At the ASGA’s 2026 Easy Signs National Sign & Graphics Awards, industry stalwart Vernon Kingman was recognised for his enormous, and ongoing, contribution to the sign and graphics sector with a Life Membership of ASGA. Here’s what Damian Nielsen, ASGA Vice President, said in presenting the Award.

Tonight, we recognise a man whose name has become synonymous with Western Australia’s signage industry — a man whose work ethic, craftsmanship, and leadership helped shape the modern identity of our sector. I’m talking, of course, about Vernon Kingman.

Vernon’s story begins in Victoria, where he trained at the Melbourne School of Decoration in the 1970s. Like many great signwriters of his generation, he started with a brush, a ladder, and a determination to build something of his own.

In 1984, in a garage in Perth — at one end of a horse arena, no less — Vernon founded what would become Kingman Signs, later known as Kingman Visual. It was humble, it was hands‑on, and it was the beginning of a four‑decade legacy.

By 1997, the business had outgrown the family property and moved into its first purpose‑built factory in Malaga. Six staff became dozens. One factory became two. A steel shop was added. A digital print division followed. And by 2009, Kingman Visual had become one of the most capable and diversified signage companies in Western Australia.

But Vernon didn’t just build a business — he built an industry. He served as WA President of ASOFIA from 2008 to 2011. He spent a decade on the ASGA WA committee. And he championed training, apprenticeships, and professional standards long before they were fashionable talking points.

Under his leadership, Kingman Visual became one of the most awarded signage companies in the country. From national golds in digital signage and fabrication, to recognition in design, wayfinding, neon, and installation — the trophy cabinet grew as fast as the company itself.

Then came one of the biggest signage projects in Australian history: Optus Stadium. More than 12,500 signs installed — a project that showcased not just technical capability, but coordination, culture, and pride. It was a defining moment for the company and a milestone for the WA signage community.

In 2017, Kingman Visual consolidated its operations into a major facility on Victoria Road, bringing all divisions under one roof. It was the culmination of decades of growth, innovation, and leadership.

After 36 years at the helm, Vernon sold the business in 2020. But he didn’t step away from the industry he helped build.

Through Kingman Strategies, he continues to mentor, write, consult, and speak — sharing hard‑earned lessons with the next generation of business owners and tradespeople.

And even when Kingman Group faced its closure in 2024, Vernon remained a steady, respected voice — reminding us that industries evolve, businesses change, and what endures is the contribution, the craftsmanship, and the people.

Tonight, we honour a man who built more than signs. He built careers. He built standards. He built community. And he built one of the most recognisable signage companies in Western Australia.

Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in acknowledging the remarkable career of Vernon Kingman — a tradesman, a leader, a mentor, and a cornerstone of our industry.