_“Alan Perry started at Sydney furniture manufacturer Ricketts and Thorp in 1954 as an apprentice cabinetmaker in the sewing machine section and cabinet shop. He went on to became a draughts- man and furniture designer, estimator and site supervisor.
In 1973 he joined TAFE, where he taught cabinetmaking to apprentices and tradesman of all ages in colleges in Syd- ney (as well as a year at London College of Furniture).
In 1989 Alan became Head Teacher of Cabinetmaking at Lidcombe TAFE, where he then taught for 10 years, only retiring in 1998. Alan was involved in the National Curriculum in Furniture Trades, visiting industry at as much as possible and working with employer groups and State high schools.
He is a founder of the Furniture History Society (Australasia) and a Woodworkers Association of NSW member. He has a special interest in late 19 century Arts and Crafts furniture, he’s published histories of several NSW 20th Century furniture manufacturers, and he presents to societies and interest groups on the furniture industry and specific woodworking skills.”_ Biographical summary, excerpt from “A piece of Parker. A history of Parker Furniture, 1935-1995.” Woodworkers Association of NSW newsletter, July-August 2011, p.9.
- Writers:
-
Michael Bogle
- Date written:
- 2014
- Last updated:
- 2014
