As a trade union representing workers, the MEU is often at odds with mining companies as we fight for better wages and conditions in the industry. But when it comes to supporting the coal industry and the jobs it provides, we are on the same page.
The MEU spoke out strongly in favour of the Hunter Valley Operations (HVO) continuation project in Independent Planning Commission (IPC) hearings in July. Even while engaging in robust negotiations with Glencore for new Enterprise Agreements across their local mines, we strongly back their proposal to extend HVO until 2045 and commend them for the efforts they’ve made to address environmental and community concerns.
I told the IPC how important HVO jobs are in supporting our region during a period of significant change. It’s easy for protesters from Sydney to call for coal mines to close, but they have no plan for future jobs prosperity for towns like Singleton and Muswellbrook.
Hunter Valley United Lodge President Rebecca McDonald, representing MEU members at HVO, told the IPC that as a unionised, regulated and safe coal mining operation, sourcing coal from HVO for the energy needs of our export trading partners is much better for the planet than shifting production to unsafe, unregulated producers.
It was great to see so many HVO workers at the IPC hearings illustrating the benefit the mine brings to families. As Jason Leigh, an MEU member and shotfirer at HVO said – mining looks after his family and countless more in the region. He summed it up: “coal mining is the Hunter Valley”.
Well done to all those who stood up for HVO at the IPC – together we can secure the mining jobs that support our community for decades to come. The MEU will certainly continue taking every opportunity to advocate for the approval of this project.
Farewell Thommo
July was the end of an era for the MEU’s Northern Mining and NSW Energy District, with the retirement of our Secretary Shane Thompson – bringing to an end an almost 50-year career of hard work, loyalty, commitment and service.
Shane began his career in 1977 as an apprentice electrician at Wambo Colliery, working there until the early 90s. From there, he moved to Camberwell Open Cut, where he began to leave his mark as a tenacious and dedicated worker representative.
From 1995 to 2010, Shane was the Secretary of Camberwell Lodge – a frontline position of enormous responsibility, as anyone who has taken a lodge position would know. It required being the first person members talk to when they need advice, support, or someone prepared to stand up and speak out. Shane took to this role with the same qualities that have defined his career – straight talking, practical, determined and always focused on MEU members.
In 2010, Shane started working with the MEU full time, first as District Vice President, and from 2017 onwards, District Secretary. In this role, he has led the Northern District through some of the most important and challenging periods we’ve faced. He has helped guide the district through industrial change and political change, faced the challenge of the labour hire model and seen the introduction of Same Job Same Pay, improved safety for coal workers, and fought hard for a future for our industry and to ensure no mine worker is left behind.
Shane has earned the respect of everyone he’s worked alongside, be they members, delegates, officials, academics, or politicians. He has understood that real union work is about being steady, reliable and committed, and getting on with the job.
As Shane retires this month, please join me in thanking him for his outstanding contribution, and the service he has delivered with patience, courage and persistence.
Robin Williams
District President MEU Northern Mining and NSW Energy
