ETU Magazine - EBA - December 2025 by ETUVIC

EBAS DELIVERED CONTRACTING EBAS

RAIL INFRASTRUCTURE EBAS

LIFT INDUSTRY EBAS

APPRENTICE EBAS

2025 DELEGATES CONFERENCE LET’S GO!

TROY GRAY Victorian ETUSecretary

This has been a standout year for the branch, dominated by positive industrial outcomes.

Around 15,000 of our 22,000 members have had their enterprise agreements renegotiated, and we have achieved outstanding results in all campaigns. Huge shout out and thanks to the officials and delegates who have driven these campaigns and achievements for our members. Well done!

During 2025 we’ve also set a number of precedents. We had the largest contracting mass meeting in our proud 123-year history (including our regional mass meetings), with more than 4,000 members turning up to hear about the latest EBA outcome for the contracting sector. On top of that, we had an impressive 500-plus delegates attend our 2025 shop stewards conference.

This exceptionally well attended event featured inspirational speakers, workshops and participation by delegates, and provided a very clear direction for the union over the next three-to-five years.

In addition to the industrial outcomes, mass meetings and conferences, during October to December well over 10,000 members attended the office for EBA signup meetings. At our training centre, more than 4,000 members participated in upskilling and retraining courses. It’s great to see so many members voluntarily coming into the office. Their feedback is invaluable and gives us an indication of how we’re travelling as a union – which at this stage seems to be pretty bloody good!

So I’d like to congratulate all within the branch that have stood up this year and delivered all these unprecedented outcomes.

I’d like to also give a nod to the membership, particularly on the Big Build projects. As you read this magazine both the West Gate and the Metro Tunnel projects will either have had their openings or be very close to it. Both these projects commenced around seven years ago, and tens of thousands of construction workers have worked largely underground for that period to deliver the largest infrastructure projects in Victoria’s history.

There have been a lot of media headlines with very little gratitude expressed to those thousands of workers.

So as we go into Christmas, this union acknowledges the commitment and sacrifice our members have made over the last seven years, largely working sixday weeks to deliver these projects on behalf of all Victorians! Well done to the ETU crews at West Gate and Metro.

Throughout the year we’ve had several big wins with regards to the outdoor recreation campaign. It’s also great to see the government acknowledging that outdoor recreation is important, particularly to blue-collar workers.

Finally, as a wrap to 2025, there’s no better way to celebrate it than to have ETU stalwart Joe Youssef awarded Life Membership. Congratulations Joe –there’s no one more deserving to receive this honour.

As always, a big thank you to all the ETU families out there. Without your continuing support and membership, the union wouldn’t function.

Merry Christmas to you all and have a safe and happy New Year. We’ll see you all in 2026, bigger, better and brighter than ever!

CONTRACTING EBAS RAIL INFRASTRUCTURE EBAS

LIFT INDUSTRY EBAS

APPRENTICE EBAS

MASS MEETING

After 10 months of negotiations, in September we saw the largest Contracting EBA mass meeting in the ETU’s 123-year history. This was held in Melbourne’s CBD, followed by regional meetings in Geelong and Moe. It was an impressive turn out, with a combined attendance of over 4,000 members proudly representing the electrical industry. This industry outcome is a result of 12 months of hard work, extensive negotiations and a comprehensive log of claims developed during the midterm meetings. This achievement has set the precedent, and places ETU members in this industry well and truly above other trades when it comes to wages, conditions and living standards. Fantastic outcome!

EBA DELIVERED

FOR LITERALY LESS THAN THE COST OF HALF A CUP OF COFFEE A DAY, ETU MEMBERS AND THEIR FAMILIES RECEIVE SOME OF THE BEST LIVING STANDARDS AND UNION BENEFITS ANYWHERE IN AUSTRALIA.

THE NEW ETU VICTORIAN 2025–2029 CONTRACTING EBA CONTINUES THIS TRADITION AND IS ONE OF THE TOP AGREEMENTS IN THE COUNTRY, DESIGNED TO LOOK AFTER YOU - THE MEMBER AND YOUR LOVED ONES. ON BEHALF OF THE EXECUTIVE, WE THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUING SUPPORT AND MEMBERSHIP. IT PAYS TO BE ETU.

TO READ MORE ABOUT THE CONTRACTING EBA OUTCOME, SCAN THE QR CODE.

RAIL INFRASTRUCTURE

With Victoria undertaking the largest infrastructure build we’ve seen in 150 years, ETU members are thriving in the rail infrastructure world. These members are working on the rail crossing removal project, upgrading our 150-year-old rail system completed in 1883.

ETU organiser Mark Connolly, together with our delegates, have brought John Holland and UGL to the table and once again achieved solid outcomes for all members in this area.

LIFT INDUSTRY

The lift industry is one of our most unique, and has some of our most dedicated and highly skilled members. Throughout 2025 we saw ETU members in Schindler, Otis and Kone campaign strongly to get their agreements tucked away. The delegates in this industry are some of the best I have seen, and their incredible initiative shows in the EBA outcomes they have achieved.

APPRENTICE EBA

Leading the way this year were the mighty NECA apprentices, who campaigned for 12 months and walked off the job on four separate occasions to achieve a fantastic EBA.

Amongst their achievements, they set a precedent that third- and fourth-year apprentices now receive Protect severance pay, which not only applies to NECA apprentices but flows on to all ETU apprentices. Well done to the NECA crew!

AS MENTIONED IN MY EDITORIAL, OVER 15,000 MEMBERS HAVE HAD EBA’S DELIVERED THIS YEAR. A SHOUT OUT AND THANKS TO THE OFFICIALS AND DELEGATES WHO HAVE DRIVEN THESE CAMPAIGNS TO ACHIEVE THIS OUTCOME FOR THE MEMBERS. WELL DONE!

MELBOURNE

GEELONG

MOE

ALL ABOARD

the Rail EBA

The Victorian Rail Infrastructure Enterprise Agreements have been in negotiations since April. ETU members at UGL and John Holland have got their strongly endorsed agreements across the line with minimal protected action.

Rail Infrastructure members have completed a massive number of level crossing removals and

rail projects over the last four years. The new agreement is strengthening job security, stipulating minimum notification of rosters, lifting allowances and rates of pay by 20% over four years, and reinforcing that the ETU will always fight for full time secure work with strong clauses about the use of casuals and subcontractors.

These members work out in the elements day and night to make sure the level crossing removals and rail projects are delivered on time to a high standard. They deserve the best remuneration and conditions.

Our UGL and John Holland members have shown what can be achieved with unity and commitment. Such a brilliant effort from all members involved.

MARK CONNELLY RAIL & INFRASTRUCTURE

THE ETU WILL ALWAYS FIGHT FOR FULL TIME SECURE WORK WITH STRONG CLAUSES ABOUT THE USE OF CASUALS AND SUBCONTRACTORS.

WE’' VE SECURED AN AGREEMENT THAT DELIVERS FAIR WAGES AND CONDITIONS RECOGNISING THE EFFORTS OF OUR WORKFORCE. -

ASH LAWTON, SIGNALS TECHNICIAN

Sign Up Meetings Strong 10,000

meetings for the 2025 endorsed contracting EBA. With an electric atmosphere, members delivered a unanimous vote for the great outcome following the presentation by Victorian Secretary Troy Gray.

up with a satisfying sausage sizzle for smoko, proudly prepared and cooked by our delegates and officials. Thank you to all. What a fantastic turnout for an excellent EBA outcome! It was brilliant to connect with so many of you.

ALL ELECTRICAL WORKERS THROUGHOUT AUSTRALIA. GREAT LEADERSHIP, GREAT SOLDIERS. THANK YOU EVERYONE, SOLIDARITY!

– PAUL JEFFARES

OUR UNION IS AT THE FOREFRONT OF FIGHTING FOR THE BEST WAGES AND CONDITIONS FOR TRADES-PEOPLE NOT-ONLY IN AUSTRALIA BUT AROUND THE WORLD. WELL DONE!

– RANDALL LEE

I’VE BEEN OUT OF THE UNION WORK ENVIRONMENT FOR NEARLY 20 YEARS BUT STILL MAINTAIN MY ETU MEMBERSHIP. PROUD TO BE UNION. PROUD TO BE ETU!

– DENNIS ZONER BUTCHER

No benefits will be payable for skin cancers (other than certain melanoma) or non-invasive carcinoma in-situ.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Full comprehensive international and domestic travel insurance for all financial ETU members.

A DAY, ETU MEMBERS AND THEIR FAMILIES RECEIVE SOME OF THE BEST LIVING STANDARDS AND UNION BENEFITS ANYWHERE IN AUSTRALIA. cancer diagnosis.

FOR LITERALLY LESS THAN THE COST OF HALF A CUP OF COFFEE

FULL AMBULANCE COVER for members and their family.

BEREAVEMENT PAYMENT of $30,000 for partners that reside together with dependants.

FREE TRAINING AT CENTRE FOR U Access to $40,000 worth of free training.

PREMATURE BIRTH/MISCARRIAGE BENEFIT of $5,000 for female members.

FOR THE BEST UNION BENEFITS ANYWHERE IN AUSTRALIA, SCAN THE QR CODE – VIEW TERMS AND CONDITIONS.

FOR ENQUIRIES PHONE THE OFFICE

8329 0000

FUNERAL BENEFIT

Increased from $10,000 to $15,000 and to include partners and members’ children.

MATERNITY PAYMENT

Payment of $3,500 to female ETU members.

SPOUSE/PARTNER CAREGIVER PAYMENT

Payment of $15,000 if after being off work for 3 months for caregiving. For severe injuries or chronic illness ie. cancer, heart attack, stroke, diabetes complications etc. Excludes complications during pregnancy, musculoskeletal issues, mental illness and any work-related injuries.

THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS OF FREE BENEFITS, SERVICES AND TRAINING FOR ETU FINANCIAL MEMBERS.

HOME HELP BENEFIT Increase to Home Help Benefit (HHB) and Domestic Duties Assistance (DDA).

FREE TRAINING COURSES for unemployed members.

ADVICE on workplace and industrial matters.

FREE BABY PACK inclusive of first aid training.

T&Cs apply

We’ve gone DIGITAL!

YOUR ETU MEMBERSHIP

CARD CAN NOW BE ADDED TO YOUR PHONE WALLET!

Instructions

1. Login to your ETU profile page to download your card.

2. Follow the on-screen steps to add your card to your phone wallet.

On the flip side of your card access great shortcuts to the RDO calendar, ETU shop, website and more!

What about my physical card?

You will still receive your physical card in the mail for this financial year 2025/2026. In the next financial year 2026/2027 you will be sent communication to “opt-in” for your physical card. If you do not opt-in you will not receive a physical card. Prefer both? No worries!

Keep your card up to date with automatic updates! Ensure your automatic updates button is on – this will make sure your card information stays current to your ETU membership profile. Once you renew your ETU membership the “paid thru” date on your digital card will automatically update.

QR code not working?

If you are having trouble with the qr code, visit etuvic.com.au and go to “member login”. Under “my profile” click the “download digital member card” button.

Android user?

If you are an android user, we recommend the following apps:

• WalletPasses

• Pass2U

• Walletcards

Still having trouble?

Contact membership on 8329 0000.

GO DIGITAL WITH YOUR ETU MEMBERSHIP CARD –LOGIN REQUIRED.

ADD IT TO YOUR PHONE’S E-WALLET FOR QUICK ACCESS TO ESSENTIAL SHORTCUTS, INCLUDING THE RDO CALENDAR, MEMBER BENEFITS, AND MORE!!

AS A FORMER DELEGATE AND CURRENT ETU ORGANISER, IT 'S A PROUD MOMENT TO SEE THE NEW ENTERPRISE BARGAINING AGREEMENT (EBA) REACH THIS MILESTONE. THE EBA'S GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT IS GIVING OUR MEMBERS THE ABILITY TO HAVE A LIFE OUTSIDE OF WORK.

When I talk to members on-site, it’s rewarding to hear their positive feedback about the improved safety, wages and working conditions. Knowing that we are all part of the union movement and that our hard work has a positive impact on the lives of our members is a great feeling. After all, we work to live, not live to work.

JURIC ETU ORGANISER

VLAD

“THE EBA IS THE CORNERSTONE OF HOW WE WORK IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY! WITHOUT IT, WE WOULD HAVE NO STRUCTURE AND NO WORKLIFE BALANCE. OUR RDO,S ARE SACRED AND OF COURSE OUR GREAT PAY AND CONDITIONS ARE SECOND TO NONE. THE EBA AND ALL ITS BENEFITS REALLY LOOK AFTER ALL THE MEMBERS AND THEIR FAMILIES. GREAT STUFF TROY GRAY AND ALL THE TEAM BEHIND YOU.

TOM GALLEN ETU DELEGATE

EBA here to stay!

Members share the benefits and positive impact the EBA has on their

lives

ALI WANNOUS

The EBA offers better working conditions and you are surrounded by like-minded, caring people with everyone’s safety and best interests at heart. My upbringing was during the 2008 Lebanese war. This personal experience has really taught me how much life means, and how to be humble. Coming back and working in Australia with EBA working conditions opened a world I thought didn’t exist. I am also very fortunate to be able to look after my family in Lebanon.

BRENDAN VANIN

The main benefit of working on an EBA site is it helps with the mortgage and means my wife can spend less time at work and more time with the kids. And the kids can spend less time at childcare. When I worked on the Metro Tunnel the whole family benefited, as she was able to have an extra six months off unpaid. Now we have another child on the way, which means she can once again have extended maternity leave, That wouldn’t be possible without the EBA.

As an adult apprentice I can afford to be self-sufficient and have my own independence without having to live at home with my parents. I enjoy living with my partner and making enough money to afford life.

tommy knapper

Tomas Karlovic

Working on an EBA site gives me peace of mind. I work in a stress-free environment where I know I am safe, working under safe conditions, in a clean environment, and never putting myself in unsafe surroundings thanks to the shop steward. Overall, great benefits and good worklife balance.

Shout out to my cousin Daniel Vidakovic – Melbourne Knights are coming back up next season!

Tomas O'Sullivan

I’m very impressed by our wages keeping up with inflation and the cost of living. After only three years of working on an EBA job I have now been able to get into the property market, which is great as I am getting married at the end the of year.

I am a first-year apprentice. The EBA is pretty cool. I wasn’t expecting to get paid that well. Being 21, I thought I would be making way less money than I did in my previous job labouring in warehouses, but it works out to be pretty much even. I know there’s a means to an end after four years of apprenticeship with good wages and conditions.

harrison moser

CHRIS STOJANOVSKI

In October 2024, I was proudly appointed as an ETU delegate. I was very happy to take on the job and excited to be more involved with the union. My main priority in this new role is to look after the boys and girls and make sure management is doing the right thing in the interests of our members.

I attended my first delos conference, which was brilliant. It was well presented and had a good balance of informative and entertaining sessions. The outdoor exhibitors and theming of the event really suited my

lifestyle outside of work as I love to fish on my RDOs. It was good to see everyone getting around the ORAG campaign as it is very important for workers to have an outlet and shut off from work.

The conference was also a great networking experience – meeting other delegates across all industries and having the opportunity to see the intestate ETU representatives in leadership. It offered the opportunity to share and compare on-site experiences with senior delegates, gaining industry

experience and knowledge to assist in my new role moving forward. As a new delegate, this has already been beneficial by helping me apply these different approaches and assists in dealing with various circumstances. It’s giving me different methods of dealing with situations and allowing me to have a different view.

The parts I love most about being a delo are making sure everything onsite is safe for everyone, and working together with the builder and bosses to ensure safety is paramount.

CHRIS STOJANOVSKI ETU DELEGATE

sam meyers

Work-life balance.

Cam Gebert

It’s good! Allows me to play footy and it’s good to have Protect in case I need it. I have my own house and financial freedom.

Huy Do

Great conditions.

Chris Stojanovski

ETU delegate at Collins Wharf.

Stephen Maher

Conditions allow you to be able to get out and about without the worry of financial burden.

Kiana Fiddaman

Loving it. Third-year apprentice with great conditions and financial freedom.

Thomas Lambiris

Funds your lifestyle outside of work. Financial freedom.

on-site your biz

Simon Tanner

Supports the cost of living and being able to put kids through school and enjoy sports activities after school and on weekends. Everything’s going up: the cost of activities, sports, school uniforms, petrol and travelling expenses from basketball to dancing to swimming!

TOM WOERNDL

The EBA has had a positive impact on my life. I was previously in domestic, and being on a better rate with the EBA has now allowed me to get into the housing market, providing the opportunity to invest my money.

It offers more freedom in my lifestyle with an RDO, allowing me to have a good work-life balance. I had an injury at the start of the year, and if it wasn’t for ETU I wouldn’t have been able to get back to work with ease as I did – the insurances covered and supported me. Protect was a huge benefit as without that I would have had no income through work.

SHOUT OUT: Tommy the delegate. He is a legend and always looking after us – you better appreciate this Tommy!

COOPER PEPI

Flexibility, good lifestyle especially with cost of living, financial freedom, RDOs - time to spend with family.

JACK VIDAJIC

Great financial income for a first-year apprentice. My parents have setup an account to save money which is good. I spend my other money on going out and having a little punt on the horses and footy.

WILL CLARE

Enabled me to save a lot of money while still going on holidays and passively investing. Protect is a definite bonus and came in really handy when I broke my wrist snowboarding. Made me appreciate it even more when another mate of mine broke his arm and didn’t get paid.

RDOs are great! There is a group of four to five of us with season passes to Falls Creek or Hotham. It is an effort to get up there so those extra days are what make the trip possible and so incredible.

SHOUT OUT: My mum for putting up with me and looking out for me.

ROHAN CONNOLLY

The EBA gives me the time off to enjoy holidays, helps with paying off the mortgage and settling up for retirement which will be the next big step.

I started in construction in 1991 and the first EBA was 1994/95 which made a massive difference - conditions, money and workplaces started to improve, along with the introduction of extra RDOs, and productivity leisure days (staggered before eventually going to 36 hours).

SHOUT OUT: My mate Pete Wiesner and to the ETU for the ORAG campaign that supports outdoor leisure activities.

BRYCE MASSEY

Less financial restrictions help pay off the mortgage and I enjoy riding motorbikes on RDOs.

FLYNN ALLAN

Financial freedom, great to get every second Monday off and we are safely looked after on-site. Opportunity to travel, invest and spend time in Hotham snowboarding.

RENATO BLAZEVIC

Excellent wages, conditions, work-life balance and RDOs. I am fortunate to be able to spend time with the kids and have family time together on RDOs. I have two kids; a one-year-old and a four-year-old, so the times that I need to work late nights I miss out on seeing them, and the RDOs offer good catch up time.

REMY MCGOWAN

Better lifestyle of work-life balance. I live a more comfortable life and am able to spend time with friends and family and not stress about work.

LUKE HANSON

I always feel safe coming into work, with the clean facilities and I love the support and respect I get from the ETU. If there are any questions the union sort them out straight away and if there are any issues, they offer great support and will always speak up on your behalf - sometimes it is hard to speak for yourself so it’s great to be able to lean on the ETU. I’ve had great opportunities to be on some major projects and expand my knowledge within the industry.

RDOs are great. I love camping, fishing and hunting and enjoy my weekends living my life to the fullest. The ORAG campaign is a strong indication of how the ETU has the members’ best interests at heart. By supporting my hobbies, they have put faith in me that they do care inside of work as well as outside of work and it is for this reason they have my 100 percent support.

STEVE COMINO

Great rights on-site, have it fair with great entitlements and feel comfortable in the way of living.

WHEN TRAMS BREAK DOWN OR PARTS OF THE NETWORK FAIL, IT 'S ETU MEMBERS WHO GET THINGS MOVING AGAIN. BECAUSE WITHOUT ELECTRICITY, TRAMS DON' T RUN – AND WITHOUT ETU MEMBERS, MELBOURNE’'S TRAM NETWORK WOULDN’' T EITHER.

JOHN ISLIP RAIL, TRAM & GENERAL TRADES ORGANISER

KEEPING THINGSRolling

Melbourne boasts the largest tram network in the world — and it wouldn’t run without our ETU members.

Since December 2024, the iconic network has been operated by a new joint venture between Transdev Australia and John Holland.

Our electrical trade members and apprentices work around the clock, 365 days a year. The Rolling Stock Division services approximately 500 trams across eight maintenance depots, performing everything from routine overhauls to complex collision repairs. Trams are maintained according to a strict schedule — much like regular servicing for a car. When breakdowns occur, our members respond immediately to get passengers moving again. If a tram can’t be restarted on-site, it’s towed back to a depot for repairs.

Meanwhile, the Infrastructure Division maintains over 250 km of double-track overhead trolley wire, AutoPoint signals, substations, control rooms, and more. This critical work is carried out by a diverse group of Electrical Fitters,

Electricians, Traction Lineworkers, Technicians, Control Room Operators, and other specialists.

Whether it’s a truck ripping down trolley wire, a signal fault triggering, or a substation breaker tripping — it’s our ETU members in the control room who coordinate the response, dispatching crews to restore service swiftly and safely.

When trams break down or parts of the network fail, it’s ETU members who get things moving again. Because without electricity, trams don’t run — and without ETU members, Melbourne’s tram network wouldn’t either.

JOHN ISLIP RAIL, TRAM & GENERAL TRADES ORGANISER

vox pop

Name: Sam Ilardi

Job Title: Overhead Linesman

Having been in the industry for five years, I love that every day is different. Being on the road, I’m always travelling to new places and destinations, which is really exciting. I love the thrill of working through storms, and it always helps when you have a good crew to work with.

Name: Nicole Blethyn

Job Title: traction line worker

After five years in the industry, I’m loving my career as a traction line worker. I completed my four-year apprenticeship with Yarra Trams, and I’m always learning something new. It’s a job where you’re constantly updating and maintaining the system as it progresses - which keeps things interesting. It’s a great career for continuous learning and growth, and I get to work with a fantastic crew, which is important, as you often spend more time with them than your own family!

< Name: josh lynn

Being a proud gunzel there is no better suited job for me. I love trams and trains, and this job is like working on LEGO technic but on a larger scaler – definitely more interesting than working on houses.

> Name: adrien tanner

What I love most about the job is cleaning HVACs lol! Great crew, great environment, good hours. I work from 6:30am to 2:30pm finish up then off to the gym.

Name: Fergus Heneghan

Name: Ryan Armstrong

Job Title: fourth year apprentice

I am a fourth-year apprentice at Yarra Trams, with only three months left until I’m fully qualified. Every day brings something new, and it’s great to explore parts of Melbourne I wouldn’t usually see. My work involves maintaining and renewing the overhead network, and my team rotates between driving and working from an elevated position.

Job Title: auto point electrician

I have been an Auto Point Electrician/Technician at Yarra Trams for ten months. I am new to this job and loving it, great people, and great to be heavily unionised. Johnnie Islip is a great representative, and very approachable. Shout out to my family and ETU organiser Shannon Crundwell – if it wasn’t for him I wouldn’t be working here today.

> Name: josh hamling

I saw the job advertised and applied as it was an electrical position. I enjoy working on trams and it is good pay.

AARON KEEGHAN ETU DELEGATE

WHETHER IT’'S A TRUCK RIPPING DOWN TROLLEY WIRE, A SIGNAL FAULT TRIGGERING, OR A SUBSTATION BREAKER TRIPPING – IT 'S OUR ETU MEMBERS IN THE CONTROL ROOM WHO COORDINATE THE RESPONSE, DISPATCHING CREWS TO RESTORE SERVICE SWIFTLY AND SAFELY.

ALL UNDER Control

MEET THE TEAM POWERING YARRA TRAMS

The Power Control Centre is the operational heart of the world’s largest tram network. Here, our four members share their dedication to keeping Melbourne moving and finding a balance between their dynamic careers and home lives.

Name: steve low

Job Title: PC03 – Power Control Operator, A-Grade Electrician

Steve Low has been an integral part of the Yarra Tram Hub Power Centre for seven years. His previous experience includes high-voltage electrical work in construction and large-scale FIFO (Fly-In/Fly-Out) roles on gas field projects near Darwin and Gladstone.

“Working here on the biggest tram network in the world is quite a dynamic job, and the 12-hour shift is a good roster that offers a great work-life balance,” Steve says. “Shout-out to my wife Georgie and my three children, Matilda, Flynn, and Grace.”

Name: karl lapwood

Job Title: tructure Specialist (via Rolling Stock)

Karl Lapwood is a decade-long ETU member at Yarra Trams, having initially moved from New Zealand two decades ago. He started as a contractor, progressing from construction and project work through tram maintenance at rolling stock before transferring to infrastructure.

“The lifestyle in Victoria is amazing, I appreciate the working conditions and work-life balance. Shift work allows me to chase the surf during the week and, most importantly, prioritise my family time. With my children being only nine and seven, I cherish these days and embrace and appreciate every moment of them. My shift work hours enable me to drop them off at school, participate in school and after-school activities, and even pick them up from school on my pushbike for frisbee at the park. As crazy as it sounds, if it wasn’t for shift work, I wouldn’t have the opportunity to do all the above – it really does suit my current lifestyle.

Name: aaron keegHan

Job Title: ETU Delegate & Power Operation Centre Specialist

Aaron Keegan is the ETU delegate for the Power Operation Centre, where he has worked for thirteen years, ensuring the safety of the public electrical network.

Aaron firmly states to the ETU his operational priorities: “Safety first, asset protection, and tram services. Shift work has been awesome for me as a married father of four. I’d like to give a shout out to all the ETU delegates that do all the work to keep us safe and protected.”

^Name: Danny Bojceski

Job Title: Rolling Stock Help Desk Coordinator & Electrician

Danny Bojceski is the go-to coordinator for tram breakdowns. As the first point of contact, a driver contacts him, and he instructs the recovery teams on what action to take. In major incidents such as a fatality (which thankfully has never happened) Daniel personally needs to be on-site.

“The best aspect of this job is the 12-hour shifts, flexibility around work, engaging with people from other departments who are all nice, and being in communication with everyone around the tram hub as well as members on ground level.”

what a pleasure it was to host our annual honorary members lunch ... The ETU is here to stay, and our foundation is built on the loyalty of members like you!

What a pleasure it was to host our annual Honorary Members Lunch for retired members! Keeping the energy high on this magnificent afternoon was MC Tony Leonard of The Coodabeen

Champions and keynote speaker Tony Shaw, legendary Collingwood captain and coach. There were plenty of laughs, beers, wines and one-liners on a day enjoyed immensely by all. A huge thank you to everyone who

attended. It was truly inspiring to see decades of ETU members gathered together in one room.

The ETU is here to stay, and our foundation is built on the loyalty of members like you!

BEING A SMALLER PROJECT, IT IS A TIGHT-KNIT GROUP WITH GOOD BONDS AND FUN BANTER, WHICH IS ALWAYS GREAT TO SEE.

AL DAVEY CONTRACTING INDUSTRY NORTH EAST ORGANISER

NEXT GEN Learning

It is fantastic to see the Victorian Government invest in education infrastructure that will benefit generations of students.

Ngayuk College in Kalkallo is one of the beneficiaries. It received a share of $110 million in state budget funding in 2023-24 to construct a new campus, which includes a double-storey building featuring:

• Administration areas and a library

• Learning neighbourhoods with general classrooms and dedicated creative and science spaces

• Flexible learning spaces and a presentation area

• An outdoor learning terrace, hardcourts, and a carpark

• A sports field and community hub

• Landscaped outdoor areas, complete with timber seating and shade sails.

The school is on track to open in Term 1, 2026. So far everything has been completed on time, without a hitch, and most importantly with good union labour.

The M Squared crew working on the project sticks together and everyone knows one another. Being a smaller project, it is a tight-knit group with good bonds and fun banter, which is always great to see.

Alexander Michel is a third-year apprentice on the job and is aspiring to become an ETU delegate in the near future. It is always a proud moment when the younger up-andcoming generation get involved in the union movement and feel passionate about what the union stands for.

AL DAVEY CONTRACTING INDUSTRY NORTH EAST ORGANISER

interesting fact

The school was known by its interim name, Lockerbie Secondary School, during planning and design. Ngayuk College was chosen as the new school’s name following community and Traditional Owner group consultation. Ngayuk (pronounced ngah-yook) is a Wurundjeri Woi wurrung language word meaning white cockatoo.

KALKALLO ETU MEMBER: Alexander Michel

Third-year apprentice Alexander Michel has his eyes set on becoming an ETU delegate.

“I enjoy everything about the union and would be proud to represent the mighty ETU,” he says. His support is visible even off the clock. “I love the merchandise and buy a fair bit. I even wear it when I’m not at work.”

Alexander also appreciates the strong bonds on-site. “There is a real sense of camaraderie with the crew and a genuine care factor,” he explains. “If they know something is risky or not safe, they will tell you straight up without hesitation. I’ve also met some good mates here and really enjoy coming to work.”

DEL GROSSO OHS COORDINATOR & TRAINER

ALEX

ELECTRICAL APPRENTICES BRING FRESH PERSPECTIVES AND A STRONG EAGERNESS TO LEARN, MAKING THEM INVALUABLE IN ADAPTING TO EVOLVING SAFETY PROTOCOLS IN A FIELD KNOWN FOR ITS INHERENT HAZARDS.

OH&S REPORT Apprentices & Data Centres

In Victoria, the electrical trades are undergoing a significant transformation, fuelled by advancements in technology, sustainable energy initiatives and the growing demands of infrastructure. As this sector expands, the urgent need for more apprentices has become apparent. These apprentices are not just essential for nurturing future talent. They also play a critical role in upholding safety standards within the industry.

Electrical apprentices bring fresh perspectives and a strong eagerness to learn, making them invaluable in adapting to evolving safety protocols in a field known for its inherent hazards. Comprehensive training is essential, equipping them with a diverse skill set to navigate the complexities of electrical work safely.

The ETU has been actively emphasising the importance of adhering to regulations and best practices from the grassroots level. Through a robust network of representatives, the ETU is advocating for a diverse range of training experiences for apprentices, ensuring they are not confined to tasks such as installing cable trays or cutting holes in plasterboard. Exposure to various types of electrical installation work is crucial for their development.

As experienced electricians retire, the influx of apprentices is critical for maintaining a competent workforce and

AS EXPERIENCED ELECTRICIANS RETIRE, THE INFLUX OF APPRENTICES IS CRITICAL FOR MAINTAINING A

COMPETENT WORKFORCE AND FACILITATING THE TRANSFER OF HANDS-ON SKILLS FROM SEASONED PROFESSIONALS.

facilitating the transfer of hands-on skills from seasoned professionals. The future of the electrical trades in Victoria undeniably hinges on the commitment and potential of these apprentices.

UPDATES TO THE EFFECTIVE SUPERVISION OF ELECTRICIAN APPRENTICES IN VICTORIA

In a noteworthy move, Energy Safe Victoria (ESV), the state’s electrical safety regulator, has announced significant updates to the Requirements for the Effective Supervision of Apprentice Electricians. These changes took effect on 1 September 2025, and aim to enhance on-the-job safety and improve the quality of training for apprentices in the electrical trades.

A key update involves expanding the supervision requirements for commissioning, energisation and compliance testing, as detailed in Table 2, Section 11 of the updated

ENERGY SAFE VICTORIA (ESV), THE STATE’S ELECTRICAL SAFETY REGULATOR, HAS ANNOUNCED SIGNIFICANT UPDATES TO THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE EFFECTIVE SUPERVISION OF APPRENTICE ELECTRICIANS.

guidelines. This change recognises the increasing complexity of tasks assigned to apprentices and ensures they receive the necessary oversight during critical operations.

The revised supervisor-to-apprentice ratios still offer clear definitions across three levels of supervision: direct, general and broad. This clarity is essential for guaranteeing that apprentices receive appropriate guidance tailored to their experience and the specific nature of their tasks.

Notably, a new stipulation mandates that supervisors maintain visual

contact with apprentices during certain high-risk activities. This requirement underscores the importance of direct oversight, reinforcing safety protocols and enabling immediate guidance when necessary.

The ETU fully supports Energy Safe Victoria’s updates, recognising that these changes not only reflect the evolving landscape of the electrical trades but also reinforce the commitment to fostering a safe working environment for all involved.

THE RISE OF DATA CENTRES IN VICTORIA

Victoria has emerged as a focal point for the burgeoning demand for data centres, which are essential for managing the rapidly increasing volume of digital data. These facilities require substantial investment and a skilled labour force, particularly from electrical trade workers. The ETU plays a pivotal role in advocating for the safety of workers involved in constructing these data centres, emphasising stringent safety measures while addressing the growing skills gap in the labour market.

The state’s electricity grid has become a strategic asset, and other regions like New South Wales and South Australia face limitations in meeting the energy demands of digital data facilities. Data centres are notorious for their high energy consumption, necessitating a robust and reliable electricity supply. Consequently, many major players are opting to build their data centres in Victoria, where the grid can better accommodate these demands.

However, the construction of these facilities carries significant responsibilities, especially concerning worker safety. The construction phase often involves complex electrical systems, heavy machinery and highvoltage equipment. Thus, rigorous adherence to safety protocols is paramount.

The ETU has raised concerns regarding fatigue, as long hours and the vast number of workers required for these projects can compromise safety. Additionally, the integrity of equipment sourced from overseas has been questioned, prompting electrical contractors to enhance their quality assurance procedures.

The rapid pace of data centre construction presents both opportunities and challenges. The role of site health and safety representatives is increasingly critical in monitoring conditions and advocating for the wellbeing of workers. During site visits, these representatives have proven integral to ensuring that hazards are eliminated at the source on these fast-paced projects.

THE CONSTRUCTION OF DATA CENTRES CARRIES SIGNIFICANT RESPONSIBILITIES, ESPECIALLY CONCERNNG WORKER SAFETY.

As Victoria solidifies its position as a leader in data centre development, the advocacy of ETU members for safety and workforce standards is more important than ever. With the state’s capacity to meet the energy demands of these facilities, it is essential that the workforce is not only sufficient in number but also well trained in safe work practices.

The future of data centres in Victoria looks promising, thanks in no small part to the dedication and hard work of ETU members, representatives, delegates and organisers. Their efforts are ensuring the industry not only thrives but does so with a steadfast commitment to safety and excellence.

"

THE ETU RAN A STRONG, TARGETED, MARGINAL SEAT ANTI-NUCLEAR CAMPAIGN, WHICH WAS WELL RECEIVED AND EFFECTIVE."

MICHAEL WATSON ON THE FEDERAL ELECTION

"IT’'S EVIDENT THAT, THANKS TO ORAG, THERE IS A DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE ON OUTDOOR RECREATION AND PUBLIC LAND IN SPRING STREET."

MICHAEL WATSON ON THE LEGISLATION TO OPEN THE ERRINUNDRA AND SNOWY RIVER NATIONAL PARKS FOR DEER HUNTING

POLITICS:

Australia

Since our last magazine, we have seen the Trump factor play out in Australia and globally. Mark Carney’s Liberal Party in Canada and Anthony Albanese’s Labor Party at home were both re-elected to government. Two centre-left governments not performing well in polling were re-elected due partly to Donald Trump’s injection of massive global instability.

In Victoria, the coalition went backwards, with the ALP winning Deakin and Menzies.

The Coalition’s campaign highlights, including ending work-from-home arrangements, repealing the Same Job, Same Pay law, and raiding superannuation to buy an overpriced house, matched with a horrible campaign that led to their record-breaking low seat count.

The ETU ran a strong, targeted, marginal-seat anti-nuclear campaign, which was well-received and effective. It was essential that the ETU made it clear that Peter Dutton’s brief flirtation with socialism (stateowned nuclear reactors) would leave workers in the energy sector, who are building renewables today, with an uncertain future, and leave industry and households with ever-rising power bills.

For the Building Industry Group of Unions, the election result presents a relief as the Coalition will be unable to deregister or launch another Royal Commission into the CFMEU.

Decided

The size of the ALP’s 94-seat victory makes another election win in three years likely. It’s up to strong, campaigning unions like the ETU to ensure they deliver on their promises and create a pathway out of administration for our sisters and brothers at the CFMEU. The Government promised a lot in the 2022 and 2025 elections, but there is so much left to do.

Disappointingly, on 1 October the ABC reported that the Federal Government had yet to spend any of the $50 million allocated to support investments in equipment and facilities to train apprentices. This is needed to ensure we have the workforce to meet the challenges of the energy transition. If the Government needs assistance spending the money and getting well-trained apprentices into the trade, the contact details for the ETU Victorian branch are available in this magazine and on the website. We have some ideas.

MICHAEL WATSON ETU POLITICAL OFFICER

MORE SPACE

For the stalk

At the 2025 ETU Victoria Delegates Conference dinner, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan announced that the State Government would be introducing legislation to open 130,000 hectares of public land to deer hunting. This is a fantastic announcement and a great ORAG achievement.

The return of a recreational hunting activity to such a large area of National Parks is unheard of in Victoria, and a win for those who want to get out and stalk in the bush.

More than 45,000 Victorians are licensed to hunt deer, and deer hunters contribute so much to the control of populations of deer across Victoria. A herd of 30 deer can become 500 over a decade, so licensed hunters can help our environment by keeping populations under control – with the added bonus of a fantastic feed.

The legislation to open deer hunting in the Errinundra and Snowy River National Parks is currently sitting in the Victorian Parliament. If the cross bench allows it to pass, hunters will be able to enjoy this massive area by the opening of the 2026 deer season.

At the conference, we also heard from the Outdoor Recreation Minister, Steve Dimopoulos, who clarified that the creation of the Great

Outdoor Recreation Minister Steve Dimopoulos.

PUBLIC LAND AND WATERWAYS MUST ALWAYS BE AVAILABLE FOR VICTORIANS TO ENJOY, AND THE ETU WILL CONTINUE TO ADVOCATE FOR THE PROTECTION OF RECREATION FOR VICTORIAN WORKING PEOPLE.

Forest National Park is not the policy of the Allan Government. Both these announcements were a credit to the Premier and Minister.

Public land and waterways must always be available for Victorians to enjoy, and the ETU will continue to advocate for the protection of recreation for Victorian working people.

A significant amount of work was undertaken behind the scenes to achieve these outcomes, including by a good friend of the ETU, the Australian Deer Association. It’s evident that, thanks to ORAG, there is a different perspective on outdoor recreation and public land in Spring Street.

MICHAEL WATSON ETU POLITICAL OFFICER

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan.

It’s a truly organised outfit and I have enjoyed being part of it. I look forward to continuing to support the members, addressing their concerns and assisting any way I can to help keep the direction of the union going the way it is.”

ROBBIE CANNON

MY JOURNEY FROM HSR TO ETU ORGANISER

My journey in representing the ETU first began as an HSR shop steward with Anova at the Geelong Arts Centre under ETU organiser Troy Knight, followed by working on a large data centre with Nielsen’s under ETU organiser Luke Mansfield. When

I was approached by Luke about coming on board as an Organiser, I saw it as a fantastic opportunity and already being a HSR rep, served as a great launchpad into this role — one that I’m currently enjoying immensely.

THE LEAP FROM HSR

The biggest difference between being an HSR and an organiser is the scope of representation. As an HSR, I focused on members on a single site; now, I represent members across multiple sites and support our delegates.

LUKE O'BRIEN

alongside various organisers, and I’m currently looking after the western suburbs in the contracting sector. This role has its challenges, but I genuinely enjoy representing our members and getting out to the many different sites I cover. It’s inspiring to see the sense of community and solidarity, and I’m proud to be part of the ETU.

ROBBIE CANNON

THE SIT IN Altona Complex Fund

“The fund was established in 1981 with the purpose of supporting families during challenging times. Today, we are proud to announce that the

remaining funds are being directed to support sick children and their families here at the Royal Children’s Hospital. On behalf of all union members from the AWU, ETU and AMWU across the Altona complex,

it is our great privilege to present a cheque for $170,000 to the Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation”. —Gordon Holdsworth and Frank Farrugia (signatories of the Altona complex fund)

FIGHTING FOR A 35-HOUR WEEK –WHERE IT ALL BEGAN!

The campaign for a 35-hour week with no loss in pay was catapulted into prominence by the August 1979 Union Carbide strike and occupation at Altona, Victoria. The workers began their campaign with overtime bans.

The company then attempted to introduce scabs and lock the workers out. To neutralise the scabbing, the workers decided to occupy the plant. As a number of workers remarked at the time, “Who do they [the company] think they are? We’re Union Carbide, the ones who produce the goods and profit”. The occupation lasted for an incredible 51 days.

Vic Williams, one of the rank-andfile leaders of the sit-in, told the 3 December 1980 edition of Direct

Action, “It [the 35-hour week] is tremendously important. We hear a lot about how the 35-hour week will cause a loss of jobs, but this is nonsense. The 35-hour week means more jobs. It will mean an extra shift throughout the whole of the Altona complex for instance, creating well over 100 extra jobs.” By May 1980, workers in a number of industries were striking to win a 35-hour week. Shop stewards in each of the vehicle plants in Victoria met to develop a strategy.

SITTING IN

Sitting In traces the story of the path-breaking industrial dispute at the Altona petrochemical complex in 1979-80, the longest factory occupation in Australian history. The political conflict between workers, employers and residents is explored. For the full story, you can buy Barry Hill’s Sitting In book.

JOHNNY CIMERA

Rank-and-file member of the sit-in and today a proud ETU honorary member

Johnny started as Trades Assistant and has been a proud ETU member for approximately 49 years and honorary member since 2017.

Johnny shares with the ETU a few stories from the sit-in.

“One bloke on the job Johnnie Goldman said, ‘Why don’t we stay here, sit on the machines and turn the equipment off.’

It really imploded when we saw the management walking across to the reactor with the intention to sack us – they even had the scabs ready to go as our replacements. We thought quickly and stopped them

in their tracks by pressing the emergency blow-down valve creating a massive flair, as the reactor was full of gas ( the whole 30 tonnes of it). They had no choice but to disperse quickly! This was a safety method used to avoid the over pressure of gas blowing up into a fireball by expelling it before it exploded. What a way to kick off our campaign – we really started it with a blast!!!

This retaliation brought the whole plant to an instant halt, and conveniently we were the only ones now who could get it up and running again. They couldn’t drag us out now as it would create an unsafe plant and jeopardise the safety of the surrounding community. We sat in the control rooms and monitored the plant, ensuring safety was paramount. Even the police didn’t intervene given it was a highly volatile petrochemical industry.

Johnny Cimera, ETU honorary member

We remained staunch and just sat on the machines thinking at the time it might be one or two days before our union reps negotiated with management. Well, weren’t we wrong-it was 51 days in total, around 7.5 weeks! We knew if we left and attempted to come back in, they could get us on trespassing so the union organising began!

were fortunate to have all the facilities and amenities available with kitchenettes, showers etc.

To begin with there were thirty of us in total, and at the time I was single so it wasn’t too much of a burden. Those with families did end up leaving when the pressure at home increased, there were about 5-7 of them. I remember when the

WE CREATED STRONG FRIENDSHIPS AND BONDS.

MANY OF US HAVE BEEN GOOD FRIENDS FOR 40 YEARS NOW AND STILL SEE EACH OTHER.

We coordinated our shifts, allocated designated cooks, cleaners and night shift crews to keep an eye on management and guard us day and night. My brother was a butcher so he would bring in boxes of meat which was a great help and tasty too! As it was a 24-hour plant we

media got hold of it and when Mike Willesee and the news crew put a foot in the door, boy was it drama!

Eventually a TV was donated just in time to watch the Grand Final Carlton vs Collingwood without beer! As it was a high voltage gas plant no alcohol was permitted.

We kicked the footy to our union supporters outside the gate who kicked it back to us inside the gate.

Security would circulate and report our activity on the radio, but the joke was on them as we could hear what they were saying. To really stir them up, one of the blokes Mickey Martin asked his wife to bring women’s clothes in, including high heels and a wig. We dressed Mickey up and created a theatrical scene of what appeared to be a woman being pulled up over the fence by a group of men this really got them! The security reported on the radio, “We’ve got women here now!” It was a real laugh and it was how we kept our sanity. We created strong friendships and bonds. Many of us have been good mates now for 40 years now and still see each other. We were proud to make union history and it was big history to see the AWU, AMWU, FEDFA and ETU all affiliated and united as one.

Left to right: Johnny Cimera, (ETU), Brian Moore (AMWU), Ian Domoney (AMWU) and Jack Morgan (AWU).

INSPIRED BY THE NATIONAL R U OK? DAY SUICIDE PREVENTION CHARITY, JEFF AND HIS COLLEAGUES AT YARRA TRAMS E-GATE LAUNCHED A CLEVER SPINOFF –R U OK? FOR 1K? THIS COMMUNITY INITIATIVE ENCOURAGES EVERYONE ON-SITE TO TAKE A WALK AROUND THE PERIMETER OF THE METRO TRAINS AND YARRA TRAMS YARDS DURING THEIR LUNCH BREAK. THE GOAL IS TO CREATE AN OPEN, WELCOMING SPACE FOR CONNECTION.

R U OK For 1k?

JEFF HILDER

Jeff Hilder, a member of the E-Gate Yarra Trams infrastructure team for over 30 years, recently completed a remarkable charity ride. In early September, Jeff set himself the challenge of cycling from Perth to Melbourne. Following the tragic loss of his sister, Rosalyn, to mental illness, he converted the challenging ride into a fundraiser for the Black Dog Institute. Jeff’s journey served as both a tribute to Rosalyn and an effort to support the Institute’s mission of creating a mentally healthier world for those affected by depression, anxiety and suicide.

Jeff’s commitment to mental wellness extends far beyond his Perth-toMelbourne ride; it’s making an impact right here in his workplace backyard at Merri Creek in West Melbourne.

Inspired by the national R U OK? suicide prevention charity, Jeff and his colleagues at Yarra Trams E-Gate launched a clever spinoff: R U OK for 1k? This community initiative encourages everyone on-site to take a 1km walk around the perimeter of the Metro Trains and Yarra Trams yards during their lunch break. The goal is to create an open, welcoming space for connection.

“There is an entire group of diverse people at E-Gate from track, overhead, substation and administrative

staff, not just sparkies,” Jeff explains. “It is great to see everyone get involved.”

The R U OK for 1k? sessions typically comprise groups of four to eight people. Jeff notes that the initiative “brings back a sense of humanity in the highly corporatised society we live in”.

These daily wellness sessions involve a mix of activities:

Z Walking in nature

Picking up litter to reduce pollution

Meditation and

breathing exercises

A retreat to the community garden for harvesting, planting and maintenance.

To foster greater social connection, a community lunch is hosted on the first Thursday of every month, featuring the freshly grown herbs and vegetables. This high level of community involvement provides participants with a crucial sense of belonging and social connectedness, offering added meaning and purpose to their everyday work lives.

JODIE CALDWELL-ORFORD

Jodie is currently in her second year as a line worker apprentice and set to qualify in 2027 as a rail traction worker, which will allow her to work on overhead rail systems anywhere. Having already dedicated eight years to Yarra prior to her apprenticeship, her commitment is crystal clear. “I will 100% stay here,” she says. “I am part of the furniture here at Yarra.”

Jodie is an active participant in the community lunchtime walks and values the initiative deeply.

“It’s important to have an escape and a safe place to talk to people as an outlet,” she says. Like Jeff, Jodie has personal experience with mental illness impacting her family. “Yarra Trams has been really supportive, and more and more people are coming forward and feeling comfortable to talking about mental illness.” For Jodie, connecting with colleagues who understand is helpful: “Knowing people have gone through similar issues is comforting,” she says. “ It’s great to talk to someone who knows and understands.”

DEBBIE DRUMMOND

“I have had first-hand experience with mental health, being diagnosed with bipolar disorder after giving birth to my son,” Debbie says. “Back then, people simply wouldn’t talk about it. Many people weren’t even aware they had it.”

“Fortunately, we now live in a society that recognises the importance of mental health support. I truly commend Yarra Trams for implementing Mental Health First Aiders. The management here is exceptionally caring and supportive.

“The community lunchtime walks offer a dual benefit: they provide a chance to connect with fellow staff members and ensure you get your exercise in for the day, which is essential when there just aren’t enough hours in the day by the time you get home. During the walk, I practice breathing techniques, and sometimes during my break I will sit in my car to meditate. Taking time to briefly step away and reset the nervous system has helped me 150%.”

AIR TAG In the bag!

Berwick recovered

It started as a typical day on the job for firstyear apprentice and ETU member, Harry Logan. Heading towards the tool site box, he and his team discovered something was wrong - their tools were missing! Upon closer inspection, they saw a large hole had been cut with a grinder, confirming their worst fears: the tools were stolen.

But Harry had a secret weapon. Remembering he’d placed an AirTag in his toolbox, he was able to track the stolen gear. He immediately informed his boss, and they headed to the location in Berwick while calling the police.

When they arrived at the house, a woman answered the door and denied knowing anything, insisting her husband wasn’t home and the garage was empty.

A HUGE SHOUTOUT TO MY MUM ... IF IT WASN’T FOR HER, I WOULDNT HAVE GOTTEN MY TOOLS BACK.

Harry and his boss told her they knew for a fact they were in the garage and when the police arrived, they discovered a garage packed full of stolen tools. As it turned out, the thieves were repeat offenders from the same worksite. The tools were meticulously sorted into bags - batteries in one, power tools in another.

Police contacted the offender, who bizarrely claimed to have been sleeping, insisting he had no idea what was in his own garage.

Thanks to the AirTag, Harry recovered his $1,500 worth of tools.

“I have to give a huge shoutout to my mum,” Harry said. “She gave me the AirTag as a gift for starting my apprenticeship. If it wasn’t for her, I never would have gotten my tools back.”

ETU member Harry Logan.

WORK HARD, REST HARD, PLAY HARDER –2025 DELEGATES CONFERENCE

The ETU Victorian branch held its largest ever Delegates Conference on 1-2 July, when an impressive 500 ETU delegates attended the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre for this tri-annual event. The conference theme was Work Hard, Rest Hard, Play Harder, focusing on the vital role of outdoor recreation and the importance of ‘Unplugging and Disconnecting’ for our hard-working members.

A massive thank you to the Outdoor Recreation Advocacy Group (ORAG) supporters, who participated by showcasing their businesses in the vibrant expo area, creating the perfect atmosphere for our conference theme. The joint conference and expo was an unprecedented success.

Day 1 featured an intense three-hour workshop where delegates debated and defined the future direction of the union. We welcomed some of the best speakers in the business, covering topics from cyber security and building leadership resilience to ambitious plans for the Electrification of Victoria.

The conference culminated in a magnificent dinner attended by over 600 friends of the ETU. Premier Jacinta Allan, whose father is an ETU life member, recognised the proud history of the union and announced a major win for outdoor recreation. Who better than this audience of outdoor enthusiasts to receive the news first-hand?

Attendees at the conference and gala dinner were deeply moved by the passionate speech from Rolf Geerlings, who spoke about the needs of the blind community after his personal experience of losing his eyesight in his late 30s at the peak

His speech inspired the ETU family to dig deep for the cause, and the gala dinner successfully raised more than $130,000 for Vision Australia. Everyone who donated instantly secured an entry into the draw for the hottest item of the night: a powerful SurRon Light Bee X Electric bike. Congratulations to winner Sean Spruhan, the happiest (and most envied) person in the room.

Finally, we wrapped up the fabulous two-day event on a high note with the powerful, emotional presentation of life membership to Joe Youssef.

What a conference, and what a dinner. A fantastic two days was had by all.

Vision Australia’s Rolf Geerlings.

Former homicide detective, guest speaker Gary Jubelin.

ORAG exhibitors introduced on stage before lunch on Day 1.

Former hacker turned cybersecurity expert, speaker Bastien Treptel.

MC for the Gala Dinner, comedian Luke Heggie.

CEO of Energy Safe Victoria, Leanne Hughson.

ILWU International President, William Adams.

Outdoor Recreation Minister Steve Dimopoulos.

Chair of Clean Energy Council, Ross Rolfe AO.

UWU National Secretary, Tim Kennedy.

ETU Life Member, Graeme Watson.

State secretaries from left to right: Michael Anderson (Tas), Allen Hicks (NSW & ACT), Peter Ong (Qld & NT), Troy Gray (Vic), Michael Wright (Divisional), John Adley (SA) and Adam Woodage (WA).

Divisional secretary Michael Wright.

ETU delegates arrive for Day 1 of the 2025 conference.

Victorian executive team from left to right: President Danny Filazzola, Assistant Secetary Ivan Balta, Secretary Troy Gray and Assistant Secretary Arron Harris.

DAY 1 FEATURED AN INTENSE 3-HOUR WORKSHOP WHERE DELEGATES DEBATED AND DEFINED THE FUTURE DIRECTION OF THE UNION.

THE LUCKY WINNER OF THE 2025 LIGHT BEE X SURRON ELECTRIC DIRT BIKE FROM MELBOURNE POWERED, ETU DELEGATE SEAN SPRUHAN IS AN OUTDOOR RECREATION ENTHUSIAST. “"I WAS COMPLETELY STOKED AND IN DISBELIEF!"

ELECTRIC WIN at theETUGala Dinner

The 2025 ETU Delegates Conference concluded with a Gala Dinner and recordbreaking fundraiser for the Seeing Eye Dog Division of Vision Australia. Delegates, staff and guests donated automatically and went into the draw to win an epic outdoor recreation prize of a lifetime! The Sage Green 2025 Light Bee X SurRon Electric Dirt Bike captured everyone’s interest, and it’s safe to say the whole audience had their eye on this prize!

The lucky winner was ETU delegate Sean Spruhan, and what a perfect win for the perfect household. Sean and his family have 46 acres in Monbulk in the Yarra Ranges, so this prize wasn’t going anywhere else –despite tongue-in-cheek cash offers on the night from fellow delegates!

WINNING

“It was really funny because one of the delegates, Leni, asked me if I had a feeling I was going to win and I said, ‘Yeah’, Sean recalls. “Then Troy started announcing the winning number, and I was like, ‘Here we go. First number, yes. Second number, yes. And then I locked eyes on Troy as he announced the last two numbers, which I had memorised. They were mine! I was completely stoked and in disbelief.

THE WHOLE ORAG MOVEMENT IS ABOUT ACCESSING AREAS THAT HAVE BEEN RESTRICTED FOR HUNTING. THEY’RE OUR OUTDOOR RECREATIONAL RIGHTS AND I COULDN’T BE PROUDER THAT THE ETU INITIATED AND IS DRIVING THIS CAMPAIGN.

“Everyone was so happy for me, it was unreal. The moment I had the chance I sent a photo of the bike to my wife Annie and called her to share the amazing news. She woke the kids up immediately and my daughter squealed. My 12-year-old son woke up the next morning frantically looking for the bike, asking, ‘Where is it, where is it?’

Sean is an outdoor recreation enthusiast. From surfing to footy, basketball, lumberjacking, fishing and splitting wood, he’s into anything involving the great outdoors.

“There is a creek opposite the Monbulk property which borders a trout farm,” he says. “Escaped trout stay in this little junction, which gives us a great opportunity for fishing.

There are also a few deer on the property. Given my new electric bike comes with a gun holder, I may just consider taking up hunting and adding that to my outdoor portfolio. All the fences have been torn down by cattle, so there is literally just open space for recreational activity. We’ve had bonfires, our wedding, and now for some serious fun with the Surron.

“The whole ORAG movement is about accessing areas that have been restricted for hunting. They’re our outdoor recreational rights and I couldn’t be prouder that the ETU initiated and is driving this campaign.”

SHOUTOUT

Sean has been an ETU delegate for approximately seven years, working for Metro Trains alongside union

organisers Mark Connelly and John Islip and delegate Andrew Taranto. “Andrew is the pinnacle of what a delegate should be,” Sean says. “He’s a strong and staunch union man, with members’ interest as his priority. He is also a wealth of knowledge. I don’t look forward to the day he leaves and I become lead delegate lol!”

THE DEDICATION, CARE AND LOVE SHOWN BY THE VISION AUSTRALIA TEAM IS TRULY INSPIRING AND IT WAS CLEAR THE DOGS ARE THRIVING IN THIS ENVIRONMENT. CONGRATULATIONS AND WELL DONE TO THE VISION AUSTRALIA TEAM FOR THE AMAZING JOB THEY ARE DOING.

PAWSOME!

In a fantastic gesture of appreciation for the ETU family and friends’ generous support of Vision Australia at our Gala Dinner, Troy Gray was given a tour of the Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dog training facility in Kensington. This facility – very close to the ETU’s headquarters – is world-class and super impressive. It manages the entire program, from breeding to maternity ward, puppy play areas and intensive training.

The level of care and love on display here is amazing. Every step, from puppy playtime onwards, has been meticulously designed to give these dogs their best shot at becoming successful Seeing Eye Dogs. The outstanding Leigh Garwood Mobility Training Centre was a highlight.

Its state-of-the-art simulation training centre is where dogs train using working replicas of real-world scenarios and obstacles: trains, stairs, escalators, reversing cars and pedestrian crossings. This setup ensures the dogs are fully prepared for their vital role supporting the visually impaired.

The dedication, care and love shown by the Vision Australia team is truly inspiring and it was clear the dogs are thriving in this environment. Congratulations and well done to the Vision Australia team for the amazing job they are doing. A very special shout-out to all our furry friends for giving it their best to enhance mobility for people with blindness and low vision.

The hardest part of the tour? No patting the dogs when their learner vests were on!

Troy Gray with Lester Chraim - Client Services Manager at Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs.

Dear ETU team,

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the ETU for the opportunity to speak at your recent conference. Representing Vision Australia, and especially our Seeing Eye Dogs program, it was an honour to share my story. What truly humbled me, though, was the way I was welcomed – not just as a guest speaker, but as one of your own. The dignity, respect, and genuine warmth you showed made me feel part of your community. It’s a rare thing to be embraced so completely, and it speaks volumes about the values your union upholds. On behalf of Stella and myself, thank you for your unwavering support. Your generosity is changing lives. With gratitude, Rolf GeerlingsChildren and Young People’s Operational Lead Vision Australia

I just wanted to extend a huge thank you from our team for the incredible show of support we received from the ETU and all its amazing and generous members last night. As I said last night, it was beyond anything I had every expected (in a very good way). I think I can speak for the team in saying we had such a great time last night and are very grateful for the platform you provided us to talk about our work and why it is so important.

Thanks,

There was also no shortage of pats and love for our dogs too. Thanks to the support last night we are able to fund more than 2 puppies!

Clare Grant | She/Her Community Fundraising Manager Vision Australia

ETU LIFE MEMBERSHIP AWARDED TO

JOE YOUSSEF

Joey, your guidance, unwavering support and inspirational leadership has earned you widespread admiration. Your loyalty and commitment are truly unmatched. You are a dedicated union brother, mentor and friend. On behalf of the ETU family and friends, we thank you and congratulate you on this amazing achievement and honour.

The conclusion of our biggest-ever conference was marked by a deeply emotional and well-deserved honour in the presentation of Joe Youssef with his ETU life membership.

Joey is a stalwart of our organisation, and the recognition of his services has been exceptional. After promoting the award across our social media, the phenomenal response confirmed the immense impact he has had on countless members’ lives.

Paul Jeffares

You are most deserving. Congratulations Joe, on a wonderful acknowledgement of service and sacrifice. Proud to be ETU.

David Tuddenham

Congratulations my friend, you are always available to listen and guide me and my family whenever I need to talk.

You are a true gentleman and mentor. We had a lot of fun always on your job sites. Not sure if that fun was felt by those that we argued with! A truly dedicated union brother and a welldeserved honour.

Congratulations Joey! Very well deserved. It’s people like you that have helped shaped the official I am today.

Well done Joe. So well deserved. The industry is so blessed to have you! Please keep up your great work.

Muss Muss

What a memorable evening and a massive congratulations to Joey!

A teacher, a mentor, and a true friend – not just to me, but to so many across our industry. You’ve guided, supported and inspired more people than you probably realise. It’s been a real privilege to learn from you, lean on your wisdom, and walk part of this journey alongside you.

You’re someone who leads with heart, stands by your word and shows loyalty in the truest sense – a rare kind of bloke who leaves a lasting mark just by being himself. This recognition is more than deserved. Mabrouk, brother. Thank you for everything you’ve done and continue to do.

Tony Di Iorio

Iraklis Herc Kolokithas

Tony Gerber ETU LIVING LEGEND!!

Congratulations Joe - well done comrade.

Onya

Rebecca Joseph

What an absolute inspiration you are. How lucky are all the people who have been guided by you over the years. You are a one in a million!

Congratulations Joe, a well-deserved honour for a true gentleman of both the union movement and the greater construction Industry.

Jim Pappas

You’re an absolute gentleman and an absolute champion bloke Joe!!!

What an amazing achievement, and to be recognised by such an amazing organisation speaks volumes about your dedication, commitment and character!!! Just awesome!!!

Well done my brother!!

Billy Walsh

Cheers, Billy

Steven Guest

Joe, you are a ripper fella – one of the best.

Chris Giblin

hard work Making pay off

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