Kellie Toohey, franchisee with Fernwood Women's Health Club

Everything runs in threes - mother of three Kellie is the franchisee of three Fernwood Women's Health Club centres in the ACT in Belconnen, Canberra City and Gungahlin.

"I started in the fitness indus­ry in 1998 and now I work full-time in the businesses (currently teaching eight group fitness classes per week) as well as continuing my Bachelor of Education in Primary Teaching studies in a very, very part-time basis at the University of Canberra.

"My motivation for being a franchise partner was definitely in the opportunity. I was already managing the club that was offered to me. My husband (retired firefighter, Sean) and I were up for the challenge and excited about the opportunity.

"Out of attitude, aptitude and acumen, you must have atti­tude - especially being part of a sports and fitness franchise. You have to have confidence in the franchisor and understand and appreciate that they make decisions with a lot in mind.

"You must understand that it is important to them, and in their best interests that the company and its franchise partners succeed.

"The only difficult part of becoming a franchise partne was dealing with the banks. Like everything else when dealing with them, it is not an easy process and they only have their best interest in mind!"