From the Executive Committee
Friends of Fair Go For Pensioners are among those saddened by the passing of David Gragg. He was a member of our current Executive Committee. Before, this served for many years as the delegate of the Victorian Trades Hall Council on our Steering Committee.
Our condolences go out to his family and friends.
David didn’t just appear on the scene. His journey begun when he joined the Federated Ironworkers Association at Titan Nails, s BHP company, at Port Melbourne. He became an active unionist, and this led to his election as an official in the Australian Workers Union in 1991. From 2009 t0 2018, he served as the elected Assistant Secretary of the Australian Trades Hall Council.
David gave a lifetime of service to the union movement, and his efforts for age pensioners were a continuation of this service. He was enthusiastic, a fighter and capable of listening and working well with others, even those who did not share all his views. David operated as part of a team.
Over the years, and even in his retirement, David put special attention into fighting for better workers compensation for all injured at work.
During his time as Trades Halll Council Secretary, he served as the Council’s representative of the Sterring Committee of Fair Go For Pensioners. After his retirement in 2018, he remained active in Fair Go For Pensioners and became an active member of our Executive Committee.
David was known for his keen interest and knowledge of union history.
For instance, he played an important role in the current campaign for a better age pension, taking the issue into the union movement, the Labor Party, and more broadly than this. He felt that serious action was needed to address the cost-of-living crisis and the need for millions of Australians for decent and affordable housing.
Although hr had a private funeral, his wake at Trades Hall in Melbourne attracted a big crowd of unionists, politicians, and others. The turnout was a testimony to the high regard for him.
David will be seriously missed by all who knew him. He will no be forgotten.
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