What do you get when you fuse a world-class gym, spa-grade recovery zone, coworking space, café culture, and Bondi’s wellness crowd? You get the global prototype of Virgin Active’s new hybrid concept—the Social Wellness Club—and Bondi Junction is its first launch pad.
If you missed the official unveiling, don’t stress. We went, we trained, we recovered, and we soaked it all in. Here’s your insider download.
The Launch That Made Bondi Sweat (and Sauna)
It was standing room only at the official VIP launch inside Westfield Bondi Junction. Hosted by TV presenter Laura Csortan, with cameos from Bondi Rescue’s Hoppo and Deano, the night served up fitness demos, cold plunge tours, and a keynote from Virgin Active Global CEO Dean Kowarski.
“We’re not just opening a new club. We’re launching a lifestyle transformation.” — Dean Kowarski
And this one isn’t just for Sydney—it’s the global prototype of what Virgin Active is calling a Social Wellness Club: a space designed to bring movement, recovery, productivity, and connection under one roof.
Topping it off? A pre-recorded welcome from Virgin Group founder Sir Richard Branson, broadcast across the club’s oversized screens.
“This isn’t just a gym. It’s a new way to live well. We’ve built something truly special, and we can’t wait for you to experience it.” — Sir Richard Branson
In his message, Branson described Bondi as “the perfect place to try something new”—a high-energy neighbourhood full of wellness culture, ideal for launching something that’s meant to move, reset, and reconnect modern lives.
Kowarski reinforced the mission in his speech, calling the space “an all-day wellness destination that meets the realities of modern life.” It's built not just for training, but for social connection—because, as he put it:
“We’re facing a loneliness pandemic. These spaces are designed to bring people together—to socialise, make friends, form real communities.” — Dean Kowarski
From matcha between meetings to a massage after leg day, the space was described as both “a gym and a community”—one where physical and mental wellness finally coexist in real time.
“Gone are the days where we work here, work out there, and relax somewhere else. This is a space where wellness gets real.” — Dean Kowarski
This wasn’t just a gym launch. It was a category reset.
The official Virgin Active Bondi Junction launch was executed in style by HUSH Communications, bringing together Bondi’s movers, shakers, lifeguards, and content-makers for a night that flexed just as hard as the gym floor.
Photo credit: HUSH Communications
Pictured: Deano from Bondi Lifeguards and actor Jodi Gordon training at Virgin Active Bondi Junction launch.
What You Get: Spoiler—A Lot
The introductory $99/week membership isn’t just a fitness deal. It’s a full-spectrum wellness experience inside a 2,500sqm flagship space, designed to support every part of your day—from training and recovery to work and social connection.
Here’s the breakdown:
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Reformer Pilates Tower and Lift Club classes exclusive to Bondi
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Full gym floor with strength and cardio zones
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Finnish sauna, infrared sauna, cold plunge, and hydrotherapy spa
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Magnesium-infused heated recovery slab
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Medical-grade recovery tools including massage therapists, compression boots, and a physio suite
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Co-working lounge areas with café service
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Access to Ü Health Café inside the facility
This is the only Virgin Active globally offering this full suite under one roof.
Video credit: Virgin Active Australia - Concept video showcasing the design vision and wellness experience behind Virgin Active’s new Bondi Junction Social Wellness Club.
Wait—$99 Per Week for All That?
Yes. A standalone recovery studio in Sydney will run you $70 to $100 per week. So locking in 12 months at $99/week—while it’s still on offer—is a move even your accountant would approve of.
The two-week cooling-off period makes it a risk-free test run. If you don’t vibe with the setup, cancel it.
Membership Access: The Fine Print
If you're a member at another Virgin Active, you’ll need to pay a casual fee to visit Bondi Junction unless you upgrade.
Upgrading to Bondi Junction unlocks reciprocal access to all other Virgin Active clubs across Australia and internationally, including South Africa, the UK, Italy, Singapore, and Thailand.
Photo credit: HUSH Communications
Pictured: Sally Obermeder, co-founder of Swiish (wellness brand founded with her sister Maha Corbett) and main cast member of The Real Housewives of Sydney, trying out the Reformer Pilates Tower at the Virgin Active Bondi Junction launch event. On the right: plant-based wraps served by Ü Health Café.
Can You Claim It on Health Insurance?
Possibly. Some private health insurers may reimburse a portion of your gym membership under extras cover if the facility meets criteria related to health management programs.
It’s worth checking with your provider—particularly if you’re using the recovery components as part of an injury rehab or wellness plan.
From Gym to Global Concept
This isn’t just a flashy Bondi launch. It’s the start of a global rollout. Virgin Active confirmed that Dubai is next in line to receive a Social Wellness Club. But Australia has the original—and it’s live now.
“Gone are the days where we work here, work out there, and relax somewhere else. This is a space where wellness gets real.” — Dean Kowarski
Why It Matters
We’re calling it: Virgin Active Bondi Junction has just set the new gold standard for Australian fitness and recovery.
It’s a move away from one-dimensional gyms, and a step toward integrated, lifestyle-driven wellness. Work, train, recover, reset. All in one postcode, under one monthly membership, built for real life.
“We’re facing a loneliness pandemic. These spaces are designed to bring people together—to socialise, make friends, and form real communities.” — Dean Kowarski
If you’re tired of bouncing between a yoga studio, a recovery spa, and a crowded café with bad Wi-Fi—this is your all-in-one solution.
Photo credit: HUSH Communications
Pictured: Bondi lifeguards Hoppo and Deano exploring the Social Wellness Zone at Virgin Active Bondi Junction, which houses a Finnish sauna, infrared sauna, magnesium hydro pool, cold plunge, and heated recovery slab—all in one integrated hub.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I go to Virgin Active twice in one day?
Yes. With a full membership, you can visit more than once per day—perfect if you want to train in the morning and hit the sauna or recovery zone later.
How much is Virgin Active Bondi?
Founding memberships at Virgin Active Bondi Junction started at $99/month. Pricing may vary based on current offers and access level. Check their site or call the club directly.
Do you get free towels at Virgin Active?
Yes. Towels are included at Bondi Junction, along with lockers, filtered water, and access to the spa and recovery areas.
Can I go to the gym only twice a week?
Yes. There’s no minimum attendance requirement—go as often or as little as your schedule allows. Your membership covers unlimited access.
How often do Virgin Active give guest passes?
Guest passes are available but depend on promotions and membership type. Ask reception or check the Virgin Active app for current guest policies.
Can I bring a friend to Virgin Active?
Yes, members can invite friends using guest passes. These may be limited, so check with the club before arriving together.
What is the best gym in Sydney?
That depends on your goals—but Virgin Active Bondi Junction is leading the way in hybrid wellness, offering state-of-the-art training, recovery, and lifestyle services under one roof.
Is Virgin Active a luxury gym?
Virgin Active Bondi Junction fits the bill. With magnesium spas, infrared and Finnish saunas, cold plunge, a café, coworking lounge, and curated group fitness—it exceeds standard gym offerings.
How to get Virgin Active cheaper?
Introductory rates (like the $99/week founding offer) are the best way to save. Keep an eye on seasonal promotions or referral programs.
Do you get free water at Virgin Active?
Yes. Filtered water stations are available throughout the facility.
Can you pay per session at Virgin Active?
Casual passes are offered at some clubs including Bondi Junction, but rates vary. Contact the club for details.
Does Virgin Active offer a day pass?
Yes, day passes are available, typically ranging from $25–$40 depending on location and amenities. Check with Virgin Active Bondi Junction for specifics.
Does Virgin Active do casual visits?
Yes, casual access is available—especially for non-members or visiting members from other clubs. Fees apply unless included in your membership tier.
How do I get 75% off Virgin Active membership?
This may refer to limited-time promotions, corporate discounts, or insurance reimbursements. Contact Virgin Active or your health fund to see if you're eligible.
Is 2 hours at the gym too much?
Not necessarily. Many members split their time between training, spa, and recovery. Listen to your body—and take breaks in the lounge or sauna.
How much weight will I lose if I exercise 30 minutes a day?
That depends on your routine, diet, and consistency. Virgin Active offers personal training and body composition tracking to help you set realistic goals.
How to lose weight in 7 days?
There’s no magic fix—but combining cardio, resistance, recovery, and clean eating can kickstart results. Virgin Active’s wellness programs can help guide you.
Location & Access
Virgin Active Bondi Junction
Level 1, 500 Oxford Street, Westfield Bondi Junction
virginactive.com.au/locations/bondi-westfield
Club Hours
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Monday to Thursday: 5:30 AM – 10:00 PM
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Friday: 5:30 AM – 9:00 PM
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Saturday & Sunday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
(Public holidays generally follow the weekend schedule—7 AM to 7 PM, except major closures like Christmas Day.)
