WA company takes out national furniture award

2/11/02
Western Australian company Jah Roc has taken out the coveted National 'Best of the Best' award at the Australian Furniture of the Year Awards for 2002.
Premier Dr Geoff Gallop tonight presented Jah Roc owner Gary Bennett with the award for his uniquely Australian lounge using WA blackbutt and macro suede.
At a function at the Burswood Grand Ballroom, WA scooped the pool winning six out of 11 categories in the national competition.
The judges, National and State presidents of the Furnishing Industry Association of Australia (FIAA), said the quality of design had improved considerably across all categories Australia-wide on last year, but in particular in the use of native timber.
The Premier congratulated FIAA WA for its commitment to promoting the industry nationally and internationally and instigating a program to benchmark excellence.
"Together with FIAA, the State Government recognises the importance of encouraging value adding and an export culture in the furniture industry," he said.
"A $1million assistance package has been allocated to the timber furniture industry to assist with interstate and international marketing.
"Getting maximum value out of our rare native wood is about repositioning it in the market as a high value product instead of a raw material for low grade use.
"Under the 'Protecting our old growth forests' policy, the Government aims to maximise the value of Australian hardwood timber at the same time as ensuring the long-term sustainability of our unique native forests.
"The furniture industry is an excellent example of how sustainable and innovative business development is helping to preserve our precious natural environment, generating economic wealth and creating valuable employment and training opportunities for WA workers."
Also at the event, the WA furniture of the year awards were announced entitling the winners to be included in the judging of the national awards.
Agriculture Minister Kim Chance presented the WA 'Best of the Best' award to Western Cabinets for their kitchen display using natural veneer features.
Premier's office: 9222 9475