Tracking devices, drones and a poisoned dog: CFMEU probe told of intimidation

Queensland's CFMEU inquiry has heard claims that the union hired private investigators to surveil security contractors amid a prolonged disagreement. A manager from a security firm engaged by BMD revealed he discovered a tracking device attached to his vehicle, and multiple BMD executives' pets allegedly suffered poisoning. The inquiry continues until Thursday before resuming in October.

The Queensland Commission of Inquiry into CFMEU has heard allegations that the union hired private detectives to spy on security contractors. One security contractor found tracking tags on their car and reported that their dogs were allegedly poisoned in a separate incident. Grant Killen, the managing director of Concentric Concepts, testified to the inquiry today.

Mr Killen said he was hired by BMD to provide security services for its executives and the Centenary Bridge upgrade project, as the builder was embroiled in a long-running dispute with the union. He discovered a tracking device under his vehicle on May 17, 2014, while driving back to his office from the project site. Mr Killen believed the device was recently installed and was unsure why someone would want to track his movements.

He parked his car in a location unrelated to him or his family and reported the incident to the police. Days later, Mr Killen noticed drones flying near his home, which coincided with his son, Scott Power, the CEO of BMD, reporting that his father's dog was poisoned. The CFMEU allegedly engaged former police detective Mick Featherstone as a private investigator to research BMD executives.