The national sham contracting campaign has certainly struck a chord with Queensland workers. They have had enough of rogue companies and the undercutting of wages.

As we go into the Easter break the January floods seem a lifetime ago for most of us,  but for the many others they are still living the nightmare. We had several members homes affected by the floods. Some were insured and are waiting for a payout while living with family and friends.

As this is my last report as Secretary I’d like to thank the members and officials of the BLF as well as the members and officials of other unions both in Queensland and interstate – past and present. I thank you all for the support, friendship and guidance given to me during my 18 years as Secretary and two and a half years as an organiser.

The Builders Labourers Federation has left an undeniable mark on Australian history. This is no ordinary group of workers. This is no ordinary Union.

This year is an exciting milestone for the union where we’ve reached 100 years since federation and we are producing a book mid-year that will reflect the past hundred proud years of this Union.

From where we started in January 2009, with the global financial crisis, we seem to have escaped what was a fairly gloomy outlook for our industry. It was pleasing to see that membership actually grew in 2009. Whilst the building industry seemed to have a visual downturn our members and potential members found work on the many civil projects happening in the South East corner.

A short history lesson is necessary to explain how Howard set up a sham Royal commission known as the Cole Royal Commission.    
The findings of that Commission which were untested and unfounded were the basis of the establishment of the ABCC with its extra powers.  Powers that can compel you, your friends and your family to secret interview.