Twenty-six years ago, in April 1998, Steve Shirlaw opened the doors to Form1 in Newcastle. Back then the business was built on a small and ambitious team of fire protection specialists who were passionate about people and serious about safety.
Today, our aim is still the same and we support our clients, saving them time, money, and stress. Form1 has grown to include four dynamic businesses – Form1 Fire, Form1 Air, PRM, and GLS – with branches in Sydney, Newcastle, Canberra, and Western NSW.
“We are thrilled to be celebrating 26 years in business,” says Form1 CEO, Steve Shirlaw.
“We have worked hard to establish ourselves as a leader in fire protection, air conditioning, electrical services, and emergency management, and we are grateful for the trust and support of our clients over the years.”
Steve says he is most proud of the unforgettable people he has met and the lifelong friendships he has built along the way.
“The ability to change other people’s lives has made all the hard times worth it,” he continues.
Over the past 26 years, there have been countless wonderful and memorable moments in the Form1 journey that have left a lasting impact. There is no shortage of moments to reflect on. Here are 10 of the best!
- 1998: Getting Started
From a spare room in his home in Belmont, Newcastle, CEO Steve Shirlaw, launches Form1 Fire Protection. Andrew McMurtrie starts working with Steve and 26 years later he is still working in the business. - 1999: Firm Foundations
The team complete their first Sydney project at Richmond RAAF Base with CMP Electrical. Customer Carl Price has become a great friend and this partnership is still going strong. - 2002: A Friend to Healthcare
In 2002 Form1 secures its first major contract with Central Coast Area Health, a business bond that continues to flourish today.
- 2006: Taking on Sydney
In 2004 Steve (CEO) gives up his office in Newcastle to launch Form1 in Sydney, out of his apartment. Two years later the Sydney office officially opens.
- 2009: Embracing the Digital Era
After a few busy years working on the ‘brand’, form1.com.au is launched, the Central Coast office opens for business, and the Culture Map is in full swing.
- 2013: Community Spirit and Canberra Connections
Community is a huge part of the Form1 business, and this year Steve Shirlaw and Justin O’Malley (GLS) participate in the annual B to B Variety Bash for the Children’s Charity. Our connections continue to grow, and Form1 Canberra is established.
- 2017: Improving Health and Comfort
A big year of growth! Form1 acquires Form1 Air and officially joins forces with GLS.
- 2020: Emergence of Covid-19
A year we’ll never forget as Covid-19 sweeps the globe. Despite hard times we experience a positive year with the addition of PRM and launch Western NSW to better care for our clients.
- 2021: Community Hub
Form1 launches form1community.com.au – a website dedicated to the charity partners and initiatives we care about.
- 2023: 25 Years in Business
One of our greatest milestones, proudly celebrating 26 years in business with friends, family, and a wonderful community of clients in some of the best industries, including aged care, healthcare, education, commercial, and more.Thank you to each and every one of you for helping us grow.
Follow this letter from Steve to read more about his journey and early years in the business.
