FRESTRA Award

The FRESTRA Young Forester of the Year Award recognises an outstanding young forester who demonstrates commitment and passion for the forestry profession, develops their technical and leadership capabilities, and makes a meaningful contribution to their workplace and the wider forestry community.

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The FRESTRA Young Forester of the Year Award carries the legacy of the FRESTRA Club, which was established in 1982 at the Forest Research Institute (now Scion) in Rotorua. The club was created to strengthen connections across the forestry community, preserve the history of forestry and promote public awareness of the industry.

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The FRESTRA Young Forester of the Year Award was established as part of this legacy, ensuring the FRESTRA name and its values continue to have a place within the forestry profession. The award provides an opportunity to recognise and celebrate talented young foresters who are contributing to the industry and helping shape its future.

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Through the award, the legacy of FRESTRA lives on by connecting the history of New Zealand forestry with the next generation of forestry professionals.

Gisborne-based forester Kendra Monteith was named the 2025 NZIF FRESTRA Young Forester of the Year at the New Zealand Institute of Forestry Conference Awards in Napier.

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Kendra is the Operations Manager at Logic Forest Solutions Ltd, a locally owned forest management company. With a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies and Geography and a strong background in environmental management, she has developed a successful career in the forestry sector.

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On receiving the award, Kendra described the recognition as both “humbling and inspiring”, reflecting on her career journey and the responsibility of the next generation of forestry professionals to drive innovation, build strong connections and strengthen resilience across the sector.

Sarah de Gouw was named the inaugural FRESTRA Young Forester of the Year in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the forestry industry, her workplace and the wider forestry community.

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At the time, Sarah was an Otago Harvest Forester with Rayonier Matariki Forests, having joined the company as a graduate in Invercargill. Over her career, she gained experience across forest establishment, silviculture, roading, harvesting and planning, demonstrating a strong willingness to learn and take on new challenges.

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Alongside her professional role, Sarah has been a passionate advocate for forestry and the opportunities it provides. She has visited schools to promote careers in forestry, participated in the Wood is Good programme, served on the Discover Forestry Board and Southern Wood Council, and spent three years as a Future Foresters Regional Leader.

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Sarah described receiving the inaugural award as a great honour, particularly being recognised by her peers. Her dedication, enthusiasm and commitment to supporting the next generation of foresters made her a fitting recipient of the first FRESTRA Young Forester of the Year Award

Hamish Scown was named the 2026 FRESTRA Young Forester of the Year, marking the third year of the award.

The award recognises a young forestry professional who demonstrates strong commitment to their profession and makes a meaningful contribution to the wider forestry community. Hamish’s recognition reflects the growing contribution of emerging professionals to the forestry sector and their important role in shaping the future of the profession.

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The FRESTRA Young Forester of the Year Award continues to build recognition within the industry, celebrating the achievements and contributions of young foresters across Aotearoa.