WA ministers revealed through gift register as attendees of Stokes mansion dinner
The recent gift register disclosures have spotlighted the social engagements of Western Australia’s ministers, particularly at the exclusive dinner hosted at Stokes mansion. These documents, submitted to parliament, also reveal ministers’ fondness for luxurious travel perks and various gifts received throughout the year.
WA Ministers and Stokes Mansion Dinner Gifts
During the previous year, WA ministers contributed significantly to fundraising efforts, accumulating $13 million, which represented approximately 15% of the total donations for events. The Stokes family presented attendees with a special keepsake book as a token of appreciation.
Travel Perks for Ministers
Another aspect highlighted in these disclosures is the ministers’ access to the Qantas Chairman’s Lounge. This exclusive membership offers premium travel benefits, enabling ministers to enjoy enhanced amenities at airports. Notable members include:
- Defence Industries Minister Paul Papalia
- Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson
- Transport Minister Rita Saffioti
- Carey, Hammat, and others
Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas and former Nationals leader Mia Davies have also publicly declared their memberships. This issue gained traction when Transport Minister Cook faced scrutiny after failing to disclose his membership status.
Unique Gifts Declared by Ministers
The gift declarations revealed a mix of extravagant and unusual items accepted by various ministers. For instance:
- Scarborough MP Stuary Aubrey won a $20,000 raffle at the Happiness Co Foundation gala, donating half to Ocean Heroes Australia and half to Mens Talk AU.
- Bevan Eatts, Nationals MP, received two tickets to the V8 Supercars, accepted before Optus’ emergency services failure.
- Minister Cook accepted concert tickets valued at $500 for a Ministry of Sound event from promoter Brad Mellen.
- Housing Minister Carey received a cement spatula from ADCO builders.
- Jarvis received a leg of ham from Craig Mostyn Group, followed by another from Australian Pork shortly after Christmas.
These disclosures paint a vivid picture of the perks, privileges, and curious gifts that come with serving in public office in Western Australia.
