The 2020 Forest Industry Awards and Gala Dinner has been deferred due to the national COVID-19 crisis. The awards and dinner were scheduled to be held in June at Parliament House in Canberra, but AFPA CEO Ross Hampton said with the restrictions on social gatherings and movements for all Australians the event could not go ahead. Source: Timberbiz
“The AFPA Forest Industry Awards and Dinner are a highly anticipated industry social event and deferring it isn’t something we take lightly,” Mr Hampton said.
“The restrictions on social gatherings and travel means our members and guests from across the country and overseas wouldn’t be able to attend. The forest industries are serious about helping ensure all Australians stay well and healthy, and that means respecting the lockdown enforced by the national cabinet. I have no doubt those who were looking forward to being in Canberra for the Gala in June will understand. “
The AFPA Industry Awards recognise the leaders in forestry innovation, business and training and provides an incentive to young and emerging leaders in the forestry industry.
“It’s regrettable the awards have to be put on hold this year, but they will be back in 2021, which will be the 10th anniversary of AFPA,” Mr Hampton said.
“That means it’ll be multiple celebration, recognising the excellence and leadership we have now, and also celebrating what has been achieved over 10 years in an industry dedicated to the “Ultimate Renewable™”.
It will also be a commemoration, by that time, of what looks like being a hard 12 months ahead of us right now,” he said.
