The Railway Man Who Stood For Taree

Tucked away at the end of the Taree Railway Station’s platform is a memorial dedicated to Bernie O’Neill.

Bernard O’Neill was born in Warren. When he met Gloria, his future wife, he was a roustabout working in shearing sheds. Gloria’s father was a railway fettler and suggested to Bernie that he might like to make a career in the railway. Bernie took up this idea and progressed through the railway ranks, working at Nyngan, Werris Creek, Port Kembla and Taree.¹

In the late 1980s the newly elected State Government dealt a heavy blow to the NSW railway system by cutting country passenger services and reducing country rail staff by 8000.²

When this phasing out of staff and services began, Bernie was working at Taree station as a guard. He was also a union representative and became a beacon of hope for many colleagues. The loss of jobs and services would have devastating and long-lasting effects on both individuals and Taree as a town. While Bernie couldn’t stop “progress” he set about creating the best conditions possible for Taree employees. He worked tirelessly in representing staff in departmental negotiations, helping staff to move into salaried positions, and preparing fair rosters for all. He was cherished by the staff.

Bernie, of course did this at great cost to himself and his family. When he became terminally ill and passed away at the age of 59, his workmates and friends paid tribute to him through this memorial. Bernie is remembered as a courageous, affable man with a passion for justice.³

Author: Janine Roberts