Don's in Altona are closing this year. The representatives of the workers from Don who have been on the Committee of Management have been committed to the AMIEU for more than 25 years.

The workers in Don have had good conditions because they have seen the necessity to stick together and stand up for their rights.

On 20 May 2011 the union recognised that the commitment of Joe Marmara and Michael Oravec to the AMIEU.

Michael Oravec had been Vice President of the Victorian Branch of the AMIEU since 2001. On 8 December 2011 he sent a resignation. Read his message here.

9 December 2011 the AMIEU held a Christmas lunch following the Committee of Management meeting.

At this celebration a number of members were presented with Certificates of Recognition by Graham Bird, Secretary, who is retiring at the end of 2011.

Recognised for 50 years (or more)

Wally Curran joined the AMIEU in 1954 and was Assistant Secretary for 16 years and Secretary from 1973 to 1997.

Recognised for 45 years (or more)

Tony James joined in 1965

William Collins joined in 1966

Recognised for 40 years (or more)

Joe Camilleri joined in 1966

Colin Drew joined in 1967

Greg Leight, current President, joined in 1970

Vincent Peters joined in 1970

Recognised for 25 years or more and serving as elected Officers in the 21st Century (and earlier)

Graham Bird

Jim Brittain

Laurie Burley

Paul Conway

Paul Davey

Collin Ross