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Celebrate our Mac McKenzie Trust Award winners and learn about the new smoke- and vape-free policy

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Read on to join us in celebrating the winners of the Mac McKenzie Trust Awards 🏆 Discover the highlights from the latest Apprentice Representative Group meeting and find out more about the new Masterlink smoke- and vape-free policy. 

APPRENTICE REPRESENTATIVE GROUP UPDATE

August 2024 ARG Meeting

In August, the Apprentice Representative Group (ARG) held its third meeting at the Rheem offices in Auckland. During this session, the group discussed some of the challenges facing apprentices like the difficulties created by block course delays. 

These meetings give apprentice ARG members a platform to share their perspectives on how apprenticeship training is currently being delivered, with the goal of providing feedback and insights to Waihanga Ara Rau via the PGD Strategic Reference Group. 

Their contributions have also informed ConCOVE's research that aims to better the apprenticeship journey for all those who work in the construction and infrastructure industries. 

Get to know the apprentice ARG members!

Check out page 80 of the latest NZ Plumber magazine to meet George McCallum-Clark from AquaPro Plumbing and Drainage in Christchurch. 

READ THE LATEST NZ PLUMBER MAG

SAFELY DOES IT: NEW SMOKE- & VAPE-FREE POLICY 

Masterlink is committed to making sure everyone has a healthy working environment. 

Our new smoke- and vape-free policy applies to all Masterlink apprentices, both in the workplace and on jobsites and we encourage you to read through the policy carefully. 

We value your feedback and welcome your input. You can share your thoughts directly with Master Plumbers Health, Safety and Wellbeing Advisor, Rebecca Moss here, or discuss with your Regional Manager during your Q4 appraisal. 

Tips for Quitting
READ THE POLICY HERE

If you need assistance quitting, Masterlink recommends the following resources: 

  • Quitline for free smoking cessation programmes 0800 778 778 or text 4066

  • Smokefree for information and advice for stop smoking services

  • Selected pharmacies can provide services without a prescription. Healthpoint can provide up to date information on providers near you.

2024 MAC MCKENZIE TRUST APPRENTICE AWARDS

Winner, Andrew Bryan with his employers, Bonnie and Baz Rogan

Winner Andrew Bryan of Water Services Plumbing, with company owners
and Master Plumbers members Bonnie and Baz Rogan

On 7 September, the Otago Master Plumbers hosted the annual Mac McKenzie Trust Awards, honouring apprentices in the Otago or Southland regions who have either excelled, overcome challenges or recently completed their apprenticeship with distinction. 

A huge congratulations to the following winners: 

  • The Mac McKenzie Overall Top Performing Apprentice Otago/Southland: 
    Andrew Bryan - Water Services Plumbing, Waihola

  • The Mac McKenzie Meritorious Award Otago: 
    Karl Quayle - Masterlink apprentice, McIvor Plumbers & Gasfitters, Wanaka

  • The Mac McKenzie Meritorious Award Southland: 
    Brad Thompson - Masterlink apprentice, Baxter & Neilson Plumbers, Invercargill

  • Trustees Award Otago:
    Trent Toomey - Masterlink apprentice, University of Otago, Dunedin

  • Trustees Award Southland: 
    Amy Biddle - Masterlink apprentice, Go Fox Plumbing, Queenstown

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS WEEK

MHAW 2024

It's Mental Health Awareness Week this week! 

This year’s theme emphasises how crucial community is to our wellbeing. This week is about connecting with a wide variety of community members - boosting your network and the wellbeing of others. 

It's also a good reminder for our wider Masterlink family of the resources you can access if you or someone you know is going through a difficult time:

  • Talk to your Regional Manager for support and guidance

  • Call the Mates in Construction 24/7 Helpline 0800 111 315

  • Text or freephone 1737 for immediate counselling

  • For wellbeing contacts and resources you can also call Rebecca Moss, our Health, Safety & Wellbeing advisor, on 0800 122 329 from Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm.

H&S SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY

Applications for Site Safe's Health and Safety in Construction Scholarships for 2025 are now open!

This programme equips learners with vital health and safety training to make a meaningful impact in the workplace. On completion, participants will earn a New Zealand Certificate in Workplace Health and Safety Practice (Level 3), recognised by NZQA.

There are six scholarship categories available. Applications close 31 October. 

2025 H&S Site Safe Scholarship
APPLY NOW >>

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