CRUMA report
Ron Denham reported that at the February meeting of the Combined Retired Union Members Association, Sydney’s Sirius building and the heritage bridge at Windsor were highlighted for preservation. Green bans are still in place for the Sirius building. The CFMEU is also working to save the Windsor Bridge.
Janine Kitson spoke about the proposal to raise the Warragamba Dam wall by 14 metres. This proposal is touted as a flood mitigation measure rather than increasing the dam’s storage. If the proposal is approved, there will be significant habitat damage upstream of the dam.
Sydney Heritage Fleet
At the March meeting of the RTA, Bruce Marich addressed members about the Sydney Heritage Fleet. The organisation was founded in 1965 and its prime aim was to preserve our marine heritage. The fleet’s first base was at Goat Island and purchased the Lady Hopetoun in 1966. The fleet now consists of seven ships but there are also 60 smaller boats in the collection.
Bruce made special mention of the James Craig, Sydney’s only tall ship, and her restoration to full sailing condition which took nearly 40 years.
International Women’s Day
Allan West moved that the association recognise International Women’s Day by honouring the women in our lives, those who have played crucial roles in the union movement and the women who have taught in our schools. The motion was carried unanimously and copies sent to both the Prime Minister and the Premier of NSW.
Upcoming events
Our next two meetings will be held at Federation House on Friday, 10 May, and Friday, 14 June. Both meetings commence with lunch at noon, followed by a guest speaker at 12.45pm and conclude with a general meeting starting at 2pm.
An organised tour of the Norman Lindsay Gallery and Museum at Faulconbridge will be held on Wednesday 24 April and an excursion to the Prince Henry Nursing and Medical Museum at Little Bay is scheduled for Wednesday, 22 May.
The Club York luncheons are scheduled for Wednesday, 15 May, and Wednesday, 19 June. Members should meet at noon for both events.
Paul Regan, Administrative Secretary, NSW Retired Teachers Association