| Significant Contribution to Tasmanian Industry RecognisedIncat Founder and Chairman Robert Clifford has been recognised for his personal and company’s significant contribution to the Tasmanian Export Industry
Making the Tasmanian Award for Export Leadership at the 2007 Tasmanian Export Awards at the Launceston Country Club, Tasmania’s Deputy Premier Mr Steve Kons said Mr Clifford was recognised not only for this significant contribution to industry, but also to the economy, the Tasmanian brand, and to Tasmania’s reputation around the world.
“As founder of catamaran builder Incat, Robert has been an important part of our export industry for more than 40 years and Tasmania has benefited greatly from his passion and commitment.
“His world-class catamarans are being developed and produced here in Tasmania and are recognised the world over.
In the past 13 months Incat has delivered two of its largest vessels to date to opposite sides of the world. Delivered in September 2006, the latest 98 metre catamaran Milenium Tres is the sixth Incat high speed catamaran to join the Spanish fleet of Acciona Trasmediterránea while last August saw the handover to Japanese customers of the largest Australian-built high speed catamaran yet, the 112 metre Natchan Rera
Speaking from London Robert Clifford commented “While it is always nice to have one’s efforts recognised, to receive recognition from Tasmania is even more special, not least of all as it really serves to pay tribute to the skills and dedication of the staff who put so much into ensuring Incat really does produce and export world class ships.
“This endeavour continues in 2008 with the delivery of a second 112 metre vessel to our Japanese customer and further tremendous potential for future orders.”
As Robert Clifford was not in Australia for the event the trophy for Export Leadership was collected by his son Craig and daughter Kim Clifford.
Underlining Tasmania’s status in the growing maritime industry, Incat supplier and neighbour Liferaft Systems Australia was also recognised, receiving the Aurora Energy Small to Medium Manufacturer Award and the prestigious Minister’s 2007 Exporter of the Year Award.
The 2007 Tasmanian Export Awards were run by the Tasmanian Government’s Department of Economic Development. Winners of the Tasmanian Export Awards will progress as national finalists to the Australian Export Awards presentation in November. |
