The Brisbane Markets annual Forklift Operator of the Year (FOOTY) event has been held with Anaru Ruri, from fruit and vegetable wholesaler Pershouse Produce, taking out first place.

Held each year in October to coincide with Safe Work Month, the 10th annual event saw Ruri compete against nine other finalists drawn from forklift operators who work at the Brisbane Markets site which handles around 700 million kilograms of produce annually.

“We have nearly 400 registered forklifts on site, one of the highest concentrations of forklift traffic on any industrial site in Queensland,” explains Andrew Young, CEO of Brisbane Markets Limited (BML).

“Raising awareness of safety procedures and encouraging safe forklift practices is fundamental to market operations.”

The event is open to eligible forklift drivers who have a valid High Risk Work Licence, a valid Forklift Operators Permit issued by BML, and completed an annual BML Forklift Safety induction.

Operators who register for the event are observed and evaluated over several weeks, with points awarded or deducted based on driving behaviours. 

The 10 finalists then navigate a specially-designed course to test their expertise, accuracy and safe driving practices.

“2024 was my first year in the competition,” Ruri explains. “Last year I came second, and to go one better and win it this year is fantastic.

“What I love about my job is the freedom and variety of driving a forklift, constantly moving around and being part of the Markets community. 

“Participating in this event is a practical way for all of the drivers to think about safety, and it’s also fun with some good-natured rivalry.”

Ruri was awarded an AUD3,000 prize, with runner-up Aaron Rizzolo of John Potter receiving AUD1,500 in prize money and third placed Darren Muller of Lind & Sons taking home AUD500.