Harness Racing stewards back to work after successful conciliation hearing

AWU harness racing stewards return to work today, satisfied with the outcome of an Industrial Relations conciliation hearing late yesterday.

The stipendiary stewards began lawful industrial action last Friday, culminating in strike action from earlier today.

AWU Victoria Secretary, Cesar Melhem, said the stewards had entered yesterday's conciliation hearing willing to accept the recommendations of the Commission, and were delighted with the outcome.

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"If HRV had had its way, the stewards would not have received the full effect of those wage increases until February next year."

Mr Melhem said Commissioner Smith had also recommended that the stewards receive a sign-on payment equivalent to the amount they would have achieved if the agreement had operated from 14 March 2008.

Mr Melhem said the stewards were exhausted after taking industrial action for the last five days, but were pleased that their unity and dedication had paid off.

"Our stewards were never happy about any potential harm to the industry they love and serve," Mr Melhem said.

"They are happy that common sense has prevailed and they can now return to work with renewed respect."

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