NATIONAL POSITIONS

The AEC has provided the RTBU with the following statements from candidates to National positions:

National President

Leonie Henderson

I’m honoured to be running for the position of National President.

I am a passionate unionist who has spent my whole life fighting for a fair go for my workmates. I believe in the quiet dignity of safe and ongoing employment.

I worked since I was 16 years of age and came to the Victorian Railways in 2015 as a Conductor in Bendigo. I was elected a Rail Division RTBU Delegate in 2017 and have worked tirelessly for my colleagues ever since including during EA negotiations as a member of our union bargaining team. My proudest achievement is enhancing parental leave entitlements to make them some of the best conditions in the country.

I want a back-to-basics Union with the focus solely on the members, representing the majority of members who feel unheard and left behind. I want us all to feel supported and safe in our jobs knowing that if something goes wrong the Union will support us. I want our EAs to be tighter and less open to interpretation. I want officials who know their stuff, are from the rank & file and who reflect our diverse membership.
That’s why proud to be running for your National President.

Victor Moore

I’m standing for a strong & united RTBU. Across borders and across divisions, our union is strongest when we work as one.
From a national perspective we have made significant progress in demanding legislative reform, coordinating national campaigns against privatisation, improved communications with members and organised fruitful collective bargaining across major national employers.
We are stronger when we work together and support all members equally. Together our experience will continue to drive our union forward.

As RTBU members, this is OUR Union!

Find out more: www.rtbumembersfirst.com

National Vice-President (Rail)

Wayne Hicks

Statement provided for Victorian Locomotive Division President position:

I’m running for re-election for Victorian Locomotive Division President.

I’m a staunch unionist from a proud family of railway workers - I’ve been a driver for 40 years, my brother is a driver, my son was a conductor & my cousin a shunter. I have 30 years’ union experience including as a Locomotive Division delegate, it’s Vice President & for the last 8 years I’ve been honored to be its President.

With EA’s coming up I’m the right person for the job with experience on bargaining teams for 5 EAs.

I got involved in the union & kept involved to improve our terms & wages & defend hard-won conditions our forefathers fought for like the 8-hour day. Management is always trying to save costs by cutting wages & eroding conditions. The only thing in their way is the union. That’s why we need a strong united union with an experienced leadership focused on serving members, not self-interest or politics.

For me it’s about members & my record stands for me. I work tirelessly to support members & get them the best possible outcomes. I’m about getting the job done - available afterhours & on weekends. I’m about transparency, telling it like it is & fighting for what’s right, whether it’s against the bosses or within the union.

That’s why I’m running for Victorian Locomotive Division President with TRUE CHANGE, a team of experienced unionists who have come together from all Divisions to run a UNITED

James Joseph (J.J.) Styles

The National Vice President (Rail) is elected nationally by the RTBU rail members.

In this important role I support good governance, accountability and transparency.

I support good working conditions and fair and just payments.

I want the Union to protect our jobs, support and improve our conditions, and increase our pay.

The Union must deal with employers, management and government to get the best possible results for members.

I have many years of experience working in the railways and serving as a hard working Union representative in many positions and getting results to benefit our members.

I ask for your vote and support.

James Joseph (J. J.) Styles.

National Vice President (Affirmative Action – Women)

Usufono Filipo

Like many before me, I have stumbled and fumbled into unionism as clueless as the next person, until I was faced with unexpected trouble & tribulation many years ago. An organiser and delegate represented me at the time, where I was vulnerable and needed help. To return the favour I made a decision to give back by looking out for other members in similar situations. I’m not your typical delegate screaming from the rooftops nor a fan of the limelight, but I will stand my ground and can, have & will bear the brunt in the fight for procedural fairness and advocate for the many reasons that make Australia and being an Australian a wonderful gift. The history and legacy of the union is a great example of hope, courage and resilience. Something my children are witnessing as they have seen me joining in on the EA bargaining table this year, advocating for our members and seeing my attempts to contribute to the mighty RTBU in a positive and respectful manner. I firmly believe everyone deserves a voice and respect, just beware it’s to be reciprocated and I’ve tolerated nothing less.

"Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom must, like men, undergo the fatigue of supporting it." —Thomas Paine

Your valuable vote would enable me to continue the fight and ensure the next generation gets a chance to get up and persevere.

In true solidarity,

Usufono Filipo ✊
PS. I still love chocolate. K, bye.

Leanne Holmes

Leanne Holmes is a National Vice President of the Australian Rail Tram and Bus Industry Union (RTBU), and is the Union's Director of Organising.

Her role involves negotiating national Enterprise Agreements with companies in the rail sector, and she recently secured the RTBU's first-ever Enterprise Agreement with an above-rail labour hire operator. She has also represented the rail, tram and bus workers at public rallies, at conferences, and in the media. She has proven herself to be a passionate and highly effective advocate for workers rights.

Leanne has been a Member of the RTBU for 20 years and began her career as a Bus Driver with the State Transit Authority in Sydney, and then in Newcastle. Leanne has previously served as a Branch Councillor with the RTBU NSW Branch, and as Chair of the RTBU NSW Branch Womens Committee.

She is currently the Chair of the Hunter Workers Womens Committee (Hunter Workers was formally Newcastle Trades Hall). Leanne is also on the National WIMDOI (Women in Male Dominated Industries and Organisations) Committee.

Wendy Irving

No statement provided.

Angela Lardner

I am running for National Vice President (Affirmative Action – Women). I’m a dedicated unionist passionate about gender equality, supporting and advocating for women.

I’m a single mum of 3 and fifth generation proud railway worker. A train driver at Metro for nearly 10 years, before that a roster clerk and station officer. I am an experienced unionist - CPSU delegate for 4 years, RTBU delegate for 5 years and recently the RTBU Woman’s Convenor. Currently completing a law degree I can even better support and advocate for members.

I have a strong interest in advocating for women in a male dominated industry - pregnancy, maternity leave, domestic violence, sexual harassment and discrimination. I know first-hand the impact this has on our happiness in our jobs and am committed to real change. As a RTBU Delegate I helped get better female facilities, I established a working party of women drivers at Metro & implemented an improved pregnancy policy.

I am passionate about improving women’s experiences on and off the job and believe our National Vice President should play a stronger role in supporting RTBU women with the National Women’s campaign committee (per the rules) established! Developing and mentoring women leaders and publically advocate on issues for women, which the current VP has failed to do. As National Vice President (Affirmative Action – Women), I will work tirelessly for all women across our union to improve our experience and ensure the National Women’s Campaign committee actually meets per the Union Rules!

National Secretary

Mark Diamond

BA LLB, GAICD.

As the National Secretary, I commit to remaining vigilant in my efforts to continually improve the RTBU for our members.

As the go-to person for senior union officials when they need strategic, operational, or legal guidance I have developed a depth of expertise about union rules, structures, and operations as well as the industrial and transport legislation relevant to our industries.

My introduction of the first and subsequent National Strategic Plans have aligned our behaviours resulting in the RTBU becoming a single, unified political and campaigning force.

This alignment has resulting in:

The RTBU’s political influence growing exponentially at both a federal and state level;
The RTBU having direct access to key politicians and their departments responsible for industrial relations, transport, infrastructure, and manufacturing amongst others;
The RTBU now having a seat at the table for all major national decisions which affect our members and our industries;
The RTBU having the ability to flex its political muscle using our aligned behaviours to prevent unfriendly governments from passing laws which are not in members’ interests. For example, our successful fight to prevent in-cab cameras being legislated without protections for workers.
Any candidate for National Secretary must have a combination of these political, strategic, legal and operation skills to ensure that the RTBU stays ahead of changes impacting our members and our industries.

I hope I can rely on your support.

Adam Francis

No statement provided.

Assistant National Secretary

Rupert Braganza

I am proud to run for Assistant Secretary of the National Office.

I’ve been a passionate & active unionist for 20 years in Australia & before that in India & worked for Yarra Trams for 18 years as an Authorised Officer. I fought hard for my rights & my colleagues as an individual but soon realised I could do more as a union official & was honored to be voted in as Tram & Bus Division Vice President.

In the years since I used my passion & knowledge to stand against workplace injustice & advocate for improved conditions including as part of the bargaining team that successfully negotiated a strong EA with better conditions, greater benefits, job security & increased pay.

I’m running for your Assistant Secretary as I want to make the union better for members across Australia. I want a leadership that unifies us & backs us all equally. I want it run fairly, democratically, with integrity & equality. I want it above politics & self-interest. I want it to tirelessly fight management for what’s right.

Shayne Kummerfeld

I have 42 years in the Rail Industry and the Current Assistant National Secretary of the RTBU, before this I was the National President, National Councillor and Locomotive Divisional Delegate for 20 years and Rail Divisions Organiser with the Queensland Branch for 11 years.

I am Train Driver by profession, for which I continue to maintain my competencies and qualifications with Queensland Rail.

I was a committee member of the Queensland WHS Industry Standing Committee for Transport and Storage for over a decade and stepped down after taking the full time National role with the RTBU.

I currently sit on the ITF Urban Transport Steering Committee and ITF Taskforce on Sustainable and Socially Just Urban Public Transport.

I am passionate about seeking public transport improvements and expansion to enhance the liveability, social equality, inclusiveness, and economic benefits that flow from well-planned integrated transport systems for all Australians.

I believe the Rail Industry as essential for integrated intermodal freight transport to achieve long term green outcomes for long haul transport in Australia.

I seek your support to continue to grow our industry and conditions.

Unity is Strength

Shayne Kummerfeld
Train Driver and Assistant National Secretary

Glenn Saunders

Our Union is approaching a time of unparalleled opportunity.

With the failed policies of decades of conservative Governments becoming obvious to the Australia public and workforce, NOW is the time for our National office to lead the fight to restore wages and conditions, roll back privatisation and support and nurture the emerging ground swell of grass roots activism in our union.

For the past decade as a delegate and assistant delegate I have been at the fore front of fighting Privatisation in my region. I have had recent success in being part of a team that delivered an award that 97% of our members voted up.

These successes are not won individually but with consultation and solidarity, lessons that previous generations of unionist taught us and are even more relevant today.

As Assistant National Secretary I will bring Grass roots principles to National office, I will take the hard lessons of how to scrap and fight for a better fairer outcome for our members and bring them to a national level. While my background is not one of industrial officer, lawyer or political appointeeI believe my experience in the day to do fight that is a Delegates training ground would be significant asset at National level.

For your consideration

In Unity

Glenn Saunders

Assistant National Secretary (Tram and Bus Division)

Phil Altieri

No statement provided.

Tarik Koc

I’m delighted to run for National Assistant Secretary (Tram & Bus Division).

I’ve worked for Yarra Trams in Melbourne for 18 years, first as a Customer Service Employee, and then a Tram Driver and during that time I’ve been a passionate unionist and vocal advocate.

After seeing injustice in workplaces, deterioration of conditions and indifference of the previous officials I stepped up, first as a union delegate for 2 years and then as Victorian Tram and Bus Divisional Secretary for the last 4 years.

As Divisional Secretary I fought the bosses’ tooth and nail for fairer workplaces & member rights. I’m proud to say I have no mates in management. The bosses don’t like me because I stand up to them & get results including improved pay and conditions.

I don’t just fight for fairness in workplaces, I also do it in our union. I’ve stood up for a better, fairer, more democratic union winning my members greater autonomy, control of their money back from the Victorian Branch and the choice of who fills their casual vacancies and represents them.

I’m running as I want the voice of Tram & Bus Division members across Australia to be heard in the National Office and to hold the National Office to account. I want our union from the top down to be about the members, not politics & self-interest. I want union officials to stick to our rules, live union values and make our union strong and united to benefit all members.

Assistant National Secretary (Locomotive Division)

Jim Chrystostomou

I am standing for election as your Assistant National Secretary (Locomotive Division).

The next few years will see the employers try and attack wages, conditions & standards to cut costs. What’s stopping them – Our Union. That’s why members should not settle for anything less than a leadership with experience, integrity & a proven track record.

Knowledge & Experience:

Coming from the Driving Grade I am a vocal advocate for Drivers & what’s right. With approximately 25 years industry experience & 20 years union experience including 8 years as Locomotive Divisional Assistant Secretary.

I have extensive experience resolving a broad range of complex industrial & safety matters. Including as a lead negotiator in EAs, attending hundreds of bargaining meetings, the Fair Work Commission, Court & dealing with regulators.

Currently I am finishing a law degree & will graduate with First Class Honours. The driving force behind these studies was to enhance my ability to fight for members & deal with problems that threatens their security & livelihoods.

A proven ability to get the best possible outcome for members including getting members jobs back, ending unjust disciplinary processes, stopping unsafe trains running & taking Court action to successfully get underpayments repaid.

I will always fight tirelessly against injustice, to defend conditions, increase wages & improve standards across the industry.

That’s why I’m running with TRUE CHANGE, a team of experienced unionists who have come together from all Divisions to run a UNITED team for a BETTER UNION.

Keith McMahon

SUPPORT THE MEMBERSHIP DRIVEN TEAM FOR LOCOMOTIVE DIVISION EXECUTIVE

The Membership Driven Team are the experienced, passionate, and strategic team best positioned to continue to lead the Locomotive Division.

The Membership Driven Team is:

Farren Campbell – Locomotive Divisional Secretary
Dan Leece – Locomotive Division President
Paul Dornan – Assistant Secretary Passenger
Mark Supple – Assistant Secretary Freight
Giovanna Bonelli – Vice President Passenger
Peter Mundey – Vice President Freight
Keith McMahon – Locomotive Division Assistant National Secretary

Over the last few years, the Membership Driven Team has led the Division in game changing struggles against hostile Governments, belligerent employers and an ineffectual regulator.

Building upon the strengths of past leadership and stability, we have continued the important work of the Locomotive Division with the support of Divisional Executive, Divisional Council, Delegates, Activists and Members across Passenger and Freight.

Our Division acknowledged the changes within society and our membership and chose to act decisively to bring about generational change in the way we operate. The Membership Driven Team is here to ensure the goals important to Locomotive Division Members are met, regardless of employer. We committed to develop and implement ways of operating that prioritise building workplace power, develop strong, capable, and empowered workplace representatives, and committed to leveraging our strengths to benefit members across NSW and Nationally via the National Locomotive Division Committee.

The Membership Driven Team is asking for your continued support in this election to allow this process to continue. Through strategic planning and definitive actions, we will deliver outcomes that members rightly expect and deserve.

We are committed to:

• Taking an “industry approach” to how we do “Union” to set industry standards for Train Drivers regardless of Pass or Freight.
• Tackling issues like Driver-Only operation, misuse of Labour Hire, and the corrosion of rail safety head on and relentlessly.
• Continuing to grow the Locomotive Division to become an industrial force in NSW and proactively work to increase our diversity and representation to reflect our diverse Membership.

These goals are only possible through sound financial management and strategic direction; something the Membership Driven Team have clearly demonstrated, though our experience and “runs on the board”.

Custodianship of the Membership Driven Team has:

• Increased membership by 15.2% since 2017, growing in number and power despite the impacts of Covid 19.
• Developed and implemented bespoke delegate training and development programs to support our decentralised model of workplace power.
• Maintained a financially strong and independent Division which is well resourced and prepared to meet challenges head on. The Locomotive Division’s strong track record of transparency and accountability is a point of pride and a fundamental value of the Membership Driven Team.

The combined industry experience of the Membership Driven Team of Campbell, Leece, Supple, Dornan, Mundey, Bonelli and McMahon provides the expertise, ability, and passion to fight for all Locomotive Division Members in the Passenger and Freight sectors.

Our team has and will continue to advocate for all Members with a strong united voice, both inside and outside the Union, to protect and improve your working conditions.

Assistant National Secretary (Rail Operations Division)

Darren Galea

I’m standing for a strong & united RTBU. Across borders and across divisions, our union is strongest when we work as one.

From a national perspective we have made significant progress in demanding legislative reform, coordinating national campaigns against privatisation, improved communications with members and organised fruitful collective bargaining across major national employers.

We are stronger when we work together and support all members equally. Together our experience will continue to drive our union forward.

As RTBU members, this is OUR Union!

Find out more: www.rtbumembersfirst.com

Thomas Muneretti

I am running for the position of National Assistant Secretary (Rail Operations Division).

I’m a staunch unionist who appreciates the challenges and requirements of a strong supporting advocate. I have been an Authorised Officer for 12 years and 10 of those a dedicated Victorian RTBU delegate.

I have a ‘can do’ attitude, leadership capabilities, organisational & administrative skills and a genuine passion for improving the RTBU to benefit members.

Members deserve a real voice and proper representation, so when they need it, they know the union has their back. I want a union that tells members what’s going on, is accountable & run properly in accordance with the rules. I want our union to be strong against the bosses and any other attack on our safety, conditions and workplace rights; that means leaders that unite us, protect us and mentor us, not divide us. It also means leaders who don’t cave to the bosses & do their bidding.

We have so many rights to uphold and many EA’s that we must ensure are all strong and consistent & we need a strong leadership who will fight to not only protect, but improve, our safety, wages, conditions, job security, rosters, flexibility & advancement opportunities.

That’s why I’m running for National Assistant Secretary (Rail Operations Division) with TRUECHANGE, a team of experienced unionists who have come together from all Divisions to run a UNITED team for a BETTER UNION.

Assistant National Secretary (Administrative, Supervisory, Technical and Professional Division)

Usufono Filipo

"Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom must, like men, undergo the fatigue of supporting it." —Thomas Paine

Your valuable vote would enable me to continue the fight and ensure the next generation gets a chance to get up and persevere.

In true solidarity,

Usufono Filipo ✊

I still love chocolate. K, bye.

Noel Morris

I am standing for the position of RTBU Assistant National Secretary (ANS) Administration, Supervisory, Technical and Professional (ASTP).

I have been a RTBU National Councillor over the last 30 years and am currently a RTBU National Councillor for (ASTP) and Queensland Branch Delegate to the National Executive. Arising from this extensive experience I have gained substantial knowledge about the Rail industry and Union Governance. I have been an active Union delegate over the last 30 Years.

I will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the position of RTBU Assistant National Secretary (ANS) Administration, Supervisory, Technical and Professional (ASTP).

I seek your support for the position of RTBU Assistant National Secretary (ANS) Administration, Supervisory, Technical and Professional (ASTP)

Pearljit Singh

I’m proudly running for National Assistant Secretary (Administrative, Supervisory, Technical and Professional Division).

I came to Australia from India 24 years ago and worked in the railways for 18 years while raising my 2 gorgeous and demanding kids. I started as a Station Host at Metro Trains in Melbourne and now I’m a Station Officer 3 with experience across Metro including City Loop, Flinders Street & Southern Cross.

As a member I witnessed poor and unfair union representation, union reps misusing member funds and running their own agendas. I was a victim of this myself - my Rail Organiser told me to accept a dismissal when I did nothing wrong. I was devastated and turned to an official in another Division. He said no member should be treated unfairly and helped me take Metro to the Fair Work Commission and successfully get my job back.

That’s why I’m running for this position. I want officials from the National Office to look after ALL members. I want ethical, competent representatives who are accountable to members. I want good union governance and member funds to be used for members, not officials. I want a united union that stands up to the bosses and fights to protect and improve our wages & working conditions.

That’s what I will work hard for and that’s why I’m running with TRUE CHANGE, a team of experienced unionists who come together from all Divisions to run a UNITED team for a BETTER UNION.

Branch Delegate to the National Executive (New South Wales Branch)

David Babineau

My name is David Babineau and for the last 4 years I have represented the RTBU as NSW Tram and Bus Division Divisional Secretary, NSW Assistant Branch Secretary Road and at the National Executive. While we haven’t always gotten our way nationally, we have always fought for the best interests of our members. It is vital we have a voice representing both our State and Divisional members in a transparent and accountable manner at the highest level of our Union. I am seeking the privilege of that service for another term to ensure that the Tram and Bus division of NSW, where about half of our national Divisional strength resides has a voice that is respected and given weight, and that the Tram and Bus Division nationally, has the expertise to back our members across the country.

Farren Campbell

No statement provided.

Aaron Donaldson

I commenced my railway career as a CSA at Central in 2005. In 2007 I became a Train Guard and joined Central Intercity in 2010. I was elected to the position of Sydney Intercity Guards President in 2019, and have acted as the Depot Secretary since our previous Secretary relinquished his position. I have also been a Health and Safety Representative for Central for approximately 10 years.

I have represented the RTBU on various projects. I have opposed Driver Only Operation on the NIF and believe that Guard's role is critical to the safe operation of the train.

I believe that members rights, pay and conditions must be protected. As your elected representative I will continue to support your rights at work.

Usufono Filipo

"Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom must, like men, undergo the fatigue of supporting it."—Thomas Paine

Your valuable vote would enable me to continue the fight and ensure the next generation gets a chance to get up and persevere.

In true solidarity,

Usufono Filipo ✊

I still love chocolate. K, bye.

Michael Marsland

No statement provided.

Andrew Sloane

My Name is Andrew “Drew” Sloan.

I have been a Guard for more than 15 years. Since the opening of the Auburn Stabling Yard, I have acted as the Guards Depot Secretary. For the past 2 years I have acted in the role of Guards Sub Division Secretary. At various times I have also acted as Guards Relief Organiser. I was a member of the RTBU Delegates team that negotiated the payment of the WOBOD allowance for Sydney Trains Guards.

I consider the Guard's role as vital to the safe operation of trains within the Sydney and Regional network and have been involved in the fight to maintain the Guards role on the NIF. As your representative I have always sought to protect Guard's pay and conditions.

If I'm elected, I will continue to represent my workmates, and defend your rights, a role in which I have always taken great pride.

Craig Turner

My name is Craig Turner.

I began my railway career as a CSA at Strathfield in 2006. In 2007 I became a suburban Train Guard, firstly at Central and later transferred to Hornsby. In 2008 I became a delegate. Since then, I have been elected to, and acted in, various roles including President, Train Guards Sub Division; Secretary Rail Operations; Senior Vice President RTBU (NSW Branch): and as a NSW delegate on the National Executive. I am currently the Organiser for Guards and On Boarders.

I believe it is essential that this Union continues to push hard to keep jobs and retain our hard-fought conditions.

Since 2016 I have been working hard to fight Driver Only (NIF). I believe the roles of Train Guards and Station Staff are critical to the safe operation of our rail network.

I will continue to work with our honest and experienced railway team at the RTBU to achieve the best outcomes for our members.

Branch Delegate to the National Executive (Victorian Branch)

Cathy Birch

I’m standing for a strong & united RTBU. Across borders and across divisions, our union is strongest when we work as one.

We are stronger when we work together and support all members equally. Together our experience will continue to drive our union forward.

As RTBU members, this is OUR Union!

Find out more: www.rtbumembersfirst.com

Diego Esqueria

I’m standing for a strong & united RTBU. Across borders and across divisions, our union is strongest when we work as one.

We are stronger when we work together and support all members equally. Together our experience will continue to drive our union forward.

As RTBU members, this is OUR Union!

Find out more: www.rtbumembersfirst.com

Nick Komodromou

No statement provided.

Michael Michael

No statement provided.

Pearljit Singh

That’s what I will work hard for and that’s why I’m running with TRUE CHANGE, a team of experienced unionists who come together from all Divisions to run a UNITED team for a BETTER UNION.

National Divisional Delegates for Branch to National Council

NSW – Adminstrative, Technical and Professional Division

Anthony Chase

I started my career in the Railways over 32 years ago as a Fitter at DELEC Enfield maintaining the diesel locomotives after serving 10 years in the Royal Australian Navy. I have been working in a salaried position now for 27 years within the various rail organisations created in that time and have experienced personally how that change can affect people. My goal is to keep the rights of workers in the forefront of any change that the rail organisations what to implement in consultation with all the affected members.

Usufono Filipo

"Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom must, like men, undergo the fatigue of supporting it."—Thomas Paine

Your valuable vote would enable me to continue the fight and ensure the next generation gets a chance to get up and persevere.

In true solidarity,

Usufono Filipo ✊

I still love chocolate. K, bye.

Stephen Priestly

My Name is Stephen Priestley. I have been involved within the union movement for over 47 years now. I am currently The Division Branch President of Administrative, supervisory, technical & Professional Division. I started my Railway career as a junior Station assistance Parramatta – Wentworthville in 1975. Then as a Senior Station assistance I worked through out the Metropolitan area working in Parcel and Goods Sheds. I then around 1978 worked as a shunter in Sydney Terminal shunting for e period. I then moved into Train Crewing late 1980 working Freight Trains from various yard to Broadmeadow, Bomaderry, Goulbourn, Port Kembla, Lithgow, Passenger Trains from Sydney Terminal to Bomaderry and Goulbourn, Lithgow. Then as of 1996 I have worked within Train Control section I am today. My current place of work is the Rail Operations Centre this is a multiple functional area of the Salary Admin section of the RTBU. I have been involved in three EA for my division and I am currently involved in the current EA Negotiations between Sydney Trains and NSW Train Link. I have given a commitment to rebuild my division because of some internal division and to ensure that we communicate better in the future. We currently have new Organiser Amanda Perkins who has experience within the union move will be heavily involved in the future of the Salary Division. Helen Bellette will the be Organiser for the ROC as well to help build a better and brighter future for the Salary Division.

National Divisional Delegates for Branch to National Council

NSW – Tram and Bus Division

Bruce Eddie

No statement provided.

Nicholas Fieldsend

Committed campaigner for

BETTER PAY

BETTER CONDITIONS

IMPROVED WORKERS RIGHTS

Brett Peters

I have been a bus operator for over 21 years and have been the Divisional Vice President within the RTBU NSW Tram and Bus Division over the past 10 years. I am seeking your support to be one of your representatives on National Council. I will continue to fight for the rights of workers within the Bus and the Light Rail workplaces and ensure that OUR UNION continues to evolve and service its members the way that you expect. Working in the industry I have a first hand understanding of the challenges we face both on the road and with employers.

Ash Sarker

No statement provided.

Ivan Suarez

No statement provided.

National Divisional Delegates for Branch to National Council

NSW – Locomotive Division

Giovanna Bonelli

No statement provided.

Paul Dornan

No statement provided.

Paul Foster

No statement provided.

Dan Leece

No statement provided.

Peter Mundy

No statement provided.

Mark Supple

No statement provided.

National Divisional Delegates for Branch to National Council

NSW – Rail Operations Division

Aaron Donaldson

I have represented the RTBU on various projects. I have opposed Driver Only Operation on the NIF and believe that Guard's role is critical to the safe operation of the train.

I believe that members rights, pay and conditions must be protected. As your elected representative I will continue to support your rights at work.

David Hauser

Hi members, I am running for the RTBU NSW Operations Division President position because I am ready to step up from Vice President.

For the last 4 years I have been frustrated by attempts from within our Union to stifle dissent and I have looked on as Station Staff have been let down by the incumbent administration with two major disputes over part time workers and travelling time not being progressed to the Fair Work Commission for 8 years. This situation is untenable and all Operations Members deserve better, as your new President I will make sure that every member gets a fair shake and that systematic wage theft is not ignored but is vigorously prosecuted and justice for those affected is delivered. I will be the President for all Operations Members; I will continue to argue for the retention of the Guards role on the NIF and any other new rolling stock and in addition the retention of all station staff positions too.

I am a founding member of Rank and File First and we have been instrumental in holding RTBU Officials to account on many issues and we will continue to do so as we believe in transparency and accountability of all Union activities.

I look forward to meeting as many members as I can during the campaign and live by our motto: TOUCH ONE-FIGHT ALL!

Terry Johnson

No statement provided.

Damien Kuan

No statement provided.

Joanne McCallum

No statement provided.

Marina McMaugh

My name is Marina McMaugh.

I first started my railway career as a Customer Service Attendant in 2003, my home station was Burwood. In the 9 years that I was a CSA, I worked at many stations right across the network. In 2012 I started the next phase in my railway career as a Suburban Train Guard. I worked at Central Depot for just over 12 months before transferring to Campbelltown Depot.

While I have been a member of the RTBU since my first day back in 2003, I didn't get involved in the Union until 2018 when I became the Guards Sub-Division Secretary at Campbelltown Depot. I have enjoyed every moment of being a Delegate and I believe it is essential that this Union, the RTBU continues to push hard to keep jobs and to also retain the hard fought conditions that Delegates and members before me had achieved.

Chris Salisbury

Dear members,

I am standing as a delegate for national council as a proud member of Rank and File First.

Some of you would already know me. I have represented hundreds of guards and station staff in the Illawarra and Sydney for over 12 years. I have fought and won major bullying cases. I have played a significant role in retaining fully qualified safe working guard with full door controls. And I have attempted to return every phone call and text message from all members.

Now, I am setting myself up for a new challenge in an old role, namely, to make the NSW branch of the RTBU fully transparent,down to the most minute detail. If elected, I will oppose changes to union rules that disenfranchise members. I will oppose pay rises for the NSW union executive by “independent” reviews. I will support better training for delegates and insist on the very best legal support for delegates who are having a crack.

I cannot do any of this on my own. If you want better leadership, you really do have to vote for it. I urge everyone who voted for me last time (and especially those who didn’t vote) to support Dave Hauser as NSW branch secretary and the entire Rank and File First ticket in all positions at these elections. This is your best opportunity - perhaps also your last opportunity- to vote for the most momentous change in the history of this union.

Andrew Sloan

My Name is Andrew “Drew” Sloan.

If I'm elected, I will continue to represent my workmates, and defend your rights, a role in which I have always taken great pride.

Mick Sullivan

My name is Mick Sullivan, and I am asking for your support in the RTBU elections.

I have been a Guard at Mortdale for over 16 years. In this time I have become an active Union member and delegate both locally in my depot of Mortdale and across the Rail Operations Division, striving to protect and improve members' rights and conditions in the workplace.

I’ve done my best to help members in my time as a delegate to help protect their workplace rights and conditions, and if elected, will continue to work passionately to support members.

In my time as a delegate, I have been elected on Branch and National Council, along with being President of the Train Guards Sub Division and Secretary of the Rail Operations Division. I have edited the Blue Light Guards newsletter for the last 10 years, as I believe communication is vital in order to keep members informed on significant issues.

I am committed to standing up for and fighting to protect members' hard fought rights and conditions in the workplace. My aim is to improve the organisation and communication within the Rail Operations Division, so members and delegates are better prepared to face the coming challenges. I also want to encourage members to become more involved as activists and delegates to build power in the workplace.

Good luck to all members taking part in the election, and remember, to remain STRONG, we need to remain UNITED.

David Weblin

My name is David Weblin.

I Have been a Train Guard at Sydney Trains for 11 years, briefly at Central. Then Liverpool, until moving to LSY when Liverpool shut. During my time I have held numerous roles in the RTBU, and am currently the President of Guards at LSY, the Guards Delegate on the Rail Operations Divisional Council, and also a National Councillor. I was also a HSR for 3 years and was briefly the Chairperson of the Sydney Trains Guards WHS Committee. During my time holding various Union/WHS roles, I have proven that I can assertively hold management to account whilst keeping a level head. Some of my achievements in the recent past have included getting Sydney Trains guards training on ATP, something which our counterparts at NSW TrainsLink didn’t receive, and I also played a part in getting Sydney Trains to scrap their plans to drastically alter the guards compartment on K Sets in order to install ATP.

I believe that the RTBU is facing unprecedented challenges going forward, as is currently being seen in our Enterprise Agreement fight with the NSW Government. Now is a time to ensure that the people leading this union have the ability not only to fight, but to be intelligent about the way we fight these challenges, and I believe I have a proven track record of doing this, whether that is in broader meetings affecting multiple members, or supporting members who have come to the attention of management for whatever reason.

National Divisional Delegates for Branch to National Council

QLD – Adminstrative, Supervisory, Technical and Professional Division

Ren Clinton

No statement provided.

Samantha Kettewell

No statement provided.

Noel Morris

I currently hold the position of National Divisional Delegate from Branch to National Council for Queensland Branch, Administrative, Supervisory, Technical and Professional Division and I am seeking your support to continue in this position.

I will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the position of Branch Delegate to National Executive Queensland Branch.

I seek your support for the position of National Divisional Delegate from Branch to National Council for Queensland Branch, Administrative, Supervisory, Technical and Professional Division.

National Divisional Delegates fo Branch to National Council

QLD – Tram and Bus Divison

Tom Brown

No statement provided.

Wendy Irving

No statement provided.

Bennett Roche

No statement provided.

National Divisional Delegates of Branch to National Council

VIC – Administrative, Supervisory, Technical and Professional Division

Andrew Irving

I’m standing for a strong & united RTBU. Across borders and across divisions, our union is strongest when we work as one.

We are stronger when we work together and support all members equally. Together our experience will continue to drive our union forward.

As RTBU members, this is OUR Union!

Find out more: www.rtbumembersfirst.com

David Paton

I’m standing for a strong & united RTBU. Across borders and across divisions, our union is strongest when we work as one.

We are stronger when we work together and support all members equally. Together our experience will continue to drive our union forward.

As RTBU members, this is OUR Union!

Find out more: www.rtbumembersfirst.com

Chris Spaseski

Statement provided for Branch Divisions President position:

I am honoured to be running for President of the Administrative, Supervisory, Technical and Professional Division.

I’m an approachable hard-working person that will fight for member’s and what’s rights.

I have been a Station Officer at Metro for 5 years and a HSR for 1 ½ years for the Mernda Group with a background in hospitality and running my own business. I’m a father of 6 young boys, but with my amazing supportive wife I could step up as a HSR and represent my colleagues for a better working environment. I enjoy this role and being able to successfully challenge safety issues and push for improvements in the workplace.

I am running for your Divisional President as I want the union to be better. As a member over the last 5 years at Metro I’ve seen a lot of poor representation, including failure to assist members in overtime disputes, career progression, and bullying. I’ve seen nepotism by union officials, lack of response to queries and just a failure to respect our members. This must change.

I want members to have responsive, accountable representatives who will be there when they need them. I want officials who fight management, not do their bidding. I want us strong and united in the next EAs for job security, improved wages and conditions.

That’s why I’m running with TRUE CHANGE, a team of experienced unionists who have come together from ALL DIVISIONS to run a United team for a BETTER UNION.

National Divisional Delegates of Branch to National Council

VIC – Tram and Bus Division

Rupert Braganza

I am proud to run for Assistant Secretary of the National Office.

Edwin David

No statement provided.

Frank Pavic

Statement supplied for Divisional Assistant Secretary position:

I am honoured to run for your Divisional Assistant Secretary.

I’m a passionate unionist who prides myself on being an honest, approachable & hard-working advocate for members. I’ve been in public transport for 22 years working at Yarra Trams as a Tram Attendant, Customer Service Employee and now Customer Service Supervisor.

I have 10 years union experience including as a Delegate for Tram Attendants, the Tram Hub and since 2019 your Divisional President. I stepped up to the current executive as I didn’t believe our union was heading in the right direction. I felt our conditions had gone downhill for years & members were left in the cold while ex-officials ran their own agendas.

I wanted change for the better & I’m proud to say that’s what we did. We successfully negotiated a strong EA with increased pay, job security & better conditions. We made workplaces safer & fairer. We stood up to the bosses instead of buddying up to them. We also fought to make our Division better. We stopped the Branch controlling your money and using it for things that had nothing to do with you and made our Division more autonomous, transparent & democratic.

I want to continue to make positive change for members –make our union stronger & better, our workplaces fairer and improve our pay & conditions.

That’s why I’m running with TRUE CHANGE, a team of experienced unionists who have come together from all Divisions to run a UNITED team for a BETTER UNION.

Brian Penza

My name is Brian Penza,

I currently hold the position of tram and bus division delegate to the national council and have been in this position for 8 years.

I have already developed strong relationships with divisional secretaries , assistant secretaries and state secretaries across the RTBU in Australia, I intend to further strengthen these relationships and utilise their experience’s to strengthen our position for our tram and bus division.

Vote for the Trammies United team and strengthen your working future.

Anthony Tobschall

Candidate for Divisional President, RTBU Tram & Bus Division as part of the Trammies United team

In my time working across many industries in different roles I have seen and learned the importance of unions, how a well-run and organised union can achieve wondrous results for its members and look after them. I have seen how poorly organised and divided unions can lose members their jobs and erode conditions.

I have been the delegate for Preston Workshops for three years during which I have represented members interests, not only in our struggles with management, but also with respect in the way in which our division has been run during this last term.

All members should feel that the union has their back, no matter whether you are a driver, an AO, are in operations, work in maintenance, infrastructure or in the store. In the eyes of the division, we are all members with the same right to representation.

A union is strongest when it is alive through active participation of members. With your help, we can build a more democratic, consultative, and inclusive RTBU, better prepared to protect and defend member’s right and conditions.

National Divisional Delegates of Branch to National Council

VIC – Fleet Manufacture, Overhaul, Maintenance and Service Division

Steven Ermstrang

Statement provided for Branch Divisional Vice President position:

I am running for Vice President of the Fleet Manufacture, Overhaul, Maintenance & Service Division. I am passionate about making our workplaces fairer & free of management bullying.

I have been a mechanical fitter for 6 years & I see a need for real change. Before joining the railways, I ran my own business for around 25 years so I know how people should be treated & that’s not what’s happening for our members.

I’m running for your Vice President for more fairness & equality on the shop floor. As a member I feel our officials could do much better – I’ve only seen current officials a couple of times over 6 years & I feel their priority isn’t us - it’s other unions & politics.

That’s why I’m stepping up. I want us all to feel the union has our back & will put us first. I want a leadership committed to fairness including equitable overtime, equal access to job opportunities & stopping management favouritism. I want the next EA negotiations to be different. I don’t want other unions deciding for us - the majority. I want our bargaining team to fight for what we want including fairness, job security, clear classifications & fixing up our rosters so they’re more equal and we have a better work life balance.

That’s why I’m running for your Vice President with TRUE CHANGE, a team of experienced unionists who have come together from all Divisions to run a UNITED team for a BETTER UNION.

Peter Veis

I’m standing for a strong & united RTBU. Across borders and across divisions, our union is strongest when we work as one.

We are stronger when we work together and support all members equally. Together our experience will continue to drive our union forward.

As RTBU members, this is OUR Union!

Find out more: www.rtbumembersfirst.com

National Divisional Delegates of Branch to National Council

WA – Rail Operations Division

Joshua Rei Ayanami

No statement provided.

Mark Counsel

No statement provided.

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