Health insurer MBF takes on partnership with Brisbane Lions

Release date: 6 February 2009

The Brisbane Lions' partnership with leading private health insurer HBA will go from strength to strength with today's announcement that HBA's sister brand MBF, will take over the role as the Lions' sponsor.

MBF and HBA became sister brands in 2008 when HBA's parent company, Bupa Australia, merged with MBF to create the largest non-government operated health insurer in the country.

MBF has been serving the health and care needs of Queenslanders since 1950 and is a leading private health insurance brand in the State.

MBF's Head of Market Development and AFL legend Peter Hudson explained the reason behind re-branding the Lions under the MBF banner, was because MBF is so well known amongst Queenslanders .

"Queenslanders know, trust and love MBF, just like they know, love and trust their Lions, " he said.

Brisbane Lions Chief Executive Michael Bowers was delighted the Club would continue its partnership with Australia's leading health fund through the trusted MBF brand.

"It's very reassuring to know that a core business partner who's just as passionate as we are about footy, fitness and health is now larger and even more committed to the Lions than ever," Mr Bowers said.

"Through our partnership we've already created two extremely valuable social programs with MBF Schools Assist – where schools can apply for the equipment they need to conduct great footy programs for students, and the MBF Lions Alliance which supports the fundraising activities of Queensland charities through player appearances, signed memorabilia donations, match-day tickets and Lions supporter packs."

Peter Hudson reminded fans that the brand changes were going to mean access to a broader service centre network, and a greater range of health and care products to choose from.

"Brisbane Lions members who are insured with MBF or HBA don't need to do a thing. Club members can be confident that they'll receive high quality customer care through their existing HBA or MBF membership, only with access to a greater range of products and services, and a more extensive member centre network."

"Our partnership with the Brisbane Lions is about supporting the Queensland community and encouraging the next generation to start a healthier lifestyle today." Peter said.

Lions Captain Jonathan Brown was excited the Club would continue working with MBF to promote healthy lifestyles and give more Queensland school children a taste of Aussie Rules football.

"It's not only the Lions and our fans who will benefit from the partnership with MBF, but also students from more than 160 Queensland schools participating in the MBF Schools Assist program," Brown said.

The MBF Schools Assist aims to get Queensland school children more actively involved in AFL programs and clinics through sporting equipment donations and tickets to attend Brisbane Lions matches at the Gabba.

The program gives many Queensland children the opportunity of a lifetime – to be coached by and have a kick with some of their favourite Lions AFL stars.

About Bupa Australia

Bupa Australia is a leading health and care provider. With a significant presence in every Australian State and Territory, the company operates under the trusted and respected brands, MBF, HBA, Mutual Community and Clearview, proudly covering over three million Australians.

Bupa Australia is driven by the vision of "Taking care of the lives in our hands", and has the goal of helping people live longer, healthier, happier lives. The Company is focused on providing sustainable health insurance and financial services solutions that represent real value to customers, and on leading the industry in the promotion of preventative health and wellness - helping customers to better manage their health for the long-term.

Bupa Australia's products and services include cover for hospital, medical, ancillary and ambulance services, as well as travel, life, car and home insurance, and retirement planning and lifestyle management services.

As part of the international Bupa Group, Bupa Australia draws on the strength and expertise of a recognised global leader in the health and care sector. The Bupa Group covers over ten million people in over 190 countries, and provides other health and financial services to many more millions of customers around the globe.

Media contacts:

Bupa – Head of Corporate Affairs, Arriarne Kemp-Bishop, 0414 311 331
Brisbane Lions AFC – Stephen Buckley, 0412 637 517