Councillor Wins Court Battle Over $1 Million Eels Partnership

A councillor’s criticism of a million-dollar partnership with the Parramatta Eels rugby league club has led to a significant legal victory. Kellie Darley, a member of the City of Parramatta Council, successfully had a censure against her quashed by the NSW Supreme Court on Friday. This ruling comes after she publicly challenged the council’s three-year deal with the Eels, which is valued at $1.1 million, following a closed council meeting in December 2023.

In July 2023, Councillor Darley was censured for allegedly breaching confidentiality rules by discussing the partnership on social media and in interviews. Her comments included claims that the deal might be worth as much as $2.4 million. However, Justice Monika Schmidt found that the council’s disciplinary process denied Darley procedural fairness. She stated that the council’s actions in defending its decision during court proceedings compromised its impartiality.

Judicial Findings and Criticism of Council

Justice Schmidt also ruled that the conduct review led by independent reviewer Phil O’Toole was invalid, asserting that it did not align with the established code governing council operations. In her judgment, she noted, “The role which the Council’s Ombudsman and Complaints Co-ordinator, Ms Renneberg, took up and Mr O’Toole permitted, was not one envisaged by the Code.”

The controversy arose after Councillor Darley disclosed information regarding the partnership, which she later confirmed was sourced from media reports. Despite initial allegations of confidentiality breaches, she suggested that her fellow councillors had shared similar information without facing repercussions.

The City of Parramatta Council approved the $1.1 million partnership with the Eels in January 2024. Following the court’s decision, the council indicated it is “currently reviewing” the implications of the ruling.

Partnership Impact and Community Initiatives

During the launch of the partnership, Gail Connolly, the chief executive officer of the City of Parramatta, emphasized the potential benefits of aligning with a world-class sporting team. Connolly stated, “World-class sporting teams drive business and recognition for the cities they call home – LA has the Lakers, Chicago has the Bulls and San Francisco the 49ers. The Eels are already synonymous with Parramatta and a powerful brand in their own right.”

The partnership has already yielded results, including free school clinics and holiday programs across the city, as well as initiatives aimed at introducing girls from culturally and linguistically diverse communities to rugby league. Additionally, branding and advertising during home games are expected to attract visitors to Parramatta and enhance community engagement.

This court ruling marks a pivotal moment for Councillor Darley and the City of Parramatta Council, highlighting the challenges faced by local officials in navigating the complexities of public partnerships and transparency. As the council reviews the court’s decision, the implications for future governance and community relations remain to be seen.