Maintenance workers from Buller Ski Lifts in Victoria will receive skis and snowboards as a part of a unique agreement recently approved by Fair Work Australia.   

The workers, who maintain the 24 ski lifts that operate at Mount Buller during the winter ski season, have seen dramatic improvements since becoming AMWU members in 2002.

Their latest three year agreement provides for a 12.2% wage increase and according to State Organiser Damian King contains an important clause.

“It stipulates that each year the company will provide members with either a set of skis or a snowboard as nominated by each employee.

“It also stipulates the company will supply the members with a set of ski poles, snow goggles and sunglasses,” Mr King said. 

“This equipment is important in enabling the members to maintain the ski lifts and associated gear during the winter snow season.”

For site delegate and 20 year Mt Buller veteran Will McDonald the agreement will usher in a new era for the maintenance department.

“Since the union came on board, there has been a major upturn in pay and conditions. Prior to that we were on a flat hourly rate with very limited conditions. 

“Having the company provide equipment, instead of it coming out of our pockets, is a huge win. It can cost a fortune to purchase snow equipment for work, thousands of dollars each year sometimes,” Mr McDonald said.

“We’re delighted with the work Damian and Wes has done for us. There is only about 14 full timers, but the amount of work they do is unbelievable. This agreement shows that.”