CelebratingExcellenceatthe 2024NorthlandF t A d
The 2024 Northland Forestry Awards, organized by the Northland Wood Council, took place on Friday, September 20, at MacKay Stadium, commemorating the outstanding contributions made by individuals and organizations in the forestry sector This year’s awards attracted a remarkable turnout of 450 guests, with the evening expertly led by renowned MC Te Radar, who guided the audience through a night of inspiration, recognition, and celebration
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Supreme Forest Industry Award for 2024, which honored Graham Waru from Rosvall Sawmill Limited Graham, with over twenty years of experience in the forestry sector, has established himself as a vital figure within his organization He is widely recognized for his unwavering commitment to product quality, consistency, and precision Graham’s relentless pursuit of excellence, combined with his dedication to training and mentoring others, positions him as an invaluable asset to his team His exemplary leadership and foresight not only enhance his craft but significantly contribute to the overall growth and success of his organization, making him a deserving recipient of this prestigious award
Matt Pederson, chair of the Northland Wood Council, expressed enthusiasm for the event, emphasizing the vast reservoir of knowledge and skills within the region “The industry has to celebrate its achievements and the people that are out there working every day,” he noted Pederson was particularly heartened by the enthusiastic response from sponsors and the high number of nominations this year, especially given the challenging environmental conditions facing the industry
The awards ceremony also recognized the exceptional environmental initiatives of the Ngati Hine Forestry Trust, which received the Outstanding Environmental Management award Their innovative Indigenous Forestry Strategy reflects a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, seamlessly integrating traditional Māori knowledge with modern sustainable practices The Trust’s efforts in native forest restoration and biodiversity enhancement resonate deeply with the community, illustrating the vital connection between their people and the land.
In addition to these accolades, Jess Winikerei of Mold Logging Limited was recognized as the Emerging Talent of the Year Her dedication during her apprenticeship, demonstrated in her high production outputs and strong work ethic, signals a promising future for leadership in the forestry industry
Furthermore, IK & SM Newey Transport celebrated significant achievements, with team members receiving multiple awards for excellence in distribution, log truck driving, and innovation Ian Newey’s pioneering work on developing an electric winch system stands as a testament to how technology can advance safety and operational efficiency within the forestry sector
The Northland Forestry Awards serve as a testament to the dedication, innovation, and continuous pursuit of excellence that characterize this dynamic industry The Northland Wood Council extends heartfelt congratulations to all winners and nominees, whose relentless hard work continues to shape the future of forestry in Northland
CelebratingExcellence: GrahamWaruWinsDual HonorsattheNorthland ForestryAwards
Graham Waru of Rosvall Sawmill Limited has emerged as a standout figure in the forestry sector, recently clinching both the Secondary Wood Processing Excellence Award and the prestigious Supreme Forest Industry Award for 2024 This dual recognition highlights his unwavering dedication to excellence since joining the company in 2004
Starting his career as a general labourer, Graham quickly demonstrated remarkable skills and meticulous attention to detail, which propelled him into the role of a fully qualified timber machinist by 2008 His influential tenure as head machinist from 2008 to 2017 greatly enhanced Rosvall Sawmill’s reputation for delivering top-tier timber products Currently serving as the Planer Mill Manager, Graham fosters a learning environment, generously sharing his extensive knowledge and passion for timber processing with the next generation of industry professionals
Graham’s commitment extends beyond the workplace; he has actively forged partnerships with local schools to provide defect machined wood for educational woodworking programs His ability to remain calm under pressure serves as a cornerstone of his leadership, enabling his team to navigate challenges effectively Colleagues and supervisors alike regard Graham as an invaluable asset to the company, making it fitting that this year’s awards finally put the spotlight on his extraordinary contributions
Beyond his achievements in secondary wood processing, Graham has become a cornersto Rosvall Sawmill over his two decades in the fo industry He is renowned not only for his prod quality, consistency, and precision but also fo championing of technological advancement commitment to training others, coupled with skilled expertise, has solidified his reputation on and off the job site, earning him the distinc being the “crucial piece of the puzzle” within
Always ready to meet challenges head-on, G embodies a relentless pursuit of excellence unparalleled leadership qualities and except foresight not only elevate his own craft but significantly contribute to the growth and s of Rosvall Sawmill Limited as a whole It is cl his dedication and perfectionism set him ap truly deserving recipient of both the Second Processing Excellence Award and the Supre Industry Award
As Graham Waru continues to inspire throu work and community initiatives, the Northla Council and the broader forestry communi their heartfelt congratulations, celebrating who exempl career
Proudly serving the Northland forestry industry for over 22 years
Northpine congratulates John Lumby - winner, Outstanding Health and Safety Management.
Through his total dedication, energetic leadership, ideas and actions, John has made Northpine a much safer work environment.
Thanks largely to him, Health and Safety is no longer just a ‘box to be ticked’ at Northpine. It’s a vital part of the way we do business.
WORK ENQUIRIES: jobs@northpine.co.nz
OOn Friday 20 September, the vibrant community of Whangarei gathered at the Northland Forestry Awards 2024, a night dedicated to honouring the exceptional contributions of the forestry sector in our region Mayor Vince Cocurullo opened the event with an enthusiastic speech, acknowledging the critical role that forestry plays in Northland’s economy and the hard work of everyone involved in this vital industry
Mayor Cocurullo extended a warm Whangārei welcome to all attendees, particularly those who had travelled from afar He began by recognizing the members of the Northland Wood Council, as well as the dedicated forestry managers, employees, and their partners With a nod to the nominees whom he described as the heroes of the evening he set an uplifting tone for the celebrations to come
“This evening, we gather to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Northland’s forestry industry,” Mayor Cocurullo stated “We recognize the outstanding performance of the entire sector from those of you who grow and nurture our
ebratingNorthland’sForestry ellence:AMessagefromMayor ceCocurulloattheNorthland estryAwards2024
trees, to those who harvest and process them, and those who export our logs through our bustling Port Your collective efforts are pivotal to our community”
The Mayor highlighted the significant impact of the forestry industry on the local economy, emphasizing the importance of forestry employment in Northland “I’m proud to share that this industry directly employs 2,290 Northlanders, nearly 3% of our total workforce,” he pointed out “Northland stands as the thirdlargest forest region in New Zealand, with around 11% of our land area dedicated to plantation forests”
Acknowledging the sustainability of these resources, Mayor Cocurullo noted the dual role that forests play in both the economy and environmental conservation “These forests are not just a source of timber; they are vital for our environment, sequestering carbon and contributing to efforts to combat climate change In Northland alone, over $266 million worth of logs are exported each year, and collectively, your industry contributes a substantial $317 million to our GDP”
NORTHLAND FORESTRYAWARDS 2024RESULTS
• 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)
In concluding his speech, the Mayor expressed gratitude for the continued efforts of all those in the forestry sector “Thank you for the vital work you do I would especially like to applaud the Northland Wood Council for its leadership and collaborative spirit within the forestry community It is reassuring to know that Northland’s forestry industry is in such capable hands”
As the crowd looked on in anticipation, Mayor Cocurullo encapsulated the theme of the evening: “Tonight is not just about recognizing individual achievements; it’s about celebrating excellence across the forestry sector, showcasing first-class companies and exceptional people Good luck to all nominees—know that we are proud of you and don’t forget to keep up the good work!”
The Northland Forestry Awards 2024 was a resounding success, honouring the contributions of the forestry industry and reiterating its importance to the economic and environmental landscape of Northland
• 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)
Rosvall Sawmill
JESSWINIKEREI MOLDLOGGINGLTD
FORESTRYFAMILY OFTHEYEAR
JOHNLUMBY NORTHPINELTD
CALEANDDANESUBRITZKY-CLARK SUBRITZKY-CLARK LOGGING2024 JACKRATU
SUPREME FOREST INDUSTRYAWARD GRAHAM WARU
ROSEVALLSAWMILL
Thisawardrecognisesanindividualfor beingaleaderintheirfieldofexpertise, demonstratingexcellenceinprofessional skills,attitude&attributesarerecognised bytheirpeersandemployers,andisof genuinegoodcharacter
PhotographybyJessBurgesPhotography
CaleandDa Subritzky-C Logging:20 ForestryFam oftheYear
Cale and Dane Subritzky have been honored with the prestigious Forestry Family of the Year Award at the 2024 Northland Forestry Awards, a recognition that celebrates their unwavering commitment to the forestry industry and the remarkable legacy they continue to uphold This award highlights not only their operational achievements but also the values and community spirit they embody
Taking over the reins from previous generations, the Subritzky family has seamlessly integrated innovative practices that reflect a forward-thinking approach to forestry Their investment in modern machinery has significantly enhanced operational efficiency and productivity, allowing them to meet the demands of an evolving industry while ensuring the highest standards of safety for their team Their proactive measures to maintain
made it a priority to onboard new talent and enroll them in structured apprenticeship programs that foster growth and skill development for the next generation of forestry workers Specializing in high-value post and sawlog production, their efforts have consistently resulted in impressive production targets, contributing not only to the sustainability of their operations but also to the industry at large
Beyond their remarkable business acumen, the Subritzky family also places a strong emphasis on community involvement They actively support local initiatives, most notably by sponsoring
Cale and Dane Subritzky-Clark Logging truly embody the essence of the Forestry Family of the Year Award Their commitment to sustainable forestry practices, employee wellbeing, and community support significantly impacts both the forestry sector and the wider community This recognition is a testament to their hard work and dedication, and they join the ranks of those who have significantly contributed to the legacy of forestry in their region Congratulations to Cale and Dane Subritzky for their well-deserved accolade as the 2024 Forestry Family of the Year!
Congratulationstoall2024nominees
AmberBrooks BrooksLoggingLimited
AndrewBradley JSBConstruction
CaleandDane Subritzky-Clark Subritzky-ClarkLogging 2024
DanHenderson Parengarenga Incorporation
DanielKing NorthpineLimited
DarrenSearleand
BarbaraSearle NorthlandSilviculture Limited
David(Billy)Kanara IK&SMNeweyTransport
DerekRosewarne RosewarneCableLoggers
DionHickey CKHarvestersLtd
DylanMurphy TrimbleForestryWhangarei
EzekielSioKapa Parengarenga Incorporation
FredHudson FNRForestry2019 Limited
GrahamWaru RosvallSawmillLTD HarrisonWaara CPCFencingLimited
HarryHarrison WiseonWoodLtd
HeRingaAhuwhenuaHe HangaMahi NgatiHineForestryTrust
HenryHobson Parengarenga Incorporation
IanNewey IK&SMNeweyTransport
IK&SMNewey Transport IK&SMNeweyTransport
JackRatu RosewarneContractorsCrew89
JasonBrooks BrooksLoggingLimited
JenayaEdwards Rosvall
JennaandScott Ringrose RosewarneandRingrose
JennaRingrose RosewarneandRingrose
JessWinikerei MoldLoggingLtd
JoelNiha-Neumann NihaContractingLimited
JohnFuller fullerHoldingsltd
JohnLumby NorthpineLimited
JohnTapa'Atoutai JTForestryLtd
JonathanLawson CroftPoles&Timber JoshuaGray NorthpineLimited
JoshuaWitehira Whenua&ForestryTeam Leader
JourneeHouston MidNorthernForestry
KalinRihari IK&SMNeweyTransport
KenAndrews NorthportLtd
KenAndrews NorthportLtd
KiestonRepia WiseonWoodLtd
LanceStubbs HolmesGroup
LanceStubbs MikeLambertLtd
NeilRouse FNRForestry2019 Limited
NgātiHineForestry Trust
NgātiHineForestryTrust
NikBirch JSBConstruction
PaewaiIhaka Parengarenga Incorporation
Parengarenga Incorporation Parengarenga Incorporation
Paul"Hook"Stanaway MikeLambertLtd/ HolmesGroup
ReeceMist MikeLambertLtd
RichardConnolly RosewarneLogging
RussellMasters IK&SMNeweyTransport
RussellTautari ForestLoadersLtd
RyanWatts NorthpineLimited
RyanWatts NorthpineLimited
ShaneCostain MoldLoggingLtd
StuartWarren StuartWarren Taausi(Lapi)Peletana CroftPoles&Timber
TutangioraNathan Parengarenga Incorporation
ZaneModrich WiseonWoodLtd
Nominee Business
Nominee Business
Nominee Business
NgātiHineForestryTrust:ALeaderin OutstandingEnvironmentalManagement
The Ngāti Hine Forestry Trust has been recognized for its exceptional commitment to environmental stewardship by winning the Outstanding Environmental Management Award at the 2024 Northland Forestry Awards This honour acknowledges the Trust’s transformative Indigenous Forestry Strategy, which merges traditional Māori knowledge with contemporary sustainable practices, offering a model for modern forestry management
The Trust’s initiatives reflect a profound cultural connection between the Ngāti Hine people and their land, particularly evident in their work on the Ruatangata block This commitment goes beyond ecological restoration; it intertwines cultural heritage with environmental management, highlighting the importance of preserving both the land and the traditions rooted within it
Community engagement plays a pivotal role in the Trust’s environmental strategy Through wānanga workshops events that promote collective learning—the organization has successfully involved local community members in guiding their environmental initiatives By actively including local voices and aspirations, Ngati Hine Forestry Trust ensures that their efforts
are informed by the very people who live and work in the area Collaborations with educational institutions further enhance this engagement, fostering intergenerational involvement where younger members of the community can learn from their elders while actively participating in restoration projects
The Trust adopts a holistic approach to environmental management that encompasses rivers, wetlands, and broader ecosystems, reinforcing the interconnectedness of all natural elements. This approach is guided by the principles of Hua Parakore, which emphasizes culturally informed, sustainable practices in forestry By setting such a high benchmark, Ngāti Hine Forestry Trust not only promotes environmental stewardship but also paves the way for future generations to engage with and care for their land
The recognition received by Ngāti Hine Forestry Trust at the Northland Forestry Awards is a testament to their significant contributions to sustainable forestry and environmental management Their remarkable efforts stand as an inspiring example for organizations across the country, illustrating how traditional knowledge and modern practices can harmoniously coexist to create a more resilient and biodiverse environment
GOLDSPONSORS
SILVERSPONSORS
Rosvall Sawmill
Te Uru Rākau New Zealand Forest Service