NZISM News 15 October 2025

Hi Folks

It’s funny how the mind works. I accidentally logged into a webinar recently, as the host. As I was not the host but an attendee, it was laughs all around and I stepped out. The webinar was on Suicide in the Workplace with Michael Hempseed - sobering stuff.

The incident got me thinking back to when I originally became involved with the webinars. The National Office team were struggling to find someone to take them over, as they used to be a pretty big chunk of work.I sat there with a little lump in my throat with a feeling of real pride about how these have developed. As NZISM has grown and matured as an organisation, more people have started putting their hands up to become involved. Now we have a solid team of regular volunteerwebinar hosts who do a really great job.

Over the years I have been involved with a lot of community groups, clubs and professional organisations – and, for me, NZISM is probably the best.Now, I know what you are thinking, “well you would say that, you’re the President.” But those who know me well, know I'm not prone to false flattery, I really believe that statement. 

Let’s duck back to the webinars I mentioned earlier. As I said, when NZISM first started its webinar programme things were tough; money was tight and the team at Head Office was small. I remember talking with the then CEO, Selena, about a speaker we were looking at getting and being asked “How good are your negotiation skills” as their price was just too expensive for us. Well, with a little bit of persuasion we got them on board. It is actually very humbling to note the number of people who give their time for free to help us grow and develop as members and by extension, the profession. 

Our webinar programme has also included some 'big names' in the industry with masterclasses from Nippin Anand and Sidney Dekker, and presenters such as Joe Meanen (the Piper Alpha survivor). We are able to get this calibre of people because NZISM is a strong force in the profession with a significant and growing membership. The result and awesome amount of information and experiences (webinars, presentations, workshops, site visits etc.) is amazing.  

As we have grown and flourished, National Office has been strengthened and a growing number of members have stepped up to help deliver the CPD, branch events and experiences we all enjoy as members. There are too many volunteers up and down the country to mention so I just want to acknowledge all who give their time and knowledge to help NZISM continue their mission to Build Quality Health and Safety Practitioners.  

So, in closing, let’s support those who support us. Make the time for branch meetings and webinars. They are not a big time commitment but your attendance means a heck of a lot to those who work on your behalf. 

Ngā mihi

Karl Berendt
NZISM President