Secretary’s wrap

Sydney Trains reform talks are making slow progress. We’re now at the stage where Sydney Trains is proposing to hold a delegates meeting in early November to present their current position. The Loco Division has made it clear that we are unable to move from the comprehensive document we presented in March, which was endorsed by delegates and members, unless delegates give their approval for discussions to occur to see if an outcome can be reached. Once a delegates meeting has been arranged and Loco Division representatives have had time to analyse and discuss the proposal with delegates, we’ll communicate this to members and begin the process of organising depot update and feedback meetings.

In freight news, it’s just been announced that Glencore Rail has been sold to US company Genesee & Wyoming for for $1.14 billion. It’s being reported that this will lead to more competition for Aurizon and Pacific National in the Hunter Valley – interesting times ahead and as always we’ll keep you in the loop via Loco Express.

Finally, the health and wellbeing of drivers is a key priority for the Loco Division, especially as we keep hearing more and more reports of drivers experiencing job-related health issues. The national online drivers’ health survey being run by CQ University and Flinders University is now in its final stages and I’d encourage those of you who haven’t done so already to fill it out. Not only will you be contributing valuable information, but there are also three iPads up for grabs! You’ll find the details and link below.

I trust you’ll enjoy this edition of Loco Express

Bob Hayden