About MD Strength
MD Strength is a coaching-focused strength training facility dedicated to helping people learn how to build strength properly.
We believe strength training is a skill that should be taught, practiced and developed over time. Our coaching system supports members from their first experience with the barbell through to long-term strength development and competitive powerlifting.
At MD Strength, members train in a private, premium 24/7 facility with access to high-quality equipment, professional coaching and recovery services designed to support consistent training.
Our Philosophy & Values
Philosophy
At MD Strength, we believe that building strength isn’t just about lifting weights — it’s about learning, accountability, and long-term development. Strength training is most effective when done safely, progressively, and with the right guidance. That’s why coaching comes first: we prioritise your technique, safety, and overall welfare to ensure you can train consistently and achieve lasting results.
Mistakes are part of the journey, and we encourage honesty and communication so every challenge becomes an opportunity to learn and improve. We value actions over words — consistency, follow-through, and effort matter more than what you say.
We also believe in supporting each other. Strength is built in a community where everyone is treated with respect, humility, and encouragement, whether you’re an athlete, coach, or staff member.
Our Core Values
Safety & Welfare
Your wellbeing comes first — we prioritise safe training, proper technique, and responsible progression.Honesty & Accountability
Own your actions, learn from mistakes, and take responsibility for your growth.Consistency & Integrity
Show up, follow through, and let your actions speak louder than words.Respect & Humility
Treat all people with respect, support your teammates, celebrate achievements, and stay grounded.Long-Term Development
We focus on sustainable progress, helping you build strength and capability that lasts a lifetime.Teamwork & Support
We succeed together. Collaboration, encouragement, and shared success are at the heart of our community.
Who We Work With
MD Strength works with individuals who want to learn how to train properly and build strength in a structured and supportive environment.
Our members range from people who are new to strength training through to experienced lifters and competitive powerlifters.
Beginners to Strength Training
Many members join MD Strength with little or no previous experience with barbell training. Through our coaching system, we teach the fundamentals of strength training so members can develop confidence and strong technical foundations.
Lifters Focused on Strength Development
We work with individuals who want to prioritise strength training as their primary focus. Our coaching and programming support long-term progress while helping members refine technique and improve performance.
Competitive Powerlifters
For athletes interested in competition, our coaching system provides a pathway into powerlifting. This includes structured programming, competition preparation and coaching support on the platform.
Athletes Seeking Performance Development
Through our Performance Squad, we also support high-level athletes who require structured strength training as part of their broader performance goals.
Meet the Coaching Team
Our coaches combine years of practical strength and powerlifting experience with a focus on technique, progression, and athlete development.
Together, we create an environment where members can learn, improve, and build strength with confidence, no matter their experience level.
Mark Derrick
Owner & Head Strength and Powerlifting Coach
With over 25 years of strength and conditioning experience, Mark coaches everyone from beginners to elite athletes. A competitive powerlifter and martial arts practitioner, he combines technical expertise with a passion for creating a positive, results-focused training environment.
Lee-Ann Derrick
Owner, Manager & Strength and Powerlifting Coach
Lee-Ann is a National and International level powerlifter and experienced educator. She specialises in guiding members from their first barbell experience to confident, consistent strength training, emphasising technique, progression, and long-term success.
Meet the Support Team
Supporting consistent training and recovery is an important part of strength development. Our support team works with members to help maintain mobility, reduce muscular tension and support ongoing training performance.
MD Strength members have access to discounted massage services as part of their membership benefits.
Daniel Lee
Sports Masseuse
Dan supports recovery, mobility, and performance for members. As a physiotherapist and competitive powerlifter, he understands both the science and practice of strength training.
Sam Hooi
Sports Masseuse
Sam provides recovery and mobility support for consistent training. With extensive physiotherapy experience and years as a member of MD Strength, she understands the demands of strength training.
Freya
Team Mascot & Supervisor
Freya is MD Strength’s resident team mascot and self-appointed supervisor of all training sessions. She specialises in greeting members, overseeing lifts from a safe distance, and ensuring the gym maintains a high standard of morale at all times.
Meet our Professional Partners
We collaborate with experienced professionals to ensure our members have access to high-quality support across all aspects of their training and performance.
Chris Seville
Physiotherapist
Chris is an experienced musculoskeletal physiotherapist and former Team Physiotherapist at the Collingwood Football Club. A competitive powerlifter and multiple-time Australian Champion, he combines clinical expertise with real-world strength training experience to support MD Strength members in performance, recovery, and injury management.
April Cox
Accredited Sports Dietitian
April helps athletes optimise performance, recovery, and body composition with practical, evidence-based nutrition strategies. She works closely with strength athletes to create achievable nutrition plans that support both training demands and everyday life.
Contact Us
Not sure where to start or have a question? Send us a message and we’ll help guide you in the right direction.