A record number of apprentices have signed up to the AMWU in Queensland and the Northern Territory so far this year.

One of the new additions is fourth year apprentice boilermaker, Darren Gane.

He along with 28 other apprentices work at Rio Tinto’s remote Alcan Gove Alumina Refinery in Nhulunbuy.

“I didn’t really know much about the union. My father had been a member for a long time.  But I didn’t give it much thought until we started having issues with our employer.

“Us apprentices were getting paid below the national award. We weren’t receiving sufficient trade training. The boys were all pretty down,” said Mr Gane.

Workplace membership has since grown to around eighty percent density.

The AMWU addressed the issues with management resulting in significant changes to conditions.

In the first week of November, the QLD/NT branch clocked up its 1001st apprentice, a figure that’s delighted NT Organiser Brian Wilkins.

“This is a great result. We’ve worked really hard get the message out that apprentices are much better off being in the union.”

Darren Gane credits Bryan Wilkins and workplace delegate Brian Russell with the growth.

“Both the Brians have been really supportive. If we’ve ever got any questions or problems we know where to go. I’d say they’ve empowered the lot of us.”

In April this year he attended the Queensland/Northern Territory Apprentice Conference in Brisbane, and has taken on the role of apprentice delegate.

It’s a badge he wears with pride.

“Being a delegate has been great. I’ve gained lots of new skills. I’ve learnt how to negotiate with management, how to lead the other members.

“I’m really proud to be a part of it.”