Thursday, March 24, 2011

Blog: Australian Anti Gambling MP May Cost Labor Election, by Greg Tingle - 24th March 2011

Blog





G'day punters, casino and gambling millionaires and billionaires, legal eagles, politicians officials...one and all. How hot is the gambling debate in Australia? Well, hot enough to win or loose an election it seems according to numbers we have obtained, and the Liberal - Nationals coalition are heavily tipped to smash the Gillard Labor government. No surprises there, but the giant margin between the parties is the shock, as well as some surprised that Labor appears to be sticking by the man who looks primed to be a key reason for their upcoming defeat. Media Man and Gambling911 probe the gambling with politics debate, as Labor dives head first into what may be one of their most embarrassing election loses in decades...


Independent MP Andrew Wilkie Anti Gambling Stance Tipped To Cost Labour Election...

How much difference can one man - an MP make? Well, they can cost an election victory Labor is tipped to suffer.

The clearly bias MP, not independent in his views, has been cause of much of the political - gambling news to come out of Australia for well over a year, and the man many describe as a professional mischief maker may be soon going back to school, so to speak, as Gillard and co may ponder what went wrong.

Australia is estimated to have roughly 100,000 problem gamblers, if you believe the numbers which get spoken about (numbers we are skeptical about as their are agenda driven). MP Wilkie is hell bent to drive forward and create a national gambling pre-commitment system, that would allow individuals to set limits on their addictive behaviour. At least, that's the concept, but many world leading experts say his plan is doomed to fails, and just one reason is that gamblers will always find a way to gamble - finding the loop holes, be it borrowing a mates card, club swapping, fake ID, online gambling, illegal Kings Cross gambling dens and underground poker games in the suburbs of 'Sin City' Sydney and 'Underbelly Mother' Melbourne.

Clubs Australia king hit Labour and the independents yesterday at a conference held at the National Press Club in Canberra, with president Peter Newell proudly announcing a $20 million marketing campaign against the Wilkie reforms.

Newell believes that the scheme will not work, pushing pokie players into buying black market 'smart cards' – the proposed means of tracking users' gambling spend Australia wide. Clubs Australia believe pokie players will also leap across to other forms of gambling or set very high levels of 'pre-commitment' anyway. And, he says, it will be the death of 11,500 jobs and rape $800 million or so from the NSW economy.

Wilkie was pretty pissed off yesterday, holding a long press conference and here's some of what he had to say "If Clubs Australia think they can intimidate me with the nonsense we heard today, then they misjudge me badly. If anything, I feel more committed to these reforms than I have ever have."

Senator Nick Xenophon, another big anti gambling supporter, tag teamed with Wilkie at the press conference to sprout off the colourful "The poker machine lobby reminds me a bit like the slave owners of the 19th century in the United States, who say their whole way of life would be ruined if there were any changes bought about. That's how the industry is behaving."

This is one hell of a mighty WrestleMania like political battle. Wilkie achieved support from the Gillard government to pursue the pre-commitment scheme in return for helping it form minority government. He also snatched research from the Productivity Commission, some of which is heavily disputed from many experts. The PC reckons that 7 lives of family or friends are seriously impacted by each problem gambler, with a national social cost in the region of $4.7 billion a year.

In the blue corner, introducing 'The Devil'. Just kidding readers. Clubs Australia is well aware that an avalanche of clubs, pub and pokie palace closures will send massive anti-Labor sentiment through the communities they accommodate. We're talking about clubs like Blacktown RSL, which held a political debate with Labor coming off not looking too bad in the 2010 election campaign. But, Labor did not win in their own right.

Yesterday Wilkie was pretty fired up at the press conference. This is his main agenda - get rid of pokies, or all but close them down. What a life hey. Some believe he has the numbers to get the bill through the lower house, and via Nick 'Mr X' (satire) Xenophon will no longer hold the balance of power in the Senate by the time the bill arrives, Bob Brown's Greens will – and they are tipped to embrace the push, and will want to make it one of their own. But Greens don't like 'Big Brother' type tactics, so they say, so its a big time 'Art Of War' thing going on here.

$20 million bucks will help show that Labor is making a massive screw up. That might trigger Gillard screw over Wilkie.

Wilkie's may just have the numbers to play "silly buggers" (mold and manipulate et al) with the Gillard legislative agenda if he does not get his way, tipped to be the way of the bible basing brigade.

It's WrestleMania time both in the U.S and Australia and Clubs Australia VS the government are our main event. Is it going to be a steel cage match, a no holds barred contest for the championship, or will it go to a street fight 'real life Underbelly' style? Stay tuned fans.


Aussie Punters Bet Labor Will Be History In New South Wales...

The bookies have given the kiss of death to NSW Labor. Deputy Premier Carmel Tebbutt is a rank outsider in her electorate, as are Verity Firth in Balmain, Frank Terenzini in Maitland and Jodi McKay in Newcastle. Centrebet's preliminary odds, published today, show the bookies are sure Labor is a dead duck in the inner city and the Hunter. Ms Tebbutt is at $2.25 to $1.58 for Fiona Byrnes of the Greens. Ms Firth is $3.70 against $1.24 for the Greens' Jamie Parker. Ms Firth's fight for Balmain was spectacularly unsettled on January 28, after her husband Matthew Chesher, the chief-of-staff to the Roads Minister David Borger, was charged with buying an ecstasy pill. Mr Terenzini is tipped to lose his seat, with the Liberal Robyn Parker a favourite at $1.52 to $2.40. In Newcastle Ms McKay is an outsider against John Tate, an independent who is also the lord mayor. Neil Evans of Centrebet said punters generally showed more nous than pollsters.

"We're talking about very connected people who are not betting to lose," he said. "The closer you get to an election, the more informed the money is. You can take a snap of 500 people in a poll, but they might think something one day and something different the next."

Sportsbet's odds are even worse news for Labor. It puts a win by Ms Tebbutt at $4.50 to Ms Byrne's $1.10, and Ms Firth at $7 to $1.28 for Mr Parker. As for who will be premier, 90% of Centrebet punters say Opposition Leader Barry O'Farrell. It is not all bad news for Labor. Betting agencies say Kristina Keneally and her predecessor as premier, Nathan Rees, will both win their seats. Centrebet has priced a win by Ms Keneally in Heffron at $1.06, with the Liberal and Greens candidates both long shots at $8 and $9.50. Mr Rees, who bypassed a rank-and-file ballot to be endorsed as the candidate by the party's national executive, appears to have more competition in Toongabbie - his odds are at $1.74 to $2 for the Coalition. Sportsbet has already compiled odds for who will be the Labor leader at the 2015 election, and it does not look good for Ms Keneally. She is equal third with Mr Borger, behind Transport Minister John Robertson and Police Minister Michael Daley. In the lead-up to the 2010 federal election, Centrebet's seat-by-seat odds showed a hung parliament, with Labor holding 75 seats, the Coalition 71, independents three and the Greens one - pretty close to the actual result of Labor 72, Coalition 73, independents four and Greens one. Do Aussie punters know a thing or two about election betting? Just ask Labor... in about a week. Can we have mops ready please to clean up the bloody crimson mass!

Aussie Punter bets $30,000 on NSW coalition...

One punter put their money where their mouth is and has wagered $30,000 on a win for the NSW coalition in the upcoming state elections. A Centrebet spokesman said tonight that a client has bet $30,000 on the NSW Coalition at $1.015 to win Saturday's state election. The person who placed the bet would gain only $450 if the coalition wins as NSW Labor has drifted to the high price of $16, according to Centrebet. "Nearly $250,000 has been bet into the election - and the money split is 93-7 the coalition's way," Centrebet spokesman Neil Evans said. Word of the Aussie political betting has leaked 

A Media Man spokesperson said "The Aussie punter who placed the wager must know we most of us already know - Labor is going to cop an almighty beating. The only difference is that they placed money on it. Overseas betting agencies have also taken note, always looking at new ways to expand business. Quite ironic that the anti gambling brigade has been so vocal in this election. We prefer slots and tables games over election betting, but don't let that stop you. Know the odds and have fun, as they say".

Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? 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. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered


Media Blog update: Casino News Media and Media Man Group: News from Las Vegas, Canada, Australia and across the globe

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Casino News Media and Media Man Group: News from Las Vegas, Canada, Australia and across the globe


Nevada records fourth highest July gaming win in history and second highest on the Strip

Nevada gaming surpassed $1 billion in revenue for the 17th consecutive month in July, marking the fourth highest monthly total in history at $1.31 billion and the second highest ever on the Las Vegas Strip. It took a record July 2021 to keep last month from surpassing that total. July 2022’s revenue decreased $43 million, a drop of 3.2%, from the $1.35 billion in July 2021, according to the Nevada Gaming Control Board.


IGT to pay $270 million to settle social gaming lawsuit

Global gaming giant IGT says it will pay almost US$270 million to settle a class action lawsuit brought against it by customers of its former social gaming subsidiary DoubleDown Interactive Co Ltd (DDI). The company said this week that it has reached an agreement in principle in the case of Benson v DoubleDown Interactive LLC, which was first launched in 2017 just a few months after IGT disposed of DDI in a hefty US$825 million deal.


Ontarians wager $4 billion (CAD), market produces $162 million gaming revenue in first quarter

The public can finally see numbers indicating how Ontario‘s new regulated iGaming and online sports betting market is performing since its launch on April 4. Ontarians wagered more than $4 billion (CAD) and the market produced $162 million total gaming revenue — from iCasino, online sports betting, and online poker — for the period of April 4-June 30, according to the first revenue report released by iGaming Ontario. (As of Aug. 30, $1 CAD is equal to $0.76 USD.)


California: Top elected officials voice opposition to Proposition 27

Though California Gov. Gavin Newsom deems himself neutral on Proposition 27, the digital sports betting ballot initiative with funding earmarked for homelessness and mental health programs, several other key elected officials voiced strong opposition to the measure Monday in describing it as a sham. “Proposition 27 exploits California’s tribes and our resources while making no real investments in California,” Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis said in a press release shared by the No on 27 campaign.


VSiN’s announces new fall lineup featuring Broadcast Hall of Famer Brent Musburger

VSiN’s new fall schedule that launches today will be headlined by a member of the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame. “Countdown to Kickoff with Brent Musburger,” is the centerpiece of NFL football coverage on Sundays by the Las Vegas-based sports betting network owned by DraftKings. “The addition of this new programming and its industry leading talent will position VSiN to provide the growing number of sports bettors in the U.S. with expert betting insights and premium content,” said VSiN General Manager Len Mead in a statement.


Las Vegas: Circa, Able Baker Brewing partner to create ‘Vegas Vickie Neon Blonde’ beer

Las Vegas’ famous neon kicking cowgirl now has her own beer. Able Baker Brewing Company and Circa Resort & Casino in downtown Las Vegas have teamed up to create a custom blonde lager beer – the Vegas Vickie Neon Blonde. The new brew pays homage to the iconic kicking neon cowgirl, Vegas Vickie. According to a news release, the the 4.5% ABV beverage, which is only available at Circa, will be served in a 16 oz. can. The drink is described as a crisp and clean lager with more character and depth of flavor than the standard light beer.


Ainsworth returns to profit in FY22 as American markets boost recovery

Australian slot machine supplier Ainsworth Game Technology Limited (AGT) returned to profit in the financial year ended 30 June 2022, aided by improved performance in Latin America and the global-wide recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Profit After Tax reached AU$11.8 million (US$8.2 million), reversing an AU$53.4 million (US$37.1 million) loss in FY21 on the back of a 38% year-on-year increase in revenue to AU$220.2 million (US$152.9 million). This included revenue of AU$100.7 million (US$69.9 million) in the first six months of the financial year and AU$119.5 million (US$83.0 million) in the second half.

Friday, March 18, 2011

Australian Casino Canberra Close To Getting Pokies At Last, by Greg Tingle - 18th March 2011

G'day punters, casino and gambling millionaires and billionaires, legal eagles, government officials...one and all. Australia's capital, Canberra, may be getting slots in its casino sooner rather than latter, tipped to win its 16 year battle for the 'bandits'. We also learn that the offline gambling world continues to ramp up its business dealings with the online gaming sector. We've also got the connection between NRL clubs and pokies, and lots more.. Media Man and Gambling911 take you on another voyage of discovery down under to Australia...

Casino Canberra In Nations Capital Tipped To Get Pokies; Punters Rejoice After 18 Years...

Punters in Canberra may not have to wait much longer before they can play the likes of Cleopatra, Black Rhino, Where's The Gold, Gone Fishing, Top Gun, Monopoly, Outback Jack and the rest of their pokie friends, some of which are found via online portals like Media Man International and Casino News Media.

Casino Canberra have been fighting for pokies for 16-years to operate the 'one armed bandits' out of its Glebe Park gambling den. ACT Labor Party insiders have leaked that former treasurer Ted Quinlan will recommend in his considerable review of the region's revenue base that the casino be allowed to operate machines in the venue. The casino has been lobbying to have pokies since 1995, when it says the opening of 'Sin City' Sydney's Star City Casino whacked them in the guts. Last year it raised the stakes by offering the ACT Government a whopping $10 million one-off payment simply to be allowed to operate the machines. To date the Government has not budged and refused flat out to permit any departure from Canberra's "not-for-profit" business model of distribution of machines. The ACT Labor Party snatched in excess of $600,000 in revenue from its Labor Club pokies operation last year, according to returns from the ACT Electoral Commission. Gaming Minister Andrew Barr has refused to discuss the matter as we go to print. Mr Quinlan has been commissioned to conduct a "root-and-branch review" of the entire ACT tax system, including gambling revenues, and it's understood he told party colleagues that he was preparing to recommend that the casino be granted its long time wish for 200 machines. It's believed that Quinlan noted that the Productivity Commission observed last year, "the prohibition on Canberra casino's operation of gaming machines is difficult to justify". Quinlan refused to confirm or deny the reports as we approach print. "I won't enter into the discussion". Casino Canberra marketing manager Peter Cursley said a recommendation from the Quinlan Review for pokies at the casino would be acknowledging the weight of evidence. "There's been a number of government-commissioned reports," he said. "All those reports have all either suggested that there should be machines in the casino or stated that there would be no harm done by machines in the casino." The casino has long argued pokies would contribute 30% in gross gaming revenue tax, delivering an annual revenue stream of about $4 million to the ACT Government. Canberra punters have been patiently waiting over a decade to play classic slots like Cleopatra, Monopoly and Wheel Of Fortune in their home state of Canberra and insiders are tipping the casino may just grant them their wish within the next few months. Time will tell if it would be a true win - win - win, but Casino Canberra would surly win. Canberra based players continue to play online poker machines in the meantime or travel to Melbourne's Crown or Sydney's Star City...of course in search of the elusive jackpots.

NRL Clubs Look To Make Up For Shotfall; Result Of Proposed Pokie Law Changes...

The National Rugby League clubs in 'Sin City' Sydney have a list of requests (getting closer to demands we hear) to offset the effect on their takings, should the Aussie government implement proposals like 'smart cards' onto 'one armed bandits' (slots aka pokies). The licensed clubs which are behind the footy clubs estimate the dip in revenue and cost of implementing the changes in attempt to reduce problem gambling will force them to cease many community support initiatives, like nurturing up and coming junior players, helping out aged care, schools and the like. It's the flow on effect. Should the federal government keep at these gaming reforms, clubs reckon a couple of things will assist them on the bean counter side of things...

The election of a Coalition government in NSW

A billion-dollar broadcasting deal for rugby league

A High Court decision upholding a turnover tax on wagering

The NSW state election will be on March 26 and Labor is set to go down for the count in spectacular fashion. The Coalition (Liberals and Nationals) have inked a memorandum of understanding with Sydney's whale size licensed clubs giving them tax relief on pokies, snatching St George Leagues Club (The Dragons) $800,000. Clubs with larger gambling revenue (Penrith Panthers and Canterbury Bulldogs), will also get more of the action. St George's annual contribution to football is $3 million: $2.7 million is put aside to the NRL team and $300,000 to the club's junior representative teams. Media deals can also be a big part of the financial future of clubs. The clubs are seeking a billion-dollar TV rights deal. This would effectively raise the NRL's revenue from broadcasting by a massive 50%, and would be expected to double the NRL's annual grant to its 16 clubs, currently at $3.5 million. We will have to wait until the conclusion of the end of next season to see what happens with the TV contract. Free-to-air rights holder, Network Nine, has committed to pay more for the content, while Network Ten and Channel Seven have advised they are in the running to make bids to attempt to snatch the TV rights offerings. Tax is always a big thing for business. A 1.5 per cent turnover tax on wagering, is tipped to increase NRL revenue by as much as $20 mill. Sweet money if you can get it. This would facilitate the NRL to grab higher product fees, further increase annual club grants and thus reduce clubs' dependence on 'one armed bandits'. The news is not all good for the clubs. Friday's High Court decision granting Northern Territory corporate bookmakers and Betfair leave to appeal against a Federal Court decision upholding the turnover tax may play on the minds of the Sydney NRL club powers that be. It does't mean the High Court will reverse the Federal Court decision that gives legitimacy to product fees being based on the existing gross profit model, however NRL clubs would have preferred the High Court did not grant leave to appeal. The federal government's agenda to address problem gambling is set out in a memorandum to the presidents of licensed clubs on March 3 we understand. The Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Jenny Macklin, favours a pre-commitment scheme where "We use technology to give people a tool, at the beginning of a gambling session, to think about how much they want to spend, set limits and stick to them. Under the model recommended by the Productivity Commission, players can set the limit as high or low as they like and players could choose no limit at all if they prefer." In a letter to the minister on March 9, the general manager of St George Leagues Club, Danny Robinson, set out his board's concerns. "This club cannot afford to spend the estimated costs of $6 million on the required technology to implement such a system. The expected reduction in revenue for this club would be $14 million per year which, together with the costs associated with the implementation of mandatory pre-commitment, would cause this club to close. Closure of this famous club would result in the loss of jobs for hundreds of workers and the loss of facilities enjoyed by over 30,000 members. The club's current contribution of over $4 million per year for sport and sporting facilities would be lost to the community … The club's annual contribution of $300,000 to local hospitals and children with special needs would also be lost." Robinson stages the flow on effects would occur without guarantee a pokie pre-commitment system would work. The system hasn't worked well in other countries with many experts, private and government saying the system is a failure, and a waste of time and money. Gamblers will continue to gamble, especially problem gamblers, with lots of loop holes - fake ID, makes cards, club hopping, removing fingerprints and all manner of other cleaver tactics, in attempt to outsmart 'Big Brother'.

Australia's Aristocrat Rumoured Signed Deal With Online Gaming's Game Account; Other Online Casinos Also Look For New Games...

The whale size casino games provider Aristocrat which supplies some of the hottest casino games to land based casinos around the world has inked a deal with the online gambling company Game Account to provide gaming content to their impressive portfolio of games. GameAccount network who are licensed by Alderney Gambling Control Commission has stated that this deal will be an endeavor to bring Aristocrat's vast library of gaming content to regulated online gaming websites. The initial focus of this new partnership will be based on the European market because the company is based in London and will eventually spread to other regulated markets. Online gamblers are hanging out for high quality content with better gaming experiences and as the online gaming industry grows and matures they plan on providing exactly that, stated Gillian Findlay, the General Manager for Aristocrat. Aristocrat’s games have been hits for many years across the globe and now the goal is to bring these highly recommended games to the online world. In order to make this happen teaming with Game Account which has a robust platform to host their games is a good start and with their relationships with trusted online operators and with the players that frequent their gaming sites this partnership is tipped for success. This new partnership will see a broad selection of Aristocrat games including their best, such as 50 lions and Dolphin Treasure as well as some new and exciting games being developed. Dermot Smurfit the managing Director for Game Account Network said "We are delighted to enable Aristocrat to bring its market leading slots to the online gaming market in Europe.” PartyGaming's PartyCasino.com and Virgin Enterprises Virgin Casino have also been adding new games to the portfolio of late, with NextGen Gaming tipped to add more in the coming months. Party's in house team 'The Games Studio' continues to work on more Hollywood themes and some website portals are also developing their own games, with some work been outsources. Could it be that Gambling911 or Media Man might soon have it's own themed slot games? IGT also continues to release new games via its online arm, WagerWorks. The land based sector of the gambling world continues to get into bed with its online counterpart. Stay tuned.

Adelaide Casino Switches Off Outdoor Pokies...

The Adelaide Casino has turned off poker machines which are installed in its outdoor smoking area, due to some people power pressure. The gaming section was opened last week and has 20 outside poker machines enabling people to gamble while smoking. Some MPs expressed concerns that casino operator SkyCity was trying to exploit a loophole in South Australia's smoking laws, pointing out pubs could not install outdoor pokies. SA Premier Mike Rann said the move was not a good look for the Adelaide Casino. "What they've done looks to most people like trying to get round the rules," he said. "Now if it's legal and there's a loophole then we should look at closing that loophole. "I would like to see the casino do the right thing and I think at the moment what they've done is the wrong thing." SA Gambling Minister Bernard Finnigan has asked gambling control authorities to prepare a report for him. "I've asked the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner for a full report on the matter as to what the current regulations are," he said. "We're certainly committed to making sure that we have smoke-free gambling areas in the casino and elsewhere." Independent Senator Nick Xenophon said SkyCity Casino was exploiting a loophole in legislation by putting machines outside. "We know from the research there's a clear link between gambling and smoking, particularly with poker machines," he said. "Now it can continue, people playing, because they don't go out to get a cigarette break. "It clearly is a breach of the spirit of the legislation. It's a loophole and the Government needs to act now." Independent MLC John Darley also said he would demand the Government act. In a statement, casino general manager David Christian said authorities were notified last December the casino would be putting machines in the area, which was licenced for gambling decades ago.

Former Legal Eagles Ordered To Pay $637k For Trust Breach...

An ex Melbourne lawyer who stole from clients to pay for a gambling addiction, has been ordered to pay $637,000 to the Legal Services Board for breach of trust. Gabriel Werden lost his right to practice law and was sentenced to almost six years in prison in 2006. He was convicted of a string of theft charges and obtaining financial advantage by deception, after admitting he stole $1.1 million from nine clients. Werden claimed he was being threatened by loan sharks, who were helping to pay for his gambling addiction at Crown Casino. The Victorian Supreme Court this morning ordered Werden to pay the Legal Services Board $637,000 for breach of trust.

CEO Magazine Rejects James Packer Interview Rumour...

Bean Media Group, publishers of the influential and highly-regarded business publication, The CEO Magazine, have today refused to confirm reports that The CEO Magazine will be conducting an exclusive interview with Australian businessman, James Packer. The CEO Magazine is Australia's leading business magazine focused directly at high-level executives in Australian companies. The CEO Magazine is a bi-monthly title that provides its readers with a wealth of articles discussing business strategy, expert opinion, analysis, corporate case studies, emerging trends, leadership, growth opportunities and challenges facing our country's leading business leaders. The CEO Magazine explores how Australian businesses can improve the way they manage their operations, staff, technology and supply chains with a view to creating a more profitable and successful business. Whilst The CEO Magazine is extremely meticulous in selection for interviews within the title, rumours of a one-on-one interview with James Packer have surfaced this week. "Due to the high profile nature of The CEO Magazine, it is impossible for us to confirm who will be included in upcoming magazines until publication date. Content is kept strictly between the publisher and any leading senior executive that have been chosen for selection," said a spokesperson for publisher, Bean Media Group. The next issue of The CEO Magazine is due out next month. About The CEO Magazine, Australia's leading business title specifically for high-level and senior executives. The publisher of The CEO Magazine is Bean Media Group, a multi-award-winning media company based in Sydney, Australia.

Media Man Looks To Get Own Branded Slot And Classic Games...

In a scoop word leaked that Media Man International has put feelers out for its own branded slot and classics casino games. The rumour mill leaked that they had seen a couple of other websites develop their own games over the years, and they basically feel its time to do the same thing, as a natural part of their business development. They have just started making enquiries to the likes of NextGen Gaming, PartyGaming, Virgin and IGT. Gambling911 is understood to have the exclusive on this one, so yet another reason to not change your dial, unless you want to hop on over to Media Man Int in case any more leaks in the story open up. Media Man often breaks news on its blog network before the site, so that's the tip punters.

Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? 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. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered

Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...

Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...

PartyCasino.com (Many of the world's best slot games. Aussies and Kiwi's welcome).

Captain Cooks Casino

Betfair (sports betting only)

PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)

PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)

Profiles

Australian Casinos

World Casino Directory

Global Gaming Directory

Casino Travel

Casinos

Australia

Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:

Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money

Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.

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. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered

*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited and Network Ten

Website Network

Media Man International

Media Man

Media Man Australia

Media Man Canada

Media Man Games

Media Man Brand

Media Man Network

Casino News Media

Poker News Media

Australian Casino News

Casino News Australia

Global Gaming Directory

Monday, March 14, 2011

Gambling And Politics Mix In Australia, by Greg Tingle - 14th March 2011

G'day punters, gambling and casino millionaires and billionaires, politicians...one and all. Gambling and politics continue to be a volatile mix of cocktail down under in Australia. Media Man and Gambling911 offer up a triple cocktail with gambling and politics served on the rocks...

Internet Big Part Of Problem Gambling States Another Expert...

Professor of psychology Alex Blaszczynski says internet sports betting is changing the face of problem gamblers seeking help. He says the image of someone sitting at the pokies for hours on end is being replaced by young men gambling on the net. "Today we are seeing many young men who are losing large sums of money from betting on sports over the internet," he said. "They can literally lose a fortune without leaving the comfort of their own home." Figures released by the University of Sydney's gambling clinics show a 70 per cent increase in internet sports betting clients from 2008-9 to 2010-11. "With more and more people gaining access to higher internet speeds and wireless internet via their smart phones, you can gamble anytime and anywhere," Professor Blaszczynski said. He says with football season about to start, he expects an increase in people seeking help for problem gambling on the net. Clinical psychologist Christopher Hunt says increased promotion of gambling through sports media was a concern. "It's difficult to watch most kinds of sporting matches these days without being made aware of the prices that various outlets are giving for bets," he said. He says it is natural that people with an interest in sport try their luck gambling. "Unfortunately some of these people will lose more than they planned to and become problem gamblers," he said.

Joe Hockey Favours Welfare Quarantining...

Shadow treasurer Joe Hockey wants long-term welfare recipients to have their payments managed. Hockey said the long-term unemployed and those on disability pensions should be case managed by Centrelink. "We have to meet head-on the challenge of growing welfare dependency," he told ABC Radio yesterday. Hockey also said people with drug and gambling problems should have their welfare payments quarantined. But Australian Council of Social Service's chief executive Cassandra Goldie said it was the wrong approach. "There is still very little evidence to say that compulsory income management actually makes a difference," she said. Big Brother stays on the gambling and welfare spectrum's, but just how big Big Brother is remains to be seen.

Tasmania: Greens Party Keen To See Community Take On Casinos...

The Tasmanian Greens will push for poker machines in the Federal Group's casinos to be subject to the community support levy, like those in other gaming venues. Leader Nick McKim told Parliament that Tasmanians lost $214 million on poker machines last year. He said applying the community support tax to casino poker machines would raise $2.6 million a year which could be spent on programs to treat gambling addicts. McKim denied his plan would unfairly disadvantage the Federal Group which runs the state's casinos. "Everyone has to pay their way in these tough times," he said. "Secondly Federal Hotels Group have had a very good ride for a very long, long period of time from the Tasmanian Government, and from the Tasmanian people, and it is time as the good corporate citizens they aspire to be, they chipped in."

Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? 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. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered

Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...

Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...

PartyCasino.com (Many of the world's best slot games. Aussies and Kiwi's welcome).

Captain Cooks Casino

Betfair (sports betting only)

PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)

PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)

Profiles

Australian Casinos

World Casino Directory

Global Gaming Directory

Casino Travel

Casinos

Australia

Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:

Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money

Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.

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. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered

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Monday, March 07, 2011

Aussie MP Seeks iGaming Crackdown; Australia In Top 10 Gambling Nations, by Greg Tingle - 7th March 2011

G'day punters, gamers, legal eagles, law enforcement officials, politicians...one and all. Today a couple more members of Australian Parliament are seeking a crackdown on igaming aka online gambling in Australia. In the meantime, Australia maintains its top 10 status as a gambling nation, thought to be currently about lucky #7 on the list. Media Man and Gambling911 with this crackdown report...

The so called "Independent" MP Andrew Wilkie is ramping up his eagle eye on online gambling, telling numerous Australian press here is strong evidence it is a significant problem and only likely to worsen. Wilkie will request the parliamentary committee to reform the "Wild West" industry, according to the report, after Australians dropped around $1 billion in online gambling last year. While betting on sports and horse racing is legal in Australia, several other online gaming websites and web portals exist, despite some being illegal. People who play the online games are not breaking the law, according to Fairfax Media, a situation Wilkie desires to reverse. "We need to get in here and nip it in the bud, and avoid getting into the situation we have with poker machines, where it's so big and entrenched," Wilkie said. Fairfax Media and competitor, News Limited, already carry a number of wagering options on their website network, mixing in news, pr, sports betting and games (play for free or play for money), a formula other media companies such as Media Man have also followed with significant success.

A Media Man spokesperson said "Offering a wide array of promotions, brands, content, even games, is a popular formula for many Australian media companies in the current landscape. Fairfax Media, News Limited, as well as our Australian and international arm, also offer a range of games, some of which can be played for free or for money. News Limited, Fairfax, nor ourselves, are casinos or sports betting agencies, but we can offer the reader access via b2b agreements. Many legal eagles in Australia believe that Australian laws pertaining to the internet, b2b, affiliates, content sharing and the like are not up to speed with the rest of the world. We believe that the Liberal Party is better equipped to embrace b2b commerce better than the Australian Labour party, but it would be great to see us proved wrong. News Limited, Fairfax Media and Media Man cover over a dozen different business sectors, and gaming, igaming and sports betting are just a couple of them. Betting enjoys a cross over with sport, and gaming also enjoys a cross over with movies themes, be it Marvel Entertainment or Paramount Pictures branded games. Poker is also popular, with big brands such as PartyGaming offering satellites on a yearly basis to the world famous Aussie Millions conducted at James Packer's Crown Casino. iGaming is a big part of the future of b2b commerce this year, and will continue to be. Legal eagles will be busy as the battle for hearts and minds continues, and that's no bluff".


Australia Remains In World's Top 10 Gambling Nations In 2011...

The dinkim Aussies are known for lots of things on the world stage... great beaches, women, beers, great boobs, wildlife, champion athletes, and now, gambling nuts. Yep, some of the world's most passionate punters still call Australia home.

Would you believe there's 1 one armed bandit for 110 people down under. That puts Aussie Land squarely in the top 10 gambling havens, right up there with Monaco (famous for James Bond casino antics) and Macau (hello our friends at James Packer's City of Dreams).

The Aussies have the 8th highest total number of gambling machines, with roughly 187,000 in pubs and clubs aka "pokie palaces", industry stats tell a story of.

Anti-gambling activists aka "gambling haters" and "casino haters" are strongly encouraging the Gillard - ALP Government to adopt a "stop, revive, survive" style approach...similar to the safe driving campaign, in order to assist poker machine reform and introduce a mandatory cut-off period to help people break their habits... if they have a habit, if you follow our lead.

"The player logs in with his or her personal code and the machine stops after, for example, two hours' playing," researcher Charlotte Fabiansson said in research provided to the Government by the Social Justice and Social Change Research Group at the University of Western Sydney.

"The player can choose to take a 15 or 30 minutes, break or take out eventual winnings and leave the machine."

Under Dr Fabiansson's prop, the pokie used by the players would be untouched during their "revive" breaks.

The player should not be able switch to a new machine without the revive break," she said.

Numbers coming from the manufactures of gaming machines show Australia ranks 7th on an worldwide list of pokies per head with one machine for every 110 people.

First place goes to "lucky winner" Monaco, which has one machine for every 16 people. Japan and the Netherlands Antilles were also in the top 10. Countries giving Australia a run for its money include New Zealand and Britain, who rates closer to one machine for every 300 people.

Don't ask us if sheep also play in New Zealand... we don't want to know, but an insider joked "some Kiwi poker machine players are a bit like sheep, even if they don't have wool and have 2 legs instead of 4". The smart ass was having a sledge, and was not at all serious.

Australia is currently 7th we understand for the total number of gaming machines with approx 187,000, but insiders say we are quickly rose to lucky 7th position in bragging rights.

Britain has roughly 217,000 machines but, but has triple the population, has far fewer per capita.

Both the current and former Australian Prime Ministers Julia Gillard and Kevin Rudd, are not big fans of poker machines, with Rudd appearing to have the most hate towards the one armed bandits.

Gillard have recently felt the wrath of the powerful Australian clubs and pubs associations like Clubs Australia and ClubsNSW. Gillards's ALP is up against strong competition from the Aussie states and territories, and the mighty gaming industry.

Last year the Australian Productivity Commission proposed cutting cash payments down to $250 from the present $2000 limit, banning ATM's from all venues and increasing the present shutdown limit for poker machines from 6 hours per day in yet another attempt to fix "problem gambling".

Some of Australia's major banks and financial institutions have also jumped on board the campaign against many of the proposed changes.

They in fact wrote to the Federal Government a few times to state that a plan to limit withdrawal amounts and move ATMs further away from gaming areas would not work.

Anti-pokies campaigner and so called independent Senator Nick Xenophon called on the Federal Government to bypass the states and take action on its own.

"It shouldn't be underestimated what a powerful vested interest the pokie machine industry is from clubs to casinos to manufacturers. Of course they are squealing," he said.

Senator Xenophon said the Federal Government should use its taxation powers to make pokie machines unprofitable.

"It's a question of political will. I believe Kevin Rudd was genuine when he said he hated the pokies and the damage they did to families. But how will those strong words translate into action? He has talked the talk and now he has to walk the walk," Senator Xenophon said. Mr X was talking of Rudd, and he's been just as vocal this year calling on Julia Gillard to step up. Xenophon always has something to say, which is good, as it helps fill up news reports on the touchy subject of gambling.

Mr X has also recently brought more attention to online gambling, which has taken off in a big way down under, with slots and sports betting leading the charge. Media Man data shows that Hollywood and entertainment themed games from the likes of Marvel Entertainment, Paramount Pictures and FremantleMedia are some of the most popular. Even companies behind the the image of Frank Sinatra, Rambo (StudioCanal) and Tarzan (Edgar Rice Burroughs) have jumped on the gambling bandwagon, with more tipped to follow.

Recently James Packer associated media company, Ten Network Holdings, let it be known they see a place for more gambling programming, and leaks say to expect to see a gambling show or channel. Packer recently stepped down from the Ten board, but gaming and igaming remains on their agenda. Insiders say it will be much bigger than 'The Poker Star' which was fronted by former Australian poker world champion (WSOP) Joe Hachem, who these days is one of the faces of Crown Casino, the other being mate, Shane Warnie, never short of a headline or spinning yarn. Network Ten has also recently launched Channel 'Eleven' and insiders say the channel is just begging for gambling shows, adding to the promos currently being seen. Warnie and Hachem also get regular features in the Australian newspapers about their passion for poker and gambling, and both are keen to please their mate and associate, James Packer, the king of Australian gambling, who is now once again a major force in the Australian media landscape. The UK's Virgin king, Richard Branson, has also been watching the Australian gambling and gaming space closely, and has met with 'Our James' at least one time. Branson is understood to not want to do anything in Australia until "grey areas" are cleared up, while Warne's and Hachem's brands appear full speed ahead, as are PartyGaming including its World Poker Tour, PartyPoker and branded games, with more overseas firms wanting to make more of a mark down under including Paddy Power, William Hill Online, PKR and Playtech. PartyGaming's World Poker Tour continues to be broadcast into Australia via Foxtel - Fox Sports and Fox8 we understand, with Foxtel interested to broadcast more poker and casino themed content down under, pushed along by online promotions and b2b agreements, ready for the next range of interactive television developments, (which will have to be signed off by Senator Stephen Conroy and friends, we suspect). The ACMA is also closely monitoring the situation.

A Media Man spokesperson said "Many of the UK and Gibraltar based igaming and gaming companies see Australia and Tasmania are maybe just the next Gibraltar and Alderney, two regions known to be gambling friendly." They went on to clarify "Well, maybe if or when the Australian Liberal Party win the next election. I'm tipping its when, not if".

Media Man conducted a recent street research on the subject of gambling and the results showed that most Australian adults of legal age up do enjoy a punt. Only 1 person in a batch of 10 found gambling "evil", with everyone else saying it was a personal choice. 60% of those who took the survey likened the Australian government's war on pub pokies as to their battle with the Australian mining companies (which many feel left the Australian government with egg on its face).

Stay tuned daily for more on the Australian pokie, gambling and casino wars.

Gillard, Packer, Murdoch (both of you sirs), Branson, Ryan, Trump, Gyngell and Turnbull - you're throw of the dice!

Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money

Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.

Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Will Australian ever get to #1 position for 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. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered

*the writer owns shares in Crown Limited, Ten Network Holdings and Virgin.


Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...

Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...

PartyCasino.com

Captain Cooks Casino

Betfair (sports betting only)

PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)

PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)

Profiles

Australian Casinos

World Casino Directory

Global Gaming Directory

Casino Travel

Casinos

Australia

Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:

Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money

Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.

Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? 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. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered

*the writer is a fan of Sydney Roosters And South Sydney Rabbitohs

Website Network

Media Man International

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Tuesday, March 01, 2011

Australia Gambling With Legal Eagles And Politics, by Greg Tingle - 1st March 2011

G'day punters, gaming and casino millionaires, billionaires, legal eagles, law enforcement officials, politicians and everyone else. Today we look at a curious situation with a gambler who dropped a heap of money at Crown Casino in Melbourne, pokie lovers and haters in the political scene and a whole lot more. Media Man and Gambling911 with your daily dose of Australian news. Just what the doctor ordered...

High Rolling Aussie Whale Harry Kakavas Avoids Bankruptcy...

Crown casino has not been successful in its attempt send 'High Rolling Harry K' into bankruptcy. The major win for Mr Kakavas at a Collins St creditors meeting means he is now free to chase his $30 mil battle against Crown in the Victorian Court of Appeal. A hearing of his appeal against a Supreme Court judge's dismissal of his $35 million claim against the gaming company for gambling losses is set for June. Kakavas, who owes more than $50 mil, yesterday won the backing of 22 out of 31 creditors, headed by Challenger Bank and all 8 of his legal reps, including top silk Allan Myers, QC. The Gold Coast property tycoon (of sorts) has pledged to pay $555,000 to his creditors over a 10-month period and another $5 million if he wins the appeal against Crown. On Friday, Crown issued an application in the Federal Court attempting to prevent the creditors meeting going ahead. The application was later abandoned. Kakavas, a fully diagnosed "pathological gambler", lost roughly $30 million bucks at Crown circa 2005-06. At the pinnacle of his gambling he was betting up to $300,000 grand on the flip of a single card, once losing a whopping $2.4 million in 43 minutes if you believe the yarn. He has boldly accused the casino of devising a plot to lure him back to the casino with cash incentives and use of a luxury jet. His legal eagles will argue Justice David Harper made 36 errors in his 2009 judgment in favour of James Packer's casino. The appeal will be based on Justice Harper's finding that Kakavas's gambling addiction did not disadvantage him in his dealings with Crown. Kakavas has already paid $210,000 in security costs in order for the appeal to proceed. We're hopeful that things may get resolved amicably, but word is there's bit of bad blood, so stay tuned.

Tattersalls Targets Melbourne Housing Estate For Pokie Palace Fun And Games...

A poker machine venue in a new housing estate in Melbourne's north would be part of a safe and friendly "boutique hotel", gaming giant Tattersalls claims. Tattersalls says in a submission to VCAT that the development would result in many jobs and a big financial investment in Doreen's Laurimar estate. "The benefits are many and should not be lightly treated," it says. The City of Whittlesea and a residents' group led by a local Baptist minister claim a poker machine venue would have a negative impact on the growing community's welfare. The council has gone to VCAT in a bid to overturn a decision by the Victorian Commission for Gambling Regulation to approve the venue. Tattersalls wants to install 40 "one armed bandits" at the planned Laurimar tavern, with annual gaming revenue expected to reach up to $4.2 million. The VCGR has also given the green light to the Bridge Inn hotel, 5km from Laurimar, to put in 40 machines. In its submission, Tattersalls says Laurimar's boutique venue would be safe and friendly and could be managed responsibly. "The proposal would deliver a range of social and recreational opportunities for the community which would facilitate community interaction and sense of place," it says. "The evidence is very much to the effect that this community is advantaged in terms of social cohesion and values to accommodate licensed premises and gaming." The VCGR says in its submission that the City of Whittlesea is one of Melbourne's fastest growing municipalities and there is increasing demand for modern, family friendly sporting, entertainment, dining and social facilities. "The Whittlesea community will benefit from a modern tavern with a range of entertainment options," it says. The commission says it is satisfied that the tavern would be operated by people experienced in electronic gaming machines. The hearing before Judge Felicity Hampel and town planner Anthony Liston continues today. Good or bad idea? The judge will tell us soon enough.

Man Rips Off Employer Of $600,000 To Feed Gambling Addiction...

A problem gambler recruited a Victorian based mate to help with a false invoice scam to rip off nearly $600,000 from his Brisbane based employer, a court heard yesterday. Prosecutor Julie Aylward told the District Court in Brisbane that Leslie Jones had used a persistent and calculated fraud to pinch $583,339 from his employer B and R Enclosures. Ms Aylward said there were 221 false invoices issued of which money was paid on 220. She said no restitution was made and the company had to bear the loss while its profit margin had gone up since Jones had been caught. Judge Kerry O'Brien said there was some complexity about Jones's offending and he had to impose a sentence of seven years' jail. He said, however, after taking into account the mitigating circumstances he would set a parole eligibility date at February 28, 2013.
Jones, 50, pleaded to aggravated fraud between July 24, 1998 and October 5, 2005. Earlier, Aylward outlined how Jones and a man named Kevin Tidball became mates when working for Ford Australia in Victoria and they remained in contact after they both resigned. She said Jones came to Brisbane to work for B and R Enclosures while Tidball opened his own engineering company. B and R Enclosures, a steel fabrication business, outsourced some its work to overseas companies and relied on them to ship goods to Australia in a "timely and cost effective way". Aylward advised Jones was responsible to ensure the goods were shipped to Australia and Jones was aware there was regularly a surplus between the budgeted cost of freight and the actual cost. "It is alleged Jones put in place a process using the services of Tidball to defraud the company of this surplus," she added. Aylward said Jones got Tidball's company to submit invoices which were paid by B and R Enclosures although no actual work had been done. Tidball kept a modest 10% of what was paid and deposited the rest in Jones's bank account. She said Tidball was sentenced to a wholly suspended 12 months' jail in relation to the cunning scam when he appeared in the Brisbane Magistrates Court last year. Barrister James Godbolt, for Jones, said his client had a good work history in England before coming to Australia where he worked at the Ford company in Victoria and then in Brisbane. He said Jones had developed a gambling addiction after a relationship breakdown and a family illness placed him under stress. Godbolt said Jones had since sought assistance to overcome his addiction. Gambling addiction has been linked to dozens of fraud cases that Gambling911 and Media Man have covered over the last number of years.

Terri Irwin's Australia Zoo; Some Financial Challenges But Las Vegas Deal Part Of 10 Year Business Plan...

Steve Irwin made the the globe aware about Australia and its wildlife. He attracted millions of tourists to our great land. Now, five years after his death Australia Zoo numbers are down in a big way. Zoo boss Terri Irwin this week has rejected claims her husband's legacy was at risk, but admitted the zoo had been forced to go through the painful process of shedding 22 employees to cut costs. Mrs Irwin declared the showpiece "had survived for 40 years and would thrive for another 40". She said times were tough for many tourism businesses because of recent devastating weather events. This could not have come at a worse time with official figures showing the numbers of international tourists already were on the slide because of the strong Australian dollar. Ironically, the challenge for Australia Zoo is to engender more support from Australians, especially Queenslanders. Mrs Irwin, whose leadership brought her recognition as Owner Manager of the Year at the Queensland Management Excellence Awards in November, believes local support holds the key to their future success. She urged people to look to their own back yard for amazing holiday experiences instead of heading overseas. "Australians are famous for sticking up for their mates. This is what they do best. We really need them to do this now," she said, adding she would step up her hands-on leadership of the operation and strive to make it even better. Bindi, 12, and Robert, 7, also would continue to help develop the dream, which began when their grandfather Bob founded the Beerwah Reptile and Fauna Park in 1970. Australia Zoo and was propelled to stardom by their parents Steve and Terri, after they took over in 1992. Their passion and vision ensured it grew into a world-class facility and conservation icon, taking out Major Tourist Attraction at the Queensland and Australian Tourism Awards and being inducted into the Queensland Tourism Hall of Fame. Mrs Irwin said that people continued to be just as generous in donating funds towards helping animals and vowed that the zoo's conservation activities would charge ahead. A new Africa exhibit, with giraffes and rhinos, soon would make a spectacular appearance. Mrs Irwin would not rule out having to sell some of the Beerwah attraction's property holdings and indicated the roll-out of a $300 million plan to replicate Australia Zoo in the gambling mecca of Las Vegas may be put back. "It remains on our 10-year business plan but our immediate focus is here," she said. The world, it seems, can wait while challenges continue at home. Mrs Irwin said a renewed focus on "our core business" was the only way forward. "I want people to spend a day with us and be able to say 'that was an amazing experience'," Mrs Irwin said. "I will make sure everything Steve stood for and his legacy will continue." "We continue with our core business - the animals are OK, that we maintain as many of our team as we can and that we move forward in the future," she said. "I'm not looking at consolidating to stop, I'm looking at consolidating so that we can plan on growing again in the future. "I have absolutely no intention of closing Australia Zoo - again our wildlife hospital is running, our wildlife experiences are continuing and we fund our conservation projects with people who come into Australia Zoo. "We have conservation projects, both throughout Australia and the world, and while the projects are not seeing the influx of cash that they have in the past, none of them have stopped. "Nothing has closed. Nothing will close." She says she intends to honour a promise to her late husband Steve Irwin to keep Australia Zoo operating successfully. Ms Irwin says the zoo's problems are similar to those being experienced by many Australian businesses. She says expansion plans locally and in the United States, most likely via the Las Vegas strip, have slowed but will not be axed. "Certainly I haven't shelved Steve's 10-year business plan," she said. "I don't think it's a matter of if, it's a matter of when - so I wouldn't shelve anything. "Certainly I'm not going to be going ahead full speed at this time, but we are going ahead." Business analysts believe that a Terri Irwin crocodile themed venture such a a fun part in Las Vegas would likely be a success and would plug into a captive audience keen to spend their money on quality entertainment.

Anti Gambling Independents Nick Xenophon And Andrew Wilkie Continue To Battle On...

A couple of folk who are wary of the Australian Labor Club donations are the anti-gambling independents Nick Xenophon and Andrew Wilkie. "It is a very dramatic example of how big business and big money corrupts the policies of the political parties," Wilkie tells me. He describes Labor's acceptance of the donations as "a significant conflict of interest" between the ALP and poker machine reform. "It's one of the many reasons why nothing has been done about poker machine reform before I came along," he says. Xenophon and Wilkie are insisting on reforms to try to curtail problem gambling, including the introduction of mandatory pre-commitment. Precommitment involves gamblers compulsorily signing up to a system which will, at a nominated limit, shut off their ability to play the machines like Cleopatra, Black Rhino, Derby Day, Where's The Gold and so on. It would involve the use of smart card tech, although not with fingerprint or biometric ID, that would either turn off the machine, or enable the player to keep playing without paying. To be somewhat effective, the card would have to work at every machine in every club. The clubs are not keen on the concept, stating it will cost thousands of jobs and slash revenue, and are ready for a massive brawl, already being played out in the press and at various venues where the two pokie hating "independent MP" show their face and run their spin. Under the terms of Wilkie's agreement to support Gillard, the government has until May 31 to secure an agreement on precommitment with the states, and if it does not, then it must legislate unilaterally by budget 2012 to impose it. In view of the link between the pokies venues run by Labor clubs and the coffers of the Labor Party, Xenophon wants Gillard to step up now and get the Labor clubs to introduce mandatory precommitment as an example to other clubs. "It would be the responsible thing," he says. "I think it would have enormous moral authority for Julia Gillard to do this." Wilkie says this is a top idea and would trigger the ALP to claim the moral high ground. But so arrogant is he of winning government and parliamentary support for the measures he has put forward that he believes they will be in force in every pub, club and casino in Australia, with the exception the very smallest in the same time duration. The states are so far refusing to play ball and a meeting of state gaming ministers with the federal minister responsible, Jenny Macklin, on Friday made very little progress. Wilkie was not present but was hanging over the discussion with Macklin repeatedly referring to the government's deal with him. "He was like Banquo's ghost," one leaker spoke. NSW premier-in-waiting Barry O'Farrell has signed an agreement with Clubs NSW to support a system of precommitment that is "voluntary for the player, venue-based and cost-effective". Victorian Gaming Minister Michael O'Brien argues his state is already ahead of the game, pardon the pub, with plans to remove ATMs from gaming venues by July next year, and the rollout of mandatory precommitment for all machines with voluntary sign up for players by 2015-16. "We won't want to see those policies compromised by the Wilkie agreement," he says. He insists precommitment has to be mandatory for both machines and all regular gamblers. Tony Windsor and Rob Oakeshott are not saying yet which way they will go on the issue, but Wilkie is confident he will get enough support to get his measures through the lower house. Word on the street is that Wilkie is a "dead man walking" and may end up being a key reason that Labour is going down for the count. Many Aussies think Labour is out of touch with the people. If the government reneges on the agreement, Wilkie is adamant he will withdraw his support for the government. "Whether that brings her (Gillard) down or not is a separate issue," he says. "I might withdraw my support from her and give it to Abbott or not give it to anyone." Australian are some of the most passionate gamblers in the world and have been so ever since Captain Cook discovered Australia in 1788. PartyGaming, Betfair, and Centrebet are understood to be the most popular online gaming brands in Australia. Crown Limited, Tabcorp and Tatts Group are the big 3 of land based gaming and gambling in Australia. Rumours persist that James Packer's Crown Limited may look to buy out Tabcorp in the coming years, but that is speculation. Australia is forecast to remain in the world's top 10 gaming countries for the foreseeable future.

Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...

Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...

PartyCasino.com

Captain Cooks Casino

Betfair (sports betting only)

PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)

PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)

Profiles

Australian Casinos

World Casino Directory

Global Gaming Directory

Casino Travel

Casinos

Australia

Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:

Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money

Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.

Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? 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. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered

*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