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Member Success Story – Martin Brett

running success

Running Success Story

G’day my name is Martin Brett; my dream has always been to participate in the Melbourne Marathon by the time I was 40. When I was at school running was something I enjoyed and I was part of the cross-country running team. I started working full-time and running was no longer a priority, however, the dream of completing the Marathon was still alive.   Although running wasn’t a priority I did continue playing footy until, on June 3rd 1995, my life completely changed. I was driving on a country road when a car came over a hill in the middle of the road hitting me head- on, with the driver’s side taking all the impact. I ended up in hospital for 2 weeks and unable to walk. I was married in September that same year,  still needing crutches however. During my time in rehabilitation my surgeon informed me – at the age of 27 – I was no longer able to participate in sport which included footy, golf and running. I was even advised to take extra care when walking on uneven ground.   Since my rehabilitation I have had 4 more operations, with the last being in 2015 which finally left me feeling pain free. The surgeon said the best form of rehab is to walk and swim so I joined PARC for the hot pool and swimming. Going to the pool regularly and building up my walking distance, I started to then get that competitive feeling back. In October 2016 I went to a friend’s house at about 4pm to her lying on the couch so I asked, “what’s wrong with you?” and her response was “I did the Melbourne Marathon today”. It was at that point I decided, I am going to do that next year!   I was told by a friend about ‘Parkrun’ and completed by first 5k event in 40 minutes, walking the whole distance. I have since completed an additional 50 events. Unfortunately I was unable to do the 2017 Marathon as I was still not fit enough. My physio told me the only way I would truly have a chance to participate is by joining the gym and build up my strength. In 2018, I upgraded my PARC membership to a complete membership and started my weight training.   Whilst going to the gym I discovered the PARC Fit run club. My fitness has improved so much that I can now complete the 5k in 23 minutes. On October 14th, 2018 – 11 years later than I had hoped – I completed the Melbourne Marathon.   Having achieved my dream of completing the Melbourne Marathon, I want to do it again and hopefully some other marathons around Australia. I want to keep running, whether it be 5k at Parkrun, PARC Fit running club or even a triathlon. Having come so far, I just want to stay active.

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Don't miss out on the fun before it's gone! 🚀

It's the last day of our school holiday program, so make sure you secure your spot on Splash Island, and come on down for a day of family fun! 🤩

#schoolholidays #PARC #Frankston #fun
It's the last week of school holidays 🪐

If you're looking for some activities to do with the kids, we have the fun sorted! From our inflatable obstacle course, Splash Island, to heaps of activities and entertainment on offer for all ages, there’s something fun for everyone! 

🚀 Our inflatable obstacle course, Splash Island (bookings essential) 
☄️ Rafter waterslides 
👽 Aquatic Playground 
⭐️ Scavenger hunt 
🛰️ Balloon entertainment 
🪐 Prizes and giveaways 

Our school holiday program will run until Friday 10 July. Visit our website to learn more about pricing and booking information.
Chatting with our winner, Mel! 🏆

In June, we attended the Aquatic Recreation Victoria industry awards, where excitingly our very own Mel was awarded the prestigious Membership Sales Award. 

Mel’s dedication, and commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive for members has earned her the top prize in 2026. In celebration of this incredible achievement, we sat down with Mel for a Q&A session to chat about her win, journey and what working at PARC means to her. 

Read our blog via the link in our bio. 

#ARVAwards2026 #ARV #PARC #PARCFrankston #Frankston
Although we are out, we still have World Cup Fever at PARC ⚽️

This week, show support to our boys in Green and Gold or whoever you are backing in the World Cup by wearing your team colours to train in the Gym! 

All you need to do is get one of our friendly gym team members to take a photo of you in team colours at PARC and you will go in the draw to win a PARC prize pack. 

 #frankston #parcfrankston #worldcup2026
Reminder: Do you need to update your parking permit? 🚙

A friendly reminder that your PARC parking permit may be due to expire at the end of this month.

Please ensure you check the expiry date on your permit and come into reception to collect a new parking permit in exchange for your old permit.
Have you got what it takes to be a soccer star? ⭐️⚽️

World Cup Fever has hit PARC, and we want to see your soccer skills! Whether you’re a pro or beginner, come visit us in the Gym and give your best shot of our PARC Penalty Shootout. 

We’ll see you in Centre!

#PARC #Frankston #worldcup2026 #parcfrankston

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