After 5 with GMHBA

GMHBA CEO David Greig (left) with Geelong Chamber CEO Ben Flynn. Photos: SUPPLIED

THE origin story behind one of Geelong’s most prominent businesses GMHBA was a focal point at Geelong Chamber of Commerce’s first After 5 networking event for the year.

GMHBA’s Wes Self (from left), NDIA’s Jodie Stangel, Geelong Waterfront Films chair Michael Stangel and GMHBA Helen Stevens.

CEO David Greig spoke of how a group of cement workers started the not-for-profit by forming a health insurance scheme to protect their families, while GMHBA’s mental health lead Angie Hilton interviewed former The Voice star Michael Stangel about his experience as member of the health provider and his recovery after receiving a terminal diagnosis 10 years ago.

Mai Thai Food Truck’s Klouymai Aylett (from left), GMHBA’s Angie Hilton, Mary Stekelenburg, Geelong Chamber’s Elissa Friday and Geelong Arts Centre & Geelong Chamber director Kimberley Sinnott.

Mr Stangel is the chair of the Geelong Waterfront Film Board and along with his wife Jodie are the stars of the health insurers newest TV commercial that was shown to Geelong Chamber members prior to its nationwide distribution on peoples screens.

Get More Time’s Les Watson (from left), Flick Anticimex’s David West, GMHBA director Dr. Denis Napthine and AULEX’s Ruchir Gulati.

The event, which was hosted at GMHBA’s new headquarters, allowed attendees to experience the new building firsthad.

The After 5 networking events are a staple of the chamber’s social functions where members get together over food and drinks and hear from leading figures in the city’s business, government and not-for-profit sectors.