Outlaw Motorcycle Gang Seeks Planning Change to Keep Clubhouse in Willetton
An outlaw motorcycle gang that has been operating out of an industrial unit in Willetton for years without the knowledge or approval of local authorities is now seeking a planning change to remain at the location. The Bandidos motorcycle club is pursuing retrospective approval for its clubhouse, which it describes in planning documents as a "motorcycle-themed men's shed" with rights to "freedom of association" under international treaty.
Mayor's Strong Opposition to Gang Presence
City of Canning mayor Patrick Hall, a former police officer who worked on investigations into outlaw motorcycle gangs, has expressed strong opposition to the application. "The last people I want to see in our city are motorcycle gang members," Mr Hall stated. "I will do everything in my power to keep them out."
Mr Hall took to social media last year after police raided the Kembla Way clubhouse in May, stating it was the first he had heard of the outlaw gang gathering in the city. "I'm shocked that the clubhouse has been established in the City of Canning and equally shocked that we didn't know about it," he wrote at the time. "Have no doubt, the Bandidos OMCG are heavily involved in organised crime and their existence in Canning is a stain on our city."
Planning Application Details and Arguments
Planning Outcomes WA has submitted an application on behalf of the Bandidos club seeking:
- Retrospective change of use for the industrial unit to club premises
- Retrospective approval for a sea container, fencing, and motorcycle parking bays
- Approval to host 60 members or family, rising to 100 for occasional private events
- Operating hours from 8am-10pm Mondays to Fridays for deliveries and maintenance
- Club meetings and events from 5:30pm Fridays to 6pm Sundays
The application argues that the proposal meets the definition of club premises and urges the council not to make its decision based on "outlaw gang prejudice." It references a 2016 State Administrative Tribunal ruling that set aside the Town of Victoria Park's refusal of retrospective planning approval to the Rebels motorcycle gang.
"The fact is that the mere existence of the club is not illegal," the application states. "Members also have a human right under international treaty to freedom of association."
Clubhouse Features and Compliance Claims
The planning application provides details about the clubhouse operations:
- The site features a bar that is currently BYO only for members
- The proponents stress that "there are not, and will not be, any firearms or firearm safes on the premises"
- An acoustic report shows full compliance with noise regulations
- A shortfall of four car parking bays is justified because "the majority of patrons currently use taxi services"
- There is an oversupply of motorcycle parking bays and reciprocal parking arrangements
"The proposal is compliant with State regulations (noise); and mostly compliant with local requirements, but with a minor parking variation where it is considered justified and supportable in this case," the application concludes.
Mayor's Continued Opposition Despite Planning Arguments
Despite the planning arguments presented, Mayor Hall remains steadfast in his opposition. "They can dress up their club activities in any way they like, but I think any fair-minded and sensible West Australian knows exactly why outlaw motorcycle gangs are called that, and the Bandidos, in my opinion, would be amongst the worst of them," he said.
"We don't want to be harbouring any criminal activity in our city and ... we should be doing everything we can to support the police and the gang crime squad in their role, which is to disrupt organised crime wherever we find it."
Application Process and Next Steps
The planning application is currently open for public comment until March 6. The proponents have indicated they would be "prepared to meet with neighbours and discuss the proposal either prior to or during the formal advertising period to resolve any concerns."
The City of Canning council is scheduled to consider the application at its April meeting, where the clash between planning regulations and community safety concerns will be formally addressed.
