PORT Stephens politicians have been unable to escape the glare of the Independent Commission Against Corruption with both state MP Craig Baumann and federal MP Bob Baldwin mentioned during hearings.
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The scope of those mentioned during the proceedings has been far reaching with journalists and small businessmen among those to be listed in the transcripts.
However, the inquiry into political donations has embroiled Josh Hodges, former Port Stephens councillor and campaign manager for suspended Liberal MP Tim Owen.
Mr Hodges, who has been called as a witness, told the inquiry last week that the Nathan Tinkler-backed company Buildev helped bankroll Mr Owen's election campaign via a "scheme" to bypass NSW laws banning property developers from making political donations.
According to Mr Hodges, Buildev was issued with "fake" invoices for his services on Mr Owen's campaign in 2011.
Mr Hodges was also a former staff member for Craig Baumann during his 2007 election campaign.
The counsel assisting the inquiry, Geoffrey Watson SC, said Mr Baumann "may have been aware of" the arrangement, given his connection to Mr Hodges.
When contacted by the Examiner, Mr Baumann said he was unable to comment and could not confirm whether he would be called as a witness, but he added he was assisting the inquiry. There is no suggestion Mr Baumann was involved in the arrangement.
Federal Liberal MP Bob Baldwin, who supported Mr Tinkler's plans for a Newcastle coal loader, may be called to give evidence after the inquiry heard that Buildev made donations to his campaign.
It is not illegal for developers to donate to federal candidates.
Mr Baldwin wrote a letter of support for the coal loader proposal to NSW ministers Chris Hartcher and Mike Gallacher in April 2011.
The letter "implored" them to back the proposal and provide "an approval process free of red tape", adding that the project would create 3500 jobs and generate more than $6 billion for the economy. It is understood Mr Baldwin also sent a copy of the letter to Buildev director David Sharpe.
A spokesperson for Mr Baldwin said he was unable to comment at this time.