Derrimut 24:7 was contacted for comment.
The violent brawl is the latest controversy for the troubled Derrimut gym chain.
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An investigation by The Age last month revealed that the rapidly expanding Melbourne-born gym empire has been failing to pay taxes, staff superannuation and hundreds of businesses and landlords, while its owner Nick Solomos has, over several year,s been withdrawing millions for personal expenses.
The Australian Tax Office is seeking to liquidate Derrimut’s primary operating entity as well as a now-dormant company to claw back $15.4 million in tax debts, including unpaid superannuation and penalties.
It’s estimated that Solomos would need at least $30 million to clear debts to the Tax Office and creditors of his three main entities – including landlords, power companies, equipment suppliers and trades contractors.
The Oakleigh East location is the most popular of Derrimut’s 26 gyms, but has caused havoc for locals almost as soon as it opened in 2024.
People line up outside the 24/7 gym in Oakleigh East, in August 2024. Security was hired to manage patron limits.Credit: Joe Armao
The branch enrolled more than 14,000 members despite a condition from the council that there could be a maximum of only 180 patrons inside the gym at one time.
Owners of local businesses told The Age last year that customers and staff are unable to park as gym members seize any spot they can find, parking haphazardly on nature strips, driveways and privately owned spaces, and intimidating others.
Monash Council took Derrimut to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal after an investigation found up to 440 members were being let inside the gym at one time – more than double the 180 people allowed.
The company has received lease-breach notices at many of its gyms due to unpaid rent and has been locked out of five sites across Victoria and South Australia since July – including two that had not yet opened – leaving members chasing refunds.
With Sophie Aubrey
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