A Christmas message from Chris and Gary

Welcome to the final edition of Bus Express for 2011.

It has been a big year for everyone in the Bus and Tram Division.

We took up our new positions as President and Secretary at an important time for members. With a change of State Government, and a new Award to negotiate, we had to hit the ground running.

The new State Government immediately capped wages at 2.5 per cent, and removed our right to appeal to an independent umpire.

This presented a number of challenges, but members were determined to defend their rights.

We were highly visible at a number of public sector rallies – sending a strong message to the Government and the public.

Members took swift action to take gas buses out of operation after footage of a gas bus exploding came to light. The action saw a number of safety upgrades to Mercedes OC 500 gas buses – protecting the safety of drivers and the travelling public.

The same determination saw the successful negotiation of a 3.25 per cent annual pay rise in the new Award – the only rise above 2.5 per cent that has been negotiated under the new State laws.

With over 2,500 drivers turning out to vote on the new Award, the Division proved it is stronger than ever. We would like to thank everyone for their support and for their continuing involvement with our union.

Finally, we both wish you a safe and merry Christmas, and look forward to a great year ahead in 2012.