Last Monday, on 12 January 2009, marked the 100th anniversary of the Geelong Trades Hall Council. Comrades celebrated with a lunch time BBQ and raised a new centenary flag to kick the year off.
Ian Tresize, the local ALP state member cut the birthday cake with former Trades Hall secretary Bernie D'arcy, who presided over the 75th anniversary celebrations.
Unions flags are flying high and the year should be very exciting, with new labour laws and an economic crisis just ahead should challenge unions. Just like 1909 - not much has changed really except we are much better organised today.
Watch this space for upcoming centenary events and come along to the centenary committee if you would like to get involved. We are planning a major Dinner/Dance and hope to have a book researched for Geelong unionism.
