Supreme Forest Industry Award (sponsored by Northland Wood Council) Graham Waru (Rosvall Sawmill LTD)
The Northland Wood Council proudly hosted the Northland Forestry Awards at MacKay Stadium in late September, honouring the exceptional contributions of individuals and organizations in the forestry sector. Source: Timberbiz, Photo Jess Burges Photography
The event drew an impressive crowd of 450 guests, with renowned MC Te Radar skillfully guiding the audience through an inspiring night filled with celebration and recognition.
At the heart of the evening was the announcement of the Supreme Forest Industry Award for 2024, which went to Graham Waru of Rosvall Sawmill Limited.
With more than two decades of experience in the forestry industry, Mr Waru has solidified himself as a cornerstone of his organization, renowned for his commitment to product quality, consistency, and precision.
His relentless pursuit of excellence, coupled with his dedication to training and mentorship, has made him an invaluable asset to his team. Graham’s exceptional leadership and foresight not only elevate his craft; they significantly enhance the overall growth of his organization. His perfectionism and dedication to his work are truly commendable, establishing him as a worthy recipient of such a prestigious award.
“There is a huge reservoir of knowledge and skills in this region and the industry has to celebrate its achievements and the people that are out there working every day,” Matt Pederson chair of the Northland Wood Council said.
He remarked how he was encouraged by the fantastic response from the sponsors, the quantity of nominations & those guests at the awards in supporting the event especially when the environment out there was so challenging.
The night also celebrated the remarkable achievements of the Ngati Hine Forestry Trust, which was honoured with the Outstanding Environmental Management award. Their transformative Indigenous Forestry Strategy exemplifies a deep commitment to environmental stewardship, integrating traditional Māori knowledge with contemporary sustainable practices.
The Trust’s initiatives in native forest restoration and biodiversity enhancement resonate strongly with the community, showcasing a robust connection between their people and the land.
Among other notable awards, Jess Winikerei from Mold Logging Limited was recognized as the Emerging Talent of the Year. Her commitment during her apprenticeship, high production output, and strong work ethic highlights the bright prospects of future leaders in the forestry sector.
Additionally, IK & SM Newey Transport celebrated significant successes, with multiple awards recognizing team members for excellence in distribution, log truck driver and innovation. Ian Newey’s groundbreaking development of an electric winch system is a prime example of how technology can enhance safety and operational efficiency in the industry.
The Northland Wood Council extend their congratulations to all winners and nominees, whose hard work continues to shape the future of forestry in Northland.
The winners:
- Supreme Forest Industry Award (sponsored by Northland Wood Council) Graham Waru (Rosvall Sawmill LTD)
- Forestry Family of the Year (sponsored Rayonier – Matariki) Cale and Dane Subritzky-Clark (Subritzky-Clark Logging 2024)
- Outstanding Innovation of the Year (sponsored by Qube Ports) Ian Newey (IK and SM Newey Transport)
- Outstanding Health and Safety Management (sponsored by Summit Forest NZ Ltd) John Lumby (Northpine Limited)
- Outstanding Environmental Management (sponsored by Wise on Wood) Ngati Hine Forestry Trust
- Forestry Excellence (sponsored by Rosvall Sawmill) Stuart Warren (Stuart Warren)
- Roading Excellence (sponsored by Fortuna) Nik Birch (JSB Construction) & Andrew Bradley (JSB Construction)
- Harvesting Excellence (sponsored by AB Equipment &Tigercat) Richard Connolly (Rosewarne Logging)
- Distribution Excellence (sponsored by PMG – Pacific Motor Group) Russell Masters (IK & SM Newey Transport)
- Primary Wood Processing & Manufacturing Excellence (sponsored by Whangarei ITM/Waipapa Pine) Jonathon Lawson (Croft Poles & Timber)
- Secondary Wood Processing & Manufacturing Excellence (sponsored by Croft Poles & Timber) Graham Waru (Rosvall Sawmill LTD)
- Tree Faller Excellence (sponsored by Northland Forestry Managers) Joel Niha-Neumann (Niha Contracting Limited) & Derek Rosewarne (Rosewarne Cable Loggers)
- Woman in Forestry Excellence (sponsored by PF Olsen) Jenna Ringrose (Rosewarne and Ringrose)
- Log Truck Driver Excellence (sponsored by Patchell Group of Companies) David (Billy) Kanara (IK & SM Newey Transport)
- Emerging Talent of the Year (sponsored by Forestry CO) Jess Winikerei (Mold Logging Ltd)
- Trainee of the Year (sponsored by Competenz) Taausi (Lapi) Peletana (Croft Poles & Timber)
- Good Deed Award (sponsored by Safetree) Jack Ratu (Rosewarne Contractors – Crew 89).
