Wharfies mourn Comrade Freddie

MARITIME Union national secretary Paddy Crumlin has paid tribute to veteran seafarer and activist Fred Krausert who passed away recently.

Mr Krausert was described as a seafarer, trade unionist, activist and stalwart of the Seamen’s Union of Australia (SUA) and MUA for more than half a century.

“Fred was a long-term seafarer who sailed on many vessels and was a leading rank-and-file activist in the union’s campaign for the protection of Australian shipping, including as a part of the rank-and-file leadership that took the shipping campaign throughout the nation, including to agricultural shows and other industry events,” Mr Crumlin wrote in a social media post.

Mr Krausert was said to have been an energetic organiser of stalls and displays at forums such as the Royal Easter Show in Sydney.

“As well as a life member of the Newcastle Branch, Fred was a respected and beloved figure within the MUA nationally and a long-time activist and leader of the union’s veterans,” Mr Crumlin wrote.

“A towering figure in the Hunter region, Freddie was a formidable political campaigner, active in virtually every state and federal election campaign as an advocate for his comrades, his industry and his class.”

According to the MUA, Mr Krausert was recognised by union officials, his shipmates, fellow union members and the maritime community as “a lifelong fighter and community activist”.

“A committed internationalist, Fred participated in and led many international solidarity activities. He asked for nothing and gave everything to our union and members,” Mr Crumlin wrote.

“He was widely respected and loved as a result. On behalf of the MUA, its officers, members and staff, we extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to [wife] Carol and his family in the hope that it may ease their grief at this tough and demanding time.

“Vale Freddie, our dear comrade and friend, now at rest after a long, important and hugely valued journey.”