Over 100 Delegates, HSRs and activists attended last week’s annual RTBU conference in a show of strength that set another record.
Workplace representatives from across all divisions and job roles within the RTBU met at the grand Victorian Trades Hall, contributing to meaningful discussion on developing an even stronger union presence in your workplace, and how we can work together to deliver rock solid enterprise agreement outcomes.
Throughout the conference we heard from keynote speakers such as our National Secretary Mark Diamond and Minister for Public Transport Ben Carroll.
The minister covered hot topics such as the introduction of a new ticketing system, the metro tunnel and an overview of other technologies and changes on the horizon. To ensure members are supported throughout any change, I will continue to press him on further detail and commitments as matters progress.
Mark Diamond focused on the 30th anniversary of the RTBU and the successes that have been achieved through amalgamation into one big national industry-wide union. He gave examples of how the union has worked nationally to block attempts by the rail regulator to introduce mandatory and audio and video in-cab surveillance of train drivers, and is now using pursuing a review of national rail safety laws. He told how the RTBU is now recognised by governments and major industry stakeholders as the central source for any policy that might affect rail and public transport workers.
Workshops took place where attendees shared their experiences on the job, building ideas and reporting back collective next steps that can be taken on the job from improved communications, the importance of up-to-date details for all members and further training and knowledge that can assist day-to-day representation on the job.
The conference was followed by an open members event with opportunities to mingle between different workplaces and employers that proved a great success. We were thrilled to see so many people participate in the social side of our union – it is these relationships that make our union strong!
A big congratulations to Diego Esqueria from Metrol who won the Frank Hyett award in recognition for his commitment to building the union on the job, and a massive acknowledgment of members in receipt of plaques recognising 30, 40 and 50 years of membership.
Should members be interested in further details, you are encouraged to contact your delegate or organiser.
