18 Associations
IOPSA annual awards
Gary Macnamara, the executive director of IOPSA, opened the occasion and Lea Smith, president of IOPSA, delivered his presidential address during IOPSA’ s recent annual awards ceremony.
Gary Macnamara, executive director of IOPSA.
Opening address by Gary Macnamara, executive director of IOPSA Welcome to IOPSA president Lea Smith, his wife Robyn, IOPSA vice-president Ryder Rollinson, treasurer Mark Pratt, the national executive committee, the regional chairperson, members, and guests.
Tonight is a special occasion for IOPSA, as we will be recognising for the first time not only individuals who have contributed to IOPSA and the plumbing industry, but also companies that have been members and supported the institute over the past 20 years and more.
IOPSA would like to thank Lou-Ann, Michelle, and Kaela for organising and coordinating this important evening. Thank you to sponsors the Copper Development Association, Grohe-Dawn Watertech, and the Plumbing Industry Registration Board for making this event a reality.
A special thank you must go to all the volunteers, secretaries, committee members, and the regional chairperson who give of their valuable time to assist, support and, most importantly, develop IOPSA, its members, and the plumbing industry in the current challenging South African social, economic, and political environment.
Thanks to Lea Smith and the wise old men— Steve Brown, Nick Joubert, Martin Coetzee, and Chris Burgess— who continue to guide and lead the institute to achieve its objectives and goals.
To the dedicated women of IOPSA— Michelle, Bianca, Kaela, Rizqar, and all the plumbing wives— you are our foundation, our support, and the glue that holds us all together.
Special mention goes to Debbie Donaldson for her continued dedication to IOPSA projects, her professionalism, skills, and tenacity, all of which have added huge value to IOPSA.
We are winning the battles and eating the elephant one bite at a time.
As IOPSA develops into an industry body that is recognised, involved, and makes a difference, we must never lose sight of the fact that a sustainable plumbing industry requires dedicated individuals, communities, strong foundations, and an equitable environment for all.
Over the past couple of years, I have been fortunate to be associated with the plumbing industry, and the following words are dedicated to those who are involved and passionate about plumbing.
Who am I? I have studied a trade for many years, And have been covered in soil, waste, and tears. I give the world access to a basic human right, And give all the ability to keep clean at night.
I am often not recognised by my peers, And mostly get paid in plenty of cheers. I don’ t understand the law and fuss, And often the first to get hit by the bus.
I am good with my hands, and work with my heart. I trust those around me, So, things don’ t fall apart.
There are some who cause me hassles, And those who gain from my battles. There are some who destroy the future, And choose not to see the bigger picture.
Yet, I hold the key to the most valuable resource.
So, who am I?
I am a professional plumber, passionate and proud of who I am and what I do. Ignite your fire, plumb with passion.
Enjoy the evening.
April 2017 Volume 23 I Number 2 www. plumbingafrica. co. za