Over 200 union members gathered outside the Newcastle Coal Infrastructure Group (NCIG) this morning, where MUA National Secretary Paddy Crumlin said unions worked to help set up the billion-dollar facility and the non-union agreement is a slap in the face to Newcastle workers.

"We're here to send a clear message to Peabody, BHP, some of the biggest mining companies in the world - it's not good enough," he said.
"If you come to this area you've got to pay the going rate and you've got to treat your workers with respect."

Premier Kristina Keneally decided to boycott the opening ceremony, ABC Radio report.

She says that while the coal loader is a huge economic boost for the region, she is disappointed in the arrangements made by the NCIG.

"I have never supported WorkChoices and I never will," she said.

"I'm disappointed that NCIG signed up to a WorkChoices contract arrangement in the dying days of that industrial relations system.

"I've expressed that to NCIG and I'm encouraging them to continue to work with the union movement."

Meanwhile, Greens MP Lee Rhiannon says today signifies a dark day for Newcastle and the environment.

The words "Quit Coal" have been painted in large white letters on the side of a ship that is docked at the new loader.
The new coal terminal opening was snubbed by politicians, unions, and environmentalists. 

The BHP-lead consortium Newcastle Coal Infrastructure Group coal terminal has been taking ships for several weeks, but today underwent its official opening. 
Today's protest was organised by the Transport Union Federation (TUF).

Produced by Jamie McMechan Maritime Union of Australia Film Unit. http://www.mua.org.au