Cérge: Pioneering Inclusion and Innovation, Recognized with AUSactive National Award

Belgravia Foundation is thrilled to announce that the esteemed AUSactive National Award for Industry Innovation of the Year has been awarded to the collaboration between Cérge, Belgravia Leisure, and Belgravia Foundation. This recognition was bestowed during the 2023 AUSactive National Awards Program on September 15th. 

The AUSactive National Awards stands as a highly anticipated event celebrating excellence and innovation within Australia's exercise and active health sector. At its core, AUSactive seeks to inspire all Australians to lead healthier lives by encouraging increased physical activity. Belgravia Leisure, in collaboration with Belgravia Foundation, has wholeheartedly embraced this mission through Cérge, a groundbreaking program that epitomizes innovation in the pursuit of holistic well-being for all. 

Cérge, initially introduced at Gympie Aquatic Recreation Centre in Queensland and later extended to over 30 leisure venues operated by Belgravia Leisure across Australia, with future expansion into New Zealand, has earned this prestigious innovation award. This achievement underscores the immense potential of partnerships and our unswerving commitment to championing inclusion and accessibility. It reaffirms our mission of enhancing guest experiences and transforming lives within the communities we serve. 

Cérge represents a pioneering and award-winning technology that is reshaping society by creating inclusivity in unprecedented ways. The 2023 AUSactive award serves as a testament to the positive impact of our partnership on the diverse communities we serve. 

The essence of Cérge's success lies in its unwavering commitment to enhancing access and inclusion for all individuals, particularly those with disabilities. By harnessing the power of simple companion technologies and delivering empathetic and compassionate customer service, Cérge has shattered barriers, facilitating greater participation in physical activities and fostering connections. 

Dr. Jeff Walkley with the Co-Founders of Cerge, Victoria and Chris Kerrisk.

Co-founder of Cérge, Chris Kerrisk, shared his gratitude online, stating, "We are humbled by this platform, which allows us to amplify access and inclusion for all people with disabilities through simple companion technologies and customer service founded on empathy and compassion." 

“A massive thank you to the CEO of the Belgravia Foundation and Belgravia Leisure’s National Disability & Diversity Manager, Dr Jeff Walkley, whose dedication and advocacy have been instrumental in championing the Cérge program within Belgravia Leisure and the Belgravia Foundation. His commitment to ensuring that Cérge reaches every corner of Australia and expands to New Zealand is truly commendable.” 

To learn more about Cérge, we invite you to view a short video here.   

For a deeper insight into the profound impact that Cérge, Belgravia Leisure, and Belgravia Foundation are having on local communities, we encourage you to read Stephen's inspiring story of inclusion here.