Published: 28 Sep 2020
I would like to pass on my deepest sympathies and condolences and those of the officers, members and staff of our union to Charlie’s family friends and comrades on his passing
Charlie’s life membership was one of the highlights of our Quadrennial Conference this year. He brought the tough working class humility, ironic humour and watchful wisdom of a true seaman and trade unionist for all to see and be part of
It was both a celebration of him but also the generation of maritime workers and trade unionists Charlie was so much a part of
A knock around, decent, humorous and loyal comrade and friend Charlie was about as good as you want beside you in any situation, good or bad.
He will be greatly missed and thought about by those who knew him, spoken about as a true man of the sea, worker who carried the aspirations and fight for our right to work and do it with decent conditions and dignity
His Life membership was properly recognised with a standing ovation from the working class leadership of our and many other unions both Australian and international at our great conference and was a joyful and proper celebration of our comrade and his selfless and consistent contribution to his fellow workers
Vale Charlie Gray. Always well met now mourned. Now resting
Paddy Crumlin
Watch Charlie receiving Life Membership at our National Conference in March https://youtu.be/uxrPwXe93KM
