Patrick Bellot replaces Richard Fejo as chair of the Darwin Waterfront Corporation

Following the shock resignation of Larrakia elder Richard Fejo, the CLP has finally revealed the new chair of the Darwin Waterfront Corporation.

Patrick Bellot has been appointed the new chair of the Darwin Waterfront Corporation. Source: Venture Housing.

After more than a month of headhunting, the Country Liberal Party has appointed a new chair of the Darwin Waterfront Corporation following the resignation of Larrakia elder Richard Fejo.

In November, Mr Fejo quit the job in a stand against the CLP lowering the age of criminal responsibility.

At the time, Mr Fejo said he had to “stand with my people”.

“Today I’ve resigned as the Chairman of Darwin Waterfront Corporation in protest because I will refuse to work for a government who is responsible for locking up 10 year old children,” he said.

On December 14, the NT Government finally announced he would be replaced by senior property development guru Patrick Bellot.

With more than two decades of expertise in facility management and property development, Mr Bellot enters the role with extensive experience in the Territory, Western Australia and Queensland.

Pictured with former Education Minister Mark Monaghan and former deputy Chief Minister Nicole Manison in 2021, Mr Bellot (right) is accustomed to working on big projects. Picture: Glenn Campbell

Mr Bellot has served as the head of development for the Airport Development Group, as well as senior property development manager for Cairns Airport.

On his appointment, Mr Bellot said it was an “honour” to lead the corporation.

“The Darwin Waterfront is a vital precinct for the city and the broader Top End,” he said.

“My focus will be on delivering key development projects, through the Darwin Waterfront Masterplan, which will enhance the precinct’s reputation, utilisation and capacity to attract major business events and tourism visitors.”

The CLP also took the opportunity to announce Department of Tourism and Hospitality chief executive Suzana Bishop would also join the board, replacing Andrew Kirkman.

Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Marie-Clare Boothby says Mr Bellot is the “ideal” man to lead the Darwin Waterfront Masterplan. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Tourism and hospitality Minister Marie-Clare Boothby said she was confident the pair would value-add to the corporation.

“Patrick’s extensive experience in property development and his passion for the Territory make him the ideal chair to lead the DWC during this pivotal time,” she said.

“With Ms Bishop joining the Board, we are well-positioned to deliver on the Darwin Waterfront’s ambitious vision.”