For two years the small town of Tottenham has been trying to establish a gym and finally the dream was made real with the opening taking place this week to great fanfare and a big effort from locals with big hearts.

Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey, Deputy Mayor Lachlan Shire Council Megan Mortimer, Jodie Inder Empower Exercise Physiology and Nutrition, and Tristan Woodward from Fearless Health Dubbo were present for the opening, praising locals for their hard work and persistence.

The gym, which is community owned, will allow local people to use the new equipment for a small fee and this money will go back into the coffers to pay all associated costs.

Tottenham Community Gym President Natasha Levick said they are excited for people to finally have a place for everyone to use.

Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey with Deputy Mayor Lachlan Shire Council Megan Mortimer and Tottenham Community Gym President Tash Levick. [Image TCG]

“Two years ago, I had a casual conversation at work with two workmates about how cool it would be if Tottenham had a gym,” said Mrs Levick.

“This conversation turned into some queries with council members including our mayor to see if this was even a possibility.

“Community input took us to a plan but without the money the plans stalled for a little while. But being persistent always pays off – as we began to apply for grants, we reached out to the Welfare Council for their backing.

“From there we were able to form a sub-committee of the Welfare Council, (a special thanks to the Welfare Council for backing us in the very beginning).

New Gym equipment ready for the community. [Image J.Day]

“We searched and pondered our locations until finally being able to use the damaged squash court by the new pub owners – thank you to them.

“We have raised money, been donated money and worked hard behind the scenes.

"Thank you to all those that donated, either our incredible committees in our amazing town or personally through our monster raffle.

“As president of the Gym Committee I want to extend a special thank you to our amazing committee, they have all worked so hard to make this happen and without the incredible team we are this wouldn’t have happened.

Tottenham community gathered for the opening. [Image TCG]

Local Tottenham area physiotherapist Jenny Day says the benefits for the small town are immeasurable.

“When the team first approached me with the idea of a community gym, I was only too happy to offer my support,” said Mrs Day.

“As a physiotherapist, I could see the benefits this would give to the public of all ages to improve fitness and for sporting team members to maintain and increase their strength and fitness both during and after the season.

“Especially for me, the opportunity the gym will provide for many types of continuing rehab programs, and with grant funding which has allowed Jodie of Empower Exercise Physiology and Nutrition to attend the gym, providing professional advice to gym participants, it will be a fantastic asset.

“Congratulations to the committee for bringing this great addition to our little community,” said Mrs Day.

MP Jamie Chaffey, opening the new gym with Tash Levick gym president. [Image J.Day]

President of the gym committee Mrs Levick said arriving at gym opening day has been rocky but well worth it.

“There has been literal blood sweat and tears going into this project. The journey to this moment has not been short, or without many hurdles but we are here and so excited to finally be able to offer our Tottenham Community a safe space to improve your fitness and health.

“To our Tottenham Community, whether you live here or visit us for a short time we are happy to welcome you to our Community Gym!