Environment Southland staff member, Jo Paterson, has won an Australasian award in recognition of her work in emergency management and disaster resilience.

Our Flood risk management project manager & AF8 Senior Advisor Jo Paterson has been honoured with the2025 Outstanding Award in Disaster Resilience & Inclusion, presented by the Australasian Women in Emergencies Network (AWE).

The award celebrates her outstanding leadership and contributions to emergency management and disaster resilience.

Environment Southland’s nomination was one of several that Jo Paterson received. Her work in emergency management and disaster resilience, spans many organisations and communities across New Zealand.

In its nomination, Environment Southland described Jo Paterson’s work as transformational.

She has led several pioneering initiatives, including Southland’s first region-wide bathymetric LiDAR survey and flood modelling programme; huge advancements in flood intelligence and insights; a capacity-building training programme for staff and partner agencies; the formation of the Flood Impact and Risk Specialist Team (FIRST) to support Emergency Management Southland, partners, and local communities; and, in collaboration with Dr Sally Potter, conducted New Zealand’s first Flood Impact-Based Warning System review, enhancing how flood-prone towns and rural settlements receive timely, actionable warnings.

Receiving the award from AWE is an incredible honour, Jo Paterson said.

“It’s not just a recognition of my work, but of the collective effort of so many people committed to disaster resilience and emergency management.

“This work is so important because resilience is ultimately about people – ensuring our communities are safer, stronger, and better prepared for the challenges we know will come. I’m fortunate to work alongside an incredible network of colleagues, partners, and community members who share that same passion.”

The AWE Recognition Awards, now in their third year, shine a light on the remarkable women working to strengthen communities across Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific.

Environment Southland general manager integrated catchment management Lucy Hicks commended Jo Paterson’s dedication and impact on the programmes she’s been involved in through council.

“Jo brings an unwavering passion to her work and an ability to bring people together to advance meaningful change. She is consistently driving initiatives that strengthen community resilience and safety. She is always looking for new innovations and championing continual improvements to the status quo. This makes her a truly deserving recipient of this award.”