| 04-08--06 | |
| 2006 JD ROBERTS AWARD | |
| In a valedictory message written in September 1979, John Douglas
Roberts, a founding father of Murray & Roberts, stated the following
inspirational words which form the basis of a key Murray & Roberts value,
innovative thinking:
“Use imagination so we can be ‘one jump ahead’ of the other man. Never be satisfied with accepted methods however efficient they may appear” The late 1970’s saw the inception of the JD Roberts Award by Murray &
Roberts, established in memory of the late John Douglas Roberts who was known
for his entrepreneurial flair and passion for trying new techniques. The JD
Roberts Award promotes competitiveness in seeking environmentally sustainable
solutions to human dilemmas and encourages scientific research into technology
that enhances the quality of life of all South Africans. |
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| Held in partnership with the Council for Scientific and Industrial
Research (CSIR), the 2006 JD Roberts Award evening took place at Douglas Roberts
Centre (DRC) in Bedfordview on 2 August. Edwin Hewitt, executive director of
Murray & Roberts Limited, hosted the evening, sharing the words of the late John
Douglas Roberts with the guests.
2006 saw four finalists competing for the award, all showcasing outstanding research: Mr. Llewellyn van Wyk – Nominated for demonstrating world-class innovation and knowledge generation in the preparation of sustainability design guidelines for the Commonwealth Association of Architects. Mr. Andre Brits – Nominated for his enormous contribution, from concept to practice, to the Integrated Development Planning Nerve Centre, which facilitates the sharing of key planning and service delivery information services across all spheres of government in SA. Mr. Mac Mashiri – Nominated for his excellent, consistent and innovative contributions in the field of rural infrastructure and development (both in SA and other countries in Africa), including his work on integrated rural mobility and access; transport for persons with disabilities; rural freight and logistics; mainstreaming non-motorized transport; child mobility and access; gender and transport; IKS; community based land use planning, strengthening pro-poor tourism development through infrastructure and skills transfers, as well as his commitment to capacity building. Dr Phil Paige-Green – Nominated for outstanding research and innovation in the transport infrastructure field, resulting in improved materials usage and specifications for road construction. Following the presentations, Edwin Hewitt announced and congratulated Mr Mac Mashiri as the winner of the 2006 JD Roberts Award. Two of John Douglas Roberts’ daughters, Sue Leuner and Ann Jones who regularly attend the awards evening, were called upon by the master of ceremonies, Tom Fraser, to hand over the prize and certificates. Formalities were followed by an evening enjoyed by all and Carol-ann Wolmarans is thanked for delivering an excellent event. Murray & Roberts congratulates Mac Mashiri on winning the 2006 JD Roberts award. For further information contact: Murray & Roberts Client Services |
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