Kiwi Gets prestigious Australia and NZ forensics award

New Zealander presented with prestigious Australia and New Zealand forensics award

Mr Wayne Chisnall (retired General Manager Forensics, ESR New Zealand) was presented last Thursday night with the Australia New Zealand Policing Advisory Agency National Institute of Forensic Science (ANZPAA NIFS) John Harber Phillips Award. The Award recognises excellence in forensic sciences in Australia and New Zealand.

ACT Attorney General and Minister of Police, Simon Corbell presented Mr Chisnall with the Award at the Ministerial Council for Police and Emergency Management - Police dinner in Canberra.

Mr Corbell congratulated Mr Chisnall on receiving the award and paid homage to the late Hon. John Harber Phillips. In his speech he also noted the indispensable service forensic science provides to law enforcement.

“Mr Chisnall’s rigorous campaigning for sustained investment has ensured that the forensic community can cater to the significant pressures and demands that are now facing New Zealand’s forensic services,” said Mr Corbell.

Director of ANZPAA NIFS, Mr Alastair Ross said that as the inaugural recipient, Mr Chisnall truly personifies the quality and outstanding commitment that are fundamental to the purpose of this Award.

“Throughout his long and distinguished career, Wayne has displayed exceptional leadership and management skills and has led and guided forensic science in New Zealand through a remarkable period of change and challenge,” said Mr Ross.

Mr Chisnall was honoured to receive the award and acknowledged that he was only able to achieve so much due to the collaborative efforts of his fellow colleagues in forensic sciences.

“I am humbled by receiving this award. What I achieved was only possible through the support I had from the dedicated scientists in my team and from senior colleagues here and in Australia. Justice Phillips was a passionate advocate for the forensic sciences and this award will raise the profile of forensic science in Australasia. To be the inaugural recipient is a great honour for me,” said Mr Chisnall.

His commitment to the forensic sciences has continued following his retirement and until 2010, he worked on a number of special projects in New Zealand.

ENDS

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