News and stories

“Didymo Dave” celebrated with Minister’s biosecurity award

Date

04 November 2019


Biosecurity Minister Damien O’Connor has paid tribute to the winners of the 2019 New Zealand Biosecurity Awards.

“The award winners are people from across the country who have gone above and beyond to contribute to New Zealand’s biosecurity. These awards are our way of celebrating them and thanking them for the outstanding work they do,” O’Connor said.

David Cade, commonly known as “Didymo Dave”, received the Minister’s Biosecurity Award which recognises an individual, group or organisation that has at least 10 years of continuous outstanding contribution to biosecurity in New Zealand.

“David is a very worthy winner of this award – he has led from the grass roots.

“He’s widely known for being a passionate and long-standing champion and volunteer for freshwater biosecurity, pest control and conservation. He is a tireless promoter of the Check, Clean, Dry campaign to stop the transfer of freshwater pests and prevent the introduction of new ones.

“David truly illustrates the impact a passionate person can have in making a difference for biosecurity in New Zealand.  

“It was a real privilege to review the nominations for the Minister’s Award. It was heartening to read about the lifetime commitment made to biosecurity by so many individuals. I was impressed by the work undertaken to lead major responses, drive research and innovation, look at new management processes and inspire communities,” he said.

Minister O’Connor is currently engaged in trade talks in Thailand so Forestry Minister Shane Jones presented the Award on his behalf.

View a full list of biosecurity award winners.