Local Spotlight: Karyn Weepers of Body Pepper Fitness – Building Strength, Connection & Community in Yandina by Mark Officer from Jaz Realty
As a local real estate agent representing Jaz Realty in the Yandina community, I’m passionate about connecting with the incredible people and businesses that make our town so unique. This morning, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Karyn Weepers, the heart and soul behind Body Pepper Fitness, to learn more about her journey, her vision, and the special role she plays in Yandina.
What inspired you to start your business?
“I’ve been in the fitness industry for around 30 years and moved to the Sunshine Coast 16 years ago,” Karyn shared. “When I arrived in Yandina, I fell in love with the town straight away. At the time, there were no other fitness businesses here, so I decided it was the perfect time to take a leap and work for myself. It’s been an amazing journey with such a lovely community.”
What’s your favourite part about being a business owner in Yandina?
“For me, it’s the sense of community,” Karyn explained. “I’ve built relationships with so many people and businesses. Everyone here looks out for each other. The support from clients and fellow businesses really helps you feel like your business can grow.”
What’s your vision for the future of Body Pepper Fitness?
“As Yandina continues to grow, so will Body Pepper,” Karyn said with a smile. “Since COVID, we’ve expanded our variety of classes—especially our senior classes, which have gone crazy! My goal is to keep growing, bring in more instructors, and train them up so we can continue to offer even more for the community.”
How do you connect with the community outside your business?
Karyn is passionate about giving back. “We run different fundraisers for the Yandina Hall to raise money for its upkeep. We also organise social walks, morning teas, afternoon teas, and lunches—it all brings us together as one big family.”
What do you love most about living and working in Yandina?
“There’s just so much to love!” she said. “I love the small-town feel and the quaintness. We have so many great businesses and cafes here—you really don’t need to leave town. When we first moved here with our young family, we loved the skatepark, the greenery, Wappa Dam… there’s so much to enjoy.”
A cherished local memory
Karyn smiled as she recalled simpler times: “When we first moved here, the kids would ride their bikes into town, hang out at the skatepark, grab ice creams and videos from the video shop. Those simple moments of small-town life will always stay with me.”
How do you unwind after a busy day?
“Walking is my meditation,” she said. “I grab the dogs and go for a long walk—it helps me reset.”
The biggest lesson learned in business
“Connection is everything,” Karyn shared. “I want people to feel like they can call me, chat with me, and connect beyond just the business. Yandina is one big family, and being part of that is the most rewarding part of what I do.”
Karyn’s message to the community
“Thinking about joining a fitness group can feel daunting, and I understand that,” Karyn said. “That first step into a class can be scary, but once you connect with me and the group, it becomes so much easier. Fitness isn’t just about the physical—it’s about social and mental wellbeing too. Body Pepper Fitness is full of amazing, supportive people who will help you on your fitness journey and become lifelong friends.
If you’re ready to start, give me a call. I’d love to chat and help you feel comfortable about taking that first step.”
Body Pepper Fitness isn’t just a place to get fit—it’s a place to belong. Thank you, Karyn, for everything you do for the Yandina community!
✨ Do you have a local business or story you’d love featured? Let me know—I’d love to hear from you!
