Sometimes the most important advocacy opportunities are the ones we don't plan.
Over the past few months, forestry contractors in Tairāwhiti have played an active role in discussions with Government, regulators and review panels about the future of forestry in the region. Through FICA's engagement with the Independent Assurance Review led by Hon Chris Finlayson KC, contractors had the opportunity to speak directly about the realities of operating on the ground, including the need for practical regulation, workable consent conditions and maintaining a viable contractor workforce.
One contractor who participated in those discussions was Kim Cranswick. Those who attended the September meeting will remember Kim's thoughtful and practical contribution to the conversation. What Kim didn't know at the time was that afterwards, Chris Finlayson specifically commented on the quality of his input and noted that he was someone he would like to speak with again.
Then came an unexpected opportunity.
While travelling recently, Kim spotted Chris Finlayson at the airport. Rather than simply walking past, he introduced himself again and took the opportunity to continue the conversation they had started during the review process. Like the first meeting, it was a positive and constructive discussion.
There is a lesson in that for all of us.
Too often we think advocacy is something done by industry leaders, politicians, associations or professional lobbyists. The reality is that every contractor, crew manager, machine operator and forestry professional is an ambassador for our industry. Every conversation helps shape how forestry is understood by decision-makers, communities and the public.
What made Kim's approach effective was not that he was pushing an agenda. He was simply prepared to engage respectfully, share practical experience and contribute to the discussion. Those are often the most powerful conversations of all.
We are fortunate in New Zealand that access to public figures, ministers, MPs, local government leaders and senior decision-makers remains relatively open. Many are genuinely interested in hearing directly from the people doing the work. But those conversations only happen if someone is willing to start them.
Advocacy doesn't always happen in a boardroom, a submission process or a formal meeting. Sometimes it happens at an airport, on a flight, at a community event or over a cup of coffee.
So next time you find yourself standing next to a decision-maker and wondering whether you should introduce yourself, take Kim's advice: do it.
You might be surprised where the conversation leads. More importantly, you might help ensure the contractor voice continues to be heard.
Because advocacy isn't somebody else's job. It's all of our jobs.
