"The dual need of Quality in manufacturing and of increased export earnings have begun to impact upon the furniture industry in Australia. In order to compete successfully with imports and to improve the export position, local producers must at least match the structural as well as aesthetic qualities of competitor products. The latter have access to large sophisticated testing facilities in Europe and North America, and meet exacting international Standards of performance. In response to these pressures, the Timber & Wood Products Research Centre at Capricornia Institute in Rockhampton has taken the lead in setting up a structural testing facility for all types of furniture. The Centre's proven and internationally recognised reputation in R & D, together with the School of Engineering's expertise in Quality management and with its sophisticated Computer Aided Engineering Centre, enable the offering of a unique and timely service to Australian industry."--p. (i).