Other formats

    TEI XML file   ePub eBook file  

Connect

    mail icontwitter iconBlogspot iconrss icon

The New Zealand Railways Magazine, Volume 3, Issue 3 (July 2, 1928)

Co-Operation

page 45

Co-Operation

The article on Co-operation by the Super-intendent of Workshops, which appeared in the May issue of our Magazine, was indeed interesting, opening up, as it does, a subject which vitally affects the welfare of the service from every point of view. I feel, however, that the article could have gone further than it did in stressing the value and necessity of the “pull together” idea which each and every one of us must adopt if our service is to progress, and maintain its position in the face of the intense competition with which it is faced to-day. Certainly much has been done, and, incidentally, our Magazine has played no small part in this direction, in conveying to the staff knowledge concerning the service. More could be accomplished in this direction. Personal contact, after all, is the best means of creating the spirit of good will and understanding essential to the co-operative idea. In this connection I feel sure that the system of holding frequent meetings of officers, as instituted at Petone about eighteen months ago, could be profitably applied in other branches of the service. These meetings are held monthly,
(Photo J. S. Cummings) Interior view of the new car shop at Addington, Christchurch. (The floor of this shop hasbeen laid down in bitumen).

(Photo J. S. Cummings)
Interior view of the new car shop at Addington, Christchurch. (The floor of this shop hasbeen laid down in bitumen).

subjects of interest to Officers, such as Production Methods, Shop Improvements, etc., being openly discussed. Much good results from such discussion and exchange of ideas, officers are enabled to appreciate the difficulties of other departments and undoubtedly a greater degree of co-operation, and in turn, efficiency and team spirit is obtained.

To obtain the desired object, we must have confidence in each other. Let us remember that confidence begets confidence and this is the first step to Co-operation.

Unfortunately, shortage of accommodation renders it impossible to open these meetings to the Shop's staff, but when the New Workshops are in operation, this difficulty will be overcome and I feel sure the results will be of benefit to both the staff and the Department.

In conclusion, I feel I can do nothing better than to quote the words of that great writer, Ralph Waldo Emerson:

“Trust men and they will be true to you;

Trust them greatly and they will show themselves great.”