Member Spotlight – Gina Balarin
Founder & Director, Veballistics
Where do you live?
I’m not quite a Sunshine Coast local as I live over the hills in Brooloo, but I come to network here because the people are awesome.
Tell us about your family?
There’s just me and hubby and many adopted wild creatures who brighten our days.
Favourite location on the Sunshine Coast?
For a great meal, head to Riba Kai restaurant. They’re consistently excellent. And always surprising. You wouldn’t expect such great food to come out of a location that feels like it’s in the middle of an industrial estate, when you approach it. But I have never been disappointed and, the moment you step inside, it feels like a warm, wonderful, calm place that’s just got a special vibe!
Which local person inspires you?
Peppi Bueti. He’s always welcoming and friendly, involved and engaged, he’s a fabulous podcast host and he cares, deeply. That comes across in everything he does – from his day job to supporting charities.
Favourite local business?
Tanya & Dave Fraser of ‘Kinetic Solutions’ who provided excellent training during their Digital Business Mastery course.
Best thing about living on the Coast?
The Sunshine! No, seriously, it’s the people. As someone who helps great speakers become extraordinary and turn doubt into applause, it’s wonderful to work with those who show extraordinary generosity, kindness and support. That’s what the Sunshine Coast is all about – helping people take their great characteristics and become more: more engaged, more employable, more connected.
How long have you been a Chamber member?
1 year (I just renewed my membership!)
What’s the best thing about being a Chamber member?
Constantly new relationships, friendly connections, people who are truly open to each other, opportunities to get involved.
Favourite ChamberCast with the President and Pep?
I’m biased – it was mine: “Chambercast Episode 25 with Gina Balarin”. Listen to it and discover the only Japanese phrase I can remember… (Hint: it has something to do with beer…)
Favourite Chamber event?
The Friday morning networking events one a month.
How can the Sunshine Coast be improved?
We need improved public transport for better connectivity. But I believe that’s a work in progress…
What excites you about the future of the region?
I’m excited about the clear vision there is for the area. Rather than growing in an ad-hoc way, the development has a purpose. You can sense this in the clarity and planning that’s going on behind the scenes (that we often get a glimpse of at the chamber events).
Favourite holiday destination?
Rainbow Beach – especially the delicious home-made ice-cream store/gelateria “Creme de la Creme”.
Read Gina’s full Member Spotlight in My Weekly Preview.
