Plumbing Africa August 2017 | Page 13

EVENTS AND EXHIBITIONS Several long-time friends and business acquaintances took to the podium to wish Macnamara well, recollecting their years together and the influence he has had in various sectors, in particular the plumbing and HVAC&R fields. Speakers included Olivier Barbeau, managing partner of Moore Stephens and long-time financial advisor to the Macnamaras; Graham Langmead, chair of the IMD board; and Gary Corin of Specialised Exhibitions Montgomery. All of them remembered Macnamara favourably, sharing fond memories and sentimental anecdotes. After lunch, it was time for some more messages. A selection of videos was shown on the big screen, with key influencers from across the country (and even world) wishing Macnamara well on his next chapter, remembering in particular his good sense of humour and dedication to his work. Some messages were also read out from people who could not attend the event. Afterwards, three IMD staff members were given the opportunity to say a few words about Macnamara and the daily inspiration he brings to the entire office. www.plumbingafrica.co.za 11 Macnamara then took to the podium himself to thank everyone for their kind words and years of working together. He especially thanked his wife, Lynn, for her support over the years, as well as his sons for the role they have played in the company in their various capacities. The messages were followed by the handover of various gifts and cutting of the cake. The full IMD staff complement, as well as various industry role players were in attendance, sharing in the momentous occasion. This is not the last we will see of Rory Macnamara. He will now be directing his energy towards taking on special projects (and most likely the government) for many years to come. For IMD, it will be ‘business as usual’, as the company had already placed various systems and positions in place to accommodate for Macnamara’s change in responsibilities. Check out some photos of the day … PA August 2017 Volume 23 I Number 6