This May Day felt different. The unions stayed within their own groups, whether large or small. The Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union and ETU contingents appeared subdued, having been heavily pushed back and changed by state intervention. The Australian Labor Party presence was minimal and had very little impact on the day.
When we arrived at the Exhibition Grounds, it was clear the Left was divided. Socialist Alternative marched into the grounds, followed by the Australia-Cuba Friendship Society, meeting up with Just Peace and Vintage Reds inside the grounds. They went to watch and listen to the combined union choir performing on the main stage.
Meanwhile, Justice for Palestine 🇵🇸 Magan-djin held an impromptu rally in the middle of the street, unable to gain approval for entry to either the main venue or the children’s rides area opposite.
Meanwhile, Justice for Palestine Magan-djin held an impromptu rally in the middle of the street, unable to gain approval for entry to either the main venue or the children’s rides area opposite.
We heard a report from the mother of one of the activists on the Sumud Flotilla, who said the remaining vessels are still attempting to reach Gaza but are being harassed by the Israel Defence Forces while travelling in international waters. She described intimidation and attacks aimed at deterring the flotilla from challenging the blockade, as people in Gaza continue to wait for much-needed relief, as they are slowly starving, suffering from malnutrition and lack of medicine because of Israel’s genocidal blockade.
Despite repeated attempts to make contact, there was radio silence from the Queensland Council of Unions.
Here are some images of May Day 2026, albeit limited because I was at the back of the march with the Workers of all Countries Unite banner … Like all May Days in Magandjin, there are many stories. A big thank you to Melissa Webster for the pictures.
Ian Curr
5 May 2026