56 Associations
Industry and IOPSA bid Gary Macnamara farewell
Gary Macnamara, who for over two years has fulfilled the role of executive director of the Institute of Plumbing South Africa( IOPSA), has said goodbye to the association, relocating his family to New Zealand.
At a small gathering on 28 June, Macnamara was presented with various items and gadgets to help him on his new journey and adventure in New Zealand. Steve Brown followed with a hilarious tongue-in-cheek presentation( illustrated in the photo of Macnamara and his new attire).
Brown also noted that all the IOPSA regions had contributed to the gifts and those who could not attend expressed their regret accordingly. The all-important galoshes( boots) were contributed by Debbie Donaldson, with whom Macnamara and IOPSA have had a long working relationship, particularly from the insurance side.
A few messages sent from industry colleagues“ Our plans miscarry because they have no aim. When a man does not know what harbour he is making for, no wind is the right wind.”( Lucius Seneca)
I can certainly say that very few people have the passion, willingness, and drive that you have. The energy that you bring to tackling a task, even though you may fall your way through it, is an admirable trait. Because of this it has been a pleasure working with you. You have certainly raised the bar for IOPSA and set it on the right winds and a harbour. Truthfully, the shoes that you have left behind is going to be a challenge to fill. While I am certainly not going to thank you for‘ un-filling’ these shoes, I would sincerely like to thank you, on behalf IOPSA, the plumbing sector, and more so myself, for helping to set the industry on these winds. Thank you for your passion and energy— it is highly appreciated.
You have started this new journey with the likelihood of many uncertainties. But with your passion, drive and, more importantly, your family along your side, I know that you will make a success of it, where ever this journey takes you. I wish you, Lou Anne, and your kids well and I would say good luck, but you have that covered, because good luck is simply an offshoot of willingness, passion, and drive. – Lea Smith
“ If you don’ t go after what you want, you’ ll never have it. If you don’ t ask, the answer is always no. If you don’ t step forward, you’ re always in the same place.” Wishing you all the best with your new venture and every success for your future. – Herman Louwrens
Dear Gary. Best of luck to both you and your family! Although it is sad to see you leave, I am sure you will have one hell of an adventure in the land down under! It has been great getting to know you over such a short time and from all of us in Durban, we hope to reconnect and catch up again soon!! From all of us in my KZN committee, take care and safe travels! – Gareth Jearey
From left: Chris Burgess, Craig Preston, Steve Brown, Lea Smith, and Gary Macnamara.
Gary Macnamara( left) and Lea Smith.
August 2017 Volume 23 I Number 6 www. plumbingafrica. co. za