The Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand has again recognised the achievements of leaders in the Public Service with this year three significant awards for Outstanding Contribution in Public Administration, Emerging Leader of the Year and Outstanding Graduate of the Year.
Held at the Parliament House Theatre in Canberra with nominees, judges, family and work colleagues, the awards are very representative of things we know little about but learn quickly. There is good intent on the award winners to make a difference in their workplace and be seen to be doing it.
Guest Speaker, Peter Baine, was part of the leadership team which responded to the Bali bombings of 2002 and in 2005 led national and international teams responding to the Tsunami of 2004.
He took us to some dark places, reminding us it is always those who have to deal with disasters at the coal face with discipline, humanity and resilience that make our teams so respected.
His major work now, while helping businesses build better leadership, is leading the Hands Across the Water team supporting their orphanages and the children of Thailand.
From that work beautiful stories emerged of this team and the work they do.
It made Julia Baird cry.
And most of us actually.
But ever the professional, Ms Baird as compere for the event, continued admirably for a thoughtful and professional look at the hard work the Australian Public Service does.
