At the Institute of Quarrying (Auckland Branch) Christmas Dinner sponsored by Porter Hire , one of the highlights was the announcement of the 2010 receipient – for Outstanding Contribution to the Institute of Quarrying over the years quote.

Now General Manager for Ihumatao Quarry, Gordon Laing spent approximately half of his working life in the underground operations, predominantly in South Africa.

His first job after qualifying at Stathclyde University, was with Impala Platinum the world’s second largest platinum mine; then with Palabora, mining copper and vermiculite; and Tarmac UK.

When Gordon arrived in NZ in 2001 to manage the shutdown of Winstone Aggregates Lunn Ave Quarry, he joined the Auckland branch of the IOQ and has been a committee member ever since. He also serves on the Executive Board of the IOQNZ, and his appointment as quarrying representative on the ExITO board was confirmed by both IOQ and AQA boards.