Winner: Ben Hale

BEN IS a skilled processor operator and foreman for Mangoihe Logging in the Manawatu, where he oversees the daily running of a hauler crew consisting of eight staff. Ben has a deep understanding of forestry harvesting practices and shows a high level of technical knowledge in the field.

Mangoihe Logging is committed to promoting sustainable forestry practices while ensuring safety regulations and proper social and environmental responsibilities are met throughout the entire harvesting process, and Ben makes sure this happens.

He has exceptional leadership qualities and can inspire and motivate his crew to meet and exceed industry standards while building positive relationships with colleagues and other professionals in the forestry industry.

He can often be found assisting others with their tasks, where he helps to develop the skills of younger staff by getting stuck in alongside them.

Ben is a true bushman and a professional logger in many ways. Forest harvesting is often an unseen part of the industry but the people who work with these huge machines in the bush love their work.

Ben Hale has a deep understanding of forestry harvesting practices and shows a high level of technical knowledge.