. It is a unique and very special place.
Brian’s Health Tips:
Favorite Inspirational Quotes
“Work Hard, Fear God and Keep your Mind and Bowels open!”
“Life is Not a Walk in the Park, so Lets Go Do it!”
What is Your Exercise Regime
Find a training partner you are compatible with and encourage each other as much as possible.
A Healthy Meal you Love to Have?
Roast anything! Vegies, gravy, tomato-sauce & mushy peas!
Share your healthy eating tips
Eat as low fat and sugar free as possible.
Challenge This…
Ride the Lift Fitness Bike each week — aiming to do 10km in 30 min — Learn to cut down on meal sizes.
Food for Thought…
Always have an enjoyable book to read and leave the remote, remote!
Barbara
Barbara
Fitness Professional with the Green Apple since 1981.
- Certificate IV in Fitness
- Freestyle Aerobics Instructor
- Pilates Instructor
- PowerPlate Instructor (Level 1)
I understand the importance of delivering best practice on the gym floor. I enjoy brainstorming with my team regularly so we are all up to date on the latest research and keep aligned with what the Green Apple is all about.
I am involved in many activities, including:
- Aerobic classes from low impact to high energy
- Circuit class which are a great cardiovascular workout
- Pilates, a good postural workout using core stability muscles
- Kai-Bo, a Combination of punches & kicks to music. A great stress buster!
- Program designing and Personal Training
The benefits of personal training are:
- To facilitate motivation
- To correct technique
- To ensure you are working effectively to achieve your goals
- To access my passion and my knowledge accrued over the past 30 years
Barbara’s Health Tips
What is a favorite Inspirational quote?
“Your comfort zone requires regular challenges to keep the body working well.”
What is your exercise regime?
Combination of running, strength and Yoga workouts
Do you have a healthy meal or snack you love to have?
I love Stir-Fry with lots of crunchy vegetables
Share your healthy eating tips
- PLAN — Weekly 2. BUY for menu 3. ENJOY
Balance what goes into your mouth and how you work it out!
Inspirational Challenge
Find 30 minutes daily for exercising — Anytime. Mark it on your calendar/diary/phone. Try to stick with this for a month. Feel the difference! Remember why you are doing this — for your own health and wellbeing!
Darrol
Darrol
Fitness Professional with the Green Apple since 2007.
- Certificate IV in Fitness
- Boxing Instructor
- Lift for Life Facilitator
- Heartmoves Facilitator
- PowerPlate Instructor (Level 1)
I feel very strongly about what we are delivering here at the Green Apple. I am a part of an integrated and supportive team and we all pool our various strengths to make it a very special place.
Some of my responsibilities include:
- Greeting and meeting at Reception
- Running Forever Active, Stronger for Longer and Boxing classes
- Designing new programs every 8 weeks for members
- Personal Training whether it be cardio, strength, Power-Plate or performing Maltron Tests
- Coordinating Expo’s and Outreach events
- Supervision of practicum students
- Monthly stocktake
- Chief Fire Warden
I also keep a vigilant eye on the cleanliness of the Green Apple to keep it an inviting place to exercise in.
Darrol’s Health Tips
What is your favorite Inspirational quote?
Smile and the whole world smiles with you!
What is your exercise regime?
I do two hour workouts three days a week and play golf on Saturdays.
A healthy meal or snack you love to have?
Cannot go past a big steak with mushroom sauce.
Share your healthy eating tips.
I eat at least 2 pieces of fruit a day.
Do you have a food challenge?
Treats are fine in moderation. My favorite food is apple turnover with real cream. I allow myself one per year.
Food for thought…
You can’t change history but you can be in control of your future.
Joyce
Joyce
Fitness Professional with the Green Apple since 2015.
- Certificate 3 and 4 in Fitness
- Diploma of Fitness
- Full Teaching Member of International Yoga Teacher’s Association
Yoga has been part of my life for just over fifty years, of which I have taught for twenty-five years. Our Green Apple yoga class is a friendly, happy group and always ready to welcome new students. If you are looking for an easy way to reduce stress and experience mental and emotional calm, come along and try a class. Along the way yoga brings increased flexibility and range of movement which both make our daily activities easier and more enjoyable.
About six years ago I became aware of the importance of fitness as part of a personal wellness program and qualified as an Exercise Professional. My passion is progressive resistance exercise as a proven way to increase and maintain lean muscle mass.
Exercise can help us do what we want to do for long and so experience increased quality of life, independence and dignity as we age. We are never too young or too old to benefit from exercise and as a later starter I believe it is better late than never.
Being part of the Green Apple team is one of the most exciting experiences of my life; I am keen to share my passion as a Buddy, Personal Trainer and Group Instructor with fellow travellers on the wellbeing journey.
Christina
Christina
Fitness Professional with the Green Apple since 2013.
- Certificate IV in Fitness
- BarreConcept Instructor
- Spin Instructor qualification
- Aqua Instructor
- PowerPlate Instructor (Level 1)
I love working at the Green Apple with all the wonderful staff and members.
You will see me:
- At Reception
- On the gym floor working with members on their programs
- Conducting Personal Training sessions
- Supervising Forever Active, Stronger for Longer, and Lift for Life classes.
I really enjoy teaching group fitness classes, and am presently delivering BarreConcept, Aqua, HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training), Thighs, Buns and Tums, Stretch & Myofascial Release, and Steady Steps.
Age definitely doesn’t have to slow you down, and I want to share with as many members as possible my passion for keeping fit, strong and energised through appropriately programmed exercise and by maintaining a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
Christina’s Health Tips
What is some of your favorite Inspirational quotes?
“When was the last time you did something for the first time?” (Lorna Jane)
What is your exercise regime or tips?
Mix it up! Do a variety of different activities each week, incorporating strength, cardio, core and flexibility work. Keeps it fun, fresh and interesting. My favourite is BarreConcept as it’s a whole body workout that I can really feel working both during and after classes!
Do you have a healthy meal or snack you love to have?
My container of nuts – almonds and roasted unsalted cashews! I have to be quick because Dany always gets in first!
Share your healthy eating tips.
- Drink lots of water regularly throughout the day.
- Moderation in everything so you don’t have to feel guilty about treats.
I try to eat a varied diet with plenty of veggies and two pieces of fruit each day, and watch portion sizes.
Do you have a goal you are aiming for?
I like to run the Kangaroo Point stairs, my goal is to do 10 consecutive stair runs – nearly there!
Share something that people may not know about you?
Two years ago I decided to make a mid-life career change and work in the fitness industry. This decision has quite literally changed my life – in so many wonderful ways.
Libby
Libby
Fitness Professional with the Green Apple since 2008.
- Certificate IV in Fitness
- Heartmoves Facilitator (Strokes and Falls Prevention)
- Lift for Life Facilitator
- Lungs in Action Facilitator
- PowerPlate Instructor (Level 1)
I do a variety of things at the Green Apple:
- Reception
- Instruct the Forever Active and Stronger 4 Longer classes
- Run the Heartmoves, Lift for Life and Lungs in Action classes
- Take EasyBeat, Aqua and Stretch Classes
- New Member Inductions and Personal Training sessions
- Conduct Maltron Tests (body fat to lean tissue and hydration info)
I also:
- Make phone calls to clients whom we haven’t seen for a while and may need some help getting started again.
- Love designing new programs for members tailoring them for their specific goals.
Loretta
Loretta
Fitness Professional with the Green Apple since 1987.
- Certificate IV in Fitness
- Aqua Instructor
- Freestyle Aerobics Instructor
- Heartmoves Facilitator
- Pilates Matwork (Level One)
- Zumba and Zumba GOLD Instructor
- PowerPlate Instructor (Level 1)
You will see me in multiple sites in the centre. I have qualifications to look after you on the gym floor and classes including Aquarobics, Fitball, Pilates and Stretch Classes. I am a registered Heartmoves Trainer which gives me specific skills in chronic conditions and Personal Training, so I am able to help you with any goals you have.
On the admin side of the fence, I do payroll and help with MYOB and member management. I am never bored — always on the go!
Katrina
Katrina
Fitness Professional with the Green Apple since 2000
- Certificate III in Fitness
- Freestyle Aerobics Instructor
- PowerPlate Instructor (Level 1)
I take a wide variety of classes throughout the week as well as being available for programming for our members. I am known as “The Legend” and I just love keeping everyone happy and safe in their exercises.
Come along to my classes which include:
- Forever Active
- Stretch
- Easybeat Aerobics
- Body Sculpt
- Thighs, Butts, Abs
- Stretch
- Bootcamp
- Aqua
Exercise Physiologists
Sunny
Sunny
Accredited Exercise Physiologist (ESSA) with the Green Apple since 2012.
- Accredited Exercise Physiologist (ESSA)
- Bachelor of Physiotherapy
- PowerPlate Instructor (Level 1)
I design gym and home programs for clients with acute or chronic health issues. I also provide orientation sessions for patients who are enrolling in the wellness programs at the Green Apple: Heartmoves, Lift for Life, Steady Steps and Lungs in Action.
My background in physiotherapy and exercise physiology provides me the knowledge and skill to design and deliver fitness and rehabilitation programs for clients with various health conditions.
I communicate well and enjoy working with people of all ages. You can see me through a GP referral under Medicare, Department of Veteran Affairs (DVA), Work Cover and through private exercise sessions at the Green Apple Wellness Centre.
Bridie
Bridie
Exercise Physiologist with the Green Apple Since June 2016.
- Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology (2nd Class Honours)
- Accredited Exercise Physiologist (ESSA)
Where you’ll find me in the Green Apple:
In the Allied Health Room writing reports for doctors and preparing for my clients, on the gym floor with clients having one-on-one sessions or getting a new program developed or taking Wellness Courses.
My passion is:
Helping people improve their quality of life with exercise. I love being able to assist people in gaining improved functionality—whether it be keeping their independence or doing things that they only dreamed of!
Why I enjoy working at the Green Apple:
I enjoy working at the Green Apple as it has a friendly team atmosphere and everyone is willing to help out. I particularly like the whole of life approach to health and wellbeing and the impact we are able to have on so many people’s lives.
Tiffany
Tiffany
Exercise Physiologist with the Green Apple Since June 2017.
- Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology
Allied Health staff
Nuala
Nuala
Allied Health Services Facilitator with the Green Apple since 2013
In April 2012 I experienced one of the scariest things you can possibly imagine. I had a stroke. After treatment in hospital and extensive rehabilitation, then moving to Brisbane, it was a twist of fate that led me to the Green Apple. On my first visit I was blown away, and loved it so much I wanted to spread the word about my experiences here. I approached the Principal Victoria about my feelings and was rewarded with one of the best jobs in the Green Apple.
My role entails going out to visit the doctors, practice nurses and pharmacists who want to know more about the Green Apple services and how they will benefit their patients. I am sharing the ideals of the Green Apple that exercise as medicine can be used for most chronic and metabolic conditions, biomechanical problems and mental health conditions. It is wonderful to know that the Green Apple Team can make such a difference in people’s lives and I am the one to deliver the good news to the doctors about what we do!
I am continually amazed at the responses from the doctors and nurses who I speak to, who are so grateful and delighted that there is a facility where they can send their patients, not only can Green Apple meet their needs holistically, but who also genuinely care about what they do.
I find my role at the Green Apple so rewarding, and I absolutely love it. I am so grateful for that twist of fate that led me here.
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Stephanie
Stephanie
Remedial Massage Therapist with the Green Apple since 2012
- Diploma of Remedial Massage
- Bachelor of Arts (Psychology and Criminology)
I started studying massage whilst I was still at school, and then I went to university to study psychology and criminology. When I moved to the north of Brisbane, I came back to finish my Remedial Massage studies. I did my practicum at the Green Apple and here I stayed!
Remedial massage therapy is a combination of different techniques which we can apply depending on your situation.
Some of these techniques include:
- Myofascial release
- Trigger Pointing
- Deep Tissue
- Lymphatic Drainage
- Sports massage
I believe in a holistic approach to massage therapy which involves you feeling safe and comfortable, increasing your body knowledge as well as referring to our Exercise Physiologists when needed. Massage is the perfect way to be happy! Whether it is through relief from musculoskeletal pain, increased flexibility and muscle function or simply by having some “you” time.
Steph’s Health Tips
What are Some of Your Favorite Inspirational Quotes?
It’s not having time to exercise… It’s MAKING time to exercise that makes all the difference.
What is Your Exercise Regime…
I try to do a couple of weight sessions a week. Cardio is what my dog makes me do!
A Healthy Meal or Snack You Love…
I try to make sure that I have some sort of pro-biotics every day, whether it be through yogurt, kombucha, sauerkraut or yakult!
Your Healthy Eating Tips…
I am not a real fan of salad! Instead, I love to snack on raw veggies that I prepare in the morning. Sometimes with a bit of yogurt or nut butter!
An Exercise or Food Challenge…
Research what a “serve” of vegetables is – you’ll be surprised how many you can eat in a day!
Share Something Unique…
Make sure that you take time out for yourself. Even just 15 minutes to sit and let all your thoughts flow in and out of your head. Or better yet, come and get a massage!
Margy
Margy
Remedial Massage Therapist with the Green Apple since 2017
Maintenance Staff
Gary
Gary
Brian’s Maintenance Guru
- ‘Mr Fix-it’ (Brian’s) Right Hand Man and Jack of All Trades
- Qualified Boilermaker and Mechanical Engineer
I am multi-skilled and I multi-task daily, this includes:
- Keeping the Centre facilities and equipment totally functional
- Designing specialised equipment
- Working with Brian on all repairs and renovations within the Centre
As one of the Maintenance Crew, you may see me:
- At Reception
- Taking equipment from the gym floor to be fixed
- Chatting with members while maintaining the Centre’s equipment
- Or hiding in the shed (fixing or upgrading equipment for your use)
This is a very special place, with many special people, all with their special stories. I enjoy interacting with everyone each and every day.
James
James
Cleaner with the Green Apple since January 2016.
Where you’ll find me in the Green Apple:
You could find me anywhere in the Green Apple because I am in charge of keeping the centre clean, tidy and hygienic so you can do your workout safely and in comfort.
My passion is:
To stay as positive as possible in all aspects of my life. There will always be ups and downs but it is what you take from the experience that matters. I love my big dogs and I love having a wife who is a “co-op gaming” partner. We share so many interests in computer games, board and tabletop games.
Why I enjoy working at the Green Apple:
I enjoy that the Green Apple is laid-back and relaxed and that I am appreciated. Every week I am told that I am doing a good job and that the work that I am doing is noticeable and that since I came to the Green Apple the place has been cleaner, and that I am making a difference.
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Reception Staff
Nessa
Nessa
Reception Team member with the Green Apple since 2009
I joined the Green Apple Team as a member first before working in the Children’s Activity Room playing and having heaps of fun with all the children of members, as well as fellow team mates and my own kids.
Currently you will see me on Reception helping members with their enquiries and meeting their needs. We are a great team at the Green Apple and I enjoy being part of such a wonderful group.
What is Some of Your Favorite Inspirational Quotes?
– Wake up with determination… Go to bed with satisfaction – I do it, because I can!
What is Your Exercise Regime?
I go to the gym 5 days a week. My two young children keep me moving.
A Healthy Meal or Snack You Love…
I love fruit — I make up fruit kebabs. Great for party food, especially if you cut the fruit into shapes.
Your Healthy Eating Tips…
– Drink water…. Heaps of water. Your body needs it and wants it!
– You don’t have to eat less you just have to eat right
– Sleep tight and enough
Something Unique to me…
My passion beside you all at the Green Apple is photography. I’m starting my course very soon so watch out in the gym as I may just capture you in some of my photos.
Danielle
Danielle
Reception and Allied Health Admin Team member with the Green Apple since 2014.
- Bachelor of Primary Education
- Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics (studying)
- Certificate in Child Nutrition
- Diploma of Personal Nutrition
I am very excited to have joined the Green Apple in the beginning of 2014. My passion is in living and promoting a healthy way of life. I believe in eating healthy, exercising regularly and living a balanced lifestyle.
I am currently on my path to become a dietitian and can’t wait until I am able to use my newly found knowledge to help all of those in need, and to give advice and direction in regards to nutrition. My background is in primary education, this is still a passion of mine and I hope to someday combine my two degrees and assist people of all ages.
You will see me here at reception, greeting all of our wonderful members and fulfilling daily reception tasks, I also help with running the Allied Health department doing administrative work. I am more than happy to assist in any way that I can and look forward to getting to know each member and staff as my time here progresses.
Danielle’s Health Tips
My Exercise Regime
I like to change up my program every 8-12 weeks to keep myself interested and really push myself in different areas. My current program integrates body weight training, cardio and mobility; this is something new to me as I have been working on heavy weight training for the past 3 months. I am constantly learning new things and ALWAYS pushing myself.
My Favourite Outdoor Activity
Sunday is my active rest day, I usually spend it kayaking, climbing the Glass House Mountains or going for a walk with my very cute puppies. My Weakness: Chocolate… I allow myself one cheat meal per week (which ALWAYS involves chocolate) as I am always on a strict food plan – this is my choice and it helps me maintain my sanity and live my busy life as I have the energy intake I need. I don’t beat myself up about my one cheat meal; remember one bad meal won’t ruin all the hard work you’ve done – just like one good meal won’t make you achieve your goals.
My Favourite Meal:
BREAKFAST! I have pancakes for breakfast every morning, but not a packet mix or anything filled with sugar. I have egg white and oats pancakes (only those 2 ingredients) with natural peanut butter on top! Let me know if you want to give healthy pancakes a try, I have HEAPS of recipes!
Fighting The Urge To Binge:
Green tea! I love raspberry flavoured or plain green tea. I drink it cold with ice in summer and hot in winter.
Pat
Pat
Reception with the Green Apple since June 2016.
Qualifications:
I have always worked in the service industry, initially as a hairdresser and salon manager. For the past fifteen years I worked as a Leisure Lifestyle co-ordinator in aged care. One of the most important aspects of my work has always been valuing team work. Inspiring others to be positive about themselves is key.
Where you’ll find me in the Green Apple:
Reception – the face of the business and the hub of everything that happens in the Green Apple!
My passion is:
People
Why I enjoy working at the Green Apple:
Being able to be part of a team that aids and assists people to find their way towards a holistic way of wellbeing. At the Green Apple, we all have different skill sets but together we make a strong, united force of positive energy.
Charlotte
Reception & Fitness Professional With the Green Apple Since: Qualifications: Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science Where you’ll find me in the Green Apple: At Reception helping write cards and booking appointments or on the floor with new members for buddy sessions, writing new programs or taking classes, such as Aqua. My passion is: The human body is amazing and I love learning about it and using my knowledge to help people live a more sustainable and happy life even if it’s just through support or a friendly smile. Why I enjoy working at the Green Apple: The Green Apple is such a supporting and friendly environment to work in.Charlotte
2016
Certificate 3 in Fitness
Certificate 4 in Fitness
Certificate 3 in Allied Health
Julie
Julie
Reception