AFL Hall of Fame legend Greg 'Diesel' Williams has launched legal action in the Supreme Court of Victoria, alleging oppressive conduct by fellow directors of a luxury resort development in which he is a major investor.
Legal Battle Over Luxury Resort Investment
The legal dispute centres on the Portarlington Grand Resort and Spa project, a proposed luxury development on the Bellarine Peninsula. Williams, a Brownlow Medallist and two-time Carlton premiership player, claims he invested $1.25 million into the venture through his company, Diesel Enterprises Pty Ltd.
According to filed documents, Williams is suing fellow directors Andrew Stanley Menzies and Ian William Wright. He alleges their conduct has been "oppressive to, unfairly prejudicial to, or unfairly discriminatory against" him as a shareholder and director. The core of his claim is that the directors have failed to provide crucial financial information and have excluded him from key decision-making processes.
Allegations of Exclusion and Financial Secrecy
Williams' statement of claim outlines a series of grievances. He asserts he has been denied access to the company's financial records and bank statements since mid-2023, preventing him from fulfilling his duties as a director. Furthermore, he alleges the respondent directors have made significant decisions without his knowledge or consent.
One major point of contention is the alleged issuing of 75 million new shares in the resort company. Williams claims this was done without proper notice or his agreement, a move he argues severely diluted his shareholding and voting power within the venture.
Seeking a Court-Ordered Buyout
The legal remedy sought by the AFL icon is significant. Williams is asking the Supreme Court to compel the other directors to buy out his shareholding in the resort project at a fair price to be determined by the court. This would effectively sever his ties with the development.
The case, filed in March 2024, highlights the risks associated with high-stakes property investments, even for celebrated sports figures. The Portarlington Grand Resort and Spa has been a long-planned project for the region, promising luxury accommodation and facilities.
A directions hearing for the matter is scheduled in the Supreme Court later this month, where the procedural timeline for the lawsuit will be established. The defendants are yet to file a formal defence to the allegations in court.
