well’s father, Brien Cornwell regarding the purchase of a Rex Newell painting by Mr Grugeon. According to Dr Cornwell, the painting had been an unwanted gift from his father to Ms Brookes, which was subsequently re-gifted by Dr Cornwell to Mr Grugeon in the lead up to Christmas in 2010. Mr Grugeon allegedly paid Ms Brookes, $10,120 for the “very generous Christmas gift.” Dr Cornwell said he felt “uneasy” about the transaction. “You must have smelt a rat immediately,” counsel assisting the ICAC, Geoffrey Watson SC asked Dr Cornwell. “I did,” Mr Cornwell replied. “It was definitely an effort to try and curry favour.” After seeking legal advice from his parents, who had both trained as solicitors, Dr Cornwell instructed his wife to cash the cheque from Mr Grugeon and the funds were eventually transferred into Dr Cornwell’s account. However, Dr Cornwell denied using the funds from the sale of the artwork in his campaign, but instead claimed the $10,000 went towards a PAYG tax debt. While giving evidence,
Property developer to answer ICAC questions over alleged illegal donations to Liberal Party
Andrew Cornwell has admitted to accepting funds from a prohibited donor and will not re-contest his seat at next year’s state election.
Dr Cornwell admitted accepting a prohibited donation from Mr McCloy during the campaign and stood down from the parliamentary Liberal Party, along with his colleague Mr Owen, last Thursday. Dr Cornwell had initially expressed an intention to seek re-election as the Member of Charlestown at next year’s state election but on Friday, announced that he would not re-contest his seat. Mr Grugeon is scheduled to appear before the inquiry today. Mr McCloy is due to appear on Thursday before prominent Newcastle architect, Keith Stronach, Saddingtons Building Supplies managing director, Bill Saddington, Daracon founder, David Mingay and ex Newcastle Knights chairman, Michael Tyler give evidence. Friday will feature Maitland MP, Robyn Parker, hotelier, Rolly de With, Churchills Carpet Court owner, Paul Murphy, solicitor and Newcastle Knights Members Club chairman, Nick Dan and Eclipse Media and Events managing director, Tracy McKelligott. The ICAC has not uncovered any wrongdoing by Ms Parker.
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