Category: News

More than 40 exciting *free events have been announced for a new spectacular cultural celebration that will transform Stirling and its surrounding areas on Friday 1 May.

The full programme has been confirmed for Culture Night Stirling, ‘Carnival of the Wolf’, a unique festival that will bring venues and unexpected spaces to life through a wide variety of events and activities for one night only.

The inaugural theme for the festival, ‘Carnival of the Wolf’, takes inspiration from one of Stirling’s most enduring legends – the tale of a pack of wolves whose howls alerted the people of Stirling to an attempted Viking invasion.
This legend will be reimagined across the city and the wider area through performance, music, art, and spectacle packed into one exhilarating night.
There will be something for everyone to enjoy as Stirling’s spirit, creativity and thriving culture scene is celebrated. Expect: live music, aerial dance and immersive performance; cabaret and standup comedy; bold theatrical drumming performances; a historical crime tour that brings Stirling’s darker stories to life; pop-up performances, workshops, installations, food and drink experiences, and much more as the May Bank Holiday weekend gets underway with a bang.
Among the Culture Night Stirling headliners is a homecoming performance by internationally acclaimed DJ and producer Sam Gellaitry. His special one-off DJ set will see him return to perform in his hometown after touring internationally and working with the likes of PinkPantheress and Kaytranada.
The full programme line-up is available to view by visiting: http://www.yourstirling.com/whats-on/culturenight

Tony Caleary – New Branch Secretary, Stirling UNISON

Tony Caleary is a long‑serving UNISON representative with more than three decades of service and a strong commitment to public service, community, and family.

Professional Background

Tony began his career with Stirling Council in 1991 working as a Senior Analyst in IT (Technology), marking over 35 years of dedicatedpublic service. He became a workplace representative for UNISON (then NALGO) almost immediately, beginning a lifelong commitment to supporting colleagues and strengthening the union.

His long service has given him a comprehensive understanding of Stirling Council, its workforce, and the issues affecting public service workers.

UNISON Leadership

As the newly elected Branch Secretary for UNISON in Stirling Council, Tony brings decades of experience in:

• Workplace representation
• Collective bargaining
• Branch governance

His leadership style is grounded in fairness, transparency, and a strong belief in public service values.

International Committee Co‑Chair

Tony serves as Co‑Chair of UNISON’s International Committee, helping guide the union’s work on global solidarity, labour rights, and international partnerships

Falkirk Pension Board Member

Tony chairs the Falkirk Pension Board, contributing to governance, oversight, and the protection of members’ pension interests.

Job Evaluation Expertise

With experience on over 300 job evaluation panels, Tony is recognised for his detailed understanding of job roles, grading structures, and fair pay systems across the council.

Knowledge and Reputation

Tony is widely respected for:

• Deep organisational knowledge
• Strong advocacy for workers
• Fair and principled decision‑making
• A calm, steady approach to complex issues

Personal Life

Tony is happily married, with one daughter, and lives locally in Falkirk. His strong community roots reflect the same commitment to people and place that he brings to his work in UNISON and Stirling Council.

Open Door Policy

Tony is keen to hear from our members so feel free to drop him a line and he can chat with you if you have any issues or concerns about your role at Stirling council.

International Women’s Day on 8 March grew out of early 20th‑century movements for women’s rights, beginning with employment protests and expanding into a global call for equality. It marks both the achievements of women and the ongoing struggle for social, political, and economic rights.

 Early roots in the United States (1908–1909)

• In 1908, 15,000 women marched through New York City demanding shorter working hours, better pay, and voting rights.
• The first National Woman’s Day was held on 28 February 1909, declared by the Socialist Party of America.

 International adoption (1910–1913)

• At a 1910 international socialist women’s conference, German activists Luise Zietz and Clara Zetkin proposed creating an annual Women’s Day to promote women’s rights, including suffrage. Delegates from 17 countries supported the idea.
• Early observances varied by country, often held in late February.

Why March 8? (1914 onward)

• By 1914, many European countries began marking the day on 8 March, aligning with growing political activism and the push for women’s suffrage.
• Over time, 8 March became the standard date worldwide, commemorating women’s fight for equality and liberation.

Becoming a global movement

• Throughout the 20th century, International Women’s Day expanded into a broader word-wide celebrations.
• Today it is recognised by the United Nations and celebrated worldwide as a day to honour women’s achievements and call for gender equality.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS 18th February 2026

Meeting 1 in Person Council Chambers, Viewforth, Wednesday
18th February 2026, 12pm – 2pm, Refreshments Provided

Meeting 2 Teams Video Link, Wednesday 18th February 2026 6p.m-7.30p.m

Business begins meeting 1, Council Chambers, Viewforth 12:00noon sharp and meeting 2 online 6p.m sharp.

Please note this year we will be holding 2 meetings on this date 1 in person and 1 online to increase and encourage wider participation (your attendance is required at only one of these meetings depending on your preference).

If you are attending our on line AGM then you should register for this asap by e-mailing Lorraine Thomson, UNISON Stirling Branch Secretary e-mail thomsonl34s@stirling.gov.uk.

Free Prize Draw

The Children (Care, Care Experience etc) Bill receives its Stage 1 debate and vote in parliament tomorrow (Wed 14^th)

A UNISON briefing about the bill’s failure to remove profit from the care of looked after children was sent to all MSPs a day ago (web link: https://unison-scotland.org/msp-briefing-children-care-care-experience-services-planning-bill-stage-1-debate/)

Coverage in The Herald today SNP face breaking Sturgeon’s Promise to children | The Herald