Victorian Labor leader John Brumby has fronted the media and conceded defeat following Saturday's state election that gave a narrow win to the Coalition led by Ted Baillieu.
His family and many of his former cabinet colleagues were present for the announcement.
Mr Brumby's office had earlier said he would make no statement on his future until all the votes were counted in the south-east Melbourne seat of Bentleigh.
But he now says it will be almost impossible for Labor to take the seat on current count trends.
Mr Brumby says he called Mr Baillieu before the media conference to pass on his congratulations.
"The electorate has spoken and we must accept their verdict no matter how close the result," he said.
Mr Brumby blamed the baggage of 11 years in office as the main reason for his downfall.
"The people of Victoria felt it was time to give another team a chance," he said.
"Not glossing over issues raised in the campaign... governments seeking to serve a mandate in excess of a decade face a seriously difficult time.
"Often it has been a bridge too far.
"Victors have the right to write history, but I believe Victoria is a stronger, better, fairer place than we found it 11 years ago."
Mr Brumby became premier in 2007 after Steve Bracks retired.
He leaves without having received the people's endorsement.
He also did not say whether he will stay on as Labor leader.
Victory in Bentleigh gives the Liberal/National Coalition the 45 seats it needs to form government.
Mr Baillieu will visit Government House this evening.
This morning Mr Baillieu presided over what was his party's last shadow cabinet meeting before forming government.
He walked through Parliament House flanked by his frontbench team and briefly posed for the TV cameras before shutting the door to begin the meeting.
Cheering and applause could be heard soon after.
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Monday, November 29, 2010
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Woolworths: The Fast Cash People?, by Greg Tingle - 19th November 2010
Gambling and especially potential harm re "problem gambling" continues to get a strong news run in Australia. Today we explore the business relationship that retailer Woolworths (slogan - 'The Fast Food People') aka 'The Fast Cash People' (satire) enjoys in the Australian gaming and gambling industry. Media Man and Gambling911 take a ride on the shopping trolley jackpot with this special report...
Woolworths on Thursday found itself defending its significant business involvement in Australian pokies, as the echoes that they are causing social harm continues.
What's the one armed bandit link we hear you ask. Woolworths, via its majority holding in the ALH Group venture with Melbourne businessman and Aussie pokies king Bruce Mathieson, is Australia's largest poker machine operator and is likely to face more negative press and noise over "problem gambling" due to the anti-pokies stance of some key federal Independent MPs and senators. It's mainly a small but vocal minority, but it gives they a platform to get noticed.
A Media Man insider said 'For some MP's the pokies thing is gold. Some of them see pokies as the new thing to jump upon. Rather like pokies is the new porn to jump up an down about. For the past few years in Australia porn and also the environment were big issues for polies, then mining, not pokies gets a lot of heat. Next year it will be something else".
Woolies Chief executive Michael Luscombe, speaking after the company's annual shareholder meeting in Brisbane said it had no plans at all to exit the poker machines business.
Luscombe advised the firm was planning to introduce a policy to help reduce problem gambling, but he could not or would not immediately name the specific nature.
A communications assistant type then went on to describe the voluntary precommitment policy, under which punters can choose to set limits for wager amounts.
Stephen Maybe, political and media commentator, and anti pokies activist quizzed if Woolworths had decided to pursue court action to prevent councils from such a move or had agreed to a deal with the Victorian Labor Party to use legislation to prevent council action if the Brumby Government was re-elected. Luscombe said he was not aware of any agreement with Labor.
Mayne also said nationwide more than $10 billion was lost on pokies each year. He said Manningham council was investigating the possibility of increasing the rate bill of Woolworths' gaming venues from $100,000 to $400,000.
Woolworths' hotels business enjoyed about $176.7 million in fiscal 2010 pretax earnings and added 6 properties, taking its total number of hotels and clubs to 284.
Woolworths issued a special report on its social, environmental and governance policies, however the report's one-page summary of key 2010 challenges did not mention action to address "problem gambling".
The company noted it adhered to gambling-related laws and planned voluntary measures.
Woolworths also came under fire over its approach to executive pay, with the Australian Shareholders Association citing concern over lack of transparency as the reason for rejecting the remuneration report.
The outfit had good news on its latest trading, with Luscombe stating there had been no direct impact on its business from the latest official rate rise. He expected Christmas trading this year would be "reasonably good".
The company continued to expect 8-11% growth in fiscal 2011 net profit.
He said the company was likely to open more than the 150 home-improvement stores targeted. It has secured 90 sites and planned to open the first stores in Victoria from about July..
Chairman James Strong said the company was keeping its eye out for takeover opportunities.
"The board remains open and alert to a wide range of possibilities that could add value for our shareholders," he said.
Woolies shares rose 24 cents to $27.74 yesterday.
By all accounts Woolworths is making a killing with its current links to the Australian pokies business, and shows no sign of slowing down.
Christmas jackpots are on the way, as the pokies lovers vs pokies haters war down under continues.
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Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? What do you think about Woolworths being involved in gambling? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis.
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Woolworths on Thursday found itself defending its significant business involvement in Australian pokies, as the echoes that they are causing social harm continues.
What's the one armed bandit link we hear you ask. Woolworths, via its majority holding in the ALH Group venture with Melbourne businessman and Aussie pokies king Bruce Mathieson, is Australia's largest poker machine operator and is likely to face more negative press and noise over "problem gambling" due to the anti-pokies stance of some key federal Independent MPs and senators. It's mainly a small but vocal minority, but it gives they a platform to get noticed.
A Media Man insider said 'For some MP's the pokies thing is gold. Some of them see pokies as the new thing to jump upon. Rather like pokies is the new porn to jump up an down about. For the past few years in Australia porn and also the environment were big issues for polies, then mining, not pokies gets a lot of heat. Next year it will be something else".
Woolies Chief executive Michael Luscombe, speaking after the company's annual shareholder meeting in Brisbane said it had no plans at all to exit the poker machines business.
Luscombe advised the firm was planning to introduce a policy to help reduce problem gambling, but he could not or would not immediately name the specific nature.
A communications assistant type then went on to describe the voluntary precommitment policy, under which punters can choose to set limits for wager amounts.
Stephen Maybe, political and media commentator, and anti pokies activist quizzed if Woolworths had decided to pursue court action to prevent councils from such a move or had agreed to a deal with the Victorian Labor Party to use legislation to prevent council action if the Brumby Government was re-elected. Luscombe said he was not aware of any agreement with Labor.
Mayne also said nationwide more than $10 billion was lost on pokies each year. He said Manningham council was investigating the possibility of increasing the rate bill of Woolworths' gaming venues from $100,000 to $400,000.
Woolworths' hotels business enjoyed about $176.7 million in fiscal 2010 pretax earnings and added 6 properties, taking its total number of hotels and clubs to 284.
Woolworths issued a special report on its social, environmental and governance policies, however the report's one-page summary of key 2010 challenges did not mention action to address "problem gambling".
The company noted it adhered to gambling-related laws and planned voluntary measures.
Woolworths also came under fire over its approach to executive pay, with the Australian Shareholders Association citing concern over lack of transparency as the reason for rejecting the remuneration report.
The outfit had good news on its latest trading, with Luscombe stating there had been no direct impact on its business from the latest official rate rise. He expected Christmas trading this year would be "reasonably good".
The company continued to expect 8-11% growth in fiscal 2011 net profit.
He said the company was likely to open more than the 150 home-improvement stores targeted. It has secured 90 sites and planned to open the first stores in Victoria from about July..
Chairman James Strong said the company was keeping its eye out for takeover opportunities.
"The board remains open and alert to a wide range of possibilities that could add value for our shareholders," he said.
Woolies shares rose 24 cents to $27.74 yesterday.
By all accounts Woolworths is making a killing with its current links to the Australian pokies business, and shows no sign of slowing down.
Christmas jackpots are on the way, as the pokies lovers vs pokies haters war down under continues.
Media Man Profiles
Australia
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News
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Wrap Up...
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? What do you think about Woolworths being involved in gambling? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis.
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Saturday, November 06, 2010
James Packer Casino King Tribute To Alan Jones Media King, by Greg Tingle - 5th November 2010
In a very special getting together in Sydney, Australia's gambling king, and up and coming media tycoon, James Packer, has paid tribute to Australian radio broadcasting legend Alan Jones, in a powerful and emotional speech. Media Man and Gambling911 cross now to the action...
Australian media and gambling business champion, James Packer, gave a powerful, emotional and heartfelt address overnight in tribute to talkback radio king and racing identity Alan Jones.
For the uninitiated, Jones is every part the living legend of media, racing and people power circles. Jones and the guest were celebrating his 25 years as a broadcaster in a glitz event at Sydney's Darling Harbour. Media Man favorite gambling tycoon, Packer headlined the impressive event.
Let's go through some of the highlights...
Packer's voice got croaky after describing how Jones had assisted thousands of people, many totally anonymously, showing just how giving of heart and spirit the great man was.
"Alan, no one will ever take your place. You are without peer my friend," Packer said, looking to get touch teary eyed.
Earlier in the evening he told the story of how his late father, Kerry Packer, has encouraged and then persuaded Jones to give up politics for life as a media commentator on Network Nine and then onto Radio 2UE, and before then representing competitor 2GB Radio.
"What do you want to be son...the Prime Minister or a millionaire," KP (Kerry Packer) said to Jones.
"Alan took the money, not the box."
The magical night, which was hosted by advertising and media legend John Singleton and attended by the whose who of politics, media, and arts, also featured tributes from people as diverse as Liberal Party powerbroker Michael Kroger and pop icons Human Nature.
Jones's long-time colleague at 2UE and a veteran of more than 6 decades in radio, John Brennan said Jones was the best broadcaster he had ever heard because of his ability to connect with listeners and his efficiency of description.
"I think that Alan Jones is the Roger Federer of radio," he wasn't afraid to share with the audience.
Even former Aussie prime minister John Howard touched on a remark from Packer that Jones would "pick and stick" by his mates and friends, describing the legend as "an Australian who never let his cobbers down".
He said Jones, more than anyone else, understood the power of talkback radio to influence politics.
"Alan has understood the temperament and the nature of the Australian people They don't like being told by self-appointed cultural dietitians that we should be ashamed of our past - Alan understood that", Howard shared.
He said he had appreciated Jones's support while in office and paid tribute to the broadcaster's record of winning a massive 155 radio ratings surveys.
Jones, who went on to speak last, said Howard was in his mind "the best prime minister Australia has had".
He thanked the people who attended - friends, family and other guests, including some of his listeners, as well as generously paying tribute to his support team at Radio 2GB.
Jones advised his main campaign would be against opencut mining which he thinks turns too much rich pastoral land into wastelands for profit. He elaborated and said he was hopeful he would be able to continue to make people feel better as a result of his work, both broadcasting, community and more.
"The aim of power in this world is to lift people, not crush them," he shared.
Jones has also greatly contributed to the Australia gaming and horse racing industry, with speaking on what's best for Australian racing being one of his passions. It was Jones who basically told Australian racing to lift its game or see more competition knocking on the door of Australia. Jones and his team are aware of the PartyGaming - PMU deal inked earlier this year, and Jones has also offered commentary in the past on Packer's Betfair and the like. Jones is understood to be a supported of regulated gaming and racing, and a believer in responsible gaming, as is Gambling911 and Media Man.
Well done to everyone involved, and Alan, thank you for assisting some of my mates over the years also, which in turn assisted me, and James, thank you also for the opportunity to offer commentary on you, your company, initiatives like GenerationOne, and to offer some b2b to some of your companies showcase events like Crown Casino Aussie Millions Poker Championship. It is truly appreciated and never taken for granted. Long live the Jones, Packer and 'Singo' (Singleton) legends. All Aussie champions of business, community and people power.
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It was wonderful to hear about the good deeds of media tycoons wasn't it We salute both Packer, Jones, and the good folks who helped put together such a fantastic happening. It was also a nice change to read about big time Australian media players without all the agro and such. Stay tuned for more of the best on gambling, media, entertainment and sports right here at Gambling911.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis. Media Man also publish Media Man News http://www.mediamannews.com
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Australian media and gambling business champion, James Packer, gave a powerful, emotional and heartfelt address overnight in tribute to talkback radio king and racing identity Alan Jones.
For the uninitiated, Jones is every part the living legend of media, racing and people power circles. Jones and the guest were celebrating his 25 years as a broadcaster in a glitz event at Sydney's Darling Harbour. Media Man favorite gambling tycoon, Packer headlined the impressive event.
Let's go through some of the highlights...
Packer's voice got croaky after describing how Jones had assisted thousands of people, many totally anonymously, showing just how giving of heart and spirit the great man was.
"Alan, no one will ever take your place. You are without peer my friend," Packer said, looking to get touch teary eyed.
Earlier in the evening he told the story of how his late father, Kerry Packer, has encouraged and then persuaded Jones to give up politics for life as a media commentator on Network Nine and then onto Radio 2UE, and before then representing competitor 2GB Radio.
"What do you want to be son...the Prime Minister or a millionaire," KP (Kerry Packer) said to Jones.
"Alan took the money, not the box."
The magical night, which was hosted by advertising and media legend John Singleton and attended by the whose who of politics, media, and arts, also featured tributes from people as diverse as Liberal Party powerbroker Michael Kroger and pop icons Human Nature.
Jones's long-time colleague at 2UE and a veteran of more than 6 decades in radio, John Brennan said Jones was the best broadcaster he had ever heard because of his ability to connect with listeners and his efficiency of description.
"I think that Alan Jones is the Roger Federer of radio," he wasn't afraid to share with the audience.
Even former Aussie prime minister John Howard touched on a remark from Packer that Jones would "pick and stick" by his mates and friends, describing the legend as "an Australian who never let his cobbers down".
He said Jones, more than anyone else, understood the power of talkback radio to influence politics.
"Alan has understood the temperament and the nature of the Australian people They don't like being told by self-appointed cultural dietitians that we should be ashamed of our past - Alan understood that", Howard shared.
He said he had appreciated Jones's support while in office and paid tribute to the broadcaster's record of winning a massive 155 radio ratings surveys.
Jones, who went on to speak last, said Howard was in his mind "the best prime minister Australia has had".
He thanked the people who attended - friends, family and other guests, including some of his listeners, as well as generously paying tribute to his support team at Radio 2GB.
Jones advised his main campaign would be against opencut mining which he thinks turns too much rich pastoral land into wastelands for profit. He elaborated and said he was hopeful he would be able to continue to make people feel better as a result of his work, both broadcasting, community and more.
"The aim of power in this world is to lift people, not crush them," he shared.
Jones has also greatly contributed to the Australia gaming and horse racing industry, with speaking on what's best for Australian racing being one of his passions. It was Jones who basically told Australian racing to lift its game or see more competition knocking on the door of Australia. Jones and his team are aware of the PartyGaming - PMU deal inked earlier this year, and Jones has also offered commentary in the past on Packer's Betfair and the like. Jones is understood to be a supported of regulated gaming and racing, and a believer in responsible gaming, as is Gambling911 and Media Man.
Well done to everyone involved, and Alan, thank you for assisting some of my mates over the years also, which in turn assisted me, and James, thank you also for the opportunity to offer commentary on you, your company, initiatives like GenerationOne, and to offer some b2b to some of your companies showcase events like Crown Casino Aussie Millions Poker Championship. It is truly appreciated and never taken for granted. Long live the Jones, Packer and 'Singo' (Singleton) legends. All Aussie champions of business, community and people power.
Media Man Profiles
Australia
Radio
Television
James Packer
Alan Jones
John Singleton
Entertainment News
Wrap Up...
It was wonderful to hear about the good deeds of media tycoons wasn't it We salute both Packer, Jones, and the good folks who helped put together such a fantastic happening. It was also a nice change to read about big time Australian media players without all the agro and such. Stay tuned for more of the best on gambling, media, entertainment and sports right here at Gambling911.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis. Media Man also publish Media Man News http://www.mediamannews.com
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Wednesday, November 03, 2010
Conn. Wrestling Fans: Not Totally Sold On Linda McMahon Ex WWE Boss, by Greg Tingle - 3rd November 2010
Linda McMahon wasn't the first pro wrestling aka sports entertainment personality to enter mainstream politics, nor will she the last, but tipsters say she might end up being the most talked about, perhaps even to eclipse legendary Jesse "The Body" Ventura, now host of cable's 'Conspiracy Theory'.
To stake the obvious, being talked about doesn't automatically equal votes.
I'm an Aussie (Australian) so I can't vote for Linda, but you bet, I would if I could. She's likable, intelligent and has a proven track record in running a business - a business that she helped turn into a multi billion dollar concern, and has employed thousands of people over the years. That business - The World Wrestling Entertainment "sports entertainment" powerhouse is one of the world's most well known brands and provides millions, perhaps even billions of people with family friendly (these days) entertainment. A lot has changed since the smoke filled arena and bodybuilder - steroid era.
Wrestling fans or not, it is not fair to blame Linda or Vince McMahon on the steroids found in wrestling, or the ultra high level of early deaths found in the wrestling profession. No one forces wrestlers to take steroids or any drugs, but it is acknowledged that in the past - circa 1990 "monster" (big) wrestlers were usually pushed to the top of the card, and that was linked to earning capacity. The life of a pro wrestler can be presented as glamorous, but it is also one that doesn't come without high risks, injuries and the body encountering frequent pain over the years. The WWE has hundreds of wrestlers on their rooster which helps in given the talent a break when they need, as there is always another wrestler available to fill up the card.
Let's now swing forward to the here and now, with an upcoming election upon us...
Connecticut fans of World Wrestling Entertainment have advised Republican U.S. Senate candidate Linda McMahon's ties to the wrestling aka "sports entertainment" company won't guarantee their votes come the Election.
Pro wrestling fanatics in Hartford on Saturday said the former WWE CEO's political - media campaign has "no bearing" on their enjoyment of the WWE. The company was in Hartford's XL Center for Fan Appreciation Day, which as you can imagine was a fantastic event and quite the moral booster for WWE management and "independent contractors" (wrestlers).
McMahon is running against Democratic state Attorney General Richard Blumenthal for the seat of retiring Democratic U.S Sen. Christopher Dodd. A recent poll obtained by Media Man showed Blumenthal leading McMahon at the time of this publication.
WWE representatives say the weekend show wasn't so much about rallying voters. They say it was held to thank fans for supporting the company despite what they have named as unfair attacks on its image from state Democrats and sections of the media. For the record let it be known that Media Man has given fair and balanced coverage to the WWE over the years, even back to when it wasn't afraid to call itself World Wrestling Federation and "pro wrastling". Sometimes we even ran some negative based articles, when they were in order, based on the company's actions.
Only a few weeks ago current WWE top brass Vince McMahon started his own campaign: 'Stand Up For WWE', which by all accounts has been a global phenomenal success.
The global news media should be fair to WWE and Linda McMahon. A quick snapshot shows:
Linda McMahon has a proven track record in business
Politically savvy candidate
Strong community ties
Built leading global brand
WWE is family friendly entertainment (usually)
WWE Wellness Policy (which has proven to be a serious policy, unlike in some other sports and fields of endeavor)
So, wrestling fans or not, when you vote in the upcoming election, vote with your head. Don't be deterred by media beat ups or bias articles.
Will Linda McMahon and her tag team partner of sorts, Vince "Mr McMahon", lay the smack down on their political opponents? You can bet it will be a fight to the finish. Stay tuned to Media Man and Gambling911 for the aftermath of 'Celebrity Death Match' Connecticut style.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. The also offer political analysis
*Media Man conducts some b2b business with World Wrestling Entertainment and publishes Wrestling News Media http://www.wrestlingnewsmedia.com
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To stake the obvious, being talked about doesn't automatically equal votes.
I'm an Aussie (Australian) so I can't vote for Linda, but you bet, I would if I could. She's likable, intelligent and has a proven track record in running a business - a business that she helped turn into a multi billion dollar concern, and has employed thousands of people over the years. That business - The World Wrestling Entertainment "sports entertainment" powerhouse is one of the world's most well known brands and provides millions, perhaps even billions of people with family friendly (these days) entertainment. A lot has changed since the smoke filled arena and bodybuilder - steroid era.
Wrestling fans or not, it is not fair to blame Linda or Vince McMahon on the steroids found in wrestling, or the ultra high level of early deaths found in the wrestling profession. No one forces wrestlers to take steroids or any drugs, but it is acknowledged that in the past - circa 1990 "monster" (big) wrestlers were usually pushed to the top of the card, and that was linked to earning capacity. The life of a pro wrestler can be presented as glamorous, but it is also one that doesn't come without high risks, injuries and the body encountering frequent pain over the years. The WWE has hundreds of wrestlers on their rooster which helps in given the talent a break when they need, as there is always another wrestler available to fill up the card.
Let's now swing forward to the here and now, with an upcoming election upon us...
Connecticut fans of World Wrestling Entertainment have advised Republican U.S. Senate candidate Linda McMahon's ties to the wrestling aka "sports entertainment" company won't guarantee their votes come the Election.
Pro wrestling fanatics in Hartford on Saturday said the former WWE CEO's political - media campaign has "no bearing" on their enjoyment of the WWE. The company was in Hartford's XL Center for Fan Appreciation Day, which as you can imagine was a fantastic event and quite the moral booster for WWE management and "independent contractors" (wrestlers).
McMahon is running against Democratic state Attorney General Richard Blumenthal for the seat of retiring Democratic U.S Sen. Christopher Dodd. A recent poll obtained by Media Man showed Blumenthal leading McMahon at the time of this publication.
WWE representatives say the weekend show wasn't so much about rallying voters. They say it was held to thank fans for supporting the company despite what they have named as unfair attacks on its image from state Democrats and sections of the media. For the record let it be known that Media Man has given fair and balanced coverage to the WWE over the years, even back to when it wasn't afraid to call itself World Wrestling Federation and "pro wrastling". Sometimes we even ran some negative based articles, when they were in order, based on the company's actions.
Only a few weeks ago current WWE top brass Vince McMahon started his own campaign: 'Stand Up For WWE', which by all accounts has been a global phenomenal success.
The global news media should be fair to WWE and Linda McMahon. A quick snapshot shows:
Linda McMahon has a proven track record in business
Politically savvy candidate
Strong community ties
Built leading global brand
WWE is family friendly entertainment (usually)
WWE Wellness Policy (which has proven to be a serious policy, unlike in some other sports and fields of endeavor)
So, wrestling fans or not, when you vote in the upcoming election, vote with your head. Don't be deterred by media beat ups or bias articles.
Will Linda McMahon and her tag team partner of sorts, Vince "Mr McMahon", lay the smack down on their political opponents? You can bet it will be a fight to the finish. Stay tuned to Media Man and Gambling911 for the aftermath of 'Celebrity Death Match' Connecticut style.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. The also offer political analysis
*Media Man conducts some b2b business with World Wrestling Entertainment and publishes Wrestling News Media http://www.wrestlingnewsmedia.com
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Friday, October 29, 2010
Vince McMahon defends WWE; Conn. Dems cry tag-team
HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Wrestling impresario Vince McMahon — who has largely avoided the role of political spouse and whose World Wrestling Entertainment alter ego has been on hiatus during his wife's Senate campaign in Connecticut — has emerged from ringside in the contest's final days, defending a business empire he says has been trashed because of politics.
Democrats call his actions a late tag-team effort to boost Republican Linda McMahon's campaign as she trails in the polls.
Fed up with what he called "malicious and misleading attacks," the bombastic 65-year-old McMahon recently launched an Internet campaign called "Stand up for WWE," whose past policies and programming have been attacked by his wife's opponents.
He also filed a federal lawsuit this week against the top state election official for suggesting that WWE fans who come to the polls cover up their wrestling clothing or paraphernalia, given Linda McMahon's ties to the company. A judge Wednesday ruled in McMahon's favor.
And on Saturday, the WWE is staging a fan appreciation event in Hartford just three days before Linda McMahon hopes to rally enough voters to defeat Democrat Richard Blumenthal for the seat being vacated by Democratic Sen. Christopher Dodd. WWE announced Thursday it will hand out free merchandise near selected polling places on Election Day to "celebrate" its success with the lawsuit.
Vince McMahon says such efforts have been "a monumental success."
"Certain members of the media, they're a little less likely to write untruths. Elitists, a little less likely to be looking down their noses at us. And even government officials, are concerned about the collective power of you, the WWE universe," McMahon proudly tells the fans in a WWE Web message posted this week.
While WWE and Linda McMahon's Senate campaign both claim the "Stand up for WWE" endeavor is strictly a company initiative, state Democrats have sought a federal elections investigation into whether the company has illegally cooperated with the political campaign.
"Linda McMahon's $50 million attack machine is calling in corporate reinforcements with no respect for the law or the voters of Connecticut," said state Democratic Chairwoman Nancy DiNardo, referring to how much the candidate has said she'll spend on her campaign.
Vince McMahon has appeared politically only once with his wife since she declared her candidacy last fall — in May, when she won the state GOP's endorsement.
Still, his image and reputation have made an impression in a race where the issues of steroid abuses and the WWE's controversial programming have often outmatched policy discussions.
Political opponents have enjoyed showing clips of Vince McMahon — as WWE character Mr. McMahon — forcing a woman to bark like a dog. They also point to his 1994 trial when was faced charges of conspiracy to distribute anabolic steroids to wrestlers. He was later acquitted.
Linda McMahon has touted her 30 years as an executive at WWE, and its past incarnations, in saying she has what it takes to turn around Washington.
Her husband of 44 years acknowledges he doesn't have much use for politicians and politics.
"When Linda mentioned to me that she wanted to give this a run and what did I think, I said, 'Well if you're successful, you'll be the only honest politician I know in Washington D.C.,'" Vince McMahon told The Associated Press.
On the campaign trail, Linda McMahon has mostly been accompanied by her paid campaign staff, appearing at times with the couple's daughter Stephanie, or Stephanie's husband Paul Levesque, the wrestler known as Triple H.
And on WWE's programming, the fictional Mr. McMahon has been incapacitated for months after some renegade wrestlers beat him up in June. McMahon told the AP that he hopes to end the character, saying the performances in the ring have become physically grueling.
"This was not about Vince McMahon, it should not have been about WWE, it was about Linda. The campaign was about Linda McMahon running for Senate," WWE spokesman Rob Zimmerman said.
The McMahons transformed a small wrestling company they bought from Vince's father into the success that it's become today, complete with pay-per-view matches and a planned cable TV channel. Both talk about sharing a desk in the old days, not sure whether they could afford to pay their taxes or their staff.
Vince McMahon acknowledges he underestimated the interest, and scrutiny, the Senate race would bring to WWE and the issues he and the company have faced over the years, such as steroids, wrestler deaths and raunchy programming.
And he's also been surprised by how he's been portrayed as a mythic, all-controlling figure who knew what was really going "back in the day," before the company revamped everything from its programming to drug testing.
"I'm supposed to be this Machiavellian character of some kind ... ," he told the AP. "Oh yeah, I'm extremely aggressive, over the top and real matter-of-fact, and I go for the jugular everyday and have an extraordinary work ethic and what have you, but the stories are legendary."
Credit: Google News, Wires
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Democrats call his actions a late tag-team effort to boost Republican Linda McMahon's campaign as she trails in the polls.
Fed up with what he called "malicious and misleading attacks," the bombastic 65-year-old McMahon recently launched an Internet campaign called "Stand up for WWE," whose past policies and programming have been attacked by his wife's opponents.
He also filed a federal lawsuit this week against the top state election official for suggesting that WWE fans who come to the polls cover up their wrestling clothing or paraphernalia, given Linda McMahon's ties to the company. A judge Wednesday ruled in McMahon's favor.
And on Saturday, the WWE is staging a fan appreciation event in Hartford just three days before Linda McMahon hopes to rally enough voters to defeat Democrat Richard Blumenthal for the seat being vacated by Democratic Sen. Christopher Dodd. WWE announced Thursday it will hand out free merchandise near selected polling places on Election Day to "celebrate" its success with the lawsuit.
Vince McMahon says such efforts have been "a monumental success."
"Certain members of the media, they're a little less likely to write untruths. Elitists, a little less likely to be looking down their noses at us. And even government officials, are concerned about the collective power of you, the WWE universe," McMahon proudly tells the fans in a WWE Web message posted this week.
While WWE and Linda McMahon's Senate campaign both claim the "Stand up for WWE" endeavor is strictly a company initiative, state Democrats have sought a federal elections investigation into whether the company has illegally cooperated with the political campaign.
"Linda McMahon's $50 million attack machine is calling in corporate reinforcements with no respect for the law or the voters of Connecticut," said state Democratic Chairwoman Nancy DiNardo, referring to how much the candidate has said she'll spend on her campaign.
Vince McMahon has appeared politically only once with his wife since she declared her candidacy last fall — in May, when she won the state GOP's endorsement.
Still, his image and reputation have made an impression in a race where the issues of steroid abuses and the WWE's controversial programming have often outmatched policy discussions.
Political opponents have enjoyed showing clips of Vince McMahon — as WWE character Mr. McMahon — forcing a woman to bark like a dog. They also point to his 1994 trial when was faced charges of conspiracy to distribute anabolic steroids to wrestlers. He was later acquitted.
Linda McMahon has touted her 30 years as an executive at WWE, and its past incarnations, in saying she has what it takes to turn around Washington.
Her husband of 44 years acknowledges he doesn't have much use for politicians and politics.
"When Linda mentioned to me that she wanted to give this a run and what did I think, I said, 'Well if you're successful, you'll be the only honest politician I know in Washington D.C.,'" Vince McMahon told The Associated Press.
On the campaign trail, Linda McMahon has mostly been accompanied by her paid campaign staff, appearing at times with the couple's daughter Stephanie, or Stephanie's husband Paul Levesque, the wrestler known as Triple H.
And on WWE's programming, the fictional Mr. McMahon has been incapacitated for months after some renegade wrestlers beat him up in June. McMahon told the AP that he hopes to end the character, saying the performances in the ring have become physically grueling.
"This was not about Vince McMahon, it should not have been about WWE, it was about Linda. The campaign was about Linda McMahon running for Senate," WWE spokesman Rob Zimmerman said.
The McMahons transformed a small wrestling company they bought from Vince's father into the success that it's become today, complete with pay-per-view matches and a planned cable TV channel. Both talk about sharing a desk in the old days, not sure whether they could afford to pay their taxes or their staff.
Vince McMahon acknowledges he underestimated the interest, and scrutiny, the Senate race would bring to WWE and the issues he and the company have faced over the years, such as steroids, wrestler deaths and raunchy programming.
And he's also been surprised by how he's been portrayed as a mythic, all-controlling figure who knew what was really going "back in the day," before the company revamped everything from its programming to drug testing.
"I'm supposed to be this Machiavellian character of some kind ... ," he told the AP. "Oh yeah, I'm extremely aggressive, over the top and real matter-of-fact, and I go for the jugular everyday and have an extraordinary work ethic and what have you, but the stories are legendary."
Credit: Google News, Wires
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Thursday, October 28, 2010
Aussies, Yanks, Hollywood Betting Arnie Schwarzenegger To Come Back, by Greg Tingle - 27th October 2010
G'day Hollywood, Aussiewood and internet entertainment news tragics. Huge entertainment news for the vast and loyal following today with talk circulating from Bondi Beach to Los Angeles that The Governator - Terminator Arnold Schwarzenegger Will Be Back (in the movies). That's right! The rumors and hints have been around for over a year now, with Arnie often seen in public with action hero mate and Gambling911 - Media Man favorite, Sylvester Stallone, and who can forget his awesome performance in The Expendables. Media Man and Gambling911 take on the machines and do the ring around in Hollywood in order to bring you this very special report...
The world is almost begging Arnie to make a full time ish return to the movies. At least that's the buzz down under in Australia and from a growing number of the American public and Hollywood movie executives. Some passionate Arnie fans are even having bets with their mates on if will will return, how soon, and in what movies!
"I'll be back". Yeah, we know, you've heard it before, but this time it's on the cards and looking like a safe bet from all angles. Those close advise he's got the fire in the belly, much like the type Aussie gambling tycoon James Packer got, seeing 'Our James' returning to the television spectrum.
Politically and in a business and all round timing aspect in makes good sense. Let's see, its only next week when California will elect a new governor. Some say it can't happen soon enough. So, in 2 months Arnie will be available for opportunities that take his fancy.
Schwarzenegger, now a great looking 63, doesn't appear to be after the job of U.S President. We mean, who the heck would want that job these days. His bio and CV is world class all the way and sports titles and attributes such as Mr Universe body builder champion, politician, environmental campaigner, movie star and philanthropist.
Hollywood types and political analysts reckon he time is about right for Arnie to lay his cards on the table and make his move - big splash fashion, for the most impact. Long time mate and associate Stallone is understood to be assisting him with strategy (and sourcing the right opportunities).
Veteran Hollywood publicist Howard Bragman was happy to go on record with "People still love Arnold. He can choose whatever he wants. He's got nothing left to prove, all the money in the world and the world of choices available to him".
In his response to the "what next?" question, Schwarzenegger said in well circulated "Tweetcast" last week that he planned to give speeches, write a book or two, and continue fighting for the environment.
Movies? "It depends ... if someone comes with a great script, with a great idea. Will I still have the patience to sit on the set and do a movie for three months or for six months, all of those things? I don't know," he said.
He teased us be announcing that he recently met with Terminator and Avatar director James Cameron, and would make some sort of an announcement soon!!!
The Republican "Governator" is to conclude his lucky 7 years in office with only a 22% popularity rating among Californians. Sounds like the sort of numbers Australia's Senator Stephen Conroy gets for popularity (Not - Borat speak). His star power and money making potential appears not damaged by his time in politics, which included some impressive and not so impressive happenings.
It's been understood that his Austrian birth rules out a go as US president, not that he would want it anymore, but one political analyst Allan Hoffenblum actually sees a possible appointment in the Obama administration, perhaps on an environmental front.
"I think that is a very viable possibility, especially if Obama does badly in the November congressional elections, he may want to reach out to moderate Republicans," Hoffenblum said.
Elective politics is likely not on his horizon, pundits said. The highest Schwarzenegger can go now is the US Senate, but an opening may be two years away, assuming California Democratic Senator Dianne Feinstein decides to step down.
In an interesting moneymaker, Arnie also features in The Terminator online slot game released by PartyGaming - PartyCasino.com which has being trying to get back into the U.S market for almost as long as Arnold has been in political office in the hotbed of California. Arnold was apparently unable to get legal casino igaming green lighted in CA while in office, but few are willing to put the blame on him.
Schwarzenegger would have no trouble being hired by Hollywood, be it part time, full time or other. He is still fit and resuming action roles would be "like riding a bike", industry leaks whispered.
A Media Man spokesperson said "Its amazing. There has been a massive upswell in support of Arnie returning to Hollywood, namely for his action movie genre many grew up on. The rebirth of Arnie came around the same time word leaked that he would be teaming up with Stallone in The Expendables, and as they say, the rest is history. Another Expendables movie is being planned, more Expendables games, and Arnie is sounding more and more like he wants more of the action. Most of the public and Hollywood want him back in the action too."
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Wrap Up...
Readers... er, punters and movie buffs, what's your view on a return of Arnie to Hollywood? Tell us in the forum. If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun. Oh, we'll be back!
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis.
*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited
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The world is almost begging Arnie to make a full time ish return to the movies. At least that's the buzz down under in Australia and from a growing number of the American public and Hollywood movie executives. Some passionate Arnie fans are even having bets with their mates on if will will return, how soon, and in what movies!
"I'll be back". Yeah, we know, you've heard it before, but this time it's on the cards and looking like a safe bet from all angles. Those close advise he's got the fire in the belly, much like the type Aussie gambling tycoon James Packer got, seeing 'Our James' returning to the television spectrum.
Politically and in a business and all round timing aspect in makes good sense. Let's see, its only next week when California will elect a new governor. Some say it can't happen soon enough. So, in 2 months Arnie will be available for opportunities that take his fancy.
Schwarzenegger, now a great looking 63, doesn't appear to be after the job of U.S President. We mean, who the heck would want that job these days. His bio and CV is world class all the way and sports titles and attributes such as Mr Universe body builder champion, politician, environmental campaigner, movie star and philanthropist.
Hollywood types and political analysts reckon he time is about right for Arnie to lay his cards on the table and make his move - big splash fashion, for the most impact. Long time mate and associate Stallone is understood to be assisting him with strategy (and sourcing the right opportunities).
Veteran Hollywood publicist Howard Bragman was happy to go on record with "People still love Arnold. He can choose whatever he wants. He's got nothing left to prove, all the money in the world and the world of choices available to him".
In his response to the "what next?" question, Schwarzenegger said in well circulated "Tweetcast" last week that he planned to give speeches, write a book or two, and continue fighting for the environment.
Movies? "It depends ... if someone comes with a great script, with a great idea. Will I still have the patience to sit on the set and do a movie for three months or for six months, all of those things? I don't know," he said.
He teased us be announcing that he recently met with Terminator and Avatar director James Cameron, and would make some sort of an announcement soon!!!
The Republican "Governator" is to conclude his lucky 7 years in office with only a 22% popularity rating among Californians. Sounds like the sort of numbers Australia's Senator Stephen Conroy gets for popularity (Not - Borat speak). His star power and money making potential appears not damaged by his time in politics, which included some impressive and not so impressive happenings.
It's been understood that his Austrian birth rules out a go as US president, not that he would want it anymore, but one political analyst Allan Hoffenblum actually sees a possible appointment in the Obama administration, perhaps on an environmental front.
"I think that is a very viable possibility, especially if Obama does badly in the November congressional elections, he may want to reach out to moderate Republicans," Hoffenblum said.
Elective politics is likely not on his horizon, pundits said. The highest Schwarzenegger can go now is the US Senate, but an opening may be two years away, assuming California Democratic Senator Dianne Feinstein decides to step down.
In an interesting moneymaker, Arnie also features in The Terminator online slot game released by PartyGaming - PartyCasino.com which has being trying to get back into the U.S market for almost as long as Arnold has been in political office in the hotbed of California. Arnold was apparently unable to get legal casino igaming green lighted in CA while in office, but few are willing to put the blame on him.
Schwarzenegger would have no trouble being hired by Hollywood, be it part time, full time or other. He is still fit and resuming action roles would be "like riding a bike", industry leaks whispered.
A Media Man spokesperson said "Its amazing. There has been a massive upswell in support of Arnie returning to Hollywood, namely for his action movie genre many grew up on. The rebirth of Arnie came around the same time word leaked that he would be teaming up with Stallone in The Expendables, and as they say, the rest is history. Another Expendables movie is being planned, more Expendables games, and Arnie is sounding more and more like he wants more of the action. Most of the public and Hollywood want him back in the action too."
Media Man Profiles
Arnold Schwarzenegger
The Terminator
The Expendables
Sylvester Stallone
Hollywood
Politics
Wrap Up...
Readers... er, punters and movie buffs, what's your view on a return of Arnie to Hollywood? Tell us in the forum. If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun. Oh, we'll be back!
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis.
*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited
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Tuesday, October 26, 2010
James Packer Network Ten Deal May Link To Online Gaming And Politics, by Greg Tingle - 26th October 2010
G'day punters, casino and media millionaires and billionaires, those who aspire to be, journalists, politicians and one and all. Australian and Asia Pacific gambling and lifestyle king, James Packer, is on top of the world at the moment and riding a way of a momentum, following his "share raid of the decade" on Network Ten. Australian Communications Minister Sen Stephen Conroy has named packer's move "Very Clever", and Conroy appears to be on the money this time around according to a vast array of commentators both nationally and internationally. Media Man and Gambling911 can now reveal some of the big picture elements of the Network Ten deal, which point to an interactive media plan which sure looks to include online gambling and gaming, which will compliment his already strong Betfair online offering. The Ten connection by all accounts in the missing link that will give Packer the upper hand in media, new media, online gaming, politics and beyond. Read on for our latest "very clever" report...
Australian gambling and lifestyle 'king of the castle', James Packer, is now seen as a top ten global media baron, thanks to his latest Network Ten moves, including his now famous share raid, which in turn provided much needed confidence in the Australian and international news media - television industry.
In addition, since Packer's raid on Ten, both Network Ten and Crown Limited shares have continued on an upward trend, only now just starting to settle.
Media Man business analysts have been monitoring the situation closely, and one is now prepared to go on record with Gambling911 with the following "James Packer has pulled a genius master stoke with his share raid on Network Ten, and his associated follow up maneuvers. There's numerous benefits Packer and his camp. Snatching quality stock at a bargain price, building media power, political clout, and we strongly believe he's now in an ideal position to leap into national and international online casino and online gambling business ventures, which will tie into television, b2b deals and more. It shouldn't be much longer that Betfair will be only basically offering sports betting gambling. Be watching out for online casino games, political betting, even interactive games linked to TV channels like Network Ten and One. Packer appears to have borrowed a few tried and tested tricks from Rupert Murdoch who have done a solid job in controlling much of Australia's and the western worlds news media interests, mainly in print, TV and film, but also interactive gambling which is huge in the UK and other parts of Europe. Expect Packer to move quickly to offer the full suit of online gambling excitement, first in Australian, then UK most likely, followed by Macau... which his land based casinos also perform strongly. Make now mistake, right now is a historic time for Packer... the man so many were ready to write off only a few years ago. Now many insiders believe that the late Kerry Packer would be enormously proud of how James is performing in gambling, media, and even his work - life balance. For the foreseeable future expect for Crown Limited and Network Ten to leap from strenght to strenght, and if you are looking to grab some shares in either or both companies, do it very soon, before they jump either further. Packer is leading the Australian news media business as we head towards 2010."
Network Ten, Nine and Foxtel sources have been leaking some information to MM, and all agree that Packer is on fire at the moment, and are impressed that even Senator Stephen Conroy was prepared to go on record that Packer made a "very clever move".
Packer is currently Australia's 3rd richest man, much the way he's going he may soon be #1.
James Packer is fighting control of Ten Network, but will he get it? Most expects think Yes.
As a famous Media Man once said, "He who owns the press, runs the press". And, the same can be said for Packer's other big business passion - Gambling.
Gambling has been a virtual goldmine for JP. He has a cunning monopoly on casinos in Australia's Melbourne and Perth, and more casinos in downtown Macau, plus more gambling investments in UK... the Aspers connection and the like.
Packer may soon become even more powerful than his late father, Kerry. Sen Stephen Conroy has not commented on Packer's power, only making the "clever" reference.
The television network / s on Packer's radar / agenda will help him offer the ultimate in online and interactive gambling, at least in Australia for a start.
Online gambling, betting and all the rest of the adds ons are a punters dream (or nightmare), depending upon who you ask. Wives, lock up your husbands... just kidding, we think. And you thought the cricket and footy betting odds were too much... just wait for what's in store. You ain't seen nothing yet.
Packer, friends and associates will want to see the Australian and international footy and cricket corruption cleaned up, so as to not be a negative distraction from the master plan.
Politicians need to watch out for the powerhouse Packer. They will become friends or bitten enemies by the look of it, sort of like the GW Bush "You're either with us, or against us"!
A Media Man insider whispered..."Don't worry JP and DG, we're with you. A very happy shareholder we are, and we're upfront about it, not like some in the Australian news media business who are not upfront to say the least."
Packer is set to become the king of media moguls in Australian history, and watch out anyone that dare take him on, Prime Mister, Greens Party hotshots, or otherwise. Would "real life Underbelly" come into effect if need by to see Packer's dreams come true? Ok, forget that for a bit, but take a wild guess if you dare, and then remind yourself of who was JP's dad, and you'll soon enough get the idea.
Could the past 'Murdoch Amendments' in Australian broadcasting law be a clue as to if 'Packer Amendments' may be just around the corner.
A bit of history. Broadcasting in Australia was deregulated in 1992 by the Bob Hawke government and this upset some who jumped up and down about broadcasters' commercial interests VS the public interest.
Packer is looking to boost profits, cut costs, and boost his media and gambling empire. Will he be prepared to see the quality of journalism suffer to help his bottom line? Only time will tell, but entertainment, gambling and sports content and programming seem to be higher on his overall priorities, than winning news coverage awards at this point.
JP is looking to wrestle control of Network Ten and keep growing the gambling - casino, poker and sports betting et al arms of his empire. His gambling arm downunder is understood to bring 'The King' about $4 billion per year. That's power in most folks black book.
In Packer's defense, his has been more than pulling his weight in social endeavors, be it with poker tournament fundraisers, the 'Packer Wacker' ambo support, Victor Chang and friends happenings, Shane Warne Foundation, Salvation Army matters and more.
Having said that, Packer is yet to release the final plan, goals and the like of his Packer Foundation, and it might serve him well to give clarity on the matter.
Erica Packer aka Erica Baxter has also been doing more than her fair share with a number of worthy causes, including everyone's favorite, National Breast Cancer Foundation, but also some lesser known worthy causes on the quite, just as Media Man does from time to time.
Anon sources in both camps both pointed out words to the effect of "The better the businesses perform, the more we can support good causes".
Philanthropy Australia estimates that there are more than 2000 foundations in Australia, giving between $500 million and $1 billion a year.
Packer may be adding to his own wealth, whilst helping numerous causes, but at the same time don't dismiss his contribution to the Australian economy. Jobs, training, the tourism and lifestyle sector, more technology jobs on the way, and so it goes on. Without "whales" like Packer, the economy would further slow, and jobs would be lost. If you need more convincing of Packer's great work, along with mates like Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest, just look up GenerationOne, where they have taken some "down and outters", and turned their lives around. Those close are known to call it the Twiggy - Packer magic, and it works for both social enterprise and commercial endeavors.
Media Man top brass also added "James Packer surprises a few folks with his move back into television, Mind you, he surprised a few with his massive bounce back in the casino and gaming sector in Australia and Macau also, as well as his solid exit strategy from the mayhem Las Vegas. Watch for Packer to also ramp up in the online area, with Betfair maintaining a strong position. More online casino game content to hit Betfairs, and I would be totally surprised to see the likes of a Packer do a deal with other leaders like PartyGaming or Richard Branson's Virgin. Packer is friendly with Tom Cruise, featured in a PartyGaming release, and has also been spotted and photographed with Richard Branson over the years, so nothing is impossible for JP - James Packer at this stage of the game. He appears to have the killer instinct and is virtually unstoppable. You really have to give the devil his due. At the same time he is main tainting his friendship with Network Nine boss David Gyngell, so good on his for taking care of the work - life balance, something many media and gaming tycoons struggle with. Packer is starting to turn into a living legend, and we are not talking that up. The record speaks for itself. For anyone that wants to try to step in Packer's way, its game on.!
Packer also has accelerated plans to offer Australian's a full online casino offering via his 50% owned Betfair, which have noted the success of other online gambling operators servicing down under such as Interestingly, PartyGaming's last year in a b2b type arrangement directed a number of their online poker players to Packer's poker tournament, Aussie Millions. Packer mate, Shane Warne, is also tipped to have a poker room and / or tourney named after him at Crown Casino, and its speculated other deals are on the radar with even some tipping Media Man, Casino News Media, Richard Branson - Virgin b2b and website portals in the mix. PartyGaming and NextGen Gaming are expected to also pitch to Packer and his team on the new media - internet front, and the brands 'Underbelly', 'Kerry Packer' and 'Casino Jack' keep coming up. First Packer is expect to get his Betfair to the next stage of offering a more comprehensive gambling offering, but at the same time the Packer camp is open to the right sort of b2b proposals.
A Media Man spokesperson said "James Packer's latest business plays have been brilliant. It's risk management, brand building, convergent media, relationship leveraging and more all in one. He's also buying entities at the right price, and has a global business model which helps ride out the world's financial storm, while also having an Australian - Asia Pacific focus, which is one of the strongest markets in the world at the moment, away from the chaos of sorts in Las Vegas and Atlantic City. From here on up it should be pretty smooth sailing for Packer and Billionaire Inc. Punters should likely expect some gambling or gaming reality TV shows, as Packer's passion for both having a punt and news media is pretty contagious. Packer is making exciting and smart business moves and has a world class team of advisers around him. He's also spending millions upgrading Crown and Burswood casinos, to help further cement them as the leaders, while Tabcorp tries to chase him with their Star City. Packer once again proves the knockers wrong, and we can't wait to get back down to Crown Casino to congratulate the Packer powers that be in person. From Bondi Beach to Palm Beach, Macau, Perth, the internet, to TV land - the world is his oyster. Watch this space".
Media Man Profiles
Australia
Australian Casinos
Crown Casino
Network Ten
James Packer
Wrap Up...
Readers... er, punters, do you agree with our assessment of the Packer plans re media linked to the internet, online gambling and political power across Australian, then the globe? Keep checking daily for updates. If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
Crown Limited Share Price: $8.450
Network Ten Holdings Limited Price: $1.61
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis.
*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Media Man Canada
Media Man Games
Media Man Brand
Media Man Network
Casino News Media
Poker News Media
Global Gaming Directory
Australian gambling and lifestyle 'king of the castle', James Packer, is now seen as a top ten global media baron, thanks to his latest Network Ten moves, including his now famous share raid, which in turn provided much needed confidence in the Australian and international news media - television industry.
In addition, since Packer's raid on Ten, both Network Ten and Crown Limited shares have continued on an upward trend, only now just starting to settle.
Media Man business analysts have been monitoring the situation closely, and one is now prepared to go on record with Gambling911 with the following "James Packer has pulled a genius master stoke with his share raid on Network Ten, and his associated follow up maneuvers. There's numerous benefits Packer and his camp. Snatching quality stock at a bargain price, building media power, political clout, and we strongly believe he's now in an ideal position to leap into national and international online casino and online gambling business ventures, which will tie into television, b2b deals and more. It shouldn't be much longer that Betfair will be only basically offering sports betting gambling. Be watching out for online casino games, political betting, even interactive games linked to TV channels like Network Ten and One. Packer appears to have borrowed a few tried and tested tricks from Rupert Murdoch who have done a solid job in controlling much of Australia's and the western worlds news media interests, mainly in print, TV and film, but also interactive gambling which is huge in the UK and other parts of Europe. Expect Packer to move quickly to offer the full suit of online gambling excitement, first in Australian, then UK most likely, followed by Macau... which his land based casinos also perform strongly. Make now mistake, right now is a historic time for Packer... the man so many were ready to write off only a few years ago. Now many insiders believe that the late Kerry Packer would be enormously proud of how James is performing in gambling, media, and even his work - life balance. For the foreseeable future expect for Crown Limited and Network Ten to leap from strenght to strenght, and if you are looking to grab some shares in either or both companies, do it very soon, before they jump either further. Packer is leading the Australian news media business as we head towards 2010."
Network Ten, Nine and Foxtel sources have been leaking some information to MM, and all agree that Packer is on fire at the moment, and are impressed that even Senator Stephen Conroy was prepared to go on record that Packer made a "very clever move".
Packer is currently Australia's 3rd richest man, much the way he's going he may soon be #1.
James Packer is fighting control of Ten Network, but will he get it? Most expects think Yes.
As a famous Media Man once said, "He who owns the press, runs the press". And, the same can be said for Packer's other big business passion - Gambling.
Gambling has been a virtual goldmine for JP. He has a cunning monopoly on casinos in Australia's Melbourne and Perth, and more casinos in downtown Macau, plus more gambling investments in UK... the Aspers connection and the like.
Packer may soon become even more powerful than his late father, Kerry. Sen Stephen Conroy has not commented on Packer's power, only making the "clever" reference.
The television network / s on Packer's radar / agenda will help him offer the ultimate in online and interactive gambling, at least in Australia for a start.
Online gambling, betting and all the rest of the adds ons are a punters dream (or nightmare), depending upon who you ask. Wives, lock up your husbands... just kidding, we think. And you thought the cricket and footy betting odds were too much... just wait for what's in store. You ain't seen nothing yet.
Packer, friends and associates will want to see the Australian and international footy and cricket corruption cleaned up, so as to not be a negative distraction from the master plan.
Politicians need to watch out for the powerhouse Packer. They will become friends or bitten enemies by the look of it, sort of like the GW Bush "You're either with us, or against us"!
A Media Man insider whispered..."Don't worry JP and DG, we're with you. A very happy shareholder we are, and we're upfront about it, not like some in the Australian news media business who are not upfront to say the least."
Packer is set to become the king of media moguls in Australian history, and watch out anyone that dare take him on, Prime Mister, Greens Party hotshots, or otherwise. Would "real life Underbelly" come into effect if need by to see Packer's dreams come true? Ok, forget that for a bit, but take a wild guess if you dare, and then remind yourself of who was JP's dad, and you'll soon enough get the idea.
Could the past 'Murdoch Amendments' in Australian broadcasting law be a clue as to if 'Packer Amendments' may be just around the corner.
A bit of history. Broadcasting in Australia was deregulated in 1992 by the Bob Hawke government and this upset some who jumped up and down about broadcasters' commercial interests VS the public interest.
Packer is looking to boost profits, cut costs, and boost his media and gambling empire. Will he be prepared to see the quality of journalism suffer to help his bottom line? Only time will tell, but entertainment, gambling and sports content and programming seem to be higher on his overall priorities, than winning news coverage awards at this point.
JP is looking to wrestle control of Network Ten and keep growing the gambling - casino, poker and sports betting et al arms of his empire. His gambling arm downunder is understood to bring 'The King' about $4 billion per year. That's power in most folks black book.
In Packer's defense, his has been more than pulling his weight in social endeavors, be it with poker tournament fundraisers, the 'Packer Wacker' ambo support, Victor Chang and friends happenings, Shane Warne Foundation, Salvation Army matters and more.
Having said that, Packer is yet to release the final plan, goals and the like of his Packer Foundation, and it might serve him well to give clarity on the matter.
Erica Packer aka Erica Baxter has also been doing more than her fair share with a number of worthy causes, including everyone's favorite, National Breast Cancer Foundation, but also some lesser known worthy causes on the quite, just as Media Man does from time to time.
Anon sources in both camps both pointed out words to the effect of "The better the businesses perform, the more we can support good causes".
Philanthropy Australia estimates that there are more than 2000 foundations in Australia, giving between $500 million and $1 billion a year.
Packer may be adding to his own wealth, whilst helping numerous causes, but at the same time don't dismiss his contribution to the Australian economy. Jobs, training, the tourism and lifestyle sector, more technology jobs on the way, and so it goes on. Without "whales" like Packer, the economy would further slow, and jobs would be lost. If you need more convincing of Packer's great work, along with mates like Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest, just look up GenerationOne, where they have taken some "down and outters", and turned their lives around. Those close are known to call it the Twiggy - Packer magic, and it works for both social enterprise and commercial endeavors.
Media Man top brass also added "James Packer surprises a few folks with his move back into television, Mind you, he surprised a few with his massive bounce back in the casino and gaming sector in Australia and Macau also, as well as his solid exit strategy from the mayhem Las Vegas. Watch for Packer to also ramp up in the online area, with Betfair maintaining a strong position. More online casino game content to hit Betfairs, and I would be totally surprised to see the likes of a Packer do a deal with other leaders like PartyGaming or Richard Branson's Virgin. Packer is friendly with Tom Cruise, featured in a PartyGaming release, and has also been spotted and photographed with Richard Branson over the years, so nothing is impossible for JP - James Packer at this stage of the game. He appears to have the killer instinct and is virtually unstoppable. You really have to give the devil his due. At the same time he is main tainting his friendship with Network Nine boss David Gyngell, so good on his for taking care of the work - life balance, something many media and gaming tycoons struggle with. Packer is starting to turn into a living legend, and we are not talking that up. The record speaks for itself. For anyone that wants to try to step in Packer's way, its game on.!
Packer also has accelerated plans to offer Australian's a full online casino offering via his 50% owned Betfair, which have noted the success of other online gambling operators servicing down under such as Interestingly, PartyGaming's last year in a b2b type arrangement directed a number of their online poker players to Packer's poker tournament, Aussie Millions. Packer mate, Shane Warne, is also tipped to have a poker room and / or tourney named after him at Crown Casino, and its speculated other deals are on the radar with even some tipping Media Man, Casino News Media, Richard Branson - Virgin b2b and website portals in the mix. PartyGaming and NextGen Gaming are expected to also pitch to Packer and his team on the new media - internet front, and the brands 'Underbelly', 'Kerry Packer' and 'Casino Jack' keep coming up. First Packer is expect to get his Betfair to the next stage of offering a more comprehensive gambling offering, but at the same time the Packer camp is open to the right sort of b2b proposals.
A Media Man spokesperson said "James Packer's latest business plays have been brilliant. It's risk management, brand building, convergent media, relationship leveraging and more all in one. He's also buying entities at the right price, and has a global business model which helps ride out the world's financial storm, while also having an Australian - Asia Pacific focus, which is one of the strongest markets in the world at the moment, away from the chaos of sorts in Las Vegas and Atlantic City. From here on up it should be pretty smooth sailing for Packer and Billionaire Inc. Punters should likely expect some gambling or gaming reality TV shows, as Packer's passion for both having a punt and news media is pretty contagious. Packer is making exciting and smart business moves and has a world class team of advisers around him. He's also spending millions upgrading Crown and Burswood casinos, to help further cement them as the leaders, while Tabcorp tries to chase him with their Star City. Packer once again proves the knockers wrong, and we can't wait to get back down to Crown Casino to congratulate the Packer powers that be in person. From Bondi Beach to Palm Beach, Macau, Perth, the internet, to TV land - the world is his oyster. Watch this space".
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Readers... er, punters, do you agree with our assessment of the Packer plans re media linked to the internet, online gambling and political power across Australian, then the globe? Keep checking daily for updates. If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
Crown Limited Share Price: $8.450
Network Ten Holdings Limited Price: $1.61
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis.
*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited
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Thursday, October 21, 2010
Australian Comms Minister To Force Big Brother Internet Connection, by Greg Tingle - 21st October 2010
Australia's communications minister Stephen Conroy and Australian government law are under the microscope today as changes are afoot to force Australians onto the Government NBN high speed network in a move that has raised the ire of journalists, human rights advocates, technology / media entrepreneurs and mums and dads across the great nation of Australia. This news follows the ministers constant attempts to push through internet censorship and filters, despite the Australian Liberal Party and Greens party saying they will stop it. Media Man and Gambling911 probe the matter which has Australians of all walks of life up in arms, some ready to riot in the streets...
The most unpopular Communications Minister in Australian history, Stephen Conroy, says he will use federal law as a tool to force people on to the national broadband network (NBN) if the states and territories don't come to the party making connections mandatory.
The minister is known to try to make his agenda items "mandatory", and this is a major reason Australian mums and dads, entrepreneurs, journalists and human rights activists are ready to take to the streets and protest. Australians do no like to be forces to do things against their will, as the internet censorship debate also proved.
"We are working our way through the issues with the states and ... we ultimately would consider if we can’t reach settlement, mandating it through the federal parliament. But we prefer to be engaged with the states," Senator Conroy said yesterday.
He noted that the federal government hadn’t "exhausted those conversations yet". He also pointed out that the matter of a connection being mandated was "not a new issue".
"We’ve been having a conversation with the states for over twelve months on this very issue," he said. "This is not a new issue. Malcolm Turnbull might have discovered it recently but it has actually been on the agenda. And we’ve actually been saying for quite some considerable time: as we disconnect the copper we’ll be connecting the fibre.".
Malcolm "No Bull" Turnbull is expected to rigorously attack "Cunning" Conroy's latest spray on the Australian population.
It's widely understood it will cost $300 to connect to the NBN if a house or business didn’t consent to connecting to it as it was rolled out initially.
Senator Conroy went on record yesterday that a cost would be involved down the track if you didn’t consent to connect to the network when it was optional and free to connect to initially.
"If it remains optional and people ... sell the house and someone else moves in, then it's like any other business where they say 'Hey, come and connect me to this'... then there’s a connection fee to get it connected," he said.
But if the network were to be mandatory to connect to then there would be no charge at a later date. "The question of what happens if someone decides not to take it up now and then we come back to do them and it becomes mandated then I don’t believe there would be a charge," he said.
"But the key is to get it attached to the side of the house so the costs are reduced for everybody involved."
Via ABC TV's Lateline program last night, Tony Jones also raised News Limited's report that it would cost up to $300 to connect if you didn't connect initially. Jones said to Conroy: "You might think your old fixed-line telephone is good enough and you don't think you want an NBN computer access".
Senator Conroy said "some" had suggested that it could be $300, "but that has not been a final decision made".
"Now, in the case of where it becomes mandatory to make your phone call on the fibre because the copper's been disconnected, I can't imagine there's a case where you could say you should have to pay now to come and make the connection. The purpose of the rollout is to ensure that people, if they have to make a phone call and its only got the fibre available, I can't imagine there is any case to be made for there being that charge."
Now we learn that state governments will have to change trespass or property laws to ensure households are not left without fixed telephone connections, following the Tasmanian government's latest move to introduce legislation for property owners to "opt-out" of the government's fibre network.
New South Wales and Victoria have said they have no plans to introduce opt-out laws. "NSW currently has no plans to legislate an opt-out model for the NBN and will determine a final position following discussions with other jurisdictions," said a spokesman for the NSW Commerce Minister, Paul Lynch.
One things is for sure, Australians are not happy at all with the government's latest big brother approach with "a number" of Aussies ready to protest in the streets according to a Media Man insiders.
A Media Man spokesperson said "Australians are pissed off at the governments latest Big Brother tactics. It is yet to be determined if the protests will turn to riots, but the mood in most newsrooms and suburbs about the issue is very angry".
Australia's are some of the most passionate human rights advocates on the planet, but also are some of the world's fastest adopters of new technology, gadgets and all matter of bells and whistles, so its a case of stay tuned to internet news for updates. As Australian media and gambling tycoon James Packer says "Internet is like electricity"!
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Readers... er, punters, what's your view on the latest madness from down under? Keep checking daily for updates. If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis.
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The most unpopular Communications Minister in Australian history, Stephen Conroy, says he will use federal law as a tool to force people on to the national broadband network (NBN) if the states and territories don't come to the party making connections mandatory.
The minister is known to try to make his agenda items "mandatory", and this is a major reason Australian mums and dads, entrepreneurs, journalists and human rights activists are ready to take to the streets and protest. Australians do no like to be forces to do things against their will, as the internet censorship debate also proved.
"We are working our way through the issues with the states and ... we ultimately would consider if we can’t reach settlement, mandating it through the federal parliament. But we prefer to be engaged with the states," Senator Conroy said yesterday.
He noted that the federal government hadn’t "exhausted those conversations yet". He also pointed out that the matter of a connection being mandated was "not a new issue".
"We’ve been having a conversation with the states for over twelve months on this very issue," he said. "This is not a new issue. Malcolm Turnbull might have discovered it recently but it has actually been on the agenda. And we’ve actually been saying for quite some considerable time: as we disconnect the copper we’ll be connecting the fibre.".
Malcolm "No Bull" Turnbull is expected to rigorously attack "Cunning" Conroy's latest spray on the Australian population.
It's widely understood it will cost $300 to connect to the NBN if a house or business didn’t consent to connecting to it as it was rolled out initially.
Senator Conroy went on record yesterday that a cost would be involved down the track if you didn’t consent to connect to the network when it was optional and free to connect to initially.
"If it remains optional and people ... sell the house and someone else moves in, then it's like any other business where they say 'Hey, come and connect me to this'... then there’s a connection fee to get it connected," he said.
But if the network were to be mandatory to connect to then there would be no charge at a later date. "The question of what happens if someone decides not to take it up now and then we come back to do them and it becomes mandated then I don’t believe there would be a charge," he said.
"But the key is to get it attached to the side of the house so the costs are reduced for everybody involved."
Via ABC TV's Lateline program last night, Tony Jones also raised News Limited's report that it would cost up to $300 to connect if you didn't connect initially. Jones said to Conroy: "You might think your old fixed-line telephone is good enough and you don't think you want an NBN computer access".
Senator Conroy said "some" had suggested that it could be $300, "but that has not been a final decision made".
"Now, in the case of where it becomes mandatory to make your phone call on the fibre because the copper's been disconnected, I can't imagine there's a case where you could say you should have to pay now to come and make the connection. The purpose of the rollout is to ensure that people, if they have to make a phone call and its only got the fibre available, I can't imagine there is any case to be made for there being that charge."
Now we learn that state governments will have to change trespass or property laws to ensure households are not left without fixed telephone connections, following the Tasmanian government's latest move to introduce legislation for property owners to "opt-out" of the government's fibre network.
New South Wales and Victoria have said they have no plans to introduce opt-out laws. "NSW currently has no plans to legislate an opt-out model for the NBN and will determine a final position following discussions with other jurisdictions," said a spokesman for the NSW Commerce Minister, Paul Lynch.
One things is for sure, Australians are not happy at all with the government's latest big brother approach with "a number" of Aussies ready to protest in the streets according to a Media Man insiders.
A Media Man spokesperson said "Australians are pissed off at the governments latest Big Brother tactics. It is yet to be determined if the protests will turn to riots, but the mood in most newsrooms and suburbs about the issue is very angry".
Australia's are some of the most passionate human rights advocates on the planet, but also are some of the world's fastest adopters of new technology, gadgets and all matter of bells and whistles, so its a case of stay tuned to internet news for updates. As Australian media and gambling tycoon James Packer says "Internet is like electricity"!
Media Man Profiles
Australia
Broadband
Censorship
Wrap Up...
Readers... er, punters, what's your view on the latest madness from down under? Keep checking daily for updates. If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis.
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Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Thursday, September 09, 2010
Australian Casino Wars: Casino Strike Action!, by Greg Tingle - 9th September 2010
Australian and international pundits... you want casino and gambling action and news? Here it is maties. The world famous Australian Casino Wars continue to generate heat and excitement around the world. It's not only the main two players in Australia - James Packer owned Crown Casino and Tabcorp owned Star City Casino, but now almost certain strike action from the staff is on the cards. Rampant rumours suggest that another "strike" or two is also possible, but that may be jumping the gun! Media Man and Gambling911 don the bullet proof vests and grab the baton and plastic handcuffs. It's lights, cameras, action, strike!...
Crown Casino Workers To Strike; Rumours - Star City Casino And Others May Follow Trend...
Australian land based casinos can still operate in times of strike action, which is a very good thing for the powers that be at Crown Casino (and potentially a number of others).
Crown Limited is one of the biggest employers of Melbourne - ites - (for the moment). Let us also not forget that Crown are also a major supporter of our friend (and maybe yours) Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest.
Multiple thousands of workers at Crown Casino will likely be on strike during this year's Spring Racing Carnival as part of a significant industrial campaign for better pay, and perhaps conditions.
Crown staff will vote on the possible strike action in the coming weeks after Fair Work Australia approved the ballot. Insiders are hoping they don't get the equivalent of a hung Parliament, which was the state of Australia's senate for roughly 2 weeks, before Julia Gillard was reappointed the Prime Ministership.
Staffers are seeking out a 13.5% pay rise over three years and have flat out rejected Crown's 11% offer.
The LHMU (Liquor Hospitality and Miscellaneous Union) state secretary Jess 'Witty' (Media Man tag) Walsh said Crown Limited had posted a sizable $300 million profit and could afford the increase.
She advised any strike action would involve dealers, food and beverage staff and gaming staff.
"Members should be voting over the next few weeks, so the industrial action would occur in early October - it probably lines up with the spring racing carnival. Experienced, properly-trained staff are vital to ensuring gaming and alcohol are served responsibly at Crown. But Crown has sent a clear message it does not value the loyalty, dedication and experience of its staff. It only cares about one thing: making more money, whatever the cost to the community or its own staff. It has told staff it cannot afford a fair wage increase and needs to make changes that could cost experienced dealers almost $5000 a year, despite its $300 million profit."
Crown chief executive David 'Cashed Up' (Media Man tag) Courtney said talk of strike action was not unusual towards the end of long negotiations (the previous enterprise agreement ceased on 30th June).
He tipped Crown's 11% offer was equal to that accepted by staff at Burswood Casino in Perth, Western Australia, and more than the 9% accepted by staff at Sydney's Star City Casino.
He said Crown was hopeful of avoiding strike action.
If there was strike action the casino would continue to operate, Courtney said.
Tabcorp is tight lipped on the speculation and tip offs that another strike may hit their Star City Casino in 'Sin City' Sydney. Reef Casino and Lasseters in Australia's top end region would not disclose or confirm if they were about to suffer "strike action" (one kind or another), and no, we are not talking about aggressive boat people or the Australian or foreign Navy vessels, aircraft carriers or the like.
Insider rumors tip that they may be another kind of "strike", but that may be just heat coming from the readership of the likes of the very loud Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911.
A Media Man spokesperson said "Regarding the talk of another kind of strike in the Australian casino sector, don't look too deep into it. Our journalist and correspondent friends are known for talking things up, mind you, stranger things have happened in the past like the casino shaft man, Ferrari thief man, and even a couple of bomb threats a few years back, so I guess anything is possible. We think the hard working staff might just get the pay increase, and hopefully it won't negatively effect the share price. Mr Packer's operation is still pretty much head and shoulders about the competition so it should still be fair winds, and let us not forget the Packer and Warnie X factor, so Crown will keep powering for the foreseeable future in any event."
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Readers... er, punters, what's your view on the casino wars and potential strike action? Is other "strike action" on the cards? Keep checking daily for updates. If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
Crown Limited Share Price: $8.320
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis.
*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited
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Crown Casino Workers To Strike; Rumours - Star City Casino And Others May Follow Trend...
Australian land based casinos can still operate in times of strike action, which is a very good thing for the powers that be at Crown Casino (and potentially a number of others).
Crown Limited is one of the biggest employers of Melbourne - ites - (for the moment). Let us also not forget that Crown are also a major supporter of our friend (and maybe yours) Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest.
Multiple thousands of workers at Crown Casino will likely be on strike during this year's Spring Racing Carnival as part of a significant industrial campaign for better pay, and perhaps conditions.
Crown staff will vote on the possible strike action in the coming weeks after Fair Work Australia approved the ballot. Insiders are hoping they don't get the equivalent of a hung Parliament, which was the state of Australia's senate for roughly 2 weeks, before Julia Gillard was reappointed the Prime Ministership.
Staffers are seeking out a 13.5% pay rise over three years and have flat out rejected Crown's 11% offer.
The LHMU (Liquor Hospitality and Miscellaneous Union) state secretary Jess 'Witty' (Media Man tag) Walsh said Crown Limited had posted a sizable $300 million profit and could afford the increase.
She advised any strike action would involve dealers, food and beverage staff and gaming staff.
"Members should be voting over the next few weeks, so the industrial action would occur in early October - it probably lines up with the spring racing carnival. Experienced, properly-trained staff are vital to ensuring gaming and alcohol are served responsibly at Crown. But Crown has sent a clear message it does not value the loyalty, dedication and experience of its staff. It only cares about one thing: making more money, whatever the cost to the community or its own staff. It has told staff it cannot afford a fair wage increase and needs to make changes that could cost experienced dealers almost $5000 a year, despite its $300 million profit."
Crown chief executive David 'Cashed Up' (Media Man tag) Courtney said talk of strike action was not unusual towards the end of long negotiations (the previous enterprise agreement ceased on 30th June).
He tipped Crown's 11% offer was equal to that accepted by staff at Burswood Casino in Perth, Western Australia, and more than the 9% accepted by staff at Sydney's Star City Casino.
He said Crown was hopeful of avoiding strike action.
If there was strike action the casino would continue to operate, Courtney said.
Tabcorp is tight lipped on the speculation and tip offs that another strike may hit their Star City Casino in 'Sin City' Sydney. Reef Casino and Lasseters in Australia's top end region would not disclose or confirm if they were about to suffer "strike action" (one kind or another), and no, we are not talking about aggressive boat people or the Australian or foreign Navy vessels, aircraft carriers or the like.
Insider rumors tip that they may be another kind of "strike", but that may be just heat coming from the readership of the likes of the very loud Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911.
A Media Man spokesperson said "Regarding the talk of another kind of strike in the Australian casino sector, don't look too deep into it. Our journalist and correspondent friends are known for talking things up, mind you, stranger things have happened in the past like the casino shaft man, Ferrari thief man, and even a couple of bomb threats a few years back, so I guess anything is possible. We think the hard working staff might just get the pay increase, and hopefully it won't negatively effect the share price. Mr Packer's operation is still pretty much head and shoulders about the competition so it should still be fair winds, and let us not forget the Packer and Warnie X factor, so Crown will keep powering for the foreseeable future in any event."
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Wrap Up...
Readers... er, punters, what's your view on the casino wars and potential strike action? Is other "strike action" on the cards? Keep checking daily for updates. If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
Crown Limited Share Price: $8.320
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis.
*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited
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Tuesday, September 07, 2010
Australian Politics Porn And Gambling Prober Quits, by Greg Tingle - 7th September 2010
Australia remains one of the world's hotbeds of political scandal, much to do with porn and other adult activities such as gambling. Yep, those Aussies love their vice, as evidences by digital footprints and porn probes a plenty. Yesterday a woman charged with heading up a porn and gambling probe quit, and more heads are expected to roll as the Labor party continues to cull dead wood, at cuts and overall wastes of space, all of which the Australian public ultimately pays for. Media Man and Gambling911 continue to dig up info on Aussie polies who just love their vice, be it porn, gambling or other "questionable material". Yep, we play 'Thought Police' and 'Big Brother' on the political brains who are supposed to be serving the Aussie public, but we give them a very good serving just to even the score...
Female Porn And Gambling Prober Quits Over Fallout; Media Pressures...
Down under in Australian political scandal is running wild, and some even compare it to 'Casino Jack', Bill Clinton and Eliot Spitzer magnitudes.
Readers will recall that last week Australian politics lost Paul 'Porn Laurette' (MM tag) McLeay. We also covered that former MP Ian McDonald has been seeing leaving gay sex clubs (paid for the Australian public), while he was supposed to be working - No Working Out or Making Out!!! and Rev Fred 'Nifty' Nile (Media Man tag) has also been skating on thin ice.
The Australian media was also not immune by porn scandal, with former ABC TV host
Andy 'Mummy Media' (MM tag) Muirhead of get this... The Collectors, being found to be a collector and huge fan of kiddy porn!!! Even Rupert Murdoch's News Corporations' Aussie website portal, news.com.au has been listed by some Australian government 'Big Brother' lists as being "porn". James Packer's Betfair sports and political betting website also made the Aussie internet filter "blacklist". Australia certainly has porn and other illegal, and would be illegal, material on its brain.
Hey, here's a joke just to keep things a bit light... Why is snooker like sex? Because if you don't sink the pink, you sink the brown lol.
Swinging back to business at hand and back on message, moving forward (thanks Julia Gillard), the Aussie parliamentary staffer who commissioned an unauthorised audit of internet use which forced the sudden and spectacular resignation of a minister just last week has now... wait for it...resigned!!!
Lisa 'Vagina Diaries' (Media Man tag) Vineburg, a HR exec in the New South Wales Department of Parliamentary Services, left her position after it came to light she had ordered the I.T department to trawl through the computers of all ministers and MPs, their staffers and all non-political employees in Macquarie Street. It's been reported in Australian press many times over the years that the human resources sector has some of the most seriously screwed up types of all, and this appears to be yet another example of that widespread belief.
Raw as naked data, which strongly suggested about 5 people had recorded an "usually high level of activity" or "hits" from adult or gaming websites, was subsequently leaked to the media, and the media (including us) subsequently had a field day, or actually, field week with it. Yeah, field week, with plenty of sneaks, and inside peeps, and yet more leaks, some into Tweets.
When quizzed by a journo about the report, the Minister for Ports and Waterways, Paul McLeay, resigned, and the Christian Democrats MP, the Reverend Fred 'Nifty' (MM tag) Nile, was forced to admit a staff member, David 'Dead Cunning' (MM tag) Copeland, looked up such websites for "research purposes" (hello Japanese whaling scientists out there in internet land).
Vineburg "took it upon herself to audit everyone in the building", a senior parliamentary leak said. Well, looks like she caught out a few who looked at pink bits, including herself.
The former HR probe Vineburg could not be contacted last night. Her relationship status is not known at this time, nor her preferred genre of movies, documentaries, magazine titles or gaming brands.
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Wrap Up...
Readers... er, punters, what's your view on online poker, online casinos, broadband, censorship, freedom of the press and politicians screwing up and doing the wrong thing?...Keep checking daily for updates. Don't forget to use Proxy if need be!
The Late News...
Australian Labor party tipped to expect more resignations from MP's doing the wrong thing. If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis.
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Female Porn And Gambling Prober Quits Over Fallout; Media Pressures...
Down under in Australian political scandal is running wild, and some even compare it to 'Casino Jack', Bill Clinton and Eliot Spitzer magnitudes.
Readers will recall that last week Australian politics lost Paul 'Porn Laurette' (MM tag) McLeay. We also covered that former MP Ian McDonald has been seeing leaving gay sex clubs (paid for the Australian public), while he was supposed to be working - No Working Out or Making Out!!! and Rev Fred 'Nifty' Nile (Media Man tag) has also been skating on thin ice.
The Australian media was also not immune by porn scandal, with former ABC TV host
Andy 'Mummy Media' (MM tag) Muirhead of get this... The Collectors, being found to be a collector and huge fan of kiddy porn!!! Even Rupert Murdoch's News Corporations' Aussie website portal, news.com.au has been listed by some Australian government 'Big Brother' lists as being "porn". James Packer's Betfair sports and political betting website also made the Aussie internet filter "blacklist". Australia certainly has porn and other illegal, and would be illegal, material on its brain.
Hey, here's a joke just to keep things a bit light... Why is snooker like sex? Because if you don't sink the pink, you sink the brown lol.
Swinging back to business at hand and back on message, moving forward (thanks Julia Gillard), the Aussie parliamentary staffer who commissioned an unauthorised audit of internet use which forced the sudden and spectacular resignation of a minister just last week has now... wait for it...resigned!!!
Lisa 'Vagina Diaries' (Media Man tag) Vineburg, a HR exec in the New South Wales Department of Parliamentary Services, left her position after it came to light she had ordered the I.T department to trawl through the computers of all ministers and MPs, their staffers and all non-political employees in Macquarie Street. It's been reported in Australian press many times over the years that the human resources sector has some of the most seriously screwed up types of all, and this appears to be yet another example of that widespread belief.
Raw as naked data, which strongly suggested about 5 people had recorded an "usually high level of activity" or "hits" from adult or gaming websites, was subsequently leaked to the media, and the media (including us) subsequently had a field day, or actually, field week with it. Yeah, field week, with plenty of sneaks, and inside peeps, and yet more leaks, some into Tweets.
When quizzed by a journo about the report, the Minister for Ports and Waterways, Paul McLeay, resigned, and the Christian Democrats MP, the Reverend Fred 'Nifty' (MM tag) Nile, was forced to admit a staff member, David 'Dead Cunning' (MM tag) Copeland, looked up such websites for "research purposes" (hello Japanese whaling scientists out there in internet land).
Vineburg "took it upon herself to audit everyone in the building", a senior parliamentary leak said. Well, looks like she caught out a few who looked at pink bits, including herself.
The former HR probe Vineburg could not be contacted last night. Her relationship status is not known at this time, nor her preferred genre of movies, documentaries, magazine titles or gaming brands.
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Wrap Up...
Readers... er, punters, what's your view on online poker, online casinos, broadband, censorship, freedom of the press and politicians screwing up and doing the wrong thing?...Keep checking daily for updates. Don't forget to use Proxy if need be!
The Late News...
Australian Labor party tipped to expect more resignations from MP's doing the wrong thing. If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis.
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Sunday, August 29, 2010
Australian Gambling, Marketing And Media Wars, by Greg Tingle - 29th August 2010
The Australian casino and gaming wars are taking on a new angle, with marketing and legal eagle X factors playing a bigger role in both the high end of town and at the coal face. Crown Limited and Tabcorp may be 'The Big Two', but Tatts Group is far from standing still, using the iron fist of the law to help protect their turf. Media Man and Gambling911 give you a close up look at the expansion of the Australian casino, gaming, marketing and media wars in the ongoing battle for the entertainment, gambling and internet dollar...
Australia's Tatt's Group would not hesitate to expand its betting operations into every state of Australia if the governments failed to stop a marketing company from offering betting on computer terminals in pubs, the company's chief executive has disclosed. And keep in mind, Australian governments have a long history of failing business, mums and dads and punters.
Recently Liberal leader Tony "The Bruiser" Abbott called the Labor government "incompetent", and street survey results indicate he's hit the nail on the head. As to whether Abbott will snatch the victory, hitting his own jackpot, is yet to be determined.
In the meantime the Victorian Commission for Gambling Regulation is prosecuting a marketing company, VenueNet, and a hotel owner for providing an "unauthorised instrument of betting", after seizing a computer kiosk with internet access to a betting website from a South Melbourne drinking hole aka pub. Don't get us started on whether drinking and punting mix, but Media Man will point out that its scientifically proven that drinking does effect the brain's capacity to make sound decisions.
Many media, marketing and gaming brains are pointing out that it was just a kiosk, and that it can provide access to gambling, just as it provides access to most of the world's websites via the www access... like your home or work computer!
A roll-out of the computers would undermine the state's exclusive retail wagering licence, which is currently held by Tabcorp, but is up for renewal. Tatts Group, which runs UniTAB in Queensland, South Australia and the Northern Territory, is among the bidding hopefuls. It's a bit like ABBA's 'The Winner Takes It All'.
The chief executive, Dick 'Moneybags' (MM tag) McIlwain, advised Tatts had lobbied governments to ensure devices such as that offered by VenueNet would be banned. Did the lobbying work? Gibraltar based PartyGaming, the world's leading listed igaming company has had mixed success with lobbying, but has invested millions over the years. 'Moneybags' understood the Victorian government was "waiting first" to see how the charges against VenueNet played out in a court of law. Yep, that's the important part punters.
"In Queensland they haven't had to resort to extra regulation, they've been able to use what [laws] they have," he said.
In its recent report into gambling, the Productivity Commission recommended states no longer issue exclusive wagering licences, as the monopoly arrangements were a "rare privilege", unfair to punters and no longer justifiable.
McIlwain went on to say he did not expect states to scrap the arrangements but if VenueNet succeeded, Tatts would retaliate. Yep, that means war!
"If VenueNet can come over the border, well, we'll jump the border too into NSW and Victoria and anywhere else that we don't have a licence," he said not mincing worlds. Let the battle begin... we will know soon, and watch out for gunfire and hand grenades, leading up to war head missiles.
Tatts posted a profit of $119 million, less than 50% of 2009's result, after writedowns of $165 million.
It also purchased the NSW Lotteries licence for whopping $850 million during the year.
Tatt's is performing strongly of late. In 3 months of operation, net sales, after prizes, were $156 million. Tatts top brass encouraged analysts, journos and the like not to rely on that figure for a full-year comparison, which would be closer to $625 million.
Quizzed about that figure and the $460 million NSW Lotteries reported for 2009, McIlwain said, "I'm not interested, I'm only interested in what we do."
Tatts purchased the 40-year licence for at least $150 million more than many expected. The deal included the rights to unclaimed prizes. Investors initially reacted negatively and it sparked controversy about whether Tatts had been treated differently to other bidders, as previously covered at Gambling911.
Tatts looks to be rising the stakes and we understand have put the world on notice that they are well and truly part of the Australian gambling wars, despite not actually owing a casino. In other areas they are a powerful player without question.
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Readers, what's your take on the situation? What's your favorite casino games and why? Tell us in the forum.
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$2.40
Readers, know the odds, bet with your head, not over it, and have fun. Good punting.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming.
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Australia's Tatt's Group would not hesitate to expand its betting operations into every state of Australia if the governments failed to stop a marketing company from offering betting on computer terminals in pubs, the company's chief executive has disclosed. And keep in mind, Australian governments have a long history of failing business, mums and dads and punters.
Recently Liberal leader Tony "The Bruiser" Abbott called the Labor government "incompetent", and street survey results indicate he's hit the nail on the head. As to whether Abbott will snatch the victory, hitting his own jackpot, is yet to be determined.
In the meantime the Victorian Commission for Gambling Regulation is prosecuting a marketing company, VenueNet, and a hotel owner for providing an "unauthorised instrument of betting", after seizing a computer kiosk with internet access to a betting website from a South Melbourne drinking hole aka pub. Don't get us started on whether drinking and punting mix, but Media Man will point out that its scientifically proven that drinking does effect the brain's capacity to make sound decisions.
Many media, marketing and gaming brains are pointing out that it was just a kiosk, and that it can provide access to gambling, just as it provides access to most of the world's websites via the www access... like your home or work computer!
A roll-out of the computers would undermine the state's exclusive retail wagering licence, which is currently held by Tabcorp, but is up for renewal. Tatts Group, which runs UniTAB in Queensland, South Australia and the Northern Territory, is among the bidding hopefuls. It's a bit like ABBA's 'The Winner Takes It All'.
The chief executive, Dick 'Moneybags' (MM tag) McIlwain, advised Tatts had lobbied governments to ensure devices such as that offered by VenueNet would be banned. Did the lobbying work? Gibraltar based PartyGaming, the world's leading listed igaming company has had mixed success with lobbying, but has invested millions over the years. 'Moneybags' understood the Victorian government was "waiting first" to see how the charges against VenueNet played out in a court of law. Yep, that's the important part punters.
"In Queensland they haven't had to resort to extra regulation, they've been able to use what [laws] they have," he said.
In its recent report into gambling, the Productivity Commission recommended states no longer issue exclusive wagering licences, as the monopoly arrangements were a "rare privilege", unfair to punters and no longer justifiable.
McIlwain went on to say he did not expect states to scrap the arrangements but if VenueNet succeeded, Tatts would retaliate. Yep, that means war!
"If VenueNet can come over the border, well, we'll jump the border too into NSW and Victoria and anywhere else that we don't have a licence," he said not mincing worlds. Let the battle begin... we will know soon, and watch out for gunfire and hand grenades, leading up to war head missiles.
Tatts posted a profit of $119 million, less than 50% of 2009's result, after writedowns of $165 million.
It also purchased the NSW Lotteries licence for whopping $850 million during the year.
Tatt's is performing strongly of late. In 3 months of operation, net sales, after prizes, were $156 million. Tatts top brass encouraged analysts, journos and the like not to rely on that figure for a full-year comparison, which would be closer to $625 million.
Quizzed about that figure and the $460 million NSW Lotteries reported for 2009, McIlwain said, "I'm not interested, I'm only interested in what we do."
Tatts purchased the 40-year licence for at least $150 million more than many expected. The deal included the rights to unclaimed prizes. Investors initially reacted negatively and it sparked controversy about whether Tatts had been treated differently to other bidders, as previously covered at Gambling911.
Tatts looks to be rising the stakes and we understand have put the world on notice that they are well and truly part of the Australian gambling wars, despite not actually owing a casino. In other areas they are a powerful player without question.
Media Man Profiles
Australia
Australian Gambling
Australian Casinos
Readers, what's your take on the situation? What's your favorite casino games and why? Tell us in the forum.
Tatts Group Shares...
$2.40
Readers, know the odds, bet with your head, not over it, and have fun. Good punting.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming.
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Saturday, August 21, 2010
Australian Politics: Hung Parliament on cards; First time since World War II
Australian Politics: Hung Parliament on cards; First time since World War II
Friday, August 20, 2010
Australian Political Betting: Labor To Best Liberal By Nose Says Punters, by Greg Tingle - 20th August 2010
Australia approaches D Day for the political election. It's showdown time for PM Julie "Jungle Girl" Gillard VS Tony "The Bruiser" Abbott. Get your budgie smugglers, running shoes, boxing gloves and best Aussie accent ready. Media Man and Gambling911 get you ready to go a full 15 rounds...
Australian Labor will retain government at tomorrow's federal election by about 5 seats, according to punters, but word on the mean streets of 'Sin City' Sydney says its an even match.
But 2 key Sydney electorates are headed back to the Coalition and The Greens (aka Greenies) will win a seat in the House of Representatives!
That’s the ruling of punters on betting giant Betfair, who’ve wagered almost $2.5 million on the overall outcome of tomorrow’s poll, giving Prime Minister Gillard a 67% chance of retaining office at a current price of $1.44. Centrebet odds follow this pattern.
Tony Abbott’s Coalition has been solidly backed in the past 24 hours, but remains the underdog to win at $3.20, offering it just a 33% chance of victory.
While the overall analysis and number crunching is positive for the ALP, punters are convinced that the political career of one Maxine McKew, former ABC TV presenter, is just hours from ending.
"Mad Maxine" (Media Man tag) is the $2.76 outsider to retain her prized seat of Bennelong, out from $1.48 just two weeks ago. Coalition candidate John "The Tennis Ace" Alexander has firmed into $1.50 after being backed at a high price of $2.65 early last month.
The key Western Sydney seat of Lindsay is headed back to the Coalition with Fiona "Surefire" Scott the $1.72 favourite to best Labor’s David Bradbury at $2.10.
The Greens are being tipped to make history in the seat of Melbourne with Adam "Buster" Bandt now the $1.41 favourite to steal that electorate away from Labor at $2.90.
"Punters on Betfair concur with polling data that suggests this will be a closely fought contest, but they are confident Labor’s vote will hold up sufficiently for it to retain office," Betfair’s Mathew "Tipster" Thompson shared.
"This is also likely to be a unique election, with the seat of Lindsay to go the way of losing party for the first time since its inception in 1984.
The Greens were also well placed to win Melbourne from the ALP despite forecasts suggesting Labor will actually pick up seats in Victoria, he offered.
"With close to $2.5 million wagered in Betfair’s election winner market by close to 1200 individual punters, this is a reliable reflection of voter sentiment and is a positive poll for Julia Gillard on the eve of election day," Thompson said.
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If your going to have a bet, please bet your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun. Vote early and vote often... just kidding. It is not known who Betfair and Aussie gaming king James Packer will vote for, but we have our suspicions. Let's just hope that the darn internet filter proposal doesn't further hinder Betfair or other Packer (or Media Man) enterprises, or cost any more Australian jobs. Malcolm "No Bull" Turnbull (Liberal, for those not sure), be patient. Insiders still say you will be Australian Prime Minster in 4 years time if you want the job and can last the distance. May the best man (or woman) win.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis.
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Australian Labor will retain government at tomorrow's federal election by about 5 seats, according to punters, but word on the mean streets of 'Sin City' Sydney says its an even match.
But 2 key Sydney electorates are headed back to the Coalition and The Greens (aka Greenies) will win a seat in the House of Representatives!
That’s the ruling of punters on betting giant Betfair, who’ve wagered almost $2.5 million on the overall outcome of tomorrow’s poll, giving Prime Minister Gillard a 67% chance of retaining office at a current price of $1.44. Centrebet odds follow this pattern.
Tony Abbott’s Coalition has been solidly backed in the past 24 hours, but remains the underdog to win at $3.20, offering it just a 33% chance of victory.
While the overall analysis and number crunching is positive for the ALP, punters are convinced that the political career of one Maxine McKew, former ABC TV presenter, is just hours from ending.
"Mad Maxine" (Media Man tag) is the $2.76 outsider to retain her prized seat of Bennelong, out from $1.48 just two weeks ago. Coalition candidate John "The Tennis Ace" Alexander has firmed into $1.50 after being backed at a high price of $2.65 early last month.
The key Western Sydney seat of Lindsay is headed back to the Coalition with Fiona "Surefire" Scott the $1.72 favourite to best Labor’s David Bradbury at $2.10.
The Greens are being tipped to make history in the seat of Melbourne with Adam "Buster" Bandt now the $1.41 favourite to steal that electorate away from Labor at $2.90.
"Punters on Betfair concur with polling data that suggests this will be a closely fought contest, but they are confident Labor’s vote will hold up sufficiently for it to retain office," Betfair’s Mathew "Tipster" Thompson shared.
"This is also likely to be a unique election, with the seat of Lindsay to go the way of losing party for the first time since its inception in 1984.
The Greens were also well placed to win Melbourne from the ALP despite forecasts suggesting Labor will actually pick up seats in Victoria, he offered.
"With close to $2.5 million wagered in Betfair’s election winner market by close to 1200 individual punters, this is a reliable reflection of voter sentiment and is a positive poll for Julia Gillard on the eve of election day," Thompson said.
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If your going to have a bet, please bet your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun. Vote early and vote often... just kidding. It is not known who Betfair and Aussie gaming king James Packer will vote for, but we have our suspicions. Let's just hope that the darn internet filter proposal doesn't further hinder Betfair or other Packer (or Media Man) enterprises, or cost any more Australian jobs. Malcolm "No Bull" Turnbull (Liberal, for those not sure), be patient. Insiders still say you will be Australian Prime Minster in 4 years time if you want the job and can last the distance. May the best man (or woman) win.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis.
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Friday, August 13, 2010
GenerationOne ideas forum, by Greg Tingle - The Bondi View - 12th August 2010
It wasn’t the first forum addressing Aboriginal disadvantage, nor will it be the last but this “talkfest” up the road at Moore Park, Fox Studios was effective.
For me it was personal.
Like GenerationOne founder and visionary, Andrew “Twiggy” Forrest (mining magnate billionaire) and his Bondi Beach-based mate, James “Casino King” Packer (currently sailing the high seas off Europe), I spent my formative youth around indigenous Australians.
I strongly agree with Twiggy’s comments that “the more you get to know Aboriginal people the more you love them”.
I believe GenerationOne will be successful. Why? Key people in GenerationOne are already employing thousands of Aboriginal people and plan to employ more. There’s no handouts here. Forrest, Packer and others help because it’s the right thing to do and its good business.
Twiggy has challenged politicians of all parties to help Indigenous people get into the Australian workforce. The mining king said he “wasn’t a bleeding heart”.
“Skilling up Indigenous people makes good business sense,” he told the Fox Studios audience last Thursday.
“Employment is the key to ending Indigenous disparity if the government encourages industries that can really make a difference – mining, tourism, construction, hospitality.
“If they encourage those industries to deliver training then other companies will have the faith to continue the employment.”
He said the government would need to provide funding or subsidise the costs of training.
Deputy chief executive of the Business Council of Australia, Melinda Cliento, also on the GenerationOne panel, said standards needed to be raised so indigenous children didn’t leave school and end up unemployed.
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For me it was personal.
Like GenerationOne founder and visionary, Andrew “Twiggy” Forrest (mining magnate billionaire) and his Bondi Beach-based mate, James “Casino King” Packer (currently sailing the high seas off Europe), I spent my formative youth around indigenous Australians.
I strongly agree with Twiggy’s comments that “the more you get to know Aboriginal people the more you love them”.
I believe GenerationOne will be successful. Why? Key people in GenerationOne are already employing thousands of Aboriginal people and plan to employ more. There’s no handouts here. Forrest, Packer and others help because it’s the right thing to do and its good business.
Twiggy has challenged politicians of all parties to help Indigenous people get into the Australian workforce. The mining king said he “wasn’t a bleeding heart”.
“Skilling up Indigenous people makes good business sense,” he told the Fox Studios audience last Thursday.
“Employment is the key to ending Indigenous disparity if the government encourages industries that can really make a difference – mining, tourism, construction, hospitality.
“If they encourage those industries to deliver training then other companies will have the faith to continue the employment.”
He said the government would need to provide funding or subsidise the costs of training.
Deputy chief executive of the Business Council of Australia, Melinda Cliento, also on the GenerationOne panel, said standards needed to be raised so indigenous children didn’t leave school and end up unemployed.
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Thursday, August 12, 2010
Australian Politics: Fun And Games, by Greg Tingle - 12th August 2010
Australia is enjoying fun and games galore with the Aussie election about one week away as. We enter round 12 of Tony "The Bruiser" Abbott VS reigning champion, Julia "Jungle Girl" Gillard. Gillard appears to be leading by a nose no pun intended). Most money is going on Gillard and Abbott has his not so secret weapon, Malcolm "No Bull" Turnbull, no strangers to our loyal audience who are packed to the rafters. Harrah's and MGM Grand would be proud of the betting, casino and internet censorship components that all form part of Aussie political party policy. Media Man and Gambling911 continue to follow the campaign trail, jabbing, dodging and weaving around the election and Aussie casino wars with another politically red hot report...good thing that Aussie internet filter is not up, but we know you passionate punters would be hitting the proxy or whatever to get your fix anyway...
Labor VS Liberal; More Money Backing Labor (At This Second)...
Labor has been attracting a lot of punters money in recent weeks, with activity skyrocketing in recent days. 21 August is election day and punters keep splashing money on their top picks.
Centrebet has received bets of $20,000, $40,000 and even $150,000 we hear. This shorted up Labor's odds of winning but we won't know until the final bell in round 12.
Odds on Julia Gillard becoming (staying) prime minister are around $1.51, but keep checking as experts forecast turbulence in the upcoming days.
Centrebet agency's analyst, Neil Evans, said hundreds of thousands of bucks had been wagered on the election, alot of it in recent days.
Almost all of the money had been for Labor, but not Liberal is getting more bets and bigger ones.
Media coverage is keeping punters interested. ABC's Q&A program, The Chaser and more.
The return of The Chaser, with election special Yes, We Canberra, in the 9.30pm slot two weeks ago snatched about 1.5 million viewers.
The betting surge had also followed prominent media reporting of an interview from former Labor leader Mark Latham, who accused PM Gillard of patronising him and "stroking" his front!
The opposition had originally been backed in at $2.27 over the weekend, its shortest price, after Gillard was confronted by Mr Latham and endured what is being described as an awkward get together for press with Kevin Rudd.
"Despite being heavily backed in many key marginal seats, budgetary pressures on the Coalition's senior team are mounting, and Mr Abbott must now get right on the policy front foot," Mr Evans said.
"Right now, Labor is winning ... but this is a bizarre and unique election.
"The shortening of the odds for Labor in just half a day is a massive statement."
Mr Evans said he thinks Labor's latest advertisements where it shows former Treasurer Peter Costello seemingly ridiculing Opposition Leader Tony Abbott's economic credentials had been working in the minds of punters who were now switching sides to Labor.
Today Media Man has heard around the cafes of Sydney that 1 punter put $150,000 on Labor to win, another $175,000 on Liberal to win. Ah, some folks have money to burn don't they. God knows how much both parties have spent on advertising this campaign, but its got to be 6 figures, maybe 7. A million... yep, they have it and the war continues at fever pitch.
Aussie Racing And Media King John Singleton VS Labor Party...
Julie Gillard is in a fight and she keeps getting reminded of political figures who have previously run a muck. Who? Kevin "Bloody" Rudd and Mark "Maniac" (affectionate MM tag) Latham. Now John "Singo" Singleton enters the fight in his own Aussie larikan (but strategic) way.
Singleton again asserted his presence over the election campaign when his ad agency, Banjo, launched what may be the most controversial ad - promo of the election campaign.
They feature the fictional story of a woman told she is dying of cancer that could have been treated if she had had an earlier pap smear.
Written up by Alan Johnson, one of the founders of Mojo, now a partner with Singo in Banjo, the adverts have been funded by Australia's largest GP clinic group, Primary Health Care.
The TV campaign sees health initiatives promised by Labor being buried in a grave and the campaign is highlighted by "Don't let Labor's health cuts be the death of you."
The campaign was commissioned by Primary Health Care managing director Edmund Bateman and its the 5th time Singo has inserted himself into the election campaign.
Singleton's presence first appeared in May when overtures were made to Tony Abbott's camp apparently offering the services of the man Bob Hawke credited with helping orchestrate his second election win, to help 'Bruiser' Abbott into The Lodge.
His move to the Coalition is understood to have been driven by projects Banjo did for the National Party in Queensland, plus with his own opposition to Kevin Rudd's resource super-profits tax...influenced by his friendships with those in the mining industry. Think "Twiggy" Forrest types.
Singleton was prominent in the media attacking Labor as a failed experiment.
Banjo created an anti-mining tax ad for a Perth-based action group, but the ad was put on ice mear hours before it was to go to tele and web after new PM Julia Gillard cut a deal with a host of big Aussie bases mines.
The campaign, another true blue Singo styled masterpiece using the mafia line "You're going to get whacked", came back to hatch roughly 3 weeks ago as the campaign for the group known as Association of Mining Exploration Companies.
Singleton has kept up the good fight, commenting during a TV cross on the Nine's Today show to the launch of the new Blue Tongue brewery about the mess Labor was in.
His radio network, Macquarie, has also heard its key announcers, Alan Jones and Ray Hadley, offer less than complimentary comments against the government. Ah, the media wars in full force.
Singo has just become a grandfather for the first time and insiders speculate this may have triggered his political pro active stance.
The so called Twilight Zone election is largely enjoying the Singo X Factor, and Team Gillard know they are in a fight to the death... er, end.
Gillard VS Abbott: Town Hall Type Action In Rooty Hill Sydney...Rooting Or Rooted?...
Political pollster Galaxy says it will investigate why the son of a former Liberal MP was part of the audience at yesterday's Rooty Hill RSL Club forum.
Joel Scalzi, the son of former South Australian Liberal MP Joe Scalzi, was one of the undecided voters selected by the polling company to quiz PM Julia Gillard and Opposition Leader Tony Abbott in a town hall-style meeting.
He asked Abbott what the Coalition could offer him as an unmarried voter with no children.
"All I've got is a big DVD collection," the 27-year-old told the room.
David Briggs, the principal at Galaxy Research, would not comment on whether there was a Liberal Party bias in the audience, proclaiming "We are looking into that."
But he said that Mr Scalzi was only one of 200 "real people" selected by his company.
"I don't know those people," he said when probed about last night's debate among Twitter users on the audience's impartiality.
"I think the proof of the pudding last night was we certainly had 200 real people in there and they asked real questions from a range of topics."
Briggs said neither of the candidates was given an easy or difficult ride from the voters.
"The audience was responding to how the leaders treated them. Julia Gillard was reserved and the audience was reserved in return. Tony Abbott was more outgoing and the audience was more outgoing in return."
Briggs said the 200 or so voters were selected from "market research-type databases" that Galaxy had, and from the good old fashioned White Pages.
They were first asked about their voting intentions. Those who declared they were undecided or leaned towards one party but had not made their minds up were those Galaxy attempted to recruit for the audience, he said.
The audience was split 50 / 50 of male and female, and reflected the population's age brackets. Where they lived was not one of the criteria, Mr Briggs said.
Galaxy had to "spread the net quite broadly" in order to secure the 200 required for the debate.
"Anyone who classified themselves as an uncommitted voter, we were more than happy to have along, because obviously it's not everyone's cup of tea and we need to screen a fair number of people to get to those uncommitted voters," Mr Briggs added.
"There are many tiers which people can disqualify themselves or not qualify for the type of people we want."
A range of Australian media companies say that Mr Scalzi was a 2007 'Big Brother' reality TV show contestant and said then he was a Young Liberal.
A spokeswoman for the South Australian branch of the Liberals advised Scalzi was not a member of the young Liberals or the Liberal Party. The president of the NSW Division of the young Liberals, Scott Farlow, said he was not aware Mr Scalzi was a member either.
Mr Scalzi wrote on his Facebook page that he had a "hilarious night at the Rooty Hill RSL with my mate Billy".
"Doing work there for Jonesy and Amanda, i think i invited Tony Abbott over my place to watch The Notebook lol!!!"
Galaxy is the polling organisation used by News Ltd's metropolitan newspapers, including News Limited's The Daily Telegraph.
The debate was organised by The Telegraph and broadcast on Sky News Australia. The audience members were selected this week.
Some observers watching the debate claimed the audience was stacked with supporters of Abbott.
Tweeter Geeksrulz said "Sky News and Galaxy just leave the TV Audience debates to the professionals like [the ABC's panel show] QandA. They know how to sample."
Stan04676 came up with "Rooty Hill audience reminds me of Paul Keating's comments on the Senate Unrepresentative swill."
Others defended the Rooty Hill sample audience and criticised Q&A as a left-leaning forum.
"Ahaha, I love that people are already leveling accusations of Liberal bias in the audience. Same thing happens on Q and A," justinbarbour said.
We told you it was fun and games hey. Oh, Julia Gillard is regarded by the Australian public as is Tony Abbott (especially when wearing his budgie smugglers). Jules has yet to wear a bikini in the campaign. The Sex Party candidate for Abbott's patch, Austen Tayshus, has been spotted in a Man Kini, that even 'Borak' would be proud of. The Tayshus stunt is understood to have triggered a flasher who showed hit bits in public, later to be arrested. We told you this was soap opera. Aussie soapie starts 'Kath and Kim' did not comment to the comparisons.
Punters, er readers, stay glued to Media Man reports via Gambling911 for more "can't miss" information on the Australian casino and political wars.
Gambling911 Politics
http://www.gambling911.com/politics.html
Media Man Profiles
Australia
Politics
Media Companies
Wrap Up...
Readers... er, punters, how good was that. Who are your betting on, and why? Make your voice heard. The big wigs of Australian politics and business read and hang on every word at your beloved Gambling911. From Australia's answer to 'Casino Jack' to 'Outback Jack', they're all hear folks. Keep checking daily for the greatest soap opera coverage on earth... casino, gambling and politics style...Underbelly, The Sopranos... you get the idea. Yes Minister, and have another cup of Full Strength Coffee (no Caffeine or web Filter thanks).
The Late News...
A media insider leaked that PartyGaming continue to watch the Australian political and gambling scene very closely. Some interest in the right media and political connections we hear. Interesting timing with Party now getting mixed reports in the United States. Insiders note that Richard Branson, the champion of Virgin Games and Virgin Gaming is doing the rounds in Australia. Aussie Branson detractor of sorts, Sir Dick Smith (not a gaming or gambling fan and more aligned with Mr X we hear), is using blondes to try to get extra attention for his campaigns, with mixed results. Ah, political fun and games everywhere, and Gambling911 remains available for your reading pleasure just about everywhere on earth (expect for China), with Chinese Thought Police minding their firewall around the clock in bit of a Clockwork Orange meets They Live capacity. Remember your freedoms (what is left of them) when you vote, if you didn't already. Media Man and Gambling911 continue to keep up the good fight so you're appetite for censorship free news continues. Mums and dads, kids of all ages, thank you for your support. We couldn't do it without you. Now, play for free or play for money, but always bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis.
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Labor VS Liberal; More Money Backing Labor (At This Second)...
Labor has been attracting a lot of punters money in recent weeks, with activity skyrocketing in recent days. 21 August is election day and punters keep splashing money on their top picks.
Centrebet has received bets of $20,000, $40,000 and even $150,000 we hear. This shorted up Labor's odds of winning but we won't know until the final bell in round 12.
Odds on Julia Gillard becoming (staying) prime minister are around $1.51, but keep checking as experts forecast turbulence in the upcoming days.
Centrebet agency's analyst, Neil Evans, said hundreds of thousands of bucks had been wagered on the election, alot of it in recent days.
Almost all of the money had been for Labor, but not Liberal is getting more bets and bigger ones.
Media coverage is keeping punters interested. ABC's Q&A program, The Chaser and more.
The return of The Chaser, with election special Yes, We Canberra, in the 9.30pm slot two weeks ago snatched about 1.5 million viewers.
The betting surge had also followed prominent media reporting of an interview from former Labor leader Mark Latham, who accused PM Gillard of patronising him and "stroking" his front!
The opposition had originally been backed in at $2.27 over the weekend, its shortest price, after Gillard was confronted by Mr Latham and endured what is being described as an awkward get together for press with Kevin Rudd.
"Despite being heavily backed in many key marginal seats, budgetary pressures on the Coalition's senior team are mounting, and Mr Abbott must now get right on the policy front foot," Mr Evans said.
"Right now, Labor is winning ... but this is a bizarre and unique election.
"The shortening of the odds for Labor in just half a day is a massive statement."
Mr Evans said he thinks Labor's latest advertisements where it shows former Treasurer Peter Costello seemingly ridiculing Opposition Leader Tony Abbott's economic credentials had been working in the minds of punters who were now switching sides to Labor.
Today Media Man has heard around the cafes of Sydney that 1 punter put $150,000 on Labor to win, another $175,000 on Liberal to win. Ah, some folks have money to burn don't they. God knows how much both parties have spent on advertising this campaign, but its got to be 6 figures, maybe 7. A million... yep, they have it and the war continues at fever pitch.
Aussie Racing And Media King John Singleton VS Labor Party...
Julie Gillard is in a fight and she keeps getting reminded of political figures who have previously run a muck. Who? Kevin "Bloody" Rudd and Mark "Maniac" (affectionate MM tag) Latham. Now John "Singo" Singleton enters the fight in his own Aussie larikan (but strategic) way.
Singleton again asserted his presence over the election campaign when his ad agency, Banjo, launched what may be the most controversial ad - promo of the election campaign.
They feature the fictional story of a woman told she is dying of cancer that could have been treated if she had had an earlier pap smear.
Written up by Alan Johnson, one of the founders of Mojo, now a partner with Singo in Banjo, the adverts have been funded by Australia's largest GP clinic group, Primary Health Care.
The TV campaign sees health initiatives promised by Labor being buried in a grave and the campaign is highlighted by "Don't let Labor's health cuts be the death of you."
The campaign was commissioned by Primary Health Care managing director Edmund Bateman and its the 5th time Singo has inserted himself into the election campaign.
Singleton's presence first appeared in May when overtures were made to Tony Abbott's camp apparently offering the services of the man Bob Hawke credited with helping orchestrate his second election win, to help 'Bruiser' Abbott into The Lodge.
His move to the Coalition is understood to have been driven by projects Banjo did for the National Party in Queensland, plus with his own opposition to Kevin Rudd's resource super-profits tax...influenced by his friendships with those in the mining industry. Think "Twiggy" Forrest types.
Singleton was prominent in the media attacking Labor as a failed experiment.
Banjo created an anti-mining tax ad for a Perth-based action group, but the ad was put on ice mear hours before it was to go to tele and web after new PM Julia Gillard cut a deal with a host of big Aussie bases mines.
The campaign, another true blue Singo styled masterpiece using the mafia line "You're going to get whacked", came back to hatch roughly 3 weeks ago as the campaign for the group known as Association of Mining Exploration Companies.
Singleton has kept up the good fight, commenting during a TV cross on the Nine's Today show to the launch of the new Blue Tongue brewery about the mess Labor was in.
His radio network, Macquarie, has also heard its key announcers, Alan Jones and Ray Hadley, offer less than complimentary comments against the government. Ah, the media wars in full force.
Singo has just become a grandfather for the first time and insiders speculate this may have triggered his political pro active stance.
The so called Twilight Zone election is largely enjoying the Singo X Factor, and Team Gillard know they are in a fight to the death... er, end.
Gillard VS Abbott: Town Hall Type Action In Rooty Hill Sydney...Rooting Or Rooted?...
Political pollster Galaxy says it will investigate why the son of a former Liberal MP was part of the audience at yesterday's Rooty Hill RSL Club forum.
Joel Scalzi, the son of former South Australian Liberal MP Joe Scalzi, was one of the undecided voters selected by the polling company to quiz PM Julia Gillard and Opposition Leader Tony Abbott in a town hall-style meeting.
He asked Abbott what the Coalition could offer him as an unmarried voter with no children.
"All I've got is a big DVD collection," the 27-year-old told the room.
David Briggs, the principal at Galaxy Research, would not comment on whether there was a Liberal Party bias in the audience, proclaiming "We are looking into that."
But he said that Mr Scalzi was only one of 200 "real people" selected by his company.
"I don't know those people," he said when probed about last night's debate among Twitter users on the audience's impartiality.
"I think the proof of the pudding last night was we certainly had 200 real people in there and they asked real questions from a range of topics."
Briggs said neither of the candidates was given an easy or difficult ride from the voters.
"The audience was responding to how the leaders treated them. Julia Gillard was reserved and the audience was reserved in return. Tony Abbott was more outgoing and the audience was more outgoing in return."
Briggs said the 200 or so voters were selected from "market research-type databases" that Galaxy had, and from the good old fashioned White Pages.
They were first asked about their voting intentions. Those who declared they were undecided or leaned towards one party but had not made their minds up were those Galaxy attempted to recruit for the audience, he said.
The audience was split 50 / 50 of male and female, and reflected the population's age brackets. Where they lived was not one of the criteria, Mr Briggs said.
Galaxy had to "spread the net quite broadly" in order to secure the 200 required for the debate.
"Anyone who classified themselves as an uncommitted voter, we were more than happy to have along, because obviously it's not everyone's cup of tea and we need to screen a fair number of people to get to those uncommitted voters," Mr Briggs added.
"There are many tiers which people can disqualify themselves or not qualify for the type of people we want."
A range of Australian media companies say that Mr Scalzi was a 2007 'Big Brother' reality TV show contestant and said then he was a Young Liberal.
A spokeswoman for the South Australian branch of the Liberals advised Scalzi was not a member of the young Liberals or the Liberal Party. The president of the NSW Division of the young Liberals, Scott Farlow, said he was not aware Mr Scalzi was a member either.
Mr Scalzi wrote on his Facebook page that he had a "hilarious night at the Rooty Hill RSL with my mate Billy".
"Doing work there for Jonesy and Amanda, i think i invited Tony Abbott over my place to watch The Notebook lol!!!"
Galaxy is the polling organisation used by News Ltd's metropolitan newspapers, including News Limited's The Daily Telegraph.
The debate was organised by The Telegraph and broadcast on Sky News Australia. The audience members were selected this week.
Some observers watching the debate claimed the audience was stacked with supporters of Abbott.
Tweeter Geeksrulz said "Sky News and Galaxy just leave the TV Audience debates to the professionals like [the ABC's panel show] QandA. They know how to sample."
Stan04676 came up with "Rooty Hill audience reminds me of Paul Keating's comments on the Senate Unrepresentative swill."
Others defended the Rooty Hill sample audience and criticised Q&A as a left-leaning forum.
"Ahaha, I love that people are already leveling accusations of Liberal bias in the audience. Same thing happens on Q and A," justinbarbour said.
We told you it was fun and games hey. Oh, Julia Gillard is regarded by the Australian public as is Tony Abbott (especially when wearing his budgie smugglers). Jules has yet to wear a bikini in the campaign. The Sex Party candidate for Abbott's patch, Austen Tayshus, has been spotted in a Man Kini, that even 'Borak' would be proud of. The Tayshus stunt is understood to have triggered a flasher who showed hit bits in public, later to be arrested. We told you this was soap opera. Aussie soapie starts 'Kath and Kim' did not comment to the comparisons.
Punters, er readers, stay glued to Media Man reports via Gambling911 for more "can't miss" information on the Australian casino and political wars.
Gambling911 Politics
http://www.gambling911.com/politics.html
Media Man Profiles
Australia
Politics
Media Companies
Wrap Up...
Readers... er, punters, how good was that. Who are your betting on, and why? Make your voice heard. The big wigs of Australian politics and business read and hang on every word at your beloved Gambling911. From Australia's answer to 'Casino Jack' to 'Outback Jack', they're all hear folks. Keep checking daily for the greatest soap opera coverage on earth... casino, gambling and politics style...Underbelly, The Sopranos... you get the idea. Yes Minister, and have another cup of Full Strength Coffee (no Caffeine or web Filter thanks).
The Late News...
A media insider leaked that PartyGaming continue to watch the Australian political and gambling scene very closely. Some interest in the right media and political connections we hear. Interesting timing with Party now getting mixed reports in the United States. Insiders note that Richard Branson, the champion of Virgin Games and Virgin Gaming is doing the rounds in Australia. Aussie Branson detractor of sorts, Sir Dick Smith (not a gaming or gambling fan and more aligned with Mr X we hear), is using blondes to try to get extra attention for his campaigns, with mixed results. Ah, political fun and games everywhere, and Gambling911 remains available for your reading pleasure just about everywhere on earth (expect for China), with Chinese Thought Police minding their firewall around the clock in bit of a Clockwork Orange meets They Live capacity. Remember your freedoms (what is left of them) when you vote, if you didn't already. Media Man and Gambling911 continue to keep up the good fight so you're appetite for censorship free news continues. Mums and dads, kids of all ages, thank you for your support. We couldn't do it without you. Now, play for free or play for money, but always bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis.
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Media Man Canada
Media Man Games
Media Man Brand
Media Man Network
Casino News Media
Poker News Media
Global Gaming Directory
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