Former Parkes Man, Douglas Keith, has been named the The Furnishing Industry Association of Australia’s 2016 FIAA Apprentice of the Year.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Douglas demonstrated exceptional skills and knowledge of his trade and commitment for woodwork being clearly evident throughout his project to claim the award.
Douglas, the son of Ken and Sue Keith of "Stanleigh", Parkes, attended Parkes High School before embarking on his fine furniture making apprenticeship.
He is currently undertaking the third year of his four year apprenticeship with Myles Gostelow, a well known furniture designer/maker located in the historic village of Tharwa, ACT.
Myles said Doug contacted him when he finished Year 12 seeking to pursue his passion in making fine timber furniture.
“Doug has very good hand skills, attention to detail and a great work ethic,” Myles said.
“He is honest, reliable and is able to work under pressure and instruction."
Doug was the winner of the ACT and NSW division and was awarded a $500 cash prize.
As a result he was nominated for the Australian Woodworking Industry Suppliers Association John Tiddy Memorial Awards.
The awards are made to one apprentice in each of the following areas of Australasia: NSW/ACT; QLD; VIC/TAS; SA/NT; WA; and New Zealand.
Applicants must be of good character, and be highly regarded by their employer for their skill, knowledge, application to work, responsibility and innovation.
These awards are selected from all the different types of woodwork apprenticeships.
Doug was again successful with each of the six winners receiving an all expenses paid trip to the AWISA 2016 exhibition, plus $2,000 towards their training course fees.
He was ecstatic with his National Apprenticeship win and enjoyed the trip immensely, dividing his time between checking out the massive exhibition, exploring Melbourne, and enjoying the hospitality of his hosts- AWISA and the Crown Casino!
The apprentices were required to provide examples of recent work and Doug provided a detailed analysis of his first year project – a bedside cabinet with curved door and drawer front made from Tasmanian Blackwood and celery top pine.
Handcut dovetails and mortise and tenons featured throughout the piece.
The last word goes to Doug's employer Myles Gostelow "Doug is a very talented student and a deserving winner of this competition."
