$1 million debt denied
A FORMER rich lister who allegedly owes almost $1 million to the taxman and $20,000 to staff says he is embroiled in a personal court dispute but will reopen his cafe this week.
Ricky Munday last night rejected claims he owed Australian Taxation Office the money, despite Spend Love Pty Ltd being placed in external ad- ministration last Friday.
The company’s Spendelove Bistro and Bar, at the bustling Ferry Rd Markets in Southport, has been closed since Friday.
“I guarantee the ATO is not owed that money,” said Mr Munday, a former Victorian pub baron who was estimated to be worth $132 million in 2009.
“I am in the process of negotiating with AMP to renew the lease ... and we plan to reopen this week.”
Documents filed with the Australian Securities and Invesment Commission allege the business owes the Australian Taxation Office $920,000 in unpaid tax.
The court ordered the company be wound up and the landlord changed the locks.
Spendelove is owned by Mr Munday and his wife Simone Munday.
In lodgement documents signed by Mr Munday, he admits four staff are owed about $20,000.
The documents say the business has just $75.85 in the bank, with $20,000 worth of stock and debtors including McGrath Real Estate Agents and nearby fashion store Runway Addict.
But Mr Munday said the cafe would re-open this week.
“The argument is between me and my wife,” he said.
“I am close to a settlement with my wife.”
The Bulletin understands many more staff and supplier claims are likely to be made.
Liquidator James Koutsoukos was appointed as administrator on November 2.
Mr Munday recently opened the Hideout Kitchen in the new Pimpama Shopping Centre and said this issue would not affect that venue.