The passing of one of Coonamble's well known ex residents in February was noted by the Australian Worker's Union (AWU) this morning.

Born in October, 1933, Michael Joseph O'Shea - better known as Mick - was a stalwart of the AWU for 75 years, a long period of time not unmarked by controversy.

According to the AWU, Mr O'Shea left an indelible mark on the labour movement and the communities he served.

Prior to his work in the union, Mr O'Shea was a local shearer in Coonamble, beginning his life in the sheds at the age of 15.

The death of his father forced him from school to the shearing sheds to provide for his mother Lilian and sisters Noreen and Patricia and younger brother Brian. 

A proud shearer, Mick embodied the hardworking spirit of the Australian country worker as he travelled across NSW, shearing sheep and building a reputation for dedication and skill. 

Mr O'Shea journey with the AWU began in 1947, at the age of 16, and he dedicated his life to the union, becoming an Organiser from 1974 to 1993 and later serving as the AWU NSW Branch Secretary from 1993 to 1996. 

The AWU said Mr O'Shea's commitment to the cause was unwavering, and he played a key role in protecting and enhancing the strength of the union across the Central West, leaving a legacy that will be remembered for generations.

His impact on the labour movement extended beyond his official roles, as he actively participated in supporting quality Labor candidates and played a pivotal role in the formation of Country Labor in Dubbo.

Mr O'Shea dedication to improving the lives of working people was a life’s passion. His family remembers the countless days he spent travelling across the state, resolving disputes, and tirelessly working to support families and communities from Broken Hill to Cobar, from Mudgee to Parkes.

One of Mr O'Shea's significant contributions to the AWU's history was during the wide comb dispute in the early 1980's, at a time he served as the assistant secretary. 

The "wide comb dispute" in shearing refers to a controversy within the industry regarding the use of wider combs on shearing handpieces. Traditionally, combs used in shearing were narrower, but the introduction of wider combs sparked debate and disagreement among shearers.

Wide combs were introduced as a potential solution to increase efficiency and productivity in shearing by allowing shearers to cover more area with each stroke. However, some shearers argued that wide combs could cause welfare issues for the sheep, such as increased risk of cuts and nicks.

After retiring in 1996, Mick continued his commitment to service, volunteering at St. Vincent de Paul and the Salvation Army.

Mick O’Shea’s funeral will be held at St Brigid’s Church, 198 Brisbane Street in Dubbo at 10.30am, Wednesday 13 March.