Statement attributed to Brad Gandy, Secretary, Australian Workers’ Union WA regarding calls for the Fremantle Dockers to dump Woodside as major sponsor:
The transition to net zero is incredibly important, but everyone aside from extremists understand that transition can’t happen overnight. Far from being climate villains, gas workers are integral to our clean energy transition by providing an energy source that can shore up renewables.
The union (AWU) does not always agree with the management practices of Woodside, but we proudly represent their workforce who work hard supporting WA’s manufacturing industries, businesses, and households.
As a member and supporter of Fremantle for over 20 years myself, I don’t think it is fair to demean the long hours and hard work of the men and women working for Woodside put into powering Optus Stadium, the Cockburn Arc, Lane Group Stadium, and other football grounds and facilities.
Put your feet in the safety boots of Woodside workers who work hard every day to keep our lights on. I want people to think about how it makes these workers feel when their important efforts are demonised.