Water safety achievements to be acknowledged

Entries are being sought for the inaugural Water Safety New Zealand Awards.

Introduced this year to recognise excellence, achievement and innovation in water safety, the awards offer an opportunity for organisations and individuals involved in water safety to showcase their successes.

Water Safety New Zealand (WSNZ) general manager, Matt Claridge explains:

“We want to establish a culture of excellence in our sector,” says Mr Claridge.

“The awards support the NZ Water Safety Framework and help us achieve this by identifying and highlighting initiatives working well.

“Awards will be given in three categories: Education, Awareness and Prevention,” he says.

“We also have an Outstanding Contribution Award which will be presented to an individual who has made a positive difference in the water safety sector.”

Mr Claridge says WSNZ is looking forward to receiving entries from every region, and no project is too big or too small to be considered.

“Whether it’s a grassroots programme or national policy, we want to hear about it,” he says.

“The winning entry in each category receives assistance towards professional development. However, national recognition and industry appreciation are factors that should also motivate people to enter.”

Entry forms and the Awards Terms of Reference document can be found on www.watersafety.org.nz

Entries close on 31st October, 2009, and winners will be announced on 26th November, 2009, at the WSNZ Conference Gala Dinner.

The conference, ‘Charting Our Future’, offers an impressive line-up of international experts and local leaders speaking about issues, trends and challenges facing the water safety industry.