Congratulations to Kim Bush from Eurobodalla Council for being selected as this years recipient of the Emily Callachor Award. Thank you for advocating for women’s rights and fostering an inclusive workplace.

In March 2022, Kim founded the Women in Local Government Alliance (WILGA) to support women in her Eurobodalla LG community. She has successfully organised 11 networking events and 13 development workshops, covering essential topics from financial literacy to personal well-being. Her efforts have raised over $2,500 for women and children’s charities, including support for those affected by floods in Lismore.

Kim has also facilitated the creation of eight member-led groups, promoting meaningful connections among women. Furthermore, WILGA have conducted winter food drives and improved workplace conditions by introducing a designated breast pump and first aid room for staff.

Through WILGA, Kim has published three newsletters annually, showcasing member achievements and resources for women’s empowerment. She earned the regional/rural ‘Champion of Change’ award in 2022 from the Ministers’ of Local Government, highlighting her impact on promoting equity.

Kim shared:

“I would like to get a little deeper into policy for equity and supporting other issues women face in the workplace but need some more courage and insight to assist me to navigate the next steps which may make others uncomfortable.”

Kim will spend three busy weeks in USU Head Office to experience the diverse work of your union.

Some of the activities planned include:

  1. Spending time with Local Government Officials in the field
    2. Spending time with EUPS Officials in the field
    3. Attending meetings at Trades Hall
    4. Attending State Parliament
    5. Participate in training sessions with the USU trainer
    6. Spend a day with the Manager of Industrial, Rules, Governance and Compliance
    7. Spend a day in the Support Team and Membership
    8. Spend a day with the USU Communications Officer
    9. Attend the NSW Industrial Relations Commission and the Fairwork Commission
    10. Participate in a campaign planning.
    11. Attend a meeting with current and future partners of the USU Women’s Committee
    12. Attend a meeting of the USU Women’s Committee
    13. Assist in organising the USU contribution to International Women’s Day
    14. Attend a meeting of the Unions NSW Women’s Committee
    15. Attend the Annual ALGWA Conference with the USU Women’s Officer
    16. Participate at USU Picnic Day

The program for the Award recipient will be developed to ensure exposure to as many of the varied roles of the Union as possible.