The market’s best forklift operators have represented their respective companies in the final of the Toyota Forklift Challenge, helping to raise awareness workplace safety.

Ten finalists navigated a course designed to simulate a range of activities typical of a normal working day of a forklift driver and were awarded points for demonstrating safe techniques while negotiating the course.

Perth Market Authority CEO, Stephen Ward said “Safety is our number one priority and it’s pleasing to see the keen interest from the audience and participants in this event. Initiatives like the Toyota Forklift Challenge are a practical way to get all the drivers thinking about workplace safety, not just the 10 finalists”

First place winner Kirstie Downie from WA Crates, the first female entrant in the Toyota Forklift Challenge, received a $500 Coles/Myer gift card for taking first place.

The design and safety features of Toyota's versatile 8-Series include Automatic Fork Levelling Control to level the forks during loading, ergonomically designed controls and smooth, quiet operation from the Toyota engine.

Select 8-Series forklift models also feature Toyota's exclusive System of Active Stability comprising the advanced Active Swing Lock Cylinder, which can help improve forklift stability and assist in reducing the potential for lateral tip-overs.

Toyota Forklift Challenge entrants registered by completing a questionnaire regarding safe forklift driving habits, with the top 10 respondents going through to compete in the final.