A Sydney fitness model has won a legal battle against an exclusive matchmaking service, after she claimed her first date was an extraordinary dud unbefitting of the company’s $4,995 sign-up fee.
Zoë Daly told the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal that she signed up to Elite Introductions in November last year only after a high-pressure interview, in which she was told her ambitious and successful suitors wouldn’t be around for the New Year.
After laying down that dosh, Daly said she went on exactly one (1) date with a bloke who didn’t exactly fit the agency’s claims. She claimed the man not only appeared much older than 40 – she had told Elite Introductions she was seeking someone under 38 – but he was also a downer, self-absorbed, and “ashamed” of his close relations.
Oh, he also allegedly bagged her car, which is a dealbreaker in any and all circumstances.
Regarding the sign-up process, Senior Tribunal Member Scott Anthony McDonald deemed matchmaker Trudy Gilbert had used high-pressure sales techniques to get Daly to sign up. Gilbert and Elite Introductions were ordered to refund Daly to the tune of $4,000, meaning Daly stumped up nearly a grand for one bung night out.
Gilbert denied using any high-pressure techniques to encourage the membership, and told Fairfax she’d seek legal advice regarding Daly’s claim she used “deceptive” means to land her signature.
It remains to be seen what happens there. One thing is for certain: don’t rag on your date’s car. Ever.
