The gym that changed Brisbane

Way back in 2009, when the Regatta was pumping and the mighty Queensland Maroons were midway through their “dynasty years” of dominating State of Origin, Darren and Natasha Bain launched a business in the middle of a relatively quiet, still semi-industrial area.

Inspired to help others following Darren’s personal battle with chronic fatigue, they took a calculated risk and opened a gym in the heart of Newstead, where lifting heavy and looking ripped took a back seat to a truly holistic approach built around four key pillars: mindset, nutrition, movement, and restoration. This place was called Function Well, and Darren and Tash were onto a winner.

“We started educating on food intolerances, bloodwork, and introducing a way of eating called Paleo, lifestyle protocols, breathwork, etc.,” Darren told The Collective Magazine’s November issue.

“These were not common protocols in 2009. The market wasn’t as educated then, but people started getting incredible results, and word spread. We created a space that was very different from the big-box gyms – more personal, more connected.”

It was this focus on connection that had Function Well humming and attracted a team of experienced fitness professionals with the common goal of making a difference in people’s lives. It also intrinsically linked Function Well with other local businesses, including Ray White New Farm.

“Being linked with Matty, Haes, and the Ray White team (special mention to Karla) has been a privilege,” Darren said.

“We’re very fortunate to have the platform we do at Function Well, which allows us to give back through meaningful community events and initiatives with Ray White. Their support and friendship over the years genuinely mean a lot. Newstead/New Farm is such a special pocket of Brisbane; being part of that local community and the lifelong friends we have made is something Tash and I are so grateful for.”

These days, Function Well has relocated from its original Doggett Street home to a much more prominent location. As you head along Kingsford Smith Drive, look ahead to the huge glass building with the Mercedes-Benz logo shining in the sun and inside, you’ll find seven custom-built studios spread across three expansive levels, 200+ classes, a 24/7 gym floor, a recovery and wellness centre, plus much more.

“We’ve got some really exciting things ahead,” Darren said.

“Our flagship West Village hub opens in April 2026, with another location planned for April 2027. The goal is three to five locations over the next three to five years. No more at this point in time. For us, it’s always about quality over quantity. Staying connected to our members and team is something Tash and I value deeply.”

For the full interview with Darren, and greater insight into Function Well’s life-changing philosophies, you can pick up a hard copy of the latest issue of The Collective Magazine at any one of our open homes this weekend.

I hope you enjoy the read.

Matt Lancashire