Western Australia's police force has launched an investigation into potential connections between a member of the notorious Coffin Cheaters outlaw motorcycle gang and a company that secured a multi-million dollar state government contract. The probe centres on a $5 million deal awarded to the business for work at the Perth Motorplex in Kwinana Beach.
Parliamentary Revelations Spark Police Action
The investigation was triggered by questions raised in State Parliament by the opposition. It was revealed that a director of the company that won the lucrative contract is associated with a high-ranking member of the Coffin Cheaters. WA Police confirmed they are now examining the matter to determine the full nature of this connection and whether it influenced the tender process.
Police Minister Paul Papalia addressed the issue in Parliament, stating the government had referred the details to the WA Police Force for assessment. He emphasised that the government maintains a strict policy of not engaging with businesses linked to criminal organisations. "If there are links to criminal organisations, we will not do business with them," Papalia stated.
Scrutiny on the $5 Million Motorplex Contract
The contract in question involves significant redevelopment and operational work at the Perth Motorplex, a premier drag racing and motorsport venue. The $5 million sum represents a substantial investment of public funds. The opposition's scrutiny has placed the procurement process under a microscope, demanding transparency and assurances that proper due diligence was conducted.
Questions remain about whether the business's alleged links to the bikie figure were disclosed during the tender process and what checks were performed by the relevant government agencies. The investigation will likely review all documentation and communications related to the contract award.
Ongoing Implications and Community Concern
This case highlights the ongoing challenge of ensuring that public contracts are not awarded to entities with connections to organised crime. The Coffin Cheaters are one of Australia's most prominent outlaw motorcycle gangs, with a long history and significant police attention. Any perceived or real link between such a group and a government-funded project raises serious concerns about governance and integrity.
The WA Police investigation is ongoing. Its findings will be crucial in determining whether procurement protocols were breached and what, if any, action needs to be taken. The situation also puts pressure on the government to review and potentially strengthen its vetting procedures for all contractors and suppliers.
For the motorsport community and residents in Kwinana, the priority is ensuring the iconic Motorplex facility is managed legitimately and benefits from the promised upgrades without association to criminal elements. The outcome of the police probe will be watched closely.
