We’re United For QLD

Our candidates are workplace delegates, union activists, and everyday members who share one thing in common: a commitment to building a stronger union for you.

Logan & Bayside

These are the delegates, members and activists who are standing up for UWU members across Logan & Bayside. They come from your workplaces and your industries. They know the challenges you face because they face them too.

They're ready to fight for a union that wins for you, picks up the phone when you need help, and puts more money in your pocket.

Meet Your Team

Endorse Our Candidates

Ferhat Puris

Paramedic | Logan & Bayside

I work as an Advanced Care Paramedic with Queensland Ambulance Service and serve as a Workplace Delegate and State Councillor. I joined the union because I know the value of collectivism and standing together against exploitation. I am running to bring the voice of frontline workers to the union leadership team. I support United For You because they take a pragmatic approach, knowing when to have important conversations and when to be forceful.
I want to bring the voice of frontline workers to the union leadership team. When a boss was discriminating against casual workers, I raised the issue and the union won back their rights. Only by working hand in hand with leadership can we achieve real results. I want to make sure all workers get their fair share of compensation and are respected at work.

Tatiana Urlich

Aviation Protection Officer | Logan & Bayside

I'm an Aviation Protection Officer at Brisbane Airport and I've been a UWU member for 5 years. I joined the union because I come from a military background where we are trained to have each other's backs. We are taught our Acts and legislation, and we rely on strong leadership to provide support and advocacy when it matters. In civilian life, the equivalent of that support and advocacy is a United Workers Union. Being a union member means strength in unity and never standing alone. Outside of work, I love my husband, dogs, and our camper van.
We secured strong pay rises that finally reflected the reality of our work as frontline aviation security, stopping bombs, guns and knives. We are not "just customer service." I'm standing to keep UWU strong, to protect our rights, strengthen our leadership, and fight for outcomes that matter to members. I want to achieve transparency for all members and ensure that decisions are made openly and in their best interests. I value camaraderie, integrity, and respect. I'm backing United For You because I believe it offers the clearest path to strengthening the integrity, transparency, and unity of our union.

John Carmody

Forklift Operator | Logan & Bayside

I'm a forklift operator at George Weston Foods in Capalaba and I've been a UWU member for 15 years. I'm a site delegate in the Food and Beverage industry. I first joined the union because I felt I needed the support in the workplace and someone to back me up.
I'm standing as a convention delegate because I believe all members should have a voice, and I want to be that voice for them. I want to make sure our union continues its strong work and values into the future. I want to achieve a union that works together towards everyone's goals as a fully united workers union.

Mel Burns

Paramedic | Logan & Bayside

I'm a Paramedic at QAS Birkdale and I've been a UWU member for 21 years. I serve as a station delegate, HSR, State Councillor, and bargaining representative. I joined the union because I believe in fairness and wanted to play an active role in creating it in my workplace. I knew that by standing together, we could ensure everyone is treated with respect and receives what they are entitled to. Being a union member means being part of a collective voice fighting for fairness and respect at work. There is real power in working together. Outside of work, my husband, son and I love packing up and travelling around the country whenever we can. As paramedics, we truly value our downtime and make the most of time with family and friends.
Through our work with the union at QAS, we've achieved the introduction of more inclusive workplace practices for employees with caring responsibilities and those from diverse backgrounds. Over the past six years, I've served on multiple bargaining committees for EBAs and I'm proud of the positive outcomes we've delivered for ambulance members. I'm standing because I want to help steer our union in a positive direction, one that is well-resourced, underpinned by strong governance, and committed to acting with integrity. I want members to receive responsive, effective support when they are at their most vulnerable. I'm backing United For You because I've seen the significant change in our union over recent years, and I want to support a team with a proven track record of restoring stability, strengthening governance, and delivering strong wins for members.

Rosalie Kochanek

Cleaner | Logan & Bayside

I'm a cleaner at Logan Hyperdome and I've been a UWU member across two stints, from 2005 to 2016 and again from 2021 to now. I also serve as a worksite CAF rep. When I first started working, I was unable to speak for myself. Being part of the union empowered me to stand up not only for myself, but for my fellow members too. Being a union member means security, support, and a stronger workplace. Outside of work, I love gardening and spending time with family.
For a long time, cleaners were left behind and neglected. We recently won an EBA that would not have been possible without the union's backing. We won a 6% above-award increase, giving us the ability to pay our bills and still have something left over for family. I have integrity and I'm willing to fight for members. I'm standing to ensure a secure future for our union. I'm backing United For You because I want a union that is viable for the future, not just for now.

Kerri Upton

Teacher Aide | Logan & Bayside

I'm a Teacher Aide at Stretton State College and I've been a UWU member for 20 years. I'm a workplace delegate. I joined the union to become part of a collective that advocates for fair and honest representation in the workplace. Being a union member means being part of a group that is passionate about workers' rights and standing up for each other. Outside of work, I love spending time in the garden, it's my happy place. Time with friends and my sons is a priority, and my dog is never far from my side.
UWU makes a difference every day. We all know we are supported and protected if the need arises. I'm standing because I want a voice in decisions, I want to vote on policies and leadership roles that shape our direction, and I want to build connections with like-minded people who are dedicated to shaping the future. I do not back down and I will always speak my truth.

Rhys Palmer-Whittaker

Teacher Aide | Logan & Bayside

I'm a Teacher Aide at Western Suburbs State Special School and I've been a UWU member for 10 years. I serve as a delegate, RCC member, Industry Committee member, and was part of the EBA 2025 team. My mother was a QTU rep for as long as I could understand what that was, and from the moment I figured out how the world worked, I saw the value of a union. Being a union member means being part of something bigger, helping my colleagues, and knowing that the union has my back while I have its back. Outside of work, I live with my fiance, housemates and our squad of cats. I enjoy video games, tabletop roleplaying games, wargaming, reading, weightlifting, and learning.
The moments that matter most are when colleagues come to me for advice and support, when I sit in on meetings so people know they're not alone, and when I see my workmates learn to say "No, that's not okay, these are my rights." I'm standing because I want my voice to be heard and I want a say in how the union moves forward. Along with my colleagues, I want to steer the union toward a stronger, more secure and effective future, and remind employers through worker solidarity that we have a voice and we will be heard. I'm backing United For You because it aligns with my beliefs, supports the right path forward, and is the foundation for developing UWU.

Suzii Zahner

Teacher Aide | School Cleaner | Logan & Bayside

I joined the union to make sure I had a support network both industrially and legally, and to stand in solidarity when fighting for safer conditions, pay and respect. Union means unity to me. It means standing together and never leaving anyone behind. One of my favourite childhood memories is riding on the ETU float at Labour Day or marching beside my dad in an oversized ETU shirt. My father taught me to always stand up for what's right, speak up for those who aren't being heard, and never compromise your safety or integrity for money.
The Member Rights team supported me in a management meeting. They talked me through what to do before, during and after the meeting, and having their support gave me the confidence to speak without getting flustered. The meeting ended in my favour. Our UWU organiser also helped our workplace appoint an HSR. I've never been a person to sit back and whinge from the recliner. I want to be part of a unified team that will listen, empower and support its members. I want a stronger support network for members and delegates and increased membership for better bargaining power. I'm backing United For You because I believe it's the best way for UWU to move forward with integrity.

Mitchell Wood

Aged Care Worker | Logan & Bayside

I first joined the union because unions help workers get what workers deserve. Being a union member means I have the support of people when I need help in the workplace. Outside of work, I have one brother, two dogs, love the Brisbane Broncos, and enjoy going to the footy and having a good time.
The union fought hard and won aged care support workers a pay rise, and that's the moment the union made the biggest difference for me and my workmates. I'm standing because I believe aged care support workers deserve a voice in the room. I want to see more wins for the aged care sector. I'm determined to see aged care workers get a voice.

Catherine Gellatly

Teacher Aide | Logan & Bayside

I've been a UWU member for 20 years and I work as a teacher aide at Logan City Special School in the education industry. I'm a delegate at my workplace. I first joined the union for safety in numbers and better bargaining power. Being a union member means fellowship, protection, social justice, and equity. Outside of work, my family and friends are my life. I enjoy the rainforest, I'm a big fan of wildlife, reading, music, and being creative. I want members to know that I don't suffer the wilfully ignorant easily.
We have had some great reps over the years who have listened to our concerns and fought hard for better working conditions. I think I have the best interests of my colleagues at heart and have a strong sense of social justice. That's why I'm standing for election as a convention delegate. I want to achieve a continued voice of reason in places where my colleagues often feel overlooked. I'm supporting United For You because I've received so much support in my delegate role over the years. I stepped into being a delegate 5 years ago and now feel ready to take a further step. It's time to give back.

Paula Wheatley

Aged Care Worker | Logan & Bayside

I joined the union and became a delegate because my workplace didn't have one for 7 years. The members and staff needed someone to stand up to the provider. Being a member of the union makes me proud, standing up for my rights and other workers' rights. I never give up on what I believe in.
We’ve made real progress in Aged Care but there’s still more to do. United For You has a plan to deliver for the sector and i’m backing them!

Ainura Borbuera

Aged Care Worker | Logan & Bayside

I'm an Assistant in Nursing at Opal Health and I'm a workplace delegate. I joined the union because I was going through hardship at a previous workplace. I felt misled and that my working rights were being violated. I needed protection and guidance. Being a union member means being part of something bigger, having a voice, seeking justice, making a difference at work, and being heard. Outside of work, I'm a wife and mother of two children. My faith is a big part of my life and gives me strength. I'm grateful for my church community and the friendships I have there. In my free time, I enjoy long walks, swimming, and playing board games with my family and friends.
I felt very vulnerable at my previous workplace because I am on a temporary visa. The company took advantage of that situation. The union helped me see things clearly, answered my questions, supported me with my visa situation, and helped me understand my rights as a worker in Australia. They gave me the confidence to stand up for myself. I'm standing because I want to help others, especially workers who face the same difficulties I experienced. I want to help create a safe working environment where every member feels protected and respected, where workers are treated with dignity, and where no one feels vulnerable or taken advantage of, especially those on temporary visas. I act with integrity, fairness, and compassion. I'm backing United For You because I believe in unity and collective strength. When we stand together, workers are stronger and better protected.

Amanda Kuhn

Advanced Care Paramedic | Logan & Bayside

I'm an Advanced Care Paramedic at the Queensland Ambulance Service in Coomera and I've been a UWU member for 12 years. I serve as a delegate and State Councillor. I'm a unionist and working for a government organisation, it just made good sense to join. I believe in collective strength and looking out for one another. Being a union member is something I'm proud of. I've seen the positive changes our union makes, not just for me, but for all my colleagues. It gives me a strong sense of protection and support. Outside of work, I'm a married mum of two, with my youngest in her final year of high school. We also have two cuddly dogs. I love travelling, attending sporting events, exercising, and reading. I also umpire AFL and serve as a Women and Girls Liaison, supporting and encouraging females in sport.
When I was fairly new to QAS, our station was experiencing significant bullying from our direct manager. Four of us decided enough was enough. Even though I was the only union member among the group, the union stepped up and supported everyone. They made sure I was safe at work and protected my future in a career I care deeply about. I'm standing because I want to ensure my colleagues and I continue to have our voices heard. I want to advocate for safe workplaces, strong representation, and clear communication between members and leadership. I want to help build a union culture where every member feels valued, protected, and proud to belong. I'm backing United For You because I believe in strong, united leadership that puts members first, and I want to be part of a team that prioritises fairness, transparency, and real support for all workers.

Jenniata Metekingi

Teacher Aide | Logan & Bayside

I've worked as a Teacher Aide in education for 19 years, most of that time supporting students in special education and working alongside dedicated staff in our schools. I'm an active union member and serve on my school's Local Consultative Committee, where I help raise workplace issues and contribute to discussions that affect staff and working conditions. I also take part in UWU Education online forums where members share information, discuss challenges and support one another. Outside the workplace, I've been involved in political campaigning that supports public sector workers and advocates for better wages and fairer outcomes for education staff. Having recently turned 50, I bring both life experience and a strong sense of community. I'm a proud mother of three grown sons and grandmother to three mokos who inspire me every day.
I believe unions are strongest when members stay engaged, speak up about workplace issues, and stand together to improve conditions for everyone. Staying connected with other members helps ensure people feel informed, supported and able to raise concerns. I would be proud to take the next step and represent the wider Education membership. I’m backing United For You because they have a record for delivering for Teacher Aides and School Cleaners.

Linda Revill

UWU Coordinator Property Services | Logan & Bayside

I've given 27 years to this union and it is part of me. I joined when I started working as a Teacher Aide on $8 an hour with no holiday pay and no sick leave. I became a workplace delegate because I wanted to be part of improving those conditions. A staunch unionist once said to me, "When all else fails, the union is there for you." That's stuck with me ever since. We help people during the worst of times and celebrate with them when we win. I started in the Education team organising for Teacher Aides and school cleaners, then spent over 10 years on the Big Steps campaign, organised in aged care and casinos, and now work for contract cleaners and security members. Outside of work, I have two daughters and a husband. I love to read, crochet, watch Netflix, and I have an absolute passion for op shopping.
I am proud of what UWU has achieved, especially for ECEC and aged care workers through big, national campaigns that delivered big wins. I want to be part of a team that has experience, integrity, and puts members before everything else. I want our union doing what we do best: winning for members. United For You is a ticket of people with the experience to help our union face the challenges of developing technology and the rise of right-wing ideology. It's a ticket of true integrity and dedication to building a strong, member-led union.

Casey Whelan

UWU Lead Organiser Food & Beverage | Logan & Bayside

I joined the union when I first started working in 2000 and moved to the NUW in 2013 when I wasn't happy with the direction of the union I was in. I jumped into a delegate role almost straight away because the union was new to my site. I've been a UWU member for 14 years and now serve as the QLD State Lead Organiser and sit on the WHS Industry Standing Committee. Being a union member means standing up to what is not right in the workplace. It means making sure conditions and policies are upheld and that fairness and equity are non-negotiable.
One of the most fulfilling moments is when you win backpay for members who have been deprived of a condition that affected their take-home wage. Seeing the satisfaction on a member's face when that money is returned is what keeps you in the fight when things get tough. I'm standing because I want to see our great union prosper into the future. I want members to feel supported in their workplace first and foremost. Integrity is the most important thing I bring to the table. I'm backing United For You because they have a clear and detailed plan for the future with transparency.

Stand with us. Endorse United For You in Queensland.

Our candidates are ready to work for you. Now we need you standing with us.

By endorsing United For You, you're showing your support for a union that delivers real results. Higher wages. Better conditions. Support when you need it. No fee increases.

This is your union. Back the team that's backing you.

Add your name to endorse United For You in Queensland.