A LOCAL resident has raised concerns over the handling of privacy and safety concerns at Yawa Aquatic Centre after photographs were taken of her without consent.
On 22 August, Cynthia Morris was using the gym facilities at Yawa Aquatic Centre in Rosebud when she noticed a male member taking photos of her.
She said he then turned and was taking photos of other female members at the gym.
“I felt really uncomfortable,” said Morris.
Morris said she immediately reported the incident to staff at the centre.
“When I told [the staff member], she informed me that they already had another girl in the office with the same complaint,” said Morris.
“That’s two women complaining they’ve been photographed on the same piece of equipment and a duration of time from each other.”
Morris said she was told they were reviewing the footage and had made the individual delete any photographs that had been taken.
“Then a week later, I’m back in the gym, and the same male comes into the gym and starts working out,” said Morris.
“I had a panic attack, and I was taken out by management.”
Morris said she spoke with the deputy managers, who told her the individual had been given a first and final warning and that was as far as they could take it.
Morris escalated her complaint to the area manager and the Mornington Peninsula Shire.
She had a meeting with the area manager of Yawa on 2 September, who confirmed an investigation had taken place, and they were standing by their decision to continue letting the individual use the gym.
“When they were telling me what his rights are with regards to still being able to access the facility, I felt like someone had taken my privacy, my autonomy, my right to choose, and I felt quite violated,” said Morris.
“My question is whether our privacy and our safety have been taken seriously enough.”
Mornington Peninsula Shire Director of Communities Cheryl Casey said the shire and the centre operator take visitor safety, privacy, and wellbeing seriously.
“The centre operator conducted an investigation into the matter, which included reviewing available evidence and speaking with those involved,” said Casey.
“Measures were put in place while further enquiries were undertaken, and action was taken following the investigation.”
“Policies and procedures regarding photography and filming are in place at the facility, and expectations are communicated to patrons.”
Morris said the situation has impacted her ability to attend the facilities going forward.
“For me, it’s not just where I work out,” said Morris.
“It’s been a large part of getting me back in the community… It’s had a big impact not only on my life, my social life, but my professional life as well.”
Morris works as a social worker and said she helps people access the gym and the warm water facilities.
Morris was offered the opportunity to allocate three support people who could attend the facilities with her free of charge for six months.
“Every offer that’s been made for my safety is in my own hands,” said Morris.
“So, I can bring a support person; I can let staff know when I enter the facility, and they help me feel comfortable, but nothing around actually preventing this happening again.”
She has now placed her membership on indefinite hold while she decides whether or not she feels comfortable using the facilities in the future.
Morris said there should be greater concern for personal privacy and safety at the centre.
“Everybody should feel that their privacy and safety are protected while they’re using a community facility,” said Morris.
First published in the Mornington News – 8 September 2026
