By arrangement, the late Mr. Bob Gregory “bought in” on the Union’s behalf. Bicycles valued at £25 were purchased for 1s. 6d.; sewing machines for 2s. 6d. In all, the forced sale realised 12s. 6d. As soon as the sale was over men and women could be seen carrying their effects back to their homes.
Eventually the fine was collected by means of a lien on the workers’ wages.
THE CAMPAIGN FOR FEDERATION BEGINS
Naturally, the events arising out of this memorable strike had the effect of directing the workers’ attention to the many absurdities of the Arbitration system. That the Court was rather one-sided in its outlook became apparent to even the dullest-witted worker. But the question arose: What are we to put in its place? The answer we gave to that query was: Closer organisation.
Whilst a resident of Runanga, I met a remarkably well-informed character, a wide reader and keen observer—Mr. Frank Hudson. He continually dinned into my ears the need of federation, not merely of the miners, but of all workers. Later, Frank used to bike to Blackball to continue his lessons, till I became as convinced of the urgent need of greater unity as he was. I know that he similarly used to din his doctrines into Semple’s ears as well. At last we decided to make a definite move.
At special meetings of the State and Blackball Miners’ Unions, R. Semple and P. H. Hickey were appointed to tour the Coast to establish, if possible, a federation of all workers’ unions. We visited the Buller, Reefton, and Grey districts, and at all union meetings were successful in getting resolutions
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