Monte Carlo stop on Palmer’s European vacation

CLIVE Palmer’s European vacation has continued in grand style, with the former politician and besieged businessman enjoying a day trip in glamorous Monte Carlo.

Mr Palmer, his wife Anna, daughter Emily and other family members stepped off the MS Westerdam overnight in Monaco, on the French Riviera.

They have been cruising the Mediterranean in luxury since July 18, when they joined the big Holland America cruise boat in Barcelona, Spain.

Mr Palmer, dressed in a cap and long- sleeved shirt, looked a picture of health as he strolled in the hot sun, in stark contrast to his appearance in the Federal Court several weeks ago when he carried a sick bag and a pillow and said he was having difficulties breathing.

The Palmer group strolled the waterfront in the up- market district of Monte Carlo, near the famed grand prix street circuit, before spotting our photographer.

Mr Palmer then hurried to take refuge in the Shangri- La Hotel before making a phone call, then disappearing with his family in a taxi mini- van.

His company has been under intense scrutiny by the Federal Court, where liquidators are trying to extract $ 66 million in entitlements for up to 800 Townsville workers who lost their jobs at Mr Palmer’s failed Yabulu nickel refinery.

The former leader of the Palmer United Party, who has recently lost almost 60kg, told the court he was suffering from pancreatitis, had undergone a gall bladder operations and had taken painkillers that might affect his evidence.

But he seems to be enjoying better health on his holiday, a 24- day tour billed by the tour company as a “western Medi- terranean adventure’’, which he joined halfway through.

His nephew Clive Mensink, the former managing director of Queensland Nickel, is also rumoured to be on the cruise.

Two warrants have been issued for Mr Mensink after he twice failed to appear in court to answer questions about Queensland Nickel’s finances.

The MS Westerdam is now heading for Italy.

ELLEN WHINNETT