A New NSW Branch Leadership!

As some of you may know over the last couple of days, there’s been some significant announcements across the AWU:

Dan Walton stepping down as National Secretary.
Dan was crucial in the NSW merger, saving the steel industry in NSW, improving conditions for vulnerable workers like fruit pickers and assisting the Branch to grow into what it is today!

We thank Dan for his commitment and dedication to the betterment of the working class and wish him the very best for his future endeavours!

Paul Farrow appointed to Assistant National Secretary.
Paul has dedicated his service and guidance to the NSW Branch since he became a Delegate at 19. His commitment, passion, and determination in fighting for AWU members is nothing short of inspirational.

Paul’s strategic thinking, particularly around industrial action is second to none, he has led countless campaigns and negotiations that have improved the working lives of AWU members across a broad range of industries. Paul’s ability to find a way to resolve issues for members has set him apart from his peers, he has mentored many Delegates and Officials and has truly made a difference to the AWU and the broader Union and Labor movement. Paul knows how to cut a deal to get the best outcome for AWU members and is not scared to have a blue when he can’t.

We wish Paul all the best in his new role as National Assistant Secretary and look forward to working closely with him and the National Office into the future.

Ron (Ronnie) Cowdrey appointed Assistant Branch Secretary.
Ron has been with our Branch since his secondment in August 2012. Ronnie has held many elected roles with the Branch and is known for his loyalty and enthusiasm.

Ronnie grew up in South-Western Sydney before moving to Hay in regional NSW in the late 1990’s. In 2001, he joined the AWU and soon became a Delegate for the Hay Bridge Crews, and a force to be reckoned with.

Ronnie is one of the most committed and passionate Officials we have in our ranks, with a country twang.

We congratulate and wish Ronnie all the best for his new appointment!

Sandra Doumit appointed as Branch Vice President
Sandra joined our Branch in 2019 as a Legal Officer and is now our Senior Legal Officer. Sandra has been an integral part of the team and is known for her tenacity and caring nature.

We congratulate and wish Sandra all the best for her new appointment!
For the NSW Branch, it’s business as usual, fighting for our members and remaining stronger together.

We have a great team and with some of our best people stepping up into leadership roles I am excited for what’s ahead. I am proud of what the Branch has accomplished in recent years, and we will continue to fight for fair pay, job security and better wages and conditions, always ensuring our members are the forefront of everything we do!

NSW Branch Executive team is as follows:

Branch President:
Lorna Fairless

Branch Secretary:
Tony Callinan

Assistant Branch Secretaries:
Ron Cowdrey
Paul Delaney

Senior Branch Vice Presidents:
John Boyd
Jeff Buhler

Branch Vice Presidents:
Sean Burke
Sandra Doumit
Cameron Wright

Branch Executive Members:
David Boreland
Vincent Calver
Gregg Davies
Marcus Faulkner
Bill Howitt
Tania Larkins
Evan Lawless
Glenn Leake
Craig Mason
Thomas Matheson
Ian Morley
Brett Slavin
Sash Stojanoski
Ian Thomas
Shay Wahrlich

The AWU is stronger than ever and we’re a growing Union – I’m proud of what we’ve managed to build over the years and will continue to work hard and fight for our members!