Vale Steve Mackey

NTEU is terribly sad to learn of the sudden passing of former Deakin Branch President and NTEU Life Member, Steve Mackey. Steve died of a heart-attack at his Koroit home in July.

Steve is remembered by his NTEU comrades for his principles and tenacity in standing up for staff. 'He threw his heart and soul into representing staff on every occasion he could. Quite often to the ire of vice-chancellors,' said Dr Michael Callaghan, Deakin NTEU Vice President (Academic).

Those who knew him will remember Steve’s sharp intellect, his sense of humour and his distinctive loud laugh! His contributions on the floor of National Council were always entertaining, ensuring to include a joke or an anecdote. He was a fun raconteur.

Steve was also very active in his local community. Moyne Shire Councillors paid tribute to him during their July meeting.

Steve is survived by his wife, Lorraine Mielnik, who has fond memories of his union activism, 'He had a good sense of fairness for people; that if you put in the effort you should get rewarded. He was very vocal in the Union and he was on academic board. I remember standing at the front of the campus on a picket line, he would gather everyone and say "We are going to do this".’ ◆