Fernwood Women’s Health Club has been awarded the most Successful Private Business of the Year in the 2008 BRW ANZ Private Business Awards in Melbourne.

The franchise business boasts 10 years of ranking among Australia’s fastest growing companies, and seven years in the top 10 franchise businesses. Founder Diana Williams said “It’s fantastic to receive this award on behalf of the 78 Fernwood women’s health clubs across Australia who all work incredibly hard to stand by the core purpose of Fernwood which is empowering women to shine.”

It all began in Bendigo 18 years ago when Williams opened her first club with just $7000 and second-hand equipment provided by her business partner, John Clow.

Fernwood is the largest such organisation in Australia with 89 per cent unprompted recall of its brand name, more than 19 years experience, more than 80,000 members, 2,200 employees and an annual turnover of nearly $100 million.

The health club shared the award honour with Longwarry Food Park, trumping four other nominated businesses including fellow franchised business, Crust Gourmet Pizza Bars.