From The Point: Deb James says goodbye to IEU members

Over the years, I’ve written countless columns about the rights of education staff, bargaining campaigns, social justice campaigns and the amazing achievements of IEU members.

Now after an exciting and rewarding career serving the IEU, I say goodbye.

This is my last column as General Secretary as I’m retiring after 33 years with the IEU and a lifetime in education.

Colleagues applaud Deb James after her final speech as IEU General Secretary.

When I first wrote to you about my departure I used the words “gratitude” and “love” to describe my feelings for the union. That’s because I hold most dearly the loyalty and support of rank and file members. I want to thank you for your support all through my time at the IEU, and the warmth shown to me since I announced I was leaving the job. The most rewarding part of this job has been working with you, and engaging with your endless tenacity as unionists and your magnificent work in schools.

You work in the most important jobs; educating, inspiring, and developing students so they can go out into the world engaged, curious, lifelong learners who contribute to whatever field they pursue. By nurturing the next generation, you shape the future.

IEU staff never forget that the members are the union, and we serve you.

In my 17 years as General Secretary, I was lucky to have leadership partnerships first with my great colleague and mate Loretta Cotter, and recently with the incoming General Secretary David Brear. These “teams of two” have always been a source of strength for me, and I thank them both for their teamwork and dedication.

I have no doubt that David, as the new General Secretary, and Kylie Busk as the new Deputy Secretary, are the next team of two to advance your interests in in the 2020s.

David takes over with the unanimous support of the Committee of Management. He started working with the IEU in 2001 after 13 years as a teacher mainly in Catholic secondary schools but also in independent schools and the English language sector. In addition to his experience as a teacher and a union official Dave has been admitted as a lawyer and is the IEU nominee on the Board of NGS super.

Kylie has been employed by the IEU for 14 years, after serving on the Committee of Management while at De La Salle College, where she was the Rep for nearly a decade.  In her years at the IEU she has represented members on many committees and in stakeholder engagement, and she is currently on the board of the Centre for Strategic Education.

I have no doubt that Dave and Kylie will lead the IEU on to greater things. They bring energy and enthusiasm, intelligence, and insight to their roles. They’ll continue to grow and strengthen our membership, build our influence, and protect and promote our profession. They will be well supported by the Committee of Management and the wonderful team here at the IEU. 

I’d also like to thank all the IEU Reps, members of the Committee of Management and federal and interstate colleagues I’ve worked with for their great support over so many years. We all need to support each other to get the outcomes we require for members, and none of us can do it without the network of wisdom, hard work, and friendship that you provided me.

It’s tough to say good-bye after such a long time in a job I’ve loved so much and still love. But I know it’s the right time, and I depart knowing the union is thriving.
 
Thank you all for your support and comradeliness over the years. It has been an honour.  

In unity.