Canterbury West Coast Forestry Industry Awards

Friday 16 Aug 2024

The Canterbury West Coast Wood Council (CWCWC) held its second ever awards night on Friday 2nd August at the stunning Te Pae Convention Centre in Christchurch. It was a sellout event with 420 guests attending from all parts of the industry. CWCWC is unique in that its membership welcomes all those from across the supply chain, including nursery growers, forestry companies, contractors, distributors, sawmillers, timber retailers, local port businesses and councils.

Opening the night was Glenn Moir, chair of CWCWC, who highlighted the importance of forestry to our local regions and the 2000 plus jobs it creates. He attributed this mostly to the benefits of growing Pinus radiata.

Local MP for Selwyn Hon Nicola Grigg and Minister of State for Trade, Minister for Women, and Associate Minister of Agriculture spoke of the improvements the new government aims to make for the industry. Also in a video presentation, Forestry Minister Todd McClay talked on current forestry initiatives and promoting economic growth in the regions.

The Canterbury West Coast Forestry Awards showcases the exceptional skills of the local workforce and acknowledges those businesses that are accomplishing notable achievements. This year there were 40 nominations received that went on to be judged by John Hawkins, Dr Elizabeth Heeg and Mark Grover. The judges were impressed by the high standard of nominations.

Winners were selected for each of the ten award categories:
  • Business Innovation - TrackIT Logistics 
  • Crew of the Year - C3 Limited
  • Harvesting Excellence - David Button, Button Logging
  • Wood Processing Excellence - Ben Millar, Mitchell Bros
  • Distribution Excellence - Jason Lyon, Steve Murphy Limited
  • Emerging Talent of the Year - Aaron Tahuhu, SRS New Zealand Limited
  • Forestry Excellence - Nathan Sew Hoy, Central Forestry Services
  • Outstanding Environmental Management - Ryan Lee, Lee Logging.
  • Outstanding Health and Safety Management - Ebony Hillman, Westco Lumber
  • Outstanding Contribution to the Forestry Industry - Derrick Parry, Rangiora Nursery
The commitment and passion that each winner has shown in their jobs is a great example to follow. It was terrific to see them receiving acknowledgement from their peers at the ceremony for all the work they do.

To delight the crowds MC Jackie Clarke was back to perform her magic on stage. She provided a lively show and had the audience laughing throughout the evening.

Special mentions were also given to all the sponsors that contributed significantly towards the night, making the event possible. The Canterbury West Coast Wood Council was thrilled to see the people of the regions coming together for this very important occasion.
Canterbury West Coast Forestry Award Winners 2024
Back Row (left to right): Jarryd Da Fonseca, Nathan Sew Hoy, Ryan Lee, Chris Murphy, David Button, Desiree Hollister, Graeme McCartin, Glenn Moir. Front Row (left to right): Ben Millar, Derrick Parry, Ebony Hillman, Aaron Tahuhu, Natalia Darling, Jason Lyon, Dave Moni.

Source and image credit: Canterbury West Coast Wood Council (CWCWC)


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