Responsible Wood extends deadline for 2026 Richard Stanton Memorial Leadership Award

Nominations for the annual award, which recognises leadership in sustainable forest management and certified supply chains, will remain open until 28 Aug.

2025 award recipient Shona Heading with Responsible Wood chief executive Simon Dorries and chair Dr Tony Bartlett (Image: Responsible Wood)

Responsible Wood, the national forest certification system for forest owners and managers in Australia and New Zealand, has extended the nomination deadline for the 2026 Richard Stanton Memorial Leadership Award to Friday, 28 Aug.

Established in 2015, the award honours the late Richard Stanton, who was a pioneer in sustainable forestry in Australia and internationally.

The annual award continues to recognise an individual who has demonstrated leadership, innovation and commitment to sustainable forest management or Chain of Custody certification under the Responsible Wood Certification Scheme.

In 2025, it was presented to Shona Heading for her contribution to sustainable forest management and the promotion of certified Australian timber through the Australian Araucaria campaign.

Responsible Wood chief executive Simon Dorries encouraged those in the forestry and forest products sector to nominate individuals whose work deserves greater recognition.

“Many across our industry are making an important contribution to responsible forestry and certified supply chains,” he said. “This award is an opportunity to recognise those who lead by example, bring people together and support the integrity of sustainable forest management and sustainably sourced materials.”

The recipient will receive a $2,000 bursary to support professional development, including conference attendance or a course of their choice.