Dunk Island spit tenders rejected by Cassowary Coast council for technical failures

A number of issues was brought to light before all applicants for Dunk Island’s spit lease were rejected. Find out what happens next

A CONSCIENTIOUS approach towards awarding the tender to lease Dunk Island’s spit has resulted in all applicants being turned down due to “improper conduct” and technical failures.

The 4ha parcel of land on the western side of the ssland came under the care of Cassowary Coast Regional Council in March, 2021, following Mayfair 101’s collapse.

Since then, CCRC has looked to refurbish the spit’s day-use amenities with orks around the camping area expected to be completed by the end of August.

In April, CCRC released the tender to market for the island’s spit, and it closed on May 30 attracting three submissions, of which only one was properly made.

The camping area on Dunk Island’s spit, off Mission Beach in 2014, which has since undergone significant refurbishments.

During a special meeting, councillors were advised of the applicants during a closed session.

Resuming to a public session and before CCRC facilities asset manager Peter McBride presented his report to recommend against all three submissions, chief executive Andrew Graffen said one applicant had failed to comply with the procurement process by contacting multiple councillors.

“The process does state there is to be no influence or canvassing of councillors. So it does meet the definition of improper conduct from the respondent, not from the councillors,” Mr Graffen said.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council had to reject all three submissions for the lease of Dunk Island’s spit due to a number of technical failures. Picture: Supplied.

Mr McBride said two applicants were deemed non-compliant after failing to respond to a critical request for information.

“The remaining candidate’s submission, while strong in some criteria was unable to provide adequate arrangements for the access to services, including water, sewer and electricity,” he said.

“Secondly, the submission did not score well in the value for money assessment.”

It is understood the applicant had requested a monetary contribution from the council as part of the agreement, which CCRC had not budgeted for.

The Dunk Island jetty near the sand spit at the southern end of the island. Picture: Peter Carruthers

“The recommendation is that council not proceed with any of the submissions from (this tender) and request the chief executive officer to provide a further report to council in relation to the Dunk Island spit.”

Mr Graffen is expected to provide that report at the next local government meeting on August 25.

Mayor Mark Nolan said he was conscious of community expectations and past experiences.

“I sat on the table and voted on the Dunk Island spit to Experience Co and to Mayfair, both failed, so we need to get it right the third time around.”

Mr McBride confirmed the spit remained operational as usual and CCRC would continue to act as caretaker.

Originally published as Dunk Island spit tenders rejected by Cassowary Coast council for technical failures