VA Rosebank Staff a Great Disappointment

I recently had an encounter on Friday 19 April at 16:10 at VA Rosebank. Unfortunately, it was not a great experience as it involved the most disrespectful staff member I have ever come across.

I was busy training, and upon nearing the end of my set, the weights started falling off and when I put the weight down, the weights completely came off the bar. As a result, I removed the bar off the floor and placed it to the side, next to the Smith Machine. I then reported it to the closest staff member (Bran), and told him that the weight was broken. He then responded, saying that they already knew about it. I then asked him that surely if they knew the weight was broken, that it should be removed from the floor to be repaired, due to the danger it can pose to members - like myself - during training. He completely ignored me and proceeded to call someone over the walkie.

A while later someone came and they repaired the weight. Bran then brought the weight back to me and I told him I didnt need it anymore. He then walked back to the weight rack and I requested that I speak to Management and Him (Bran) on Monday or Tuesday. Once again, he ignored me, placed the weight back and started walking away, so I commented “Please do not ignore me while I am trying to have a conversation with you”, and then he had the worst attitude while I was speaking to him. I told him again, that I would like to speak to him, and management next week and he said “ok cool”.

A few moments later, Themba came and apologised to me for what had happened. I appreciated his response, but it should not be him apologising. As I was addressing my concerns to Themba, Bran had the audacity to laugh. I was explaining how the weight may have fallen off the bar and onto someone’s feet or face while training, and during this entire conversation, Bran remained laughing. Themba apologised again and explained that he was on his way to fetch the Allen Key to fix the weight, but I explained that it shouldve been removed off this floor during this process.

In concluding, the main issue is obviously the manner in which Bran addressed the situation. His utter lack of mutual respect during a conversation is not representative of someone working in an environment of people. I appreciate Themba’s apology, but once again Bran should have apologised for handling the situation so poorly. He is definitely NOT an asset to the VA team.

As a result of this, I still request a meeting with Julian when he is back as I believe this matter needs to be dealt with in person.

Warm Regards Damian Sinovich