Employers celebrated by military

The contribution of the employers was recognised at a New Zealand Defence Employer Support Council award ceremony at Kensington Army Hall in Dunedin last night.

Pictured (from left) are distinguished defence employer winner Fisher & Paykel Appliances engineering functional leader Bob King, Otago Southland council chairman Sir Julian Smith and defence champion winner SPS Physio principal physio Mark Lamb.

Sir Julian said New Zealand Reserve Forces members nominated supportive employers in Otago and Southland who allowed staff time for military training.

Mr King said he was ‘‘humbled’’ by the nomination from Lieutenant-commander Rob Tomlinson and the win. Mr Lamb said it was ‘‘nice’’ to be nominated by his former staff member, physiotherapist Delia Stammers, who had joined the army.‘‘I’m always happy to support people in what they want to do,’’ Mr Lamb said.