Life membership a surprise
WHEN Andy Thompson agreed to photograph the award winners at the recent New Zealand Outdoor Instructors’ Association excellence awards dinner, the last thing he expected to hear was his name being announced for one of the organisation’s rarest awards.
As well as being a keen photographer, the 53yearold Dunedin man is one of New Zealand’s most respected outdoorsmen, having spent more than 30 years in outdoor instruction and education, including 17 years as programme coordinator for Otago Polytechnic’s diploma in outdoor leadership and management.
He has also served on the association’s board, including two years as chairman, and has worked as an Antarctic field trainer, army adventure training instructor, Mt Cook search and rescue team member, and World Challenge expedition leader.
Despite his credentials, he was shocked to receive the rarely awarded life membership award in Mangakino, at the weekend.
‘‘I was doing the photography of the awardholders, and as my name was read out, I was setting up to take the next photo and I realised who they were talking about.
‘‘I’m humbled. I’m very chuffed. ‘‘I was speechless and there’s not very many times I’m left speechless.
‘‘To be acknowledged by the industry and your peers is a huge honour.’’
Association chairwoman Gillian Wratt said it had been five years since the last life membership award was presented. ‘‘Andy has made a tremendous contribution to the sector and earned the respect of his peers for his humour, hard work and determination to make the industry better.
‘‘Over the years, he has mentored and inspired hundreds of instructors, many of whom have gone on to play leadership roles in their own right.’’