The closure of the Lakes Creek meatworks in September of this year provided a catalyst for three Central Queensland University researchers to address the importance of the Lakes Creek Meatworks in Rockhampton.

CQU’s Gordon Stewart, Dr Barbara Webster and Professor Peter Smith will present their findings at a presentation titled Tales From “The Creek” today, Friday 22 November, from 1 to 2pm.

Mr Stewart said the presentation would highlight the Lakes Creek Meatwork’s lengthy historical association with the city of Rockhampton.

“The closure of the plant for economic reasons amidst an industrial dispute concerning the wages and working conditions of its production employees reveals the twin themes of the dominance of national and international market forces and the importance of labour relations,” Mr Stewart said. These two themes are central to the history of this abattoir.

The researchers do not intend to argue a case with respect to the struggles of capital and labour, but has written this document and presentation with a view to celebrating the history of the plant and the achievements of its employees.