It is with sadness that we learn of the passing of Doug Irwin last Saturday, following a long battle with illness. Doug was aged 59.
Doug was a full time officer of the CEPU NSW Postal and Telecommunications Branch until his early retirement in July 1999.
Doug’s primary employment with Australia Post was at a Postal Clerk level that ultimately led to a career in representing the interests of Australia Post retail members, firstly with the Union of Postal Clerks and Telegraphists and then subsequently with the CEPU following one of many historic amalgamations of postal Unions occurring in the 1990s.
Doug will be remembered for passionately representing postal workers at all levels throughout New South Wales and the ACT in particular, when pursuing matters affecting retail members.
Every Australia Post retail member working today currently enjoys workplace conditions gained by the CEPU in direct association with Doug Irwin.
Doug was a long standing member of the Australian Labor Party and also served as Secretary of the Doonside Branch of the ALP.
Branch Secretary Jim Metcher said, “it was a pleasure and experience working along side Doug as a Union officer and friend, where he was held in high regard throughout both the Union membership and Australia Post management past and present.
“Furthermore, Doug was certainly a unique and colourful character, being well known for his many acronyms and at times one needed access to a translator to just unscramble his messages.
“Everyone warmly remembers Doug’s sharp wit – and his talent for creating nicknames. You knew you made it to Doug’s Xmas list once he created a nickname for you” said Jim.
Our condolences are with the Irwin family and their friends during this difficult time of grievance for a man who demonstrated courage in more ways than one that touched the working lives of thousands of Australia Post workers throughout NSW and the ACT.
The following represents the information for the farewell service for Doug;
When: 11am Friday 14 May
Where: Beresfield Crematorium
Anderson Drive
BERESFIELD
Yours faithfully,
JIM METCHER
BRANCH SECRETARY
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