Scab driver runs down picketer

By Geoff Spencer

GEELONG — On April 23, one of the locked-out workers at E.P. Robinson Pty Ltd was run down by a car driven by a scab crossing the picket line.

Steve Baker suffered severe bruising in one leg as a result of this hit and run. The incident occurred in full view of police, who did not respond at all. SRWU assistant general secretary John Morgan told Green Left Weekly that he had warned police previously that such an incident could be expected because of the reckless and dangerous manner in which scabs have been crossing the picket line.

Despite this incident and the length of the dispute, the picket remains in force and good spirits. "The workers here really appreciate the solidarity that has been shown", said Morgan.

A fundraiser organised by Militant on April 21 raised $700. This money was split between the Geelong workers and those at Nestle. The locked-out wool scourers have made contact with fellow locked-out workers at Nestle in Melbourne.

"An injury to one is an injury to all", continued Morgan. "And support for these workers is growing. It's not coming from the leadership of other unions but the rank and file and the local community. They know that this is a fight for democracy."

Donations to the strike fund should be sent to the SRWU, PO Box 428, Ballarat 3353. For information about solidarity actions or organising workplace visits contact (03) 9329 1277 or drop into the picket line at 13 Bridge Street, Newtown, Geelong.

From GLW issue 229