LOCAL bodybuilder and fitness fan Bruno Souza da Silva has been through quite the change.

A Bright resident, da Silva has capped off a stunning weight loss journey with podium finishes at the IFBB International Bodybuilding Competition, held in late March in Melbourne.

His bodybuilding journey began back in 2023, and the results of his hard work were evident, claiming a silver medal in Classic Physique Masters, and bronze medals in Body Building True Novice and Bodybuilding Open Light Heavyweight categories.

“On 18 August, 2023, I weighed 115kg with 30 per cent body fat – by 31 March, 2025, at the IFBB International Bodybuilding Competition, I stepped on stage at 82kg with just under four per cent body fat, losing approximately 32.7kg of fat in the process,” da Silva said.

“After moving to Bright in 2021 from Geelong, where I was very active at CrossFit Raven, I struggled to find a gym that fit my professional schedule.

“I initially joined Bright Bootcamp in 2022, but their timetable didn’t suit my late-afternoon workout preference.

“Without a consistent routine, my active eating habits quickly got out of hand.

“Joining Bright Sports Centre in June 2023 marked a turning point—even though their equipment wasn’t ideal, it helped me transition from CrossFit/Bootcamp to serious bodybuilding.”

While da Silva said the workout equipment locally wasn’t enough, in order to maximise his workouts with the best equipment available, he resorted to living out of his campervan at the Wodonga World Gym car park.

“The previous equipment at Bright Sports Centre was outdated, more like home setups than commercial-grade machines,” da Silva opined.

“Although the council later upgraded to Matrix equipment, these machines offer limited range of motion and don’t cater to key muscle groups.

“There’s a severe lack of equipment for legs - especially for glutes and calves - arms, chest, and shoulders.

“In contrast, gyms like Wodonga World Gym boast top-tier brands such as Hammer Strength, Cybex, and Panatta, essential for serious bodybuilders.

“It seems these changes were made without consulting the members, leaving dedicated athletes without the proper tools.”

While his bodybuilding career is still in its infancy, da Silva said he had his eyes on the prize.

“I plan to continue my fitness journey and return to the stage at an even higher level, with the goal of winning a gold medal,” he said.

“While I’m not actively seeking sponsorship, I’d welcome any opportunities that might support my ongoing journey.

“I also have a deep love for sports - whether it's riding my dirt bike (enduro), snowboarding, skiing, playing tennis and squash, or even hiking, these activities keep me active and fuel my passion for fitness.”

Follow along with Bruno da Silva’s journey via his Instagram – brunosouzarj - and Facebook – brunoooooooo.