New Gold Coast councillor Gail O’Neill received $10,000 donation from Kirra hotel site developer

A GOLD Coast City councillor who ran as a “truly independent candidate” received a $10,000 donation from one of Queensland’s richest developers, according to disclosure returns.

Division 14 candidates Natalie Wain, Ric Wadem Shawna Trebble and Gail O'Neill. Picture: Jerad Williams

A GOLD Coast councillor who ran as a “truly independent candidate” with no political allegiances received a $10,000 donation from one of Queensland’s richest developers, according to disclosure returns.

Former Southern Chamber of Commerce president and business identity Gail O’Neill has declared obtaining $10,000 from Ganra Pty Ltd on February 19.
The company, directed by former coal baron Brian Flannery and his wife Peggy, also donated $10,000 to council planning chairman Cameron Caldwell on the same day.

Former Southern Chamber of Commerce president and business identity Gail O’Neill. Picture: Jerad Williams

Ten days after Ganra’s donation, Cr O’Neill, and other candidates at the Tugun Progress Association meeting, were asked about links with political parties.

At the meeting, she told residents: “I’m a truly independent candidate. I do not belong to any political party, nor am I receiving any financial or in-kind support from any political party.

“I know that it’s usual sometimes for candidates to ask for donations to their campaigns on their website and advertising material — I’ve chosen not to do that.

Ms O’Neill, with almost 34 per cent of the vote, defeated Natalie Wain (pictured) on 26 per cent. Picture: Jerad Williams

“I’m investing my long service leave and a chunk of my savings into this campaign.”

“I want Division 14 to be passed on to safe hands. I know I can be those safe hands.”

Cr O’Neill yesterday maintained that she had been asked about her independence regarding political allegiances.

All candidates were also asked about any links with developers of high-rises at The Spit and Ganra was not mentioned in any questions during the debate, she said.

Division 14 was one of the Coast’s fiercest battles in the March 19 poll after respected city councillor Chris Robbins retired.

Ms O’Neill, with almost 34 per cent of the vote, defeated Natalie Wain on 26 per cent.

Councillor Gail O'Neill. Photo: Jerad Williams

Cr O’Neill told the Bulletin: “I did get a donation from Ganra. It was a private donation.

“I had a relationship with them for a long time with the chamber of commerce. They thought that I was the appropriate candidate for Division 14.”

Cr O’Neill said she had also declared a $5000 donation from her former employer of 20 years, the Classic Holidays timeshare group.

She said the previous council had approved Ganra’s major development project in Division 14, which would see two high-rises on a $180 million redevelopment of the Kirra Hotel site.

“If any ever came up in planning (relating to Ganra) I would certainly be recording a conflict of interest,” Cr O’Neill said.

A Ganra spokesman confirmed the company was involved in Cr O’Neill’s bid.

“As I understand, all the necessary disclosures by Gail have been actioned in the appropriate manner. We wish her the very best,” the spokesman said.