Final evidence has been heard in a fraud case against the former chief executive officer of the Riverina Medical and Dental Aboriginal Corporation (RivMed), Selena Lyons.
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It is alleged Lyons profited by more than $31,000 by claiming travel allowances from RivMed, knowing the costs of attending various conferences and meetings had been met by organisers.
Lyons has pleaded not guilty to 28 counts of dishonestly gaining an advantage, maintaining her innocence throughout the hearing.
RivMed’s finance manager, Lorraine Martin, was recalled to the witness box once more on Thursday – after giving evidence at hearing dates in April and May this year.
Lyons’ solicitor David Barron questioned Ms Martin about accounting practices at RivMed during the time of alleged rorting of travel allowances by his client between October 2011 and April 2014.
Mr Barron referred to several emails and travel forms filled out by Ms Martin on behalf of Lyons, which in the majority of cases, allegedly did not refer to a method of travel for the trips to Sydney, Canberra and various other locations.
“The email doesn’t discuss a method of travel, yet on the form you refer to a company car being used,” Mr Barron said.
“Do you remember being told about this, did you assume it or can you not remember?”
“No I can’t remember,” Ms Martin said.
In some responses, Ms Martin admitted there was a possibility of further verbal discussion between herself and Lyons about travel plans.
Ms Martin also told Mr Barron she was aware Lyons was a diabetic with specific dietary requirements.
Prosecutor Caroline Dobraszcyzk told the court in final submissions the CEO position Lyons assumed was one that demanded a high-level of behaviour and conduct.
“We are alleging she must’ve known and was obtaining money she wasn’t entitled to,” Ms Dobraszcyzk said.
“She clearly had information before sending the emails that they were providing accommodation and certain meals, but with the exception of one email, there were no references to that.
“What on earth would she be thinking she was getting that money for if food and accommodation was covered?”
The case will continue on November 22 for the remaining final submissions.
