PRESS RELEASE: From Cleaner With a Mop to Leading 4,000 Employees: George Stamas AM Honoured With BSCAA Life Membership at Melbourne Gala Held at RACV Club Melbourne, the BSCAA Excellence Awards celebrated Australia’s frontline workers, start-ups, and industry leaders — all in a sector supported by the nation’s $4.2 trillion superannuation system.
Melbourne, Australia – 20 June 2025:
The prestigious Building Service Contractors Association of Australia (BSCAA) Victoria Excellence Awards Gala, held at the RACV City Club Melbourne, brought together hundreds of industry professionals for a memorable evening of celebration, recognition, and laughter — with none other than AFL legend Robert “Dipper” DiPierdomenico Hathorn footy Club hosting as Master of Ceremonies. Dipper’s signature humour and larger-than-life energy kept the room buzzing, adding warmth and personality to what has become one of the most anticipated events on the sector calendar.
The night celebrated the people who form the foundation of Australia’s built environment — from cleaners and janitors to NDIS and aged care workers, and the businesses, both big and small, that support them. Proudly sponsored by AustralianSuper, the gala spotlighted the often-unseen frontline heroes and the business leaders working to elevate the industry from within.
A major highlight was the awarding of Life Membership to George Stamas AM, Founder and Executive Chair of GJK Facility Services, in recognition of his 20 years of service to BSCAA as Victorian and National President of BSCCA and more than 40 years of leadership in the cleaning and facilities industry.
George’s journey began as a cleaner with a mop. Today, he leads a national workforce of over 4,000 employees. Over two decades, he has served as Chair of BSCAA Victoria, National Director, mentor, and industry advocate, helping shape policy, champion social inclusion, and support the next generation of leaders. He is renowned for creating meaningful employment pathways for women, Indigenous Australians, and public housing residents — and for always leading with heart and humility.
In honour of GJK’s 40th anniversary, George’s team launched the “40 Acts of Kindness” campaign — supporting scholarships, social enterprises, hospital equipment donations, and more. His legacy is not only corporate, but deeply personal and community-driven.
Throughout the evening, awards were presented across categories such as “Outstanding Cleaner”, “Support Worker of the Year”, “Green Leadership”, and “Young Manager of the Year”. The event recognised start-ups, family businesses, and large-scale providers, all of whom play a vital role in supporting safe, clean and inclusive workplaces across Australia.
The event also highlighted the importance of long-term financial wellbeing. Australia’s superannuation system now manages over $4.2 trillion in retirement savings, a critical pillar of the national economy.
As Peter, an educator from AustralianSuper, reminded guests:
“To truly plan for the future, you need to understand and engage with your super. Knowing your super fund and how it works is one of the most powerful steps any worker can take — no matter their role in the business.”
The evening struck a perfect balance — heartfelt, humorous, and inspiring. As one guest put it, “This wasn’t just an awards night — it was a celebration of people, purpose, and pride in our industry.”
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About BSCAA
The Building Service Contractors Association of Australia (BSCAA) is the peak national body representing the cleaning, security, facilities management, and grounds maintenance industries. With chapters across all states and territories, BSCAA supports both small businesses and national operators through advocacy, workplace relations guidance, training and accreditation, industry events, and government engagement. The association champions the essential workers and service providers who keep Australia running, advocating for their recognition, safety, and continued growth.
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