We have finally made it to the end of 2020.
This year began with the bushfire crisis forcing centres to evacuate and with many members at work not knowing how their families and homes were faring in the fires. Our members went above and beyond during this time, both in their workplace and for their community. Once again POVB members showed their strength, courage and commitment to our centres and to each other.
Not long after the bushfire crisis, we were hit with COVID-19. To say that 2020 has been a horrible year is an understatement. The effect this pandemic had on our centres and court systems is something we have never seen in Corrective Services NSW (CSNSW).
Our members went through assaults, riots and a hostage situation. Never have we seen in one year so many disturbances across CSNSW. Yet we have overcome our own anxieties we had with the virus and we got on with the job, all while supporting each other.
Never has this POVB Executive been more proud of the people we represent. We have carried out our jobs not under the pressure of fires and COVID-19 but also with the added stress of the PBCAP reforms.
This year has been an annus horribilis but we are nearly through it and we are stronger for it.
The POVB Executive could not have got through this year without the dedication and commitment from all the Delegates in each sub branch. Being a delegate can impact people’s personal lives and they get very little thanks for it. We thank you all for your efforts; without your commitment we would not have got through this year.
What is evident is that we all work towards the best interests of our centres, courts and CESU locations and of the membership.
We would like to thank everyone for the support shown to the Executive throughout the year; it has assisted us in staying motivated and committed.
From 18 December 2020 to 11 January 2021 CSNSW and the PSA will be shut down and operate on minimal staffing. The Executive will be working in their respective work locations.
For everyone who is working over the Christmas period, stay safe in your workplace. The Executive would like to wish all members and their families a Happy Christmas and New Year, where your days throughout this period are filled with laughter, love and great memories.
We look forward to getting around to all work locations in the New Year and hope that 2021 is a far better year than the one we have just had.