Former Star Entertainment Group CEO Robbie Cooke defended his conduct during his tenure, contradicting evidence presented at the Bell inquiry into the casino group’s culture. Cooke, who appeared before the inquiry on Wednesday, was accused of being arrogant, not listening, and moving too slowly on the company’s remediation efforts. However, Cooke maintained that he was not confrontational and was merely trying to protect the company’s interests.
Cooke admitted to being “a bit emotive” in his dealings with the regulator, but he justified his actions by saying that the company had a right to challenge the findings of its special manager, Nick Weeks. Cooke also rejected accusations that he had become paranoid about Weeks and had spied on his meetings.
The inquiry also heard about a letter Cooke sent to staff announcing his resignation, in which he wrote that he believed the company would never be reinstated with its license to operate its NSW casino so long as he remained at the helm. Cooke said he wrote the letter to be transparent and open with staff about his reasons for leaving.
Cooke’s testimony contradicted earlier evidence presented by other former and current executives, including former chair David Foster. Foster had said that the board was unconcerned by the inquiry and had adopted a “fight back” stance. However, Cooke denied this, saying that the board was “very concerned” by the inquiry and that he did not believe the company was taking a confrontational approach.
Cooke left The Star last month, three days before the second Bell inquiry into the business was made public. He had been working as a non-paid consultant with The Star but said he was terminated from this position last week.
The Bell inquiry is ongoing and is expected to deliver its final report later this year.
