Vale Paul Cousins,
Or the Wookie as affectionately known to those of us close.
It is with much sadness I am to advise members of the ALAEA of the passing of former President Paul Cousins, whose life has been taken far too soon.
Paul was only 50 years of age, born December 1967 and leaving us late on 4th May 2018. (Star Wars day, fittingly -) Paul will be sorely missed by his partner Jackie and their children Trent and Rhys.
Paul served the members of the Association well since being elected as a Qantas Councilor in June 2002.
After four short years and with a common passion from close fellow executives and many others outside the executive in 2006 to better the Association, Paul nominated and was duly elected President and his team won 15 out of 16 positions contested – a major achievement in Australia’s union movement at the time.
Working tirelessly and with much sacrifice to his family under his stewardship adversaries became allies, individuals became united and battles became wins.
Paul helped shape this ragged bunch of misfits on the executive, largely unknown to each other and with only a common purpose of best representing the Association Members desires and giving them confidence and direction.
The Association has been strong, productive and progressive under his leadership. The Legacy Paul leaves behind here in Australia and overseas lays a solid foundation into the future for the ALAEA and it members to feel secure and well represented.
May the force be with you Wookie.
In Solidarity
Federal President
Michael Weitenberg