Naming rights could be considered for Ningaloo Centre

Naming rights are one of a host of income sources the Shire of Exmouth may look into as it seeks ways to upkeep the $32 million Ningaloo Centre.

An NS advisory draft business plan for the Ningaloo Centre prepared for the Shire in August highlighted that, if feasible, naming rights could be considered among a number of options to help finance the facility.

Shire of Exmouth chief executive Cameron Woods said this option was not being considered currently.

He said the new council would consider all options moving forward.

Last month WA Premier Mark McGowan ruled out any State Government assistance for upkeep of big-ticket Royalties for Regions projects.

Mr McGowan said far too little consideration had been given to the upkeep of “very large and impressive” projects.

“We’ve had a lot of councils across Western Australia complain about the ongoing operational and maintenance costs of projects,” he said.

“They need to reorder their priorities in order to maintain and operate these facilities that the State paid for.

“The State isn’t going to pick up council responsibilities out of the Royalties for Regions program.”

The inquiry into the Barnett government’s financial dealings, headed by former under-treasurer John Langoulant, is expected to scrutinise regional project funding under the Royalties for Regions scheme.

Mr McGowan said he wanted Mr Langoulant to make recommendations for avoiding such pitfalls.