“It’s my wind-up application, I should get my liquidator!” | BH Holdings QLD [2024] NSWSC 132
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 Published On Feb 29, 2024

The Ps brought an application to windup various entities on the s461(1)(k) just and equitable basis, and to appoint receivers to the assets of the associated trusts: [1], [2], [6]

The various entities were variously incorporated and settled to develop a marina. That development did not progress as hoped: [3], [13]

The relationship between Dir1 and Dir2, the 50-50 controlling minds and shareholders of the relevant entities, irrevocably broke down: [1], [4], [5]

The Court found it was just and equitable that the various companies be placed into liquidation on the just and equitable basis, and receivers appointed to the associated trusts: [10]

The sole area of dispute was the identity of the liquidator(s) to be appointed: [14]

Generally, a Court will appoint a plaintiff’s choice of liquidator, though will bear in mind partiality, fitness, qualification, cost, perceived independence etc. It is for a defendant to argue for a departure from that course: [15] - [18]

The different hourly rates of the parties proposed IPs were found to be likely to lead to significantly different cost outcomes: [19]

An argument that one IP had previous experience with marinas was “very thin” - especially noting that this venture did not proceed and that the Court was not provided with evidence of how this previous experience might assist: [20]

The difference in the price of flights from Sydney or from Brisbane (to the venture’s Bundaberg location) was a “minor consideration”, especially noting the Sydney IPs had offices in Brisbane staffed by employees who could assist: [21]

The Court was troubled by the perception (*perception* only - no finding or criticism was made) of possible conflict where the Ds’ proposed IP would likely use the advisory services of a firm who was the major shareholder in a proposed purchaser of the marina: [22]

The Cos were wound up on the J and E basis, and relevant trust assets placed in receivership, with the Ps’ preferred IPs appointed: [24], [25]

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