August 29, 2024
Mineworker and NSWMWA member, Nathan Fell is running for Broken Hill Council.
We caught up with Nathan and the Broken Hill team to talk about their personal connections to our industry living in mining heartland, and what they’re hearing on the campaign trail!
Q. Nathan, can you tell us a bit more about your connection to the mining and energy industry and a bit about the rest of the team?
A. I work in the mining industry and have deep ties to Broken Hill. My dad also worked in mining-related fields for over 15 years. I began my career in the mining industry as labour hire, building the current separation plant at CBH Resources. I have also worked as a safety adviser, in the process engineering space, and in laboratory technician roles. I am currently the Quality Laboratory Lead at the MSP Labatory. I’m passionate about ensuring the physical and mental well-being of workers and I am a proud member of the New South Wales Mineworkers’ Alliance (NSWMWA).
Our lead candidate and Broken Hill mayoral candidate is Darriea Turley AM. Darriea understands mining communities, being the daughter of a staunch trade unionist father who held several positions with the Australian Workers Union (AWU), and through her husband who was a local underground coal miner for over 43 years. She is currently the President of Local Government NSW (LGNSW), is a local Councillor for Broken Hill and is our former Mayor. Darriea was born in Broken Hill and has lived here all her life. She has worked in healthcare for over 40 years. Darriea is a life member of the Health Service Union (HSU). Darriea will also be hosting the Broken Hill Miner’s Memorial on October 8 and says that all are welcome to join the service if they wish.
Ashley Byrne has worked in the mining industry for over 20 years. He also serves as a retained fire fighter. Ashley’s connection to unions runs deep and he has seen firsthand the vital role unions play in protecting our rights, ensuring safety, and fostering solidarity among workers. Ashley says that unions have always been the backbone of our community, advocating for fair conditions and standing up for those who face risks and challenges every day. Ashley is a proud member of the Fire Brigade Employees’ Union (FBEU).
Blake Edgecombe is a Broken Hill local. Blake’s great grandfather was a local miner for decades and was a staunch union member. Blake works for the local health service and is a member and volunteer of the St John Ambulance NSW. Blake’s commitment to the Broken Hill has also been recognised by the local community, when he won the Australia Day citizenship award for his service. Blake is currently studying to become a lawyer. Blake says that many of his friends work in the mining and energy industries, and our industry is a vibrant career with many young Broken Hill residents pursuing a career in it. Blake is a proud member of the Health Services Union (HSU).
Richard Shoebridge is a registered nurse and a CNC (Clinical Nurse Consultant). Richard has found a strong sense of community in Broken Hill, and he has dedicated his career to regional health care. Richard is also active in the community arts scene. Richard’s goal is to improve the quality of life for all residents in Broken Hill. Richard believes that we should keep mining jobs local and thriving. He is a proud member of the Nurses and Midwifery Association (NSWNMA).
Q. What does the Broken Hill Labor team stand for?
A. The Broken Hill Labor team stands for inclusion and fair opportunity, and we want to help build a stronger and more vibrant community for all. We want to make Broken Hill is the best city that it can be for those that currently live here and for those who will move here in the future.
Our priorities include better childcare and supporting local mining jobs. But supporting local mining jobs doesn’t just mean making sure they exist. It’s also about doing what we can to keep those jobs local. Locals working in our mines also means that workers will spend their money in town at our local shops, our local real estate agents, our local pubs and more, and it will make Broken Hill a more vibrant place to live.
Q. Why is mining such an important part of the Broken Hill community from your perspective and how will you continue to support it?
A. Broken Hill wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for mining. In fact, mining at one point was the largest employer in town.
There are still many opportunities in the mining industry in Broken Hill. Our lead candidate, Darriea attended the launch event of the New South Wales Mineworkers’ Alliance (NSWMWA) right here in Broken Hill earlier this year.
As hard rock mining as an industry grows to produce critical minerals for the future, we support the NSWMWA which is committed to fighting for well-paid secure jobs, safe worksites and strong communities, particularly in Broken Hill which is going to grow as a critical minerals mining hub. That’s also why it was so important for me to join the Alliance when it was launched.
The Broken Hill Labor team will fight for a stable and secure future of mining for our community because we understand how important it is to our community.
Q. Lastly, where is your favourite local coffee pit stop while on the campaign trail?
A. We love many coffee shops around Broken Hill, however, if we must choose one, we’d go Soul café in Argent Street near the Astra Hotel and Spargo’s Pizza.