The Frame & Truss Manufacturers Association (FTMA) Australia recently celebrated another successful Annual General Meeting (AGM) on the 26th of November 2024 – an event that marked significant transitions within our organisation. This year’s AGM was punctuated by a comprehensive review and unanimous approval of the new constitution, showcasing our commitment to evolving alongside industry needs and member expectations. A major highlight of the new 2024 FTMA Constitution is the reduction of board members from 15 to 9, a strategic reshuffle aimed at making our board more agile and effective.
Our heartfelt gratitude goes to the outgoing board members, Mark Hull and Carly Timperley, whose dedication and contributions have been invaluable. Both came with strong backgrounds of F&T, industry knowledge, and impressive leadership skills in business and in team building.
Mark Hull, who joined the board in 2021 from MCM Frame & Truss, is focusing on the behind the scenes running of the business, and whenever possible the joy of travel with his wife, Gill.
Carly Timperley of East Coast Frame & Truss, a dynamic leader and a devoted mother, brought her unique insights to last year’s AGM, leaving a lasting impression on our board.
Their qualities and efforts have been instrumental in driving FTMA’s objectives and core focus – they leave behind a legacy of growth and positive change.
As we bid farewell to our departing members, we are equally enthusiastic in welcoming new talent to the board. The new board represents a strong balance of fabricators from all the nailplate companies – our much valued Principal Partners, Pryda, Multinail, and MiTek. FTMA also assures that all board members are from across Australia, representing the diverse needs of individual states, and from across varying fabrication plant sizes.
This means that the association will continue to be led by a board of fabricators who between them have expert knowledge regarding all our members’ needs; wherever they are located, what size plant they have, and what software they are using.
Gary Walker, Managing Director of Belmont Timbers
Gary brings unparalleled experience, having been immersed in the industry for most of his life.
“I am Gary Walker the Managing Director of Belmont Timber, a frame and truss plant based in Sydney. The company was established by John Walker 70 years ago . I have been involved in the business for 48 years. We are a MiTek plant and have been for the past 45 years. I am currently the NSW President of the Housing Industry Association, as well as President of Timber Development Association, and sit on the board of National Timber and Hardware Association. I am involved in the various associations as our family have benefited from the industry and like to support the timber industry in any way possible. My hobbies and interests include golf, snow skiing, traveling and spending time with my partner Deidre.
Looking forward to joining FTMA.”
Elizabeth van der Plaat, Owner of High Country Frame & Truss
Elizabeth, with her brother David, represents the spirited rural community of Cooma in NSW.
“I’m Elizabeth, one of the owners of our family business. Our partnership consists of three sibling, twins David & myself and our younger sister Jannene. We have High Country Truss & Frames, Cooma H Hardware and Plaat transport – which was our original family business established 70 years ago by our grandfather after he migrated to Australia from Holland.
Our businesses are located in Cooma NSW, the gateway to the Snowy Mountains and service the ACT and South Coast. I live in Canberra but generally work in Cooma Monday to Friday in the business. Being in small business my role is vast and deals with most aspects of the business.
Away from work I love to cook, enjoy gardening and am always making plans for our next travel adventure.”
Brenden Summerfield, Director of Northwest Frames & Trusses
Brenden reclaims his place on the board after a brief hiatus due to professional commitments. Brenden’s renewed availability and dedication reaffirm his unwavering support for FTMA.
“I started my journey into frames & trusses in the little country town of Wingham in October 1991.
Started as a trainee estimating detailer and spent nearly 20 years there. I have always stayed within the industry since at a few different locations in country NSW. Currently the managing director of NorthWest Frames & Trusses, which is a co-owned F & T company in Tamworth. Also, a director of a co-owned F & T company in Coffs Harbour which my son Hudson is the managing / director and co-owner of. Married for 26 years, 2 adult children, 2 amazing grandchildren.”
Financially, FTMA Australia has achieved another year of modest profit, driven by growing income from memberships and valued partnerships. This financial stability empowers us to reinvest in initiatives that foster industry growth and member support.
As we reflect on the past year and prepare for the future, our focus remains steadfast on nurturing our industry’s prosperity and addressing the challenges that lie ahead.
The FTMA Board stands united, ready to lead with innovation and integrity, charting a path toward a vibrant and sustainable future for the frame and truss industry.
Follow FTMA Australia for Industry News and Updates
Our Principal Partners
