I was saddened to learn of the death on Saturday of Maurie Rudd, Secretary
of the Newcastle and Northern Regions Branch of the Australian Workers'
Union.
His death followed a long and courageous battle against cancer during
which he continued his work as a trade union leader with both cheerfulness
and skill.
He was a devoted family man who placed the welfare of his children
above everything else.
The union movement in the Hunter Valley has lost a fine leader. I
got to know Maurie well after he led a delegation of shop floor steel
delegates to see me last year following the announcement of the BHP
steelworks closure in Newcastle.
I well remember his good humour and strength of spirit when I visited
him in the John Hunter Hospital last July.
To his children, Sharon and Nathan, and to his brothers and sisters,
I extend my sympathy and that of my government.