EX-STAFFER SHARES EXPERIENCE AT CITY HALL

I BELIEVE Natasha Vasey-Ellis’s letter (GA, 10/8) is a sensationalist opinion piece in itself.

As a former employee of the City of Greater Geelong, I can say what the workplace is really like.

I initially spoke with three senior staffers about the workplace bullying I was subjected to.

I requested a transfer to another team and was denied. I submitted my case to the independent commissioners to participate in a diagonal slice forum where I gave clear, honest and fair accounts of my experiences of bullying at council.

I submitted a formal complaint of my experiences to the CEO and head of people and culture.

Along with support from other managers who recognised their duty of care, my formal complaint was addressed, and I was eventually transferred.

I subsequently witnessed other cases of bullying.

My own situation improved, but the culture at council did not.

I have recently spoken with several ex-colleagues who have spoken to me of their own experiences of bullying at Geelong council.

So, the account by Ms Vasey-Ellis is wrong.

You can employ very hardworking people with bright minds, who still intimidate, bully and abuse their power.

The only correct assertion by Ms Vasey-Ellis is that there are some very terrific people there, doing some great work for the community.

It’s only now that I am in a workplace that is positive, with leaders who inspire and support, do I truly comprehend the level of damage that a culture of bullying can do to a person and to a community. Name withheld by request