Today I want to speak about a bloke who has given his heart and soul to trade union movement, Tony Maher. For almost three decades Tony has been at the helm of the mighty Mining and Energy Union, standing up for workers in one of the toughest and proudest industries in this country. To spend 27 years leading this union is no small thing. That is 27 years of wins for miners and energy workers and their families, not just in pay and conditions but in dignity, respect and the right to be heard.
Tony has fought for fair pay, safer workplaces and stronger future for our energy community. He has stood by workers through industry change, community battles at times when others would have walked away. He helped make same job, same pay a reality, and made sure the voices of the coal, gas and power station workers were heard in every boardroom and every parliament across this country. He has done it all with guts, integrity and a fierce belief in what a union stands for-honest, militant, democratic trade unionism. Tony, your leadership has shaped not just the MEU but the entire Australian labour movement. You have mentored a generation of unionists and left the movement stronger than when you found it. On behalf of us all, I want to thank you for decades of service, courage and commitment to the members of our great union. Enjoy your well-earned retirement, mate. I can't wait to have a beer with you soon.
