N E W S & V I E W S • D E C E M B E R 2 0 2 3 25 rather immediate placement of her full confidence in an instinctive and predetermined reaction to a specific situation. Looking back at the wood chip fire, I cannot fault the reactions and decisions of the firefighters. As professionals in what they do, they have most likely unconsciously understood and adopted the three elements. It is however perhaps appropriate that we articulate, every now and again, what we can realistically expect at a fire of this nature and the emotions that we are likely to encounter. It is better in my view to be introduced to them under controlled circumstances, rather than having them announce their presence as you literally stare down a flaming gauntlet. It is important to analyse every fire and to learn from the experience. There are always positives in every disaster, and it is up to us to take the time to discover these and equip ourselves further for the next event. OK, so I have offered a solution for fire-related angst. Now we need someone to step up to the plate and offer a solution to quarter, semi-final and final rugby test match spectator nerves. Just what are the Bokke asking of us and what’s with these one-point differences? My nerves! I think I’d rather face a fire! It is with great pleasure that I can announce that at the Southern African Institute of Forestry (SAIF) Annual General Meeting held in September, it was formally announced that our own Lance Bartlett is the recipient of the 2023 Forester-of-the-Year award. This award is very special in that it represents peer recognition across Southern Africa of excellent performance by a forestry practitioner. Well done, Lance. A richly deserved win. Included in the motivation provided for the award was reference to the high-quality silviculture and road standards maintained at Enon as well as the sense of ownership and pride that Lance displays in his everyday activities and tasks. Lance is a typically old school forester with an acute awareness of the need to maintain high standards across the very broad spectrum of responsibilities with which he is entrusted. NCT is certainly delighted that Lance has been given the award and believe that he certainly epitomises the ethos demanded of its recipients. NCT has been honoured to have had a number of our own foresters receive this award over the years which is a positive reflection on the depth of talent and forestry expertise that we do have. You have done us proud Lance and deserve the recognition. Enjoy the accolade and keep up the good work. – Rob Thompson – Member Services Manager – Lance Bartlet with the SAIF Forester-of-the-year award.
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