[Pictured: The ARC's Sean Roberts in a quiet moment before the treadmills fill up]
Sean Roberts was all smiles when he was named Community-Based Employee of the Year at Maxima’s Graduation and Awards Night. “It was nice to be recognised – I was pretty chuffed. I sent a text to my mum, and pretty soon I received messages back from family who were really happy for me,” he said.
Sean’s journey is extraordinary. Living with cerebral palsy, he once trained relentlessly with his sights set on the London Paralympics in 2012. While he didn’t quite make it, the experience shaped his resilience and determination.
Today, he brings that same drive to his work at The ARC Campbelltown, a community-focused sport and fitness centre managed by the City of Campbelltown. Sean is the Health Club Supervisor and runs fitness classes under the guiding philosophy displayed on the wall: “Think End Goal, do it with a Smile and a Laugh. Most of all, enjoy it.”
With qualifications in public relations and a sub-major in sport and recreation management, Sean has spent nearly six years in local government. But since joining The ARC in September 2024, he has found his true calling.
“The ARC gym is far more than just a place to work out,” Sean explains. “It’s a welcoming community where people meet, connect, and feel part of something bigger. I feel proud to help members feel stronger, more confident, and more connected every day.”
Whether leading classes, offering consultations, or assisting members on the gym floor, Sean approaches every interaction with positivity, empathy, and humour. His personal experience with cerebral palsy gives him unique insight into the challenges members may face, from mobility limitations to gym anxiety. He ensures everyone feels safe, supported, and encouraged to reach their goals, particularly the Fit for Life members aged 55 and over, for whom social connection is just as important as physical fitness.
Sean’s commitment to The ARC community extends beyond what happens in the gym. His recent engagement to his fiancée Natalie was celebrated by members, highlighting the inclusive culture he helps nurture. Members know they can ask for help, check in on others, or share milestones, making The ARC a true hub for connection in an era of increasing social isolation. The friendships that have been born at The ARC now extend beyond its walls, with members meeting for coffee, dinners, and even a spot of line dancing!
Maxima supports Sean and his colleagues at The ARC by employing the team and looking after day-to-day people matters such as recruitment, pay and workplace support. Maxima HR Consultant Sharyn Mitten works on site at The ARC two days a week and provides an independent point of contact for staff, helping to resolve concerns and support people to do their best work.
“Maxima has been great for me,” Sean says. “From the moment I applied for the role through to ongoing support, I’ve always felt backed. And having that balanced perspective to talk things through is really helpful. It means I’m free to focus on doing my job, knowing Maxima is there when I need support.”
James Lomax, who is The ARC’s Manager Recreation Services, has only been with the organisation a short time but has been very impressed by what he has seen of Sean so far. “Sean’s exceptional work ethic and passion for community and fitness have made him an invaluable asset to the ARC team,” James said.
Sean was a very deserving winner of Maxima’s Community-Based Employee of the Year award, reflecting not only his professional excellence but the remarkable impact he has on the lives of everyone at The ARC. Maxima is proud to be part of his story.
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