Why are Norths getting off scott free here? And being given constant assurance they are OK, but the WA partner being smashed publicly?
Because the WA Consortium wanted complete control over the bid. They rejected Bears people investment. They were content with using the Bears brand and IP while WA Consortium controlled all aspects of investment and finances with absolute power. It was autonomous.
Hence why there were no direct Norths involvement with the consortium from a bid team aspect. The parts of Norths mainly concerned with brand protection and usage which WA Consortium still tried to stray it miles of course from what was agreed to. Hence the disgraceful logo they proposed and which was rejected (I have posted it twice here now, taken it down. Snooze you lose).
The other aspect Norths provided was pathways and junior development via the programs and systems already in place.
WA Consortium chose to engage Freshwater Strategy to complete the bid document.
WA Consortium chose to put $0 down as a license fee.
There is a myriad of things that you can point the finger at Norths and blame them for, rightfully so. This isn’t one of them and if you paid any attention to any of the interviews with Cumins himself, that would present itself to be evidently clear.
End of the day Norths are still working with the relevant parties to make this happen. It’s a WA team for WA people and yes it does bring Bears supporters on board too.