Macquarie Medi Spa has recently unveiled a significant renovation that enhances its services and expands its footprint in the Bathurst Central Business District. Owned by Karla McDiarmid, the spa’s transformation follows her successful acquisition of the building in 2023, which allowed for a combination of the front and rear tenancies. The renovations, completed in October 2025, provide the spa with street visibility on Howick Street and additional space for beauty services, including the reintroduction of makeup services.
With the pandemic impacting event-related services, McDiarmid previously discontinued makeup offerings. However, she is now focusing on a growing demand for advanced skincare treatments. “A real growth area is that advanced skin, so hence the two bigger advanced rooms for the equipment,” she explained. The spa has also invested in new technology, including devices for tattoo removal, radiofrequency, and IPL hair removal, which are expected to arrive in the coming months.
Commitment to Local Business Growth
McDiarmid, who has operated Macquarie Medi Spa for over 20 years, is confident about the potential for businesses to thrive in Bathurst. Her deep-rooted affection for the regional city drives her ongoing investments in both her business and its service offerings. “I’ve been overseas for the last three weeks, and there is no place like Bathurst,” she stated. McDiarmid aims to provide quality services comparable to those found in metropolitan areas, emphasizing the importance of local access to effective treatments.
“It’s great to be able to offer it for our customers, but we also do it for ourselves,” she noted. Many residents are unable to travel to larger cities for treatments, prompting McDiarmid to ensure that high-quality options are available locally. Her vision is for Macquarie Medi Spa to serve as a “one-stop shop for professional skincare, advice, treatments, and products.”
In response to the growing trend of online shopping, McDiarmid has also expanded retail space within the spa. This allows customers to access high-quality professional products in person, enhancing the shopping experience. “If they keep buying online, they’re going to just keep saying ‘bye-bye’ to retail shops in town,” she remarked. The ability to try products before purchasing helps minimize waste and ensures customer satisfaction.
Future Expansion Plans
The recent renovations at Macquarie Medi Spa mark the first phase of McDiarmid’s ambitious plans. She has already outlined stage two of renovations, scheduled for 2026, which will establish additional treatment rooms and enhance staff amenities. “There’s two more rooms that we can turn into treatment rooms,” she said, indicating that the previous reception and waiting areas will be reimagined to create a more functional space.
The commitment to improving both customer and staff experiences reflects McDiarmid’s dedication to the spa’s growth and the local community. By focusing on quality services and accessibility, she believes that Bathurst deserves the best, and she is determined to bring it to her clients. As Macquarie Medi Spa continues to evolve, it stands as a testament to resilience and innovation in the face of changing economic landscapes.
