Child safety allegations against a part-owner have prompted the abrupt closure of the popular Funtastic Gymnastics in Berwick, with the governing body continuing its urgent investigation.
Gymnastics Australia announced on Friday 21 November it was taking steps to terminate Funtastic membership, while its National Integrity Unit immediately launched an investigation.
The complaint and information gathered during the investigation suggested Funtastic Gymnastics was not compliant with National Affiliation Standards, including child-safety requirements and annual declarations that club owners, operators and volunteers are “fit and proper” and hold valid Working With Children Checks.
In parallel, Gymnastics Australia “consulted closely“ with Gymnastics Victoria, Sport Integrity Australia and Victoria Police.
Funtastic Gymnastics was given until 5pm Friday to show why its membership should not be terminated.
“Instead of responding to the show cause notice, Funtastic Gymnastics this afternoon informed Gymnastics Australia that it would close tomorrow, Saturday 22 November,” GA statement said.
Police confirmed a 48-year-old Olinda man was arrested on 6 November for breaching a court order and charged with failing to comply with reporting obligations.
He was bailed to appear at Ringwood Magistrates’ Court on 22 January, 2026.
Parents and children were left reeling after finding Funtastic Gymnastics’ doors locked and a sign stating: “Sorry we are closed and not reopening.”
Amy’s six-year-old was ready as usual for her Saturday morning class when she received an email from the owner, telling families not to attend.
“We are sorry for the short notice, we feel it’s for the best if we cancel the classes today. I will arrange refunds for you all,” the email reads.
The local mother said she was shocked as there has been no communication from the club prior.
“My daughter has loved her time there and cried when I broke the news to her this morning,” Amy said.
Later on Saturday, parents received another email from Funtastic Gymnastics management announcing the immediate closure of the centre.
“It is with deepest regret that I write to you today to inform you that Funtastic Gymnastics is unfortunately no longer to operate, effectively immediately,” the email reads.
“We cannot begin to tell you how hard we have fought to avoid reaching the point at which we find ourselves today and how much we would dearly love to continue doing what we love doing so well.
“However, today we have to admit that the difficulties we face are insurmountable and that it is time to shut our doors.
“On behalf of Funtastic Gymnastics, I am writing to thank you for being a part of our exciting adventures that started in 2001.”
Families said Funtastic Gymnastics’ statement only fuelled their anger and confusion.
“The email told us nothing,” one parent said. “People tried to follow up for answers but there has been no response at all.”
Amy said she had long been uneasy and even tried to move her daughter to other gymnastics centres.
“She refused and only wanted to go to Funtastic,” the mother said.
“I decided to keep her there as I wanted her to embrace her new found love for gymnastics. Now I feel stupid for not acting on my gut instinct.”
Gymnastics Australia and Gymnastics Victoria acknowledged that this is a “sudden and unexpected announcement and may be upsetting and disruptive for members, their families, and the local community”.
“Help is available to assist with transferring membership and to support children so they can continue their gymnastics journey,” they said.
“In this regard, parents and guardians are encouraged to use the resources available from Sport Integrity Australia and become informed about selecting a gymnastics club.”
Anyone who has information about the ownership of Funtastic Gymnastics is encouraged to email integrity@gymnastics.org.au.
