Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth, has appointed former WVA President Dr Jim Edwards an “Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit” (ONZM) in the New Year Honours for 2010.
Jim’s appointment is for services to the Veterinary Profession and to the Community.
Dr Edwards has been involved in the veterinary profession nationally and internationally since he graduated from Massey University 37 years ago. He served two terms as the President of the New Zealand Veterinary Association. He was President of the World Veterinary Association (WVA) from 1999 - 2002 and President of the Federation of Asian Veterinary Associations from 2006 - 2008.
While President of the WVA, he strengthen the relationships with the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), the World Health Organisation, and the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA). With his wife Pam, he introduced World Veterinary Day which is being celebrated for the 10th time in 2010. The international award for World Veterinary Day is sponsored by the WVA and the OIE. He has played a significant role in gaining veterinary support for WSPA’s Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare. Dr Edwards’ work with the WVA continues in his role as the Communications Director.
Dr Edwards has also worked to promote human health in his local community. He co-led the development of one of the first primary health organisations in New Zealand and has developed two health related websites where people can find information on the health services and support available in their communities.
