8th May 2024 Newsletter
PRESIDENT'S COLUMN
Dear Members
I hope this message finds you well. I want to start by expressing my gratitude for your continued support and dedication to our institute. Your participation is essential to our ability to provide you services and to help grow professionalism in NZ forestry. Your feedback is invaluable.
However I must admit, the last newsletter’s column received very little, if any, feedback. While I understand everyone has busy lives, your input is crucial for us to understand your needs and expectations as members.
The reality we face is sobering: our budgets have consistently shown a $100k loss over the past few years despite the considerable voluntary contributions. This unsustainable trend demands immediate attention. We need a comprehensive plan to steer our budget back into the black while maintaining essential services for our members, albeit with fewer voluntary inputs.
So, what are our options?
- Fee Increase: One possibility is to raise fees, potentially by a minimum of $150 per member on average. While this may alleviate immediate financial strain, it's essential to consider its impact on our members' affordability and willingness to participate.
- Exploring Mergers: Another option is to explore mergers with similar associations. However, this route necessitates careful consideration, particularly regarding merging services like IT. Moreover, there might be initial costs associated with such endeavors.
- Optimising Current Operations: Alternatively, we could continue operating with a focus on volunteers and our administrative services. However, this might entail cutting back on certain services such as submissions, lobbying efforts, or meetings with other associations.
This decision cannot rest solely on the incoming Council's shoulders. We need your input, insights, and thoughts. This juncture marks a significant turning point for our institute, and your participation is crucial.
On another note, I'm pleased to announce registration for the Nelson Conference will open soon. I urge each of you to consider attending. Your support is vital, and the conference committee is curating an outstanding lineup of speakers and engaging field trips. Your presence would not only enrich the event but also provide an opportunity to delve deeper into the issues raised above during the AGM.
Remember, this is your institute, and your voice matters. Please don't hesitate to share your thoughts with us via nzifoffice@nzif.org.nz. Let us know if you're comfortable with us sharing your feedback in future newsletters to facilitate broader discussions.
Together, let's navigate these challenges and ensure the prosperity of our institute for years to come.
Thanks
James
KEEPING YOU IN THE LOOP
MEMBERSHIP UPDATE
At NZIF, maintaining accurate and up-to-date membership records is essential for us to effectively connect with our members. We highly encourage you to periodically log into your profile to ensure that your contact details are current. It's important to keep us informed about any career changes, as this helps us maintain our records accurately, especially with what local section you can be involved with. Recently, at the beginning of this month, membership statements were sent out, and we don't always get things right! If you have any questions or concerns regarding your invoice, please do not hesitate to email nzifoffice@nzif.org.nz for assistance. We are here to help!
It's encouraging to see students now stepping into the workforce and upgrading their membership to Graduate. We are thrilled to witness your career progress and hope you continue to appreciate the benefits of being a part of NZIF. For those who have retired or left the industry, while we are sad to see you go, remember that you can still stay connected through our Associate membership. This allows you to keep in touch with and remain part of our industry.
NZIF Council and Board Election Results
The following individuals have been nominated as a result of the recent nomination process:
Council Member Election:
- James Treadwell - President - unopposed
- Adrian Loo - Vice President - unopposed
- Russell Dale
- Rob Miller
- Laina Holt
- Jacqui Aimers
- Jack Palmer
- Kit Richards
- David Cormack
- David Rhodes
Commencement date: 1st July 2024
NZIF would like to extend their gratitude to all those who participated in the nomination process. The final list of candidates is reflective of the diversity and talent within NZIF.
Registration Board Election:
- Yvette Dickinson
- Andrew McEwen - unopposed
The Registration Board wants to express their sincere appreciation for the dedication and hard work of the members, whether elected or not. Their contributions have been invaluable to NZIF, and we thank them for their service.
NZIF Centennial - Expressions of Interest
Thanks to the few that have put their name forward, but as the saying goes "many hands make lights work" so we are still waiting to hear from you. NZIF’s centennial will be 2027. The President is looking for volunteers to organise, set up and run events throughout the year including:
- The annual conference (which will also be an ANZIF conference based in NZ).
- A centennial celebration dinner with invited guests and one-off awards celebrating our members.
- Local centennial celebrations within each of our regional sections.
- Centennial CPD events around the history of NZ forests and professional foresters.
- Future Forests celebration of 100 years of professional foresters.
- … and more.
Any member who wishes to be part of the organising committee please contact Veronica at nzifoffice@nzif.org.nz.
It is expected the time commitment will initially be a two hour meeting on-line once a month, growing to shorter weekly meetings as we approach 2027.
Forest Growers Levy Trust Regional Roadshows
Harvested Wood Materials Levy Referendum 2024.
The current Harvested Wood Materials Levy Order expires at the end of 2025. Under the Commodity Levies Act 1990, the industry must hold a referendum every 6 years to vote whether to continue with the levy and at what rate.
The Ministry for Primary Industries has advised that voting and the referendum process must be completed by October 2024, with the final levy order application due to the Minister by December 2024.
As part of the referendum process, the Forest Growers Levy Trust will be running a series of regional roadshows to consult with the levy payers running from 23 April to 28 May.
Please check the timetable attached to see when the roadshow is coming to your region.
For further details please view Levy Vote 2024
SALARY SURVEY
Welcome to the fifth annual salary survey for members of the New Zealand Institute of Forestry (NZIF). This survey has become a key resource since its inception, with findings being particularly widely utiliSed. We conduct this survey each year to build a robust dataset that allows for the analysis of trends and comparisons over time. The success of this survey, however, depends crucially on the participation of a sufficient number of members, and we deeply appreciate your contribution.
This year's survey consists of 12 questions and takes only a few minutes to complete. Please note that all information provided is completely anonymous. Once the analysis is finalised, we will share the results with all members.
The survey will remain open until Friday, 24th May 2024. Should you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to contact Veronica Bennett at nzifoffice@nzif.org.nz.
Thank you for taking the time to participate.
To complete the survey click here: SALARY SURVEY
NZIF WEBINARS
Update on Environmental Reform
Presented by: Chris Fowler: Partner - Resource Management Team, Saunders & Co Lawyers
This was another successful webinar - what a member had to say:
"These sessions are always good, this one especially so. I really appreciate being able to review the recording afterwards, it always surprises me how much more I pick up."
For those that didn't register, don't worry we have you covered.
Pop into the NZIF Shop and purchase your copy today!
Reminder: To purchase at the member rate of $10 you need to be signed in.
Upcoming Webinars
The CPD committee are working hard to bring you the following webinars that will be advertised over the coming months, look out for the details in your email and in the newsletter.
FUTURE FORESTERS LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE
Join the Future Foresters Leadership Committee - Applications Now Open!
We are excited to announce that the Future Foresters team is seeking enthusiastic and dedicated individuals to join their Leadership Committee. This is a fantastic opportunity to shape the future of forestry, contribute to the community, and develop your leadership skills.
We believe that our members have the passion and expertise necessary to make a significant impact in this role. The application form is attached for your convenience.
For any further questions or clarifications, feel free to reach out to : info@futureforesters.com
FIRE UPDATE
UP IN SMOKE
Is There a Failure of Governance by the Board of Fire & Emergency New Zealand and the Department of Internal Affairs?
Read the Report: UP IN SMOKE
FOUNDATION - WE NEED YOUR HELP!
The Trustees of the Foundation are scheduled to convene later this month to finalise the details and establish the scholarships for the year 2024. These scholarships are vital in providing opportunities and support to those who need it most. As we strive to make a significant impact through these awards, the continued support from our members is invaluable. Your generosity and involvement are crucial in enabling us to offer these opportunities and make a lasting difference. Thank you for your ongoing commitment to the Foundation.
Donations to the Foundation
Make a credit card donation as an NZIF member: Click here
Donations from member and non members can also be made through internet banking to BNZ 02 1269 0014573 00. Please include your name in the details fields. Please email the Foundation email to advise you have made a donation and whether or not you require a receipt for tax purposes.
The NZIF Foundation is a registered charity (CC47691) under the Charities Act 2005. Donations of $5 or more are eligible donations for tax purposes.
To discuss opportunities for larger donations to be applied to specific purposes, contact the Foundation Chair
View the NZIF Foundation Trust Deed
