What’s happening around Mackay for Labour Day long weekend

CFMEU’s Stephen Smyth has reflected on what the miner’s union has achieved over the past year.

CFMEU mining and energy Queensland district president Stephen Smyth at a rally. Picture: Emily Smith

For Stephen Smyth, Labour Day is a time to reflect on what the union movement has given him and his family.

The CFMEU mining and energy Queensland president will be a guest speaker at Moranbah’s Labour Day march on Monday May 3.

“To me, it’s a day that I’m very thankful for, for all that unions have done,” Mr Smyth said.

“A union like the CFMEU is nearly 120 years old.

“I find it to be a day to respect those who have gone before us and it’s about pledging to uphold what those before us have gained.”

CFMEU mining and energy Queensland president Stephen Smyth.

During his speech to the Moranbah march, Mr Smyth will reflect on the major wins the CFMEU helped secure for the industry over the past year, including Queensland’s mining industrial manslaughter laws and mine dust lung disease reforms.

He will also discuss the long journey ahead to address growing casualisation in the industry.

The Moranbah Labour Day march will convene at 9.30am for a 10am start at the intersection of Tallon Street and Mills Avenue, finishing at the town square where there will be speeches and activities.

In Mackay, a march will assemble at 9am at the corner of River and Gregory Streets.

It begins at 9.45am to Queens Park where there will be live music, rides and refreshments.

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Originally published as What’s happening around Mackay for Labour Day long weekend