In an atmosphere filled with admiration and respect, George Prothero stood tall as the 2024 recipient of the Clive Martella Service to Industry Award at the FTMA National Conference held in Geelong. This accolade is not just a testament to Prothero’s nearly five decades of relentless dedication to the timber frame and truss sector but also a reflection of his deep-rooted passion that has seen him become a beacon of innovation, leadership, and unwavering community spirit.
Starting his career in a sawmill at the tender age of 15, George’s early fascination with the intricacies of timber framing and trusses fuelled a career that would see him not only managing numerous plants but also eventually leading his own venture, Alpine Truss, in Wangaratta. It’s here, in this bustling regional city, that George not only established himself as one of the largest employers but also cemented his reputation as a true community figure.
Under George’s stewardship, Alpine Truss became synonymous with not only top-notch quality and safety standards but also an ethos of employee welfare and community betterment. His open-door policy and genuine initiative in fostering an environment where every employee mattered evolved into more than just a business model; it became a family, united in its pursuit of excellence and innovation.
George’s contributions have immensely benefited not just Alpine Truss but have also raised the bar for operational efficiency and collaborative success across the industry. His efforts in pushing the boundaries of what’s achievable and inspiring a collective spirit among his peers, employees, and community at large encapsulate the very essence of the Clive Martella Service to Industry Award.
Reflecting on his remarkable career, from his humble beginnings to becoming a pivotal figure in the national timber frame and truss industry, George’s story is one of sheer determination, visionary leadership, and an unwavering commitment to his community. It’s these attributes that make him not only an extraordinary employer and business operator but also a beloved community person.
Ruth Martella and her son Clive Jr., representing the legacy of the man whose name the award bears, presented George Prothero with the Clive Martella Service to Industry Award.
Upon receiving this distinguished honour, George Prothero shared his appreciation for the collective spirit of the industry and the crucial support of his team at Alpine Truss.
“I am deeply humbled by this recognition, which truly belongs to the entire Alpine Truss family and our collaborators across the industry,” Prothero stated, reinforcing his belief in unity and teamwork as the foundation of his and the industry’s achievements.
George Prothero’s legacy will no doubt inspire current and future generations in the timber frame and truss industry, embodying the spirit of innovation, leadership, and community service that the Clive Martella Service to Industry Award celebrates.
On behalf of all FTMA Members, we congratulate George on being awarded the Clive Martella Service to Industry Award for 2024.
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