Entries by Rachel Garrick

Fair winds, Tachek. ⚓

Photos by BCFMWU member Andrew Glen. For nearly 60 years, Tachek connected communities. She makes her final sailing today. Behind every crossing were skilled ferry workers who knew her well and safely carried generations of passengers home. Capt. Chris Klassen, who sailed her as relief captain, remembers her as a “cool little ship” and a […]

One union, many cultures. Mabuhay!

The recent Mabuhay Celebration in Victoria brought together union members, their families, friends, and community members for a day filled with cultural pride, fellowship and unity. The event showcased the rich heritage of the Filipino community while strengthening bonds among union members and the broader maritime workforce. The celebration highlighted the values that define the […]

Step up for him: Men’s mental health at work

Men account for 75 per cent of suicides. Too many in our marine community have been affected by this loss. This Men’s Health Month, we’re sharing practical advice in a guest post from HeadsUpGuys on recognizing when someone may be struggling, starting difficult conversations and finding support. Experiencing the loss of someone we knew and […]

Keep safe working in hot weather 🌞

As summer temperatures rise, heat becomes a workplace safety issue. 🥵 For ferry and marine workers, heat exposure can look different depending on the job. It could mean working on deck in direct sun, loading and unloading vehicles, directing traffic in terminals, working in engine spaces or spending long shifts in hot indoor environments such […]

Looking after yourself is part of the job

In ferry and marine work, people are used to showing up, getting through the shift and taking care of business, no matter what. But long schedules, physical demands, time away from home and stress can take a toll. As Canada develops its first Men and Boys’ Health Strategy, the conversation is expanding beyond illness to […]

Who does what? A quick guide to how BCFMWU works

Ever wondered who handles grievances, who makes decisions or what your local executive does? BCFMWU is member-led. That means members choose who represents them and have a say in the work and direction of the union through meetings, elections and participation. Here’s a quick look at how it works. Shop stewards Members who volunteer to […]

National Indigenous History Month

June is National Indigenous History Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the histories, cultures and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples across Canada. Every day, our union members help connect people along the coast, including many Indigenous communities. We support vital transportation links connecting families, workers, goods, services and cultures. This month […]

Celebrating Pride Month

June is Pride Month in B.C. and many parts of Canada, a time to recognize and celebrate the history, contributions and diversity of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities. Hard-working BCFMWU members come from many backgrounds and experiences. Pride Month is an opportunity to reflect on the importance of respect, dignity, inclusion and ensuring workplaces are places where everyone […]

Injured Workers’ Day highlights chronic pain

Marine and ferry work can be physically demanding. Years working on deck, in engine rooms, terminals, catering operations and trades and maintenance shops can take a toll. June 1 is Injured Workers’ Day, a day to recognize the challenges injured workers face and to push for better support and fair treatment. This year, the focus […]