Fun and Skill at Forklift Competition

Tuesday 25 November 2003

Forklift drivers all over New Zealand are busy zapping around on their machines, honing their skills in readiness for the Nissan Forklift National Drivers' Competition 2003.

The competition is designed to encourage forklift drivers to develop their skills, and boost health and safety in the workplace. It pits twelve regional winners against each other in National Finals over two intense days in Auckland.

There, forklift drivers will be tested on their safety, skill, efficiency and knowledge. In the practical test, drivers must manipulate a loaded forklift over a pre-determined course.

"The Nissan Forklift National Drivers' Competition is has been attracting more and more interest from drivers and industry each year", says Chief Judge Maurice Flood, from the Occupational Safety and Health Service (OSH). "That's great, because forklifts are one of the most common pieces of equipment in industry, so it's imperative that people are well trained, and know how to operate them safely and efficiently."

In the early nineties industry saw there was a problem with forklift safety, and set up the Competition in partnership with OSH as appositive way of improving it. It has grown over the years to be not only hotly contested, but also a lot of fun, says Mr Flood.

"Drivers vie for over $7500 in cash and prizes, with the grand prize being a trip for two to next year's Formula One Grand Prix in Melbourne".

The Competition is sponsored by Loadlift, Timpack, Mainfreight and OSH.

Where: The final takes place at Loadlift Equipment, 13 Sims Road, Penrose, Auckland.
When: Thursday 27 November
3.30 pm (Final)
5.00 pm Prize Ceremony and Drinks

Photo Opportunity: The top 6 finalists will compete for the National Title at 3.30 pm - who will come out the winner?