Toland case ‘complicated’

THE case against former mayoral candidate Penny Toland has “complicating features”, a court was told yesterday.

The matter was mentioned briefly in Southport Magistrates Court where Toland faces a charge of perjury.

The charge arises from hearings held by the Crime and Corruption Commission in relation to the 2016 Gold Coast council elections.

Toland did not appear in court.

Defence lawyer Emma Fogerty, of Potts Lawyers, said a partial brief of evidence had been provided to them in early February.

“There are some complicating factors in this matter,” she said.

Ms Fogerty said police were liaising with the CCC to get transcripts of comments made in the hearings.

She said a number of “civilian” witnesses had provided unsigned statements in relation to the matter.

Magistrate Donald MacKenzie said he understood the matter was “interesting” but warned it needed to progress.

“I want you to come armed and ready so that we can have a timetable so it can be listed for committal in the next six months,” he said.

Mr MacKenzie adjourned the matter to March 15.