United Voice News
Long term School Cleaner and LHMU member, Margaret Lewis reminisces about her working life at Happy Valley State School in Mt Isa and as a committed union member over the past 30 years.
This is Margaret’s story, in her own words:
On the 29th March 1979, I started work at Happy Valley State School in Mt Isa. I never dreamed I would still be here 30 years later! I also joined the cleaners union on this day, and encourage all other cleaners who start at the school to join their union. I have had 30 years continuous membership of the union. I had a great union mentor in Norma Taylor, who received her union life membership in 1991.
I remember my first day like it was yesterday. I wore a dark blue uniform and even had an apron, as I had worked in hospitals before and we had to wear little white starched aprons. Needless to say I didn’t need them at school. We used to wear thongs to work and nearly always kicked them off to hose. Even the kids would go barefoot to school. What a big no-no these days! Everyone has to wear shoes and our dress is much more casual, which is good in our climate.
I started with 5 hours per day, 8.00am – 9.00am and 2.00pm – 6.00pm. I had one building with 6-7 rooms and some hosing. It was all polished tiles, which I had to strip and polish three times a year during holidays. A couple of years later, carpet was put in which made work a lot easier. Also, lights were put in each room. That’s right! We never had lights in the building!
I remember when the secretary got her first electric typewriter; she was so excited…my, how times have changed. Computers everywhere, and we recently got refrigerated air conditioning throughout the school.
We used to have seven cleaners at the school, but now only have three to do the same work. I’ve seen many, many staff and students pass through the school. Some of the past students now have their own children going to this school.
Even with all the changes over the years, I still love my job. Happy Valley School is like a second home to me. When I sit down and think about it, yes, 30 years is a long time to be in the same job at the same place. It just doesn’t feel like it though, so I guess that means I enjoy my work! I have no intention of leaving yet, and who knows, God willing, I may be here another 30 years! Anything is possible.
Margaret Lewis
School Cleaner
Happy Valley State School (Mt Isa)
