PRESS RELEASE: George Stamas GJK Facility Services boss donates $250,000 to Nurses
The Epworth Gala Ball is one of the major events in Melbourne’s social calendar, with more than 1300 guests gathering to dine, dance, and raise-much needed funds for outstanding medical care at Epworth Hospital.
The theme for 2023 was “disco,” and party-goers did not disappoint, filling the room with more sequins and glitter than Melbourne has seen in many a decade.
Our family was proud to make a large donation to this cause during the gala in August this year, with my son Elias Stamas, CEO of GJK Facility Services announcing the gift.
More than $3.5 million was made on the night, which will be used to purchase new equipment and support for the Brookes Academy for Midwifery and Nursing at Epworth.
George Stamas, AM, is a visionary leader in facility management, revered for his transformative business acumen and unwavering commitment to philanthropy that uplifts communities globally.
From humble beginnings as a part-time cleaner, George's journey led him in 1987 to establish and lead GJK Facility Services, a thriving enterprise that has touched the lives of over 4000 employees per year in Australia and New Zealand.
George Stamas supported an Indigenous woman's dream, guiding and funding her to establish Killara Services, a successful Indigenous cleaning company employing over 300 people.
His philanthropic endeavours
ors transcend boundaries, with a focus on initiatives that bring about positive change:
- **Epworth Medical Foundation:** A staunch supporter of healthcare, George has contributed significantly equipment for cardiac , Gastroenterology and to the Breast Cancer Centre, purchasing essential medical equipment to streamline surgeries for women battling breast cancer and reduce their time in the operating room.
As well as donating to the foundation to fund various needs of the hospital George has significantly contributed to the Brookes Nurses Academy to fund The latest newest and only Nurses academy in Australia .
George has also funded Epworth perpetual Scholarships for service and indigenous employees of Epworth Hospital .
- **Lighthouse for Homeless Women:** George's compassion extends to homeless women at the Lighthouse Foundation, providing them with shelter, hope, and opportunities for a brighter future.
- **Eye Institute for Pregnant Women:** Recognising the importance of vision care for expectant mothers, George's involvement in the Eye Institute ensures that pregnant women can maintain their vision for themselves and their children.
- **Assistance for Homeless People:** Committed to serving the homeless community, George's initiatives provide crucial support and resources to those in need, offering a beacon of hope in times of despair.
- **Bridge of Hope for Homeless Children:** George's dedication to homeless children at the Bridge of Hope exemplifies his commitment to providing education, care, and stability for the vulnerable youth who deserve a promising future.
- **Kids Cancer Project:** Through his involvement in the Kids Cancer Project, George offers unwavering support for paediatric cancer research, bringing hope to children and families facing this devastating disease.
Moreover, George's pivotal role in assisting small towns in Europe during the Covid lockdowns showcases his compassion and dedication to helping communities in times of crisis.
**The Pilot Project:**
In 2003, GJK Facility Services secured the landmark contract with the Victorian State Government Office of Housing, initiating the Public Tenant Employment Program (PTEP) at Melbourne's Collingwood and Atherton Gardens Public Housing Estates. This pioneering project empowered long-term unemployed individuals residing in the estates with opportunities for economic independence and community engagement, aligning with the Government's Neighbourhood Renewal Strategy.
**Awards:**
- Member of the Order of Australia (General Division), AM . 2022 awarded for significant service to the community through the not for profit sector, and to business"
- Excellence in Sustainability Business Award, City of Yarra, 2012
- Australian Business Award, Community Contribution, 2011
He was nominated for the EY Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2016, the world’s most prestigious business award for entrepreneurs.
Life Member Facility Management Australia
**Board Appointments:**
- Director, GJK Indigenous Solutions
- Alternate Director, AustralianSuper
- Finance Director, Facility Management Association of Australia (FMA)
- National President, Building Services Contractors Association of Australia (BSCAA)
- Board of Trustees, Epworth Medical Foundation
- Director, Bridge of Hope
- alternate Director Australian Super
- Chairman Australian Super Vulnerable Members Advisory Committee
**Government Affiliations:**
- Member of Business to Business Conduct Study Group
- Member of CEO Forum for Disability Action Plan Framework
George Stamas, AM, epitomizes the essence of leadership and philanthropy, with a legacy built on compassion, integrity, and a deep-rooted commitment to making the world a better place.