Unexpected location change

Hey! I’m Carmen, the founder of EFMA. It sounds cliche, but it’s not just a business, it’s a community. It's become an extended family, not just for myself, but all those who are part of it.

Due to circumstances EFMA has to move location within a very short timeframe. The landlord has been very understanding. The goal is to locate and move into a new home for EFMA.

The reason we're rallying for support is to help with the cost to move location, the works get it functional and to serve the community, as it is currently out of our budget.

When I say EFMA is a community, I really mean it. We're not only a place to train, but a safe space for those who are on NDIS, Domestic Violence survivors who have come through Victims of Crime and also for those battling mental health.

Financially, times are tough for us all, so any amount you're able to donate is incredible.

I am unwavering in my commitment to continue serving and growing with this community. Words cannot express how grateful I am for the strong and passionate team of instructors at EFMA.

Here are some words from our amazing instructors:

Damien Basso:

Efma has been built up to cater for people with mental health issues, we have people from all walks of life life including nurses, mental health professionals who have mental health issues. We support each other as a team on and off the mats. At times, carmen has not received fees from student due who are not able to pay but need Efma as a safe and supportive space to exercise and have support from other students and instructors who can help emotional and physically. We are not a main stream club, but a club that every student fees comfort in their own skin and accepted for their differences. Efma is the only club I have been to, ( I have trained at four in since 2006,) that l have felt completely comfortable in my own skin and my own mental health issue. Carmen has been so generous over the years with free membership for people who can not afford to pay them because she has felt that the money is nothing compared to the support and session the person is receiving.

Jeff:

I am so glad I discovered EFMA. It is so much more to me now then just a place to train. It is a space to clear the mind. A space to share my passion for fitness and jujitsu. It is a community of friends who support, respect and nurture one another. A place led by an amazing passionate coach, who is a friend and mentor to so many. Promoting wellbeing, equality and community spirit. With your generous donation we can continue to energise and further strengthen this space that many call a safe space and their second home

Steph Smith:

EFMA has been a wonderful, welcoming and inspiring centre since I started over 5 years ago. I was given the opportunity to learn how to box from the beginning and progressed into a coaching role over time. EFMA has also given me the chance to take younger members under my wing and help them develop their skills and grow their confidence.

Bethany Mrkanovic:

Hey, I'm Bethany.

I've been training at EFMA since the beginning of 2016 with a bit of coaching here and there.

When I began, I was looking for a way to stay active and doing what I love, boxing.

Little did I know, this would become such a massive part of my world.

I've raised my two kids here, showing them that their parents care about their fitness and make it a priority. Xander is loving BJJ and Ayla, well, she owns the mats of course. And no one can tell her otherwise!

We've made incredible friends and integral support networks. All the while, having an absolute blast and pushing myself to new limits.

I know EFMA is going to stay a big part of our lives for many MANY years to come!

Zed Mrkanovic:

Hi, I'm Zed .

I was motivated to join EFMA when my wife asked me to go with her to see and experience the amazing culture of a community driven club.

Fast forward 5 years, and easly my biggest achievement since joining is seen incredible young students develop a strong love for martial arts, fitness and community!

My kids have been raised on the mats of EFMA and spend hours and hours a week exercising, learning, and being cheekey with other kids.

EFMA will forever be an important part of my life and my familys. There is no doubt that the upcoming change will give EFMA the opportunity to not only grow as a business but more importantly, be a place where people can come and enjoy exercising and develop a love for martial arts!

Adrian Jenkins:

Hi I’m Adrian Jenkins,

I am the head Muay Thai coach here at EFMA I’ve known Carmen for around 15 years, she is one of the most genuine people i know with in the industry always help her students in and out of the gym. This place is a second home to most people its a family of friends and great people that love coming and training at EFMA

Jason Farqhuar:

Hey I’m Jason and I have been attending striking classes at EFMA for over a year now. I now invest my time as an assistant coach in the Muay Thai program. It’s been an absolute honour to play such an integral role within the club as I have witnessed and been a part of the bonding of people of all different ages and backgrounds. My partner who established EFMA has put in a lot of hours and effort in her passion for this industry and I couldn’t be more proud of what she has accomplished and I cannot wait with anticipation and excitement for what the future holds.

EFMA has had such a positive impact on my health and well being and when ever I attend whether it be taking part or coaching classes, daily stresses and life’s struggles are put aside for even just a moment. It has been a sanctuary, a home and fox hole for myself and hope it will be for years to come

Steve James:

Hi my name is Steve, I have been at EFMA since late 2019. Carmen is a great coach, with a wealth of knowledge. She has a natural ability to make people feel included and part of a team, always going out of her way to help. I have done a range of classes there, both striking and grappling and enjoyed them all. EFMA is full of amazing coaches and students (many of which I now call friends and catch up with outside the gym). I can’t imagine training anywhere else.