There are some issues you can choose to get involved in, and there are others that you can’t really ignore. Pancreatic cancer is the latter. It’s not widely talked about, but it should be.

We hear a lot about leadership. Less often, we talk about what sits behind it. For me, leadership is not about position or title. It’s about decisions and, more specifically, it’s about the decisions you make when there’s something at stake.

Most people don’t need a handout, they need a chance. That’s something I’ve seen over and over again - in business, in community work, and in life generally.

Christmas in Australia is a truly special time. While the rest of the world might associate the season with snow and cosy nights by the fire, here we celebrate under the summer sun, gathering with family and friends over backyard barbecues, beach trips, and long lunches filled with laughter.

When people walk into a clean office, a well-maintained hospital, or a safe public space, they often don’t stop to think about the work that goes into maintaining those environments. Yet, behind the scenes, the facility services industry plays a crucial role in keeping Australia’s workplaces and communities running smoothly.

Earlier this year, several RMIT University students took part in the Business Beyond Borders study tour, a program that gives students hands-on experience in global business, innovation and sustainability.

At GJK, we came together to celebrate Diwali this month, a festival that brings light, warmth, and joy to so many of our colleagues and their families.

I’ve always believed that true success isn’t just about individual achievements—it’s about creating opportunities for others to succeed alongside us. When we foster an inclusive environment, whether in business or the broader community, we unlock potential, drive innovation, and build stronger, more connected teams.

I’m proud to share that the George & Jaqui Maree Fellowship, created in partnership with the Women’s Housing Company, is now underway. My wife Jaqui Maree and I established this Fellowship to support women in building confidence, leadership skills and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Last month I had the great privilege of receiving Life Membership from the Building Service Contractors Association of Australia (BSCAA), presented during their Excellence Awards Gala in Melbourne. It was a humbling experience, especially given how many people in our industry do exceptional work, often without fanfare.