Union and Unity - That’s the Spirit!!!

SPIRIT III's complement posts this open letter of heartfelt thanks to all who joined the united crew to answer our SOS to 'Save Our Spirit' at the March 14th rally to Hobart's Parliament House. The rally brought reminiscences of the Vietnam anti-war marches with strains of ... "All we are saying is give 3 a chance." When Tasmania's Labor Premier Lennon announced Government support for Spirit 3 the jubilant rally changed their chants of 'Spirit 3 here to stay' to 'three cheers for Mick Wickham-three cheers for Labor!'

'Top of the Roster' in our long 'Thank you' list goes to Tasmanian Branch Secretary Mick Wickham who's untiring lobbying of Labor Parliamentarians was the key to a profound victory. On Course Mick - On Course!

We give accolades to Glen Wood and Jason Campbell who joined the rallies front ranks and we salute Sydney branch officials Robert Coombs, Warren Smith and Paul Garrett, not just for their vital roles in this landmark win but for always 'Being there for Spirit 3!' When it became apparent that the future of our vessel was in grave doubt the Spirits team, aboard and ashore, closed ranks and organised flags, banners, placards and media releases, and for this, Spirit 3 says 'Thanks Comrades!'

This open letter is from MUA members, however, the officer's unions AMOU and AIMPE'S solidarity aboard, bolsters our belief in Spirit III's bright future and success.

MUA National Secretary Paddy Crumlin and the national executive's marshalling of ACTU support recognised that to scuttle Spirit 3 would not only be a black day for the Australian maritime unions, but for the hundreds of Tasmanian and Sydney families whose jobs are dependent on the vessel.

This victory brings a sigh of relief for all those in the tourist industry and was greeted joyfully by the many hundreds of passengers who signed our SOS petitions.

For many of our young members this was their first experience of struggle - they now know 'Unity is strength' and for those who played a leading role, they will know that each voyage they sail with Sprit 3, they can be 'Proud to be Union!'

The journal always gives credit where it's due so let it be recorded that TT Line deserves bouquets for their courage in conceiving and running the Spirit ships in the face of fierce opposition.

Finally, if ever the MUA's policy of electing Labor Governments was vindicated - this was it. Only a Labor Government would have the courage to invest the $255 million that this government has spent.

In stark contrast, Tasmania's Liberal party announced that they would not match Labor's support!

In conclusion, Mentions in Dispatches should include Comrades Cindy O'Connor, Keith Phythian, Alison Merridew and Andrew Johnson.

Unfortunately, space does not allow a full roll of honour, but all hands know and applaud all those who played a role in saving Spirit III.

Union and Unity - That's the Spirit!

Yours in Unity
Delegates Spirit 111
Jodie Larkin
Lindsey Robinson
John Pracy
John Graham