Competitors from Woolworths became both male and female champions at the National Forklift Championships.

Operators Mark Gray and Pamela Windsor both won titles at this year’s National Forklift Championships hosted by the Australian Warehousing Association.

One point made the difference between the two, with Gray defending his 2009 forklift title to become the male champion once again. 

Eighteen finalists competed at National Forklift Grand Final held at the Sydney Safety Show & Materials Handing Exhibition in Sydney on 28th October.

According to National Forklift Championship Co-ordinator Bill Henman, the level of competition, knowledge and skill was much higher than last year.

“This was also the first time a husband and wife team were finalists,” Henman says, “but unfortunately Pamela’s husband had to withdraw due to a recent car accident."

2009 female champion Anita Maliu came in second this year.

Contestants from across Australia tested their knowledge and skills before progressing to the ten pin bowling component.

“This event challenged everyone and provided a significant amount of interest,” Henman says.

“The winner was Kingi Turnbull form Bevchain Joint venture. He received a scaled model forklift for his efforts.”

“Forklift Championship organisers were particularly impressed by the number of senior managers who came to cheer on and support their companies’ finalists.

“All have said they enjoyed the event and will be a strong contestant in 2011,” Henman says.

Trophies were presented by Adaptalift Hyster General Manager Paul Bennett who thanked contestants for their participation, and organisers for the opportunity to be part of this growing Australian event.

The National Forklift Championships expect to incorporate contestants from New Zealand in 2011 as a first step in expanding the event to the Asia Pacific.