Meet Chris Nayna

We sat down to chat with personal trainer and former nurse, Chris Nayna, who is also a dedicated RFDS Victoria ambassador.

Hi Chris! If you were you to meet someone at a dinner party, how would you introduce yourself? 

Hi, my name’s Chris! I’m an ex-critical care registered nurse who now works in the fitness industry. I own a personal training studio and am passionate about helping people live healthier, happier lives.

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne. I’m the youngest of seven, so my childhood is full of happy, chaotic family memories with my two brothers and four sisters.

If you had to list the three things you’re most passionate about, what would they be? 

1.       My family – I’m married and have a one-year-old daughter named Annabelle. My wife, Liz, works for the RFDS and is how I got involved with the organisation. She’s currently pregnant with our second child so I’m looking forward to having another bub join the crew very soon!

2.       Health and fitness – I fell in love with exercise when I was a teenager. My GP told me I was pre-diabetic and that was the catalyst for a complete lifestyle overhaul that I’ve maintained to this day. Exercise is a fundamental part of my routine; it’s crucial for my body and mind.

3.       My community – I’m really proud of the fantastic community that my team at Train Station Fitness have created. My clients inspire me every day, and I really enjoy spending time with them and helping them achieve their goals.

What are your earliest memories of the Flying Doctor? 

I don’t have a specific memory of the Flying Doctor, more a sense of them always having been there and always having known about them! I’m sure there was a day when I first learnt about RFDS, but they’re such an iconic Aussie brand that it’s hard to pinpoint when that was.

Have you learnt anything surprising since you became an ambassador?

I am only just starting out on my ambassador journey but I’m excited to learn more about the organisation!

My wife, Liz, has been working for RFDS since 2019 and I’ve learnt lots through her. I had no idea about the scope of the work that the organisation does, or that it largely relies on donor funds to do it! You think RFDS and you automatically think planes, but there is SO much more to the picture. As someone who lives in the city, you can easily forget about the logistical issues facing rural and remote Australians when it comes to accessing health care. As an ex-nurse, I know how important early intervention and preventative work is in reducing hospital admissions and bettering people’s health.

What are you most looking forward to sharing with your audience about the Flying Doctor?

I’m looking forward to sharing the scale and scope of what you do with my audience. It’s a privilege to represent such an iconic, important Aussie charity and I’m excited to help spread the word!