A Message from Josh Willie

A message from
Labor Leader Josh Willie.

Labor understands that each member brings a perspective formed by their life experiences. What issues most is the choice to face up and assist enhance these circumstances for others.

That’s why it felt essential to share a private story, about how a major faculty trainer from Launceston got here to steer the Tasmanian Labor Party.

This week marked a return to the place all of it started: Cataract Gorge pool in Launceston. Just down the street from my childhood house and close to my grandparents’ home, it is the place my late brother Jonathan and I spent numerous days. We have been inseparable – swimming, exploring and spending time collectively in a spot that meant every thing to us.

Jonathan handed away at simply 13, by misadventure. I attempted to avoid wasting him utilizing CPR directions from my faculty diary and spent two weeks by his bedside in Melbourne. It was there the place we mentioned goodbye.

This story isn’t shared for sympathy however as a result of it taught me how valuable life is and the way energy is present in dealing with hardship collectively. It’s additionally a reminder of why we mustn’t ever wait to make a distinction.

My dad and mom, each academics, believed in arduous work and equity – values they lived day by day. Following of their footsteps, I grew to become a trainer too and witnessed firsthand how training can remodel lives.

On my first day as Leader, once I returned to Launceston, I met individuals who remembered being taught by my dad and mom. Each dialog was a robust reminder of how communities are constructed by shared experiences.

Today, too many Tasmanian households are doing it robust. Parents are compelled to decide on between work and childcare. Young individuals lack alternatives. Families are one paycheck away from disaster. Our well being system is beneath pressure and colleges are lacking out on the help they deserve.

These challenges have an effect on actual individuals – the sort I grew up with and the kids I taught.

Tasmania is resilient. It’s a spot the place academics form futures and native companies like Glasgow Engineering, run by my household for 4 generations, create good jobs and robust communities.

But resilience wants hope. Hope that issues can change. Hope that a greater future is feasible. Jonathan’s story jogs my memory day by day why standing collectively issues and why we will’t afford to attend.

Learning shapes our society. Whether you are a youngster discovering the world or an grownup studying one thing new. Whether you are a pupil within the classroom or an individual constructing expertise on the job. Whether you are a educated skilled or a neighbour sharing their expertise.

Learning is an important a part of delivering progressive change and as a trainer I learnt which you could’t simply inform individuals what they want. You need to pay attention, perceive, and meet them the place they’re.

That’s the type of chief I shall be.

Together, we’ll construct a Tasmania that provides actual alternative, equity and hope for everybody.

In solidarity,

Josh Willie

Tasmanian Labor Leader