Merryl Freemantle
There are some new faces at ANMF (Vic Branch), existing staff in new roles and sadly, departures for some staff members.
Long-term member assistance officer Merryl Freemantle is retiring in July after an extraordinary contribution of 31 years’ service to the ANMF (Vic Branch). Known to staff as ‘The Oracle’ for her extensive ANMF knowledge, Merryl will be much missed for her guidance to staff and information imparted to thousands of members.
The ANMF (Vic Branch) thanks Catherine Hutchings who retired after 27 years’ commitment to members as a Job Rep, Branch Councillor, organiser and finally, professional officer. Former organiser Sam Casey has replaced Catherine.
After more than 10 years’ service to the Branch, Christine Steiner is also hanging up her hat as industrial relations organiser for the Horsham region in July. Christine has been a dedicated representative of members in the Horsham region and previously, in the Bendigo region.
Quinn McGuinness is returning from the Central Gippsland/Latrobe/Bairnsdale region to the Melbourne headquarters as a relieving industrial relations organiser, replacing Claire Whitwam, who has returned to clinical practice after almost 10 years of highly effective member representation.
Cate Larkins has been permanently appointed as an industrial officer, replacing Elizabeth McGrath, who continues a union career at the Electrical Trades Union. Cate has been a national industrial and legal officer, and industrial, legal and welfare officer at the CFMMEU and The Australian Federation of Air Pilots, respectively.
Alison Ross, ANMF Bullying and Harassment Officer is currently in an acting Industrial role covering Rini Krouskos’s parental leave
Former organiser Rachel Halse has been appointed as a professional officer, replacing Lynne West who made a significant contribution to the Branch over nearly 10 years.
Jenna Nelson has been appointed as an industrial relations organiser for 12 months, replacing Daphne Lagasca.
Sally Higgs will be covering for Alison Kairns as industrial relations organiser while Alison takes extended leave until January 2022. Following that time Sally will be the industrial relations permanent organiser for the Horsham region.
Belle Connor, an experienced critical care/ED nurse and active ANMF Job Rep has commenced with the Branch taking on Sam Casey’s previous Monash patch.
The Branch is currently recruiting for a number of positions.
