Chief Minister to look into $12m T urf Club grandstand tender

NT Chief Minister Michael Gunner has asked for advice from the independent probity auditor into the awarding of the $12 million NT Government-funded Darwin Turf Club grandstand

The new three-level stand with private corporate boxes will be built where the Ted D’Ambrosio bar is located and will have a walkway connecting it to the Ted Bailey Grandstand. Picture: Supplied

• $12 MILLION grandstand tender awarded to Turf Club boss’ firm
• NEW $12mil grandstand to boost Darwin horse racing

NT Chief Minister Michael Gunner has asked for advice from the independent probity auditor who reported on the tender processes that were followed with awarding the new $12 million NT Government-funded Darwin Turf Club grandstand.

The international-standard multipurpose grandstand will be built by Jaytex Constructions Pty Ltd, the company of DTC chairman Brett Dixon.

“I have asked for advice from the independent probity auditor, who reported on the tender processes that were followed,” Mr Gunner said.

“I also want to put on the record that for anyone who has any concerns or allegations we have established an Independent Commission Against Corruption and any allegation can get tested.

“We are more than happy for everything to be checked.

“I have asked for that advice from the independent probity auditor and that’s where it is at with me at the moment.”

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The NT Opposition said the contract decision was not a good look for the Darwin Turf Club.

A spokeswoman for the Opposition Leader Gary Higgins said the Opposition supported the contribution racing made to the economy.

“Particularly during the Darwin Cup Carnival,” the spokeswoman said.

“The Opposition questioned the Government’s priorities at the time they gave the capital grant for this project, given the Territory’s economic stagnation.

“The Opposition will not tell an organisation how to run their business, but it’s not a good look for the turf club.”

The Darwin Turf Club said the awarding of the design and construct tender to Jaytex Construction followed a strict and proper process.

The DTC reinforced that Mr Dixon was at arm’s length from this process at all times.

It said once the announcement was made about the project, he was no longer involved in any processes, including Jaytex’s submission.

The DTC said the project would start in weeks.