PM&C stiffs motel- Abbots trip up north
A far north Queensland motel says it has been left out of pocket by the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet over a last-minute cancellation, and the owner blames Tony Abbott.
Thursday Island's Jardine Motel manager Steve Mills had reserved a significant number of rooms at the department's request ahead of Mr Abbott's visit this week.
Mr Abbott is visiting the region as part of his annual week in Indigenous communities, around eight ministers were due to join him at various points on the trip.
Mr Mills said he was only notified less than two days before check-in that more than $53,000 worth of accommodation would not be required.
Would have Mr Abbott known about it? No. Do I blame him for it? Yes.
Jardine Motel manager Steven Mills
Mr Mills said the department booked 44 rooms for seven nights, from August 11 to 17, but only ended up staying in up to 11 of those rooms.
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-08-25/pm-blamed-for-torres-strait-motel-getting-stiffed-53000/6722136
Why so many needed to go at all is odd. From 44 down to 11 but still seems a lot for a photo op. Even stranger is booking 44 and then at short notice only wanting 11.