Call the HACSU Helpline
1300 88 00 32

more info

Autumn 2004

Jim Febey Retires

Long time HACSU member and delegate, Jim Febey, is bidding farewell to paid employment after 17 years work at the Meercroft Nursing Home.

But, just like Arnie Schwarznegger, he's not saying goodbye, he's saying "I'll be back".

Jim's coming back to work in a voluntary capacity on some grounds maintenance tasks.

In between times, he's going to be doing a lot of work on "...some jobs that need doing at home".

Jim has been a valuable servant for HACSU members, working for years as the "stand-alone" HACSU delegate to solve the various issues and grievances raised by members.

Over recent times, Jim has been assisted by a number of new delegates and the development of a HACSU worksite committee, so he will be leaving behind an important legacy.

Jim said his initial motivation to get active in the union was caused by some personal victimisation.

"There was a DoN who took a dislike to me and tried to send me down the road."

"I dug my heels in, and I'm still here and she's gone." Jim says there have been a lot of wins for members over the years, with some losses as well.

"As a delegate, you don't win them all," Jim said.

"There is often give and take. I like to be as cooperative as possible, without giving too much ground."

Jim cites the amount of paper work as the major change to his work as an extended care assistant since he started.

"The paper work is over the top and is taking away from caring time," Jim said.

Jim said the HACSU members at Meercroft had been fantastic.

"We are working on further increasing the membership but we are currently at about 85% HACSU membership, which means most people are in the union and contributing."

"Meercroft has been a great place to work and I hope the union keeps on keeping on top of things."

Well done, Jim, thanks from all the members and HACSU officials, enjoy your retirement.