This year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours acknowledges the endeavour and achievements of Jim Ryburn with the Award of Member of the NZ. Order of Merit.

Jim is a long serving elected official having held positions at a Local and now Branch and National level within the Union – presently as the Secretary of the Southern Branch and consequently, a National Committee Member.

Currently Jim serves as Welfare Support in Region 4.

Jim’s role was established particularly to assist persons in the wake of the Christchurch Earthquake, but his role has expanded to incorporate assistance for persons in other parts of the country.

There can be no doubt Jim’s award is a well-deserved recognition of the very considerable assistance Jim has given to people in real need and often in very traumatic situations.

Congratulations to Jim and his family for all you have done and for the receipt of this recognition of your contributions.