GMHBA is proud to announce its Gold Sponsorship of the Friends of the Great South West Walk for their volunteer work in promoting and maintaining the renowned Great South West Walk, a 262km walk that attracts hundreds of community members and nature enthusiasts annually to explore the stunning landscapes of Victoria's southwest coast.
The teams from GMHBA Portland and Portland Dental chose to support the Friends of the Great South West Walk as part of GMHBA's community engagement strategy, reflecting the organisation's ongoing commitment to supporting local community initiatives that promote mental health and wellbeing.
The walking trail offers a spectacular journey through some of the region's most diverse and breathtaking landscapes. Established in 1981 as a community-led initiative, the trail was developed in collaboration with local schools, Parks Victoria and volunteers, designed as a loop beginning and ending in the historic town of Portland.
The walk weaves through pristine national parks, including the Lower Glenelg, Cobboboonee, and Discovery Bay, showcasing towering eucalypt forests, tranquil rivers, rugged coastal cliffs, and sweeping ocean views. It also features iconic landmarks such as the Glenelg River, Cape Nelson, and the Petrified Forest near Cape Bridgewater.
The $5,000 contribution from GMHBA, Australia's leading regional not-for-profit private health insurer, will go towards trail maintenance, to help ensure the trail remains open and safe for locals and visitors alike to engage with.
Portland GMHBA branch manager Tania O'Brien said they chose to support the walk because it had grown from a grassroots initiative to something Portland was proud to share with the world.
"Supporting the Great South West Walk is more than backing a trail, it's investing in community wellbeing," she said.
"Spending time in nature is an effective way to support mental health and prevent stress from taking a toll. The Great South West Walk offers a unique opportunity to disconnect from daily pressures, recharge, and build resilience. It's a proactive approach to fostering long-term wellbeing and preventing mental health challenges, contributing to a healthier, more balanced society."
Friends of the Great South West Walk President Jen Johns welcomed the support from GMHBA.
"We're so proud to be the stewards of this incredible walk and feel a real responsibility to create a safe environment for our local community and for visiting tourists," she said.
"Having GMHBA come on board as a Gold Sponsor will ensure we can continue to offer well-maintained trail and comfortable campsites, enabling people to enjoy short day hikes or the full multi-day experience."
GMHBA has long been committed to fostering health and wellbeing not just within Geelong, but throughout the state of Victoria. With locations in Ballarat, Bendigo, Portland and Warrnambool, GMHBA actively engages in programs that make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families in the regions where they operate.
