‘That’s expensive’: Far North MP weighs in on council’s workshop at five-star hotel

Cairns residents must decide whether a council decision to spend ratepayers’ money on a two-day workshop held at a luxury resort was an appropriate use of funds, a Far North MP says.

Member for Cairns Michael Healy says ratepayers will decide whether Cairns Regional Council’s use of funds is reasonable. (Photo by Matt Roberts/Getty Images for NBL)

Cairns residents must decide whether a council decision to spend ratepayers’ money on a two-day workshop held at a luxury resort was an appropriate use of funds, a Far North MP says.

Earlier this month, Cairns Regional Council dished out $30,000 for a team-building event for councillors at the Reef House Boutique Hotel and Spa in the city’s northern beaches.

In a statement, the council defended the expenditure, arguing the workshop held at the award-winning adults-only retreat had helped develop “a refreshed vision” for the region.

The award-winning Reef House Boutique Hotel and Spa in Palm Cove, Queensland is considered one of the accommodation providers in Australia.

Member for Cairns Michael Healy said that while he was surprised to learn of the “off-site” meeting, he had faith in the community to determine whether the amount spent was reasonable.

“I think people out there would be able to work out what would and wouldn’t be appropriate,” Mr Healy said.

“I don’t know the details but I think in a cost of living crisis people will judge.

“For me, it’s like, ‘Wow. That’s interesting’ but I think people would understandably think that’s expensive.”

Cairns Regional Council Mayor Amy Eden says the decision to hold the workshop at the Reef House followed a “thorough evaluation of multiple venues, both within and outside our local government area.” Picture Emily Barker.

News of the workshop sparked backlash amongst constituents on social media, many of whom cited the council’s 6.7 percent rate rise in June.

“All of these council mobs seem to be totally unaccountable for their frivolous spending,” one commenter on Facebook said.

“Just who is the auditor … in charge to ensure ridiculous spending like this is stopped before it even gets off the ground?”

“They seem to be completely free to do as they like with our ever increasing rate monies.”

But others said councillors were entitled to use ratepayers’ money to stay at the resort where guests are typically greeted with gin-infused drink upon checking in.

“Yeah good (on) them,” another commenter added.

“As long as they are getting the job done and all getting along. If anyone opposed it they would not have been there.

“They give up a lot of family/personal time to do this job for us. Give them a break.”

The Reef House was voted Tripadvisor’s best luxury hotel in Australia and the South Pacific this year.

Originally published as ‘That’s expensive’: Far North MP weighs in on council’s workshop at five-star hotel