As we come to the end of another year, I want to reflect on what has been an extraordinary period for the Mining and Energy Union Queensland District. This year has once again shown what we can achieve when we stand together, organised, determined, and united.

Same Job Same Pay. Real Wins for Workers: One of our most significant achievements this year has been the number of Same Job Same Pay victories secured across Queensland. These wins have delivered pay rises of up to $30,000 and, just as importantly, more secure employment for thousands of workers across the state. These outcomes did not happen by chance. They were achieved through collective action, strong delegates, committed organisers and members who were prepared to stand up and fight for fairness. This is union power in action, and we will continue to defend and build on these gains.

Leading the Way on Safety. SSHR Conference 2025: In June, we proudly hosted the 2025 Site Safety and Health Representatives Conference at Oceans International in Mackay. More than 70 SSHRs from across Queensland came together for an intensive five day program focused on strengthening safety leadership across our industry. With 20 first time attendees, the conference highlighted the growing importance of SSHRs and the need to remain up to date with emerging risks. Queensland District ISHRs led the conference with a clear and consistent message that safety is union business and it is up to us to lead from the front. The program delivered a strong mix of expert presentations, practical training and peer to peer learning. SSHRs were equipped with the skills and confidence needed to challenge unsafe practices, audit safety systems and advocate effectively on site. As Queensland faces a new conservative government and potential policy reviews, the MEU reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, vigilance and strong advocacy for worker safety.

Celebrating Our Members. Annual Awards Night: Our Annual Awards Night was a powerful reminder of the dedication, courage and solidarity within our membership. The Best Delegate Award was presented to Mervyn Wiki, President of the Moranbah North Lodge, in recognition of his tireless leadership during incredibly challenging circumstances following the underground explosion. Merv is now retiring and moving into the next chapter of his life, and we thank him sincerely for his outstanding service to his workmates and the union. The Best Up and Coming Member Award went to Sarah Ogilvie, also from Moranbah North. Sarah is an electrician who lives union values both on and off the job. She has built a reputation for fearlessly standing up for her workmates’ safety and brings that same courage to life outside the pit. She represents the future of our union. We also proudly recognised our long-term members who have stood with the MEU for the entirety of their working lives. Clinton Faine and Kerry Neilson were acknowledged for 40 years of membership, while Bruce Moulds was recognised for an incredible 50 years as an MEU member. Their commitment sets an example for us all.

Farewells, Tributes and Remembrance: This year, we farewelled several giants of our movement. We said goodbye to Tony Maher, who served almost three decades as National MEU General President. Tony’s leadership and dedication have left a lasting legacy across our union and industry. We also marked the retirement of Richard Buff Staker, a Queensland organiser and true MEU legend. Buff has played a critical role in growing the union in Queensland and mentoring the next generation of organisers, passing on the values that define who we are. We commemorated the 50-year Kianga disaster memorial, honouring those who lost their lives and renewing our commitment to ensuring such tragedies are never repeated. Most recently, we laid our friend and comrade Greg ‘Dallo’ Dalliston to rest. Dallo was the Queensland District’s longest-serving check inspector, with 25 years in the role. His dedication to safety was shaped by the 1972 Box Flat tragedy, and his contribution to coal mine safety is nothing short of legendary.
Vale, Dallo.

Road Safety. Protecting Our Communities: This year we launched our Road Safety Campaign, urging members to reduce their risk on the road by remembering the Fatal Five. Fatigue, speeding, drink and drug driving, distraction and seatbelt use. Road safety remains a serious issue in mining regions. Each year an average of 31 people are killed and 462 are severely injured on Queensland roads, with regional communities disproportionately affected. In 2024, the Central Region recorded a 40 percent increase in crashes compared to the previous year. Fatigue and poor road conditions remain the biggest contributors. Our regional roads were not designed for current traffic volumes or heavy vehicles, and this must change. We are calling on members to join us in advocating for improved regional roads and to attend Road Safety Roadshows planned for mining communities across Queensland.

Women Leading Change: We proudly delivered our second MEU Women’s Conference in Mackay, welcoming women from mine sites across Australia for an empowering three-day event. Building on our inaugural conference in 2022, the 2025 conference was bigger and bolder. Women came together to connect, learn and lead, engaging in sessions covering safety, fatigue management, union leadership, reporting hazards, respect at work, psychosocial risks and mental health. This conference is more than an event. It is a movement. Real change begins when women’s voices are heard, supported and respected.

This year, our union grew by more than 1,100 new members, and three new lodges were formed. Crinum, Wicet and Mammoth. For the first time, the MEU Queensland District also marched in the Brisbane May Day Parade, standing proudly alongside fellow unions through the city. None of this happens without you. Our delegates, organisers, SSHRs, lodge officials and members are the heartbeat of this union. Thank you for your commitment, solidarity, and effort throughout the year. Together, we have achieved real change, and together we will continue to fight for fairness, safety and dignity at work.

I wish you and your families a safe and happy holiday period and all the very best for the New Year.

In unity,

Mitch Hughes
Queensland District President
Mining and Energy Union