Ruri of Pershouse Produce topped nine other finalists for 2025 title
The Brisbane Markets’ Forklift Operator of the Year Grand Final was held on 28 October, with Anaru Ruri of Pershouse Produce named winner of the tenth edition of the event.
The Forklift Operator of the Year event – affectionately known as ‘Footy’ to the Markets community – is timed to coincide annually with National Safe Work Month every October. Since commencing ten years ago, the event has become a popular favourite in the Brisbane Markets calendar.
“The Brisbane Markets is the third largest central market in Australia, handling around 700mn kilograms of produce every year,” said Brisbane Markets Limited (BML)’s managing director and CEO, Andrew Young.
“We have nearly 400 registered forklifts on site, one of the highest concentrations of forklift traffic on any industrial site in Queensland. Raising awareness of safety procedures and encouraging safe forklift practices is fundamental to Markets operations.”
To be eligible to register in the event a forklift operator must have a valid High Risk Work Licence, a valid Forklift Operators Permit issued by BML, and completed an annual BML Forklift Safety induction.
Contestants are observed and evaluated over several weeks, with points awarded or deducted based on driving behaviours. Ten finalists must then navigate a specially-designed course to test their expertise, accuracy and safe driving practices.
Over its ten-year history, more than 500 forklift operators have thrown their hat in the ring for a chance to share in a generous prize pool. BML thanked all the drivers that registered to compete and extended congratulations to the nine 2025 finalists. The Grand Final was a close contest, and the skilful display was very much appreciated by the spectator crowd of peers and colleagues.
This year is Anaru’s second consecutive year as a FOOTY finalist and he will take home the A$5,000 first prize.
“2024 was my first year in the competition,” said Anaru. “Last year I came second, and to go one better and win it this year is fantastic.”
Ruri said he tried not to overthink the contest too much and to just be himself and enjoy the moment.
“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,” he said.
Aaron Rizzolo of John Potter was the runner-up, receiving prize money of A$1,500 and Darren Muller of Lind & Sons took home A$500 for third place.
The event is hosted by BML, with the support of event sponsors Toyota Material Handling, The Drug Detection Agency, SBP Australia, Veolia and Brismark.
