MELBOURNE        23 November 1915        Price1d.
John Curtin Resigns.
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Comrades, -   Having terminated my association with the Union as its Gen. Secretary, I wish, more than words can ever convey, to ask your acceptance of my deep gratitude for the loyal co-operation and unswerving confidence received at your hands since March 1, 1911. Whatever has been done in those four and three-quarter years would have been impossible were it not for your great heart and the wonderful unity of purpose which has been its expression.

And, though I say it myself, much has indeed been done: not alone in Victoria, but in all the States, the Union is now far better equipped - and that, surely is our testing gauge - for the task of economic organisation. Apart altogether from the establishing basic minimums, our superior influence in respect to collective bargaining, the added compactness in industrial structure, the appointment of more men to adequately staff the services of propagation and enrolment, as well as the foundation and continuous conduct of the journal in which I now write, there remains, I am certain, the greater and worthier gain of an awakened and surer understanding of what the movement of Labor essentially consists of.

I leave you now because I feel the circumstances of the time, coupled with my personal inclinations and health, do not permit me at present serving further with advantage to you or satisfaction to myself.

It will not be long now before the tide of socialist agitation flows strongly - even to the flood - and given health and strength, I shall then be found not lacking in determination to again face the stress and storm of trades union responsibility.

Please accept my fraternal greetings and hearty good wishes.

JACK CURTIN.      

 

Editorial Note.
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In taking up the pen to do my best to continue the invaluable work begun by the last editor, Mr John Curtin, I feel that one is about to set out on a mission that seems, on first sight, next to impossible. That splendid eloquence portrayed in the many articles written in the "Timber Worker" have not only been anxiously looked forward to by the membership, but every student of political economy, from the everyday lay agitator to the leading politicians, in not only the great Labor Movement, but also those out of it. I fully recognise the great responsibility that has fallen to my lot by the acceptance of the position, and I sincerely trust that I will have the able assistance of all interested, to afford me the opportunity to continue the "Timber Worker" in the interests of the Union.

I will at all times endeavor to be impartial in every respect, to do justice to the great movement of which we are but a unit.

All will fully recognise that my new duties will involve much time, patience and thought, especially having to succeed such a capable and proficient writer as our highly-esteemed comrade, J. Curtin.

I desire to express my deep gratitude to him for the invaluable assistance he has rendered me in this my first attempt at journalism.

Thanking the comrades, in anticipation, for their support.

R. BOWERS.

    

Timber Worker 23 November 1915