Our Instructors
Melissa Findlay
Founder/Pilates Instructor
Melissa's love for Pilates began at just 14 years old, starting in clinical Pilates classes and quickly growing into a lifelong passion. She is an APPI Certified Pilates Instructor (Matwork & Reformer) with Ante and Post Natal training. She spent 10 years working alongside local Physiotherapy clinicians, where she developed a strong foundation in movement, rehabilitation and individualised care.
In 2024, Melissa opened Yarra Ranges Pilates & Fitness with the vision of creating a welcoming, supportive space in the heart of the Yarra Valley. Having grown up in the Yarra Valley herself, she is incredibly proud to call it home and hopes every client who walks through the studio doors feels just as at home as she does.
Melissa has a heart of gold, a true "go-get-it" personality and a passion for helping others become the strongest, healthiest versions of themselves. She is hardworking, determined and deeply committed to creating a community where people feel encouraged, empowered and supported, no matter where they are in their fitness journey.
Outside the studio, Melissa loves camping, motorbike riding and spending quality time with her friends and family. With her bubbly personality, genuine care for others and contagious enthusiasm, she hopes every client feels heard, safe, challenged and has plenty of fun throughout their Pilates journey.
-Instructor since 2021.
Bridget Aperloo
Pilates Instructor
Bridget discovered Pilates in 2024 and quickly fell in love. She has always had a passion for health and fitness and is excited to share that passion through Pilates.
Bridget is Certified through Barre Body for Matwork, Reformer Pilates and Pre & Post natal.
She loves helping clients build strength and move in a way that feels good for their bodies. Bridget hopes every class leaves her clients feeling confident. With her calm, caring nature and warm personality, she looks forward to welcoming you into the studio and supporting you on your Pilates journey.
Outside of the studio, Bridget is a qualified hairdresser with a creative side and a love for helping people feel their best, both inside and out. She loves spending quality time with her family and is now a proud mum to a little boy.
Bridget is happiest outdoors and has a genuine love for nature. Whether she's in the garden, exploring somewhere new, spending time with her much-loved fur babies, Archie and Poppy, or listening to country music, she enjoys life's simple pleasures. Although she loves to travel, the Yarra Valley will always be home, and she feels incredibly grateful to have grown up in such a beautiful part of the world.
-Instructor since 2024
-Currently on leave from July 2026-2027
Grace Cole
Pilates Instructor
Grace first discovered Pilates as a client at Yarra Ranges Pilates & Fitness, attending classes alongside her mum, aunty and other family members. She's now excited to be on the other side, helping others experience the same enjoyment through both Reformer and Mat Pilates.
She is APPI Certified in Matwork and Reformer Pilates through Unite Health, as well as Pre & Post Natal Certified through The Core Collab.
Having grown up in the Yarra Valley, Grace loves being able to teach within the community she has always called home. Outside of the studio, she is currently studying Environmental Science, Wildlife Conservation and Biology at university, making her a huge animal and nature lover. She enjoys spending time outdoors, travelling and exploring new places whenever she gets the chance.
Movement has always been a big part of her life. She has played netball since she was little, and it continues to be one of her greatest passions. Some of her favourite memories have come from sharing the court with her family and celebrating some pretty special wins together.
She believes in doing everything with kindness, positivity and good energy, and is passionate about creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels supported and leaves with a smile on their face.
-Instructor since 2026