PSA CPSU NSW members in the state’s prison system celebrated National Corrections Day in January.

As always on this day, the Prison Officers

Vocational Branch (POVB) handed out three awards to honour and raise

awareness of the dedication and service of Prison Officers throughout the year.

Life Membership, which recognises the hard work and dedication a member has shown to the POVB throughout their career, was awarded to Brian McCann.

Mr McCann began his career in 1983 at Long Bay, moving to John Morony Correctional Centre in 1997, where he immediately became a Delegate.

He was State Secretary from 2000 and served as Chair of the POVB in 2004.

Mr McCann was also a member of the Government and Related Employees’ Appeals Tribunal from 2004.

“I had great pleasure in presenting the Life Membership of the POVB to Brian,” said PSA Industrial Officer David McCauley. “He has been a steadfast unionist throughout his career. Always putting the POVB members first. An absolute asset and a deserving recipient.”

The Delegate of the Year award went to Ozzie Zerdo, Senior Correctional Officer at Shortland. Since being elected as the POVB Chairperson at Shortland Correctional Centre Ozzie has helped build a strong union sub-branch.

CPSU NSW President Nicole Jess. “He has fought hard for the rights of individual members and resolved many issues raised to him at a local level.