CFMEU: Ark Tribe honoured

Dave Noonan & Martin O'Malley present
Ark Tribe with the Awards and medal

Ark Tribe has been awarded honorary life membership of the CFMEU SA Branch and presented with a Robert Tressell Award for his service to working people and courageous stand in support of workplace safety against the anti-union ABCC.

The Awards were presented to Ark by the CFMEU at the March national executive meeting in Brisbane.

“Ark Tribe is a real hero in the eyes of construction workers and the working class of Australia,” said CFMEU SA Secretary Martin O’Malley. “He didn't ask for awards; he just stood up for what he believed in and as a result will be forever recognised, not just by construction workers but by the working class.

“The CFMEU is proud to count him among our members. CFMEU SA awards Ark with Life Membership of the Union in recognition and respect for the stance he took against the ABCC’s coercive powers.

"Life membership of the Union gives Ark all the benefits of full membership at no cost and is recognised right round the country."

As well as a plaque, Ark was presented with the SA Branch Life Membership Medal to mark the honour.

Presenting the Robert Tressell Award, CFMEU Construction National Secretary, Dave Noonan said: “Ark’s principled stand for safety and refusal to dob in his mates, despite the threat of six months’ jail, drew admiration around the world.

“Trade unionists from Canada, the US, Europe, South America and the Indian sub-continent sent messages of support, during Ark Tribe’s two year ordeal waiting for the court hearings of his case.