Geelong Business Club March 2025 Dinner: Economic Insights with Warren Hogan

The Geelong Business Club gathered once again for its March 2025 dinner at the stunning Truffleduck, where members enjoyed a night of fine dining, exceptional wine, and insightful discussion. This month’s guest speaker, Warren Hogan, delivered a thought-provoking presentation on the economic outlook, global events, and the impact of government policy on business.

A guest speaker who captivated the audience

Warren Hogan is a highly regarded economist, currently serving as the Managing Director of EQ Economics and Economic Advisor to Judo Bank. He is also a respected economic analyst, commentator, and columnist for the Australian Financial Review.

His presentation explored how government policy and the expanding public sector are influencing the economy, and whether businesses are being constrained by government competition. A key takeaway was his perspective that less government intervention allows businesses to innovate and drive economic growth. Despite the complexity of the topic, the audience was spellbound, and many suggested that this should become an annual presentation.

Warren Hogan, guest speaker Geelong Business Club, March 2025

A night of exceptional dining

The evening’s menu was a standout, offering a delicious selection of dishes:

Entrée:
Mini Antipasto Platter
Classic Prawn Cocktail (a table favourite!)

Main Course:

Grilled Eye Fillet with potato fondant, crushed root vegetables, creamed cabbage & bacon, crispy kale, porcini mushroom jus (GF)
Prosecco Poached Barramundi with Caponata Capellacci Verde, wilted greens, salsa fresca, and petit baby basil salad (DF)

Side Dish:

Cos lettuce & parsley with anchovy dressing, crisp pancetta & Parmigiano Reggiano (GF)

Dessert & Cheese:

A locally sourced cheese selection with house crackers, biscuits, lavosh, quince, chutney & fruit, accompanied by tea & coffee

Wine & Beverages:

The evening was complemented by an excellent selection of wines, including:

St. Hallet Garden of Eden Shiraz, South Australia (a crowd favourite among red wine lovers)
Rob Doolan Trellis and Vine Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley, VIC
Santa & d’Sas Prosecco, King Valley, VIC
Mount Langi Ghiran ‘Vine Road’ Pinot Gris, Grampians, VIC
Beer and non-alcoholic options included Stone & Wood Pacific Ale, Great Northern Super Crisp, and Capi Sparkling Mineral Water & Flavoured Sodas.

Don’t miss the next event!

The March dinner was a memorable evening of insightful discussion, delicious food, and excellent company. If you haven’t yet attended a Geelong Business Club event, now is the time to get involved! Guests are always welcome, and we encourage members to bring colleagues or friends along.
If you’d like to join us at the next dinner, please fill out the contact form on our website, and a committee member will reach out with an invitation.