From humble beginnings to Business Person of the Year: A thank you from Anouska

What an unbelievable honour, being named Business Person of the Year for the Southern Highlands at this year’s Local Business Awards!

It was a total surprise (to say the least!) and a moment I won’t forget. Standing up there representing Invigorate Health and Performance, I was overwhelmed with gratitude and pride. Not because of the recognition, but for the journey that brought us here. Although, I must say, I was much more comfortable on stage last year when we took out the Health Improvement Services category as a team. Individual success is something I find really difficult.  

We started this clinic with a simple goal: to empower people to be better than yesterday and to inspire a better tomorrow. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine we’d grow into what we are today, a thriving, passionate team making a difference in people’s lives every single day. We truly are so blessed. 

This award isn’t just mine. It belongs to so many people who’ve believed in this dream from day one.

• To my team: You are the heart of Invigorate. Your dedication, compassion and commitment to delivering exceptional care is what makes our clinic so special. I’m constantly inspired by you and none of this would exist without your hard work. A leader is only as good as their team and I whole heartedly believe this. Thank you.
• To our clients: Thank you for trusting us with your health, your families and your goals. It’s your stories, your progress and your support that fuel us to keep growing and improving as individuals and as a business.
• To my family and friends: Your unwavering encouragement, late-night pep talks, melt-down support and helping hands behind the scenes have kept me going through every high and low. You have been there from the moment I had this wild idea and never hesitate to pick up a paintbrush when I have my next one. Thank you for putting in all the blood, sweat and tears with me.
• To my incredible business coach Nick: You’ve helped shape the direction me and of Invigorate. You have supported me through challenges I never expected to face and picked me up from the depths to make me believe in myself again. Your guidance has been and continues to be absolutely invaluable.

This award is a reflection of what’s possible when passion meets purpose and you are surrounded by the right people. How lucky am I!?

We’ve come a long way from our humble beginnings in the pop-up tent in the back of Benton Gym, but one thing hasn’t changed: our commitment to making a difference in our community.

Finally, I want to say thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to whatever comes next and to continuing to raise the standard of care, together.

With a full heart,
Anouska Symons

(Published Nov 19, 2025)

Written by: Anouska Symons (Senior Physiotherapist)