THE Fremantle chamber of commerce is refusing to say whether it supports the Perth Freight Link, one week out from its $130-a head luncheon spruiking the controversial highway.

The chamber’s swanky state-of-the-state luncheon at the Esplanade Hotel will feature WA transport minister Dean Nalder talking up the PFL to the local business community.

“Could the Freight Link be a road to building the future economy?” the flyer asks. “…the economic gains and opportunity for industry that will flow throughout the Fremantle region and WA with the realisation of this project.”

• The flyer promoting the PFL luncheon with Dean Nalder.

Chamber CEO Olwyn Williams wouldn’t say how many tickets had been sold, nor give any clues about the chamber’s stance on the controversial route, which includes barreling through Bibra and North Lakes: “The Fremantle Chamber of Commerce has not as yet adopted a formal position on the PFL,” she says.

“Ultimately the business community will want to get on with building and operating their businesses and working with a port that features best possible access for the turn-around of exports and imports.

“There are hundreds of businesses across the Fremantle region, and beyond, whose livelihoods are linked to the operations of Fremantle Port.”

Ms Williams says the chamber met with Mr Nalder in late 2015 to get a better understanding of the PFL and, following discussions, invited him to address the luncheon.

by STEPHEN POLLOCK