Peter, who does not want to reveal his surname, has spent almost three months picketing the Thales defence manufacturer in his fight for fair pay conditions.

The protest has revolved around his employer MSS not agreeing to pay award rates. 

ACTU president Ged Kearney said Peter’s commitment to the cause was admirable.

“He’s on a crusade. He is a wonderful fighter and his cause represents the very essence of what we’re fighting for in the local community.”

Peter said the protest was “stepping up” and he was prepared to continue for another three months if necessary. 

“For the company to drag it on like this it’s ridiculous,” he said.

Peter said Thales were forced to bring in contractors from another company to replace two guards who had quit on the site.

He said he and the other guards remaining were still planning to strike.

“What MSS is doing is giving us the strength to go on.” 

United Voices Union official and Federal Labor candidate for Bendigo Lisa Chesters said MSS had shown no indication of resolving the pay issue. 

“What’s unique about Peter’s situation is that there’s been no communication from the company,” she said. “He’s being ignored.”

Security company MSS has been approached by the union but has yet to agree to any formal dispute resolution.

The company did not respond to calls from the Bendigo Advertiser.??