It was both an honour and a pleasure to be invited to attend the passing out parade of our 23 newest firefighters today. Congratulations to you all on reaching this significant milestone and a big thank you to the support networks of family and friends who have supported your endeavours towards this achievement. A big callout to all those involved in delivering this initiative too; you have clearly gone above and beyond, including modelling exemplary behaviour, with the results speaking for themselves. Hearts were bursting with pride all around the gym, including (sentiment alert) mine.
SEPTEMBER STATE COUNCIL OVERTIME TRIAL
Your Union State Council met this week with a heavy agenda which included receiving and discussing a report from Ms Kim Arnott and A/ACFO Glen Thompson which detailed the proposed MFS Over Time and Recall Trial, a part of the MFS Fatigue Management Project.
State Council noted the reports of the previous working parties on this issue seeking a consistent fair and transparent system and referred the matter to a meeting of Shop Stewards and State Councillors for consideration and debate. Ms Arnott and Mr Thompson will attend the meeting to present the details of the proposal and to conduct a Q and A session. Venue and date as below.
MEETING OF SHOP STEWARDS AND STATE COUNCILLORS 3 OCTOBER 2023
All UFUSA Shop Stewards and State Councillors have been invited to a meeting on 3 October 2023 at the Union office at 148 South Road Torrensville to discuss and progress a range of important issues.
In addition to the Overtime and Recall Trial proposed by the MFS above, discussions and consultation will also commence on the matters to be included in our next Log of Claims for our enterprise bargaining agreement.
Other issues on the agenda for attention include development of the Direct Entry (Recruitment of Experienced Firefighters) System, WHS including Diesel Emissions, Disciplinary, the Independent Promotions Review, Regional Operations Review and Ambulance Assist.
It is very timely, as we move towards negotiations our next EA, for those stations or worksites which do not have a Shop Steward, to get organised and elect one as a priority to ensure you have a voice.
Please do contact us if you’d like any assistance with this by emailing us at info@ufusa.com.au
A focus on firefighter health and well-being, fair wages and good conditions is being discussed for the
next round of negotiations; what are your thoughts and has your crew “spitballed” your wish lists yet?
WORKING BEE AT YOUR UNION OFFICE – HELP NEEDED – TUESDAY, 19 SEPTEMBER 2023
Can you spare a few hours to help on Tuesday, 19 September 2023 at your union office in Torrensville?
This time, the maintenance work includes the removal of the concrete floor of the front veranda, and we really need a few more hands if you can spare even a couple of hours to assist.
Commencing at 09:00 hours and expected to finish by lunchtime, a hearty lunch will then be served with warm thanks for your contribution to the ongoing upgrade of our biggest collective asset.
If you can find any time to assist in this important work, please contact our Project Officer, Paul Gunner ASAP on 83527211 to confirm and also to advise of any specific dietary requirements you may have.
Hope to see you (in suitable working gear) on Tuesday.
In Unity
