A Milestone in Education: Epworth’s Scholarship Program Tops $10 Million GJK Facility Services and George Stamas AM Support Epworth.

Melbourne, December 2025 — Epworth HealthCare has celebrated a significant achievement in its ongoing commitment to workforce development, with the Epworth Medical Foundation Scholarship Program now surpassing the $10 million milestone. This notable accomplishment has been supported by key philanthropic figures, including George Stamas AM, the Founder and Director of GJK Facility Services and Vice Chair of the Epworth Medical Foundation.

Since its inception in 2008, the Scholarship Program has helped more than 2,000 Epworth staff from various departments by providing opportunities for advanced education, training, and career development. What initially began as a modest offering of six scholarships has evolved into a robust program that awarded over 270 scholarships in 2025 alone.

Scott Bulger, Executive Director of the Epworth Medical Foundation, underscored the importance of donor involvement in creating meaningful pathways for Epworth’s workforce. “These scholarships provide significant support to staff across a wide range of roles and departments. By investing in their professional growth, we are not only strengthening the individual careers of Epworth’s workforce but also ensuring the long-term success and sustainability of the organization,” Mr. Bulger commented.

2025 Scholarship Recipients Recognized

At the 2025 Scholarship Ceremony, two Epworth staff members were specifically recognized for their outstanding contributions and were awarded scholarships supported by the Stamas family:

• Aedan Kerr
  Recipient of the Stamas Family Support Services Staff Scholarship
  Aedan was recognized for his professionalism, dedication, and commitment to expanding his skills within Epworth’s Support Services team.

• Sharee Burton
  Recipient of the Stamas Family Scholarship for Indigenous Staff
  Sharee was acknowledged for her leadership, her personal development goals, and her active role in fostering cultural understanding and inclusion within the workplace.

Both scholarships were presented by Jaqui Maree Stamas at the ceremony held in October 2025, reflecting the Stamas family's commitment to the development and success of Epworth's diverse workforce.

Statement from George Stamas AM, Founder and Director of GJK Facility Services & Vice Chair of the Epworth Medical Foundation

“Our family is deeply committed to supporting Epworth’s dedicated staff, who work tirelessly across the organization to deliver exceptional care and services. We are incredibly proud of Aedan Kerr and Sharee Burton for their dedication, ambition, and professionalism. Supporting their development and helping them grow in their respective roles is one of the most meaningful ways we can contribute to a strong, inclusive, and well-equipped workforce at Epworth,” said George Stamas AM, Founder and Director of GJK Facility Services and Vice Chair of the Epworth Medical Foundation.

GJK Facility Services Celebrates 40 Years with ‘40 Acts of Kindness’

In addition to celebrating the milestone of the Epworth Scholarship Program, the 2025 scholarship ceremony also coincides with the 40th anniversary of GJK Facility Services, founded by George Stamas AM. To commemorate this remarkable anniversary, GJK Facility Services launched the “40 Acts of Kindness” initiative, a nationwide social impact program aimed at supporting various causes, including:

• Indigenous education and employment opportunities

• Women’s and children’s programs

• Workplace training and professional development

• Health and wellbeing initiatives

• Community partnerships across Australia

The program reflects George Stamas AM’s long-standing commitment to practical, community-focused philanthropy, emphasizing sustainable and impactful contributions to society.

About GJK Facility Services

For over four decades, GJK Facility Services has been a leading provider of facility management services in Australia. The company is supported by an accomplished Advisory Board, consisting of professionals with extensive experience across a wide range of sectors, including senior executive roles, legal, governance, and corporate leadership. This diverse expertise ensures that GJK remains a trusted and forward-thinking organization, with a strong reputation for integrity, innovation, and operational excellence.

To learn more about GJK Facility Services, its leadership, and its Advisory Board, please visit: https://gjkfacilityservices.com.au/about/