LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM - 04/27/10 - Virgin Games, the leading online gaming company, has analysed a 40,000 player sample of its database to find the luckiest star sign and name in an attempt to predict the outcome of the upcoming general election. It was a close call for the top spot, but as far as our leaders' go the luckiest star sign is shared by the ambitious yet grounded and ever practical Capricorn, Nick Clegg, born 7th January 1967.
Following closely behind is Piscean Gordon, born 20th February 1951. Pisceans are very sensitive and have the ability to read others well. When they have a hunch, you may want to go with it, as they are very intuitive. Trailing in a conservative puddle of tears is poor Libran, David, born 9th October 1966. However, he can be comforted in the knowledge that Librans are very easy to like because of their supposed charming ways.
What's in a name?
Again Nick, our Lib Dem golden boy came out on top as having the luckiest name amongst our three candidates - and following in his shadow is anyone called Gordon. Once again, poor David trails behind.
Simon Burridge, CEO of Virgin Games, commented: "This election is one of the most unpredictable in years - we may as well look at star signs and names! While skill is often a factor when it comes to playing in an online casino, it is interesting to see the luck of certain star signs and names. What this shows us is that it doesn't pay to be a Libran called David, but if your name is Nick and you are a Capricorn, take a gamble. You'll most likely be luckier than the others. As far as being a Piscean called Gordon goes - life's a gamble - which way will it go?"
Launched in 2004, Virgin Games is one of the UK's leading online gaming sites. To visit Virgin Games go to www.virgingames.com.
Notes to editors:
About Virgin Games:
Virgin Games (www.virgingames.com) launched in June 2004 and has quickly established itself as one of the leading gaming websites in the UK.
Virgin Games currently comprises three distinct offerings:
-- Virgin Casino, offers content from a range of games suppliers including Wagerworks, Cryptologic, Freemantle and Ash Gaming, bringing consumers classic casino games like blackjack and roulette, as well as great feature slots like Monopoly, Rubik's, X-Factor and the highly popular MegaJackpots progressive games, with a jackpot value of over GBP 1,500,000
-- Virgin Poker, part of the Boss Media network, offers a huge array of games and content for beginners through to experienced pros - as well as the most generous loyalty scheme in the industry
-- Virgin Bingo, part of the Virtue Fusion network, offers cash prizes worth thousands of pounds in the progressive jackpots, as well as Virgin prize bingo and a range of unique Virgin Games bingo games.
*Sorry, no U.S or Australian players. See World Casino Directory
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Thursday, April 29, 2010
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Asian Racing Conference Down Under: Alan Jones Speaks Out, by Greg Tingle - 14th April 2010
Australian media king, broadcaster, community entrepreneur and racehorse owner-breeder, Alan Jones AO addressed the 33rd Asian Racing Conference in down under in Sydney, Australia, this past Monday on Racing's Destiny; The Path to Success.
Media Man and Gambling911 saddle up and snap the whip with this galloping report...
Mr Jones emphasised the need for industry unity to meet the challenge of change. He stressed to the conference, booked up with 550 delegates from 36 countries, that the challenges facing Australia, and its individual states, were not particular to Australia.
"Many of these challenges face the industry worldwide," said Jones, a former Australian Rugby Union coach and former Deputy Chairman of the Australian Sports Commission. Readers will recall the Gambling911 and New York Times coverage of the likes of the Aqueduct Racecourse and the slots and development situation.
Aussie Jones says "In politics they say that disunity is death. So it is too in families and so it is in the family of racing. Our real competitors are external ones, other forms of sport and leisure and other gambling activities. In those circumstances, to prevail, unity is important if we are to offer the best programmes, the best racing experience and a consistency in the quality of the product throughout the whole of Australia,".
We think Jones is well aware of the James Packer - Betfair's of the world, and Betfair has made it no secret of their desire to soon offer Australia's a more complete service including online poker and online casino games. Gibraltar based gaming giant PartyGaming of course recently inked a deal with the PMU (Pari Mutuel Urbain) in France, and racing bodies and media bodies around the global have rightly taken note.
Jones commented to the conference on the expense of running racing's administration in NSW, in addition to the race field's legislation.
"We also have to be unapologetic in insisting that we get paid for the product that others are using for their financial benefit," he said.
"And I am referring to corporate bookmakers and betting exchanges. "We welcome these mediums which offer punters a broader variety of opportunities for betting, but we are entitled to insist, as and industry, that we get paid," he stressed.
Jones compared the international transfer price for horse racing that is shown in Australia of 3% to the New South Wales "race fee" of 1 ½% with the challenge by corporate bookmakers to that figure and legislation. He commented on gross profit as a method of charging.
"People can run their business badly and not make a profit. In other words they can use our product for no benefit to us. It is ludicrous to link the use of our race fields with the profitability of the user. Surely as with any other product, you pay your fee for using it and you do your best with it, according to your model".
In the coming weeks the Media Man - Gambling911 connection is aiming to speak with Jones and the "stick and pick" club, including John and Jack Singleton and Gerry Harvey. The Singleton's and Radio 2GB have been very supportive to date, even helping Media Man through a rough patch about 5 years ago, and we anticipate a positive reception to our probe on Australian racing as the industry looks to return to top form, despite healthy competition from Betfair and other internet betting entities.
Giddy up punters, another race is about to start. No longer is geographic region such a restrictive element, but we understand the the state and federal government are looking for a fair shake, for its the Australian way, so here's to a Win-Win-Win. We'll keep you posted. Bet with your head, not over it, and keep it fun,
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming being just one of a dozen industry verticals covered
*The writer both owns shares in Crown Limited and participates in the Betfair b2b affiliate program.
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Media Man and Gambling911 saddle up and snap the whip with this galloping report...
Mr Jones emphasised the need for industry unity to meet the challenge of change. He stressed to the conference, booked up with 550 delegates from 36 countries, that the challenges facing Australia, and its individual states, were not particular to Australia.
"Many of these challenges face the industry worldwide," said Jones, a former Australian Rugby Union coach and former Deputy Chairman of the Australian Sports Commission. Readers will recall the Gambling911 and New York Times coverage of the likes of the Aqueduct Racecourse and the slots and development situation.
Aussie Jones says "In politics they say that disunity is death. So it is too in families and so it is in the family of racing. Our real competitors are external ones, other forms of sport and leisure and other gambling activities. In those circumstances, to prevail, unity is important if we are to offer the best programmes, the best racing experience and a consistency in the quality of the product throughout the whole of Australia,".
We think Jones is well aware of the James Packer - Betfair's of the world, and Betfair has made it no secret of their desire to soon offer Australia's a more complete service including online poker and online casino games. Gibraltar based gaming giant PartyGaming of course recently inked a deal with the PMU (Pari Mutuel Urbain) in France, and racing bodies and media bodies around the global have rightly taken note.
Jones commented to the conference on the expense of running racing's administration in NSW, in addition to the race field's legislation.
"We also have to be unapologetic in insisting that we get paid for the product that others are using for their financial benefit," he said.
"And I am referring to corporate bookmakers and betting exchanges. "We welcome these mediums which offer punters a broader variety of opportunities for betting, but we are entitled to insist, as and industry, that we get paid," he stressed.
Jones compared the international transfer price for horse racing that is shown in Australia of 3% to the New South Wales "race fee" of 1 ½% with the challenge by corporate bookmakers to that figure and legislation. He commented on gross profit as a method of charging.
"People can run their business badly and not make a profit. In other words they can use our product for no benefit to us. It is ludicrous to link the use of our race fields with the profitability of the user. Surely as with any other product, you pay your fee for using it and you do your best with it, according to your model".
In the coming weeks the Media Man - Gambling911 connection is aiming to speak with Jones and the "stick and pick" club, including John and Jack Singleton and Gerry Harvey. The Singleton's and Radio 2GB have been very supportive to date, even helping Media Man through a rough patch about 5 years ago, and we anticipate a positive reception to our probe on Australian racing as the industry looks to return to top form, despite healthy competition from Betfair and other internet betting entities.
Giddy up punters, another race is about to start. No longer is geographic region such a restrictive element, but we understand the the state and federal government are looking for a fair shake, for its the Australian way, so here's to a Win-Win-Win. We'll keep you posted. Bet with your head, not over it, and keep it fun,
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming being just one of a dozen industry verticals covered
*The writer both owns shares in Crown Limited and participates in the Betfair b2b affiliate program.
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Australian Sports Entertainment
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Thursday, April 08, 2010
Casino Cash Rolls In To Australia Political Parties, by Greg Tingle - 8th April 2010
Australian political parties and land based casino operators remain under the spotlight as more revelations about substantial donations from casinos to politics goes public.
Media Man and Gambling911 investigate 'Casino Jack' style, as we explore a new patch of Australia's 'Underbelly'.
From the get go, let it be said that it is not illegal (yet anyway) to make donations to Aussie political parties. Cash and cheques hit their coffers from any number of business sectors, certainly not restricted to the casino, hotel, club and resort sector et al. It's almost part of Australia business culture to cough up dollars to the majority of the political parties.
However, just because something is legal, or illegal for that matter, doesn't mean it is just.
In recent months Labor and Liberal have been inundated with buckets of cash from corporate Australia, and it doesn't get much more corporate that Tabcorp's Star City Casino and Crown Limited's Crown Casino.
Numbers obtained by the NSW Election Funding Authority show state Labor accepted $2.5 million in donations and union affiliation fees between July and December, while the Liberals and Nationals took in $1.9 million. Ah, Jack Abramoff from 'Casino Jack' fame would be proud.
The massive donations are a sign that big business aims win favour and positive history with an incoming Coalition government, the Liberals and Nationals have raised $19.5 million since the 2007 election from the hotels (inc casinos), clubs (pokie heaven), finance, pharmaceutical, lobbyist and property (more casinos) sector.
We've learned that in the same window, Labor snatched $16.5 million to its coffers, some of which is used for television commercials promoting NSW Premier, Kristina Keneally. We alert readers to the fact that Australian TV stations have been extremely quite on the internet censorship debate, while newspapers and radio, and internet forums, have been very vocal, but more on that non - coincidence later, if we're not busy playing a spot of golf with the 'Minister Of Silly Lists' and Censorship... if he's not busy being summoned to a "Please Explain" meeting with Prime Minster Kevin Rudd... (if he's not busy getting an "ear bashing" from U.S President Barack Obama about censorship). Readers, are you following this trail?
The political donations are putting intense pressure on the Australian government to implement recommendations handed down by a parliamentary committee last week, including a cap on donations at just $2000 per political party, group or independent candidate each financial year.
It's no secret that Labor received $115,000 from Star City Casino in the second half of last year, around the same times as the laws regulating the casino were being loosened and its exclusive licence was extended in Parliament. In 2008 Star donated $110,000 just two months before it was granted approval for a $575 million redevelopment, and readers will recall that their budget has just been increased by $100 million or so, which helps build more entertainment rooms, and may even go towards learjets for high rolling VIP's, as they go to "war" with Packer's Crown.
A spokeswoman for Ms Keneally said any suggestion that political donations had influenced concessions that allowed gambling controls and surveillance to be watered down was not correct. "Donations have no impact on the timing of bills going through Parliament.".
Political donations are keenly watched as an indication of which companies and wealthy individuals may be lobbying government. The Australian and international gaming community is watching closely to see what moves PartyGaming and Betfair may make in this space.
PartyGaming famously came to financial terms with the United States Department Of Justice last year to the tune of $100 million or thereabouts. It wasn't a pure donation, however the U.S knew Party had the money, and it was an opportunity for PartyGaming to move forward. PartyGaming and its brands such as PartyCasino and PartyPoker are making strategic moves to return to the U.S market and regulation changes are afoot, just its World Poker Tour is making pro active steps to boost things along with a pending play in the North American - Canadian region, which may see much of the U.S change its stance on igaming, poker tournaments and the like. Last fortnight PartyGaming inked an impressive business deal with France horse racing operator PMU (Pari Mutuel Urbain). PartyGaming also enjoys b2b dealings with such mainstream brands as Marvel Entertainment, Paramount Pictures, Frank Sinatra Enterprises, StudioCanal, Blizard Entertainment, Infinity Ward, Edgar Rice Burroughs, Hasbro, MGM and FremantleMedia. PartyGaming are understood to be in the "good books" of internet giants Google, Yahoo! and Bing!... something that has also served Gambling911 and Media Man International well over the years. Google is currently developing its own advanced web hosting and ISP services in a move that has has generated massive interest from mainstream media, new media and gaming operators.
Back to the pure political news...Figures Gambling911 and Media Man sourced via Fairfax Media and News Limited state the following...
In the second half of last year the biggest donors included: Clubs NSW, which gave $59,000 to Labor and $101,555 to the Coalition; Manildra Group, $40,850 (Labor) and $19,050 (Coalition); property developer Memo Corporation, $36,850 (Labor) and $22,200 (Liberal); and the Independent Retailers Association, $77,820 (Labor) and $9000 (Liberal). The Liberals accepted $57,926 from the Australian Hotels Association and $49,750 from British American Tobacco.
The Opposition Leader, Barry O'Farrell, personally raised $174,650 at 10 fund-raisers held in his name and in his electorate, including raising some $108,100 at the Ku-ring-gai Business Breakfast last September.
Not to be outdone Labor collected in excess of $1 million in "affiliation fees" paid by unions between July and December.
In the coming weeks and months we will continue our probe into the relationships between Australian political parties and casinos, igaming operator, SP bookmakers and the like. Firms on our radar include but are not limited to Betfair, Centrebet, Full Tilt Poker (Easts Roosters NRL team connection), 888 (Warnie's the face of them for Australia), and a few others that will remain nameless for the moment.
Aussie's, anyone taking bets on what Australian land based casino operators are interested to enjoy a spot of golf with Senator Stephen Conroy (Minster of Communications, Censorship and "Silly Lists") Last time a casino exec played golf with our friend cash registers hit the jackpot. Ah, life is full of coincidences, just ask 'Casino Jack', coming soon to a movie theater near you if your an Aussie, Yankee or Kanok, but if your behind "The Great Internet Firewall" Of China, good luck, you will need it.
Tony "The Bruiser" Abbott, stay on Kevin "Bloody" Rudd, we sense Rudd's corner man Conroy is going down for the count as we approach the 12th round of action, broadcast from Sydney to Las Vegas, Macau, Florida and beyond via the internet channel (that no one owns, Australian government included). Special referee Jesse "The Body" Ventura and his 'Conspiracy Theory' actuality TV show remain pro actively interested in the connection between Australian casinos, political parties and proposed internet filter and blacklist initiatives.
Media Man and Gambling911 offer this public service announcement: Bet with your head, not over it, and keep it fun (and that messages is also applicable to Australian political parties).
*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 network attracts approximately 6 million hits per month and has portals in Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia and the United States
*The writer owns shares in Crown Casino
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Media Man and Gambling911 investigate 'Casino Jack' style, as we explore a new patch of Australia's 'Underbelly'.
From the get go, let it be said that it is not illegal (yet anyway) to make donations to Aussie political parties. Cash and cheques hit their coffers from any number of business sectors, certainly not restricted to the casino, hotel, club and resort sector et al. It's almost part of Australia business culture to cough up dollars to the majority of the political parties.
However, just because something is legal, or illegal for that matter, doesn't mean it is just.
In recent months Labor and Liberal have been inundated with buckets of cash from corporate Australia, and it doesn't get much more corporate that Tabcorp's Star City Casino and Crown Limited's Crown Casino.
Numbers obtained by the NSW Election Funding Authority show state Labor accepted $2.5 million in donations and union affiliation fees between July and December, while the Liberals and Nationals took in $1.9 million. Ah, Jack Abramoff from 'Casino Jack' fame would be proud.
The massive donations are a sign that big business aims win favour and positive history with an incoming Coalition government, the Liberals and Nationals have raised $19.5 million since the 2007 election from the hotels (inc casinos), clubs (pokie heaven), finance, pharmaceutical, lobbyist and property (more casinos) sector.
We've learned that in the same window, Labor snatched $16.5 million to its coffers, some of which is used for television commercials promoting NSW Premier, Kristina Keneally. We alert readers to the fact that Australian TV stations have been extremely quite on the internet censorship debate, while newspapers and radio, and internet forums, have been very vocal, but more on that non - coincidence later, if we're not busy playing a spot of golf with the 'Minister Of Silly Lists' and Censorship... if he's not busy being summoned to a "Please Explain" meeting with Prime Minster Kevin Rudd... (if he's not busy getting an "ear bashing" from U.S President Barack Obama about censorship). Readers, are you following this trail?
The political donations are putting intense pressure on the Australian government to implement recommendations handed down by a parliamentary committee last week, including a cap on donations at just $2000 per political party, group or independent candidate each financial year.
It's no secret that Labor received $115,000 from Star City Casino in the second half of last year, around the same times as the laws regulating the casino were being loosened and its exclusive licence was extended in Parliament. In 2008 Star donated $110,000 just two months before it was granted approval for a $575 million redevelopment, and readers will recall that their budget has just been increased by $100 million or so, which helps build more entertainment rooms, and may even go towards learjets for high rolling VIP's, as they go to "war" with Packer's Crown.
A spokeswoman for Ms Keneally said any suggestion that political donations had influenced concessions that allowed gambling controls and surveillance to be watered down was not correct. "Donations have no impact on the timing of bills going through Parliament.".
Political donations are keenly watched as an indication of which companies and wealthy individuals may be lobbying government. The Australian and international gaming community is watching closely to see what moves PartyGaming and Betfair may make in this space.
PartyGaming famously came to financial terms with the United States Department Of Justice last year to the tune of $100 million or thereabouts. It wasn't a pure donation, however the U.S knew Party had the money, and it was an opportunity for PartyGaming to move forward. PartyGaming and its brands such as PartyCasino and PartyPoker are making strategic moves to return to the U.S market and regulation changes are afoot, just its World Poker Tour is making pro active steps to boost things along with a pending play in the North American - Canadian region, which may see much of the U.S change its stance on igaming, poker tournaments and the like. Last fortnight PartyGaming inked an impressive business deal with France horse racing operator PMU (Pari Mutuel Urbain). PartyGaming also enjoys b2b dealings with such mainstream brands as Marvel Entertainment, Paramount Pictures, Frank Sinatra Enterprises, StudioCanal, Blizard Entertainment, Infinity Ward, Edgar Rice Burroughs, Hasbro, MGM and FremantleMedia. PartyGaming are understood to be in the "good books" of internet giants Google, Yahoo! and Bing!... something that has also served Gambling911 and Media Man International well over the years. Google is currently developing its own advanced web hosting and ISP services in a move that has has generated massive interest from mainstream media, new media and gaming operators.
Back to the pure political news...Figures Gambling911 and Media Man sourced via Fairfax Media and News Limited state the following...
In the second half of last year the biggest donors included: Clubs NSW, which gave $59,000 to Labor and $101,555 to the Coalition; Manildra Group, $40,850 (Labor) and $19,050 (Coalition); property developer Memo Corporation, $36,850 (Labor) and $22,200 (Liberal); and the Independent Retailers Association, $77,820 (Labor) and $9000 (Liberal). The Liberals accepted $57,926 from the Australian Hotels Association and $49,750 from British American Tobacco.
The Opposition Leader, Barry O'Farrell, personally raised $174,650 at 10 fund-raisers held in his name and in his electorate, including raising some $108,100 at the Ku-ring-gai Business Breakfast last September.
Not to be outdone Labor collected in excess of $1 million in "affiliation fees" paid by unions between July and December.
In the coming weeks and months we will continue our probe into the relationships between Australian political parties and casinos, igaming operator, SP bookmakers and the like. Firms on our radar include but are not limited to Betfair, Centrebet, Full Tilt Poker (Easts Roosters NRL team connection), 888 (Warnie's the face of them for Australia), and a few others that will remain nameless for the moment.
Aussie's, anyone taking bets on what Australian land based casino operators are interested to enjoy a spot of golf with Senator Stephen Conroy (Minster of Communications, Censorship and "Silly Lists") Last time a casino exec played golf with our friend cash registers hit the jackpot. Ah, life is full of coincidences, just ask 'Casino Jack', coming soon to a movie theater near you if your an Aussie, Yankee or Kanok, but if your behind "The Great Internet Firewall" Of China, good luck, you will need it.
Tony "The Bruiser" Abbott, stay on Kevin "Bloody" Rudd, we sense Rudd's corner man Conroy is going down for the count as we approach the 12th round of action, broadcast from Sydney to Las Vegas, Macau, Florida and beyond via the internet channel (that no one owns, Australian government included). Special referee Jesse "The Body" Ventura and his 'Conspiracy Theory' actuality TV show remain pro actively interested in the connection between Australian casinos, political parties and proposed internet filter and blacklist initiatives.
Media Man and Gambling911 offer this public service announcement: Bet with your head, not over it, and keep it fun (and that messages is also applicable to Australian political parties).
*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 network attracts approximately 6 million hits per month and has portals in Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia and the United States
*The writer owns shares in Crown Casino
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Tuesday, April 06, 2010
Australia Gambling On Conspiracy Theory Or Not? by Greg Tingle - 6th April 2010
Readers, make no mistake, we live in volatile times.
The Media Man and Gambling911 (and our lotto mate Pluka Duck), have been inundated with letters of support for our ongoing investigation into online (and offline) censorship, government spooks and Big Brother et al. Folks, the political machines of the world have been busy attempting to stop your poker and casino fun, poker babes, FHM, Playboy... the lot.
Australian and Asia Pacific casino king, James Packer, is dealing with changes better than most, but owning a number of Asia Pacific's casinos and being Australia's 3rd richest man puts you in a stronger position than most. A round of golf with an Aussie politician doesn't go astray either.
You're freedom of speech, freedom of expression and basic human rights are at risk. Never has this been more evident than if your an American, Canadian or Australian reader. Don't get us started on China, but its likely our friends in China will never get to read this article, or see this website, as "The Great Firewall Of China" has quite likely blocked it! Don't laugh, your country may be next, and if your not quite certain as to believe our word on it, read up on some of Jesse Ventura's (former Navy Seal and U.S politician) writings, or better yet, watch his hit TV show 'Conspiracy Theory'. Think Underbelly meets They Live meets Michael Moore, and you're on the right track!
Has your Government (or ISP) blocked your favorite poker, casino and / or porn sites (yet)? If not, it may be just a matter or time... the thought police and "bible bashers" are in full campaign swing. Just wait to you learn what the Aussie's are up to at the moment, and even more scary, its happening on the watch of poker and porn hating Australian prime minister, Kevin Rudd, and second lieutenant, Senator Stephen Conroy (Australian Communications Minister aka Minister Of Censorship And Silly Lists).
Ok, with that Stephen Spielberg sci-fi intro, let's bring it back down to earth with some more traditional hard news out of Australia, with a gambling, government, protectionism twist... it's all about money, power and control, and more money, of course!
Aussie NSW Lotteries Deal Heading For Courtroom
Rival bidders to Tatts Group are considering taking legal action in the Supreme Court of Australia in an attempt to overturn the sale of NSW Lotteries after receiving legal advice that the $850 million sale is illegal!
Sources confirm that bidders have been talking to legal eagles about a possible challenge stemming from the decision of the government and its consultants to allow Tatts Group to throw into its bid pitch a potential $200 million worth of unclaimed prizes, in the final stages of the process. Tatts was allowed to make the move despite all bidders previously being notified that they could not bid for the unclaimed prizes. Are your following this? That's what we thought... stay with us...
The Aussie government says it has legal advice that the sale is in fact legal, despite its legislation indicating unclaimed prizes would go to the taxpayer. WTF?
The Sydney Morning Herald, a Fairfax Media publication, revealed last week claims by industry sources that in the original bids, Centrebet had in fact bid $750 million, G-Tech $730 million and Tatts Group $700 million, but Tatts Group's bid was boosted to $850 million by unclaimed prizes. Bonus hey!
NSW Premier, Kristina Keneally, said on talk back radio that "all bidders in the ... lotteries tender process were given the exact same information and they had the opportunity, all of them, to put in a conforming bid and a non-conforming bid. I'm advised that all of them took the opportunity to do that, and that the Tatts Group proposal was the best in value for the taxpayer."
Bidders dispute this full stop. They advise they were repeatedly told unclaimed prizes would stay with the state and be off-limits.
Speculation exists as to whether Tatts Group had won the right to unclaimed prizes would mean that NSW Lotteries would now be less inclined to publicise large prizes that had not been claimed.
Tatts formally took control of NSW Lotteries on the 1st April. NSW Lotteries press releases called on the winner of $30million on Tuesday night, with a ticket bought in Sydney's inner west, to come forward. An Ashfield couple claimed the prize.
Mike Baird, the opposition's Treasury spokesman, said "This whole transaction is symptomatic of Labor arrogance, incompetence and backroom deals. This ... needs to be exposed and we need to understand what requirements there are of Tatts to ensure unclaimed prizes are given every opportunity to be claimed."
Mr Baird heavily criticised the government for not releasing the legal advice supporting the sale.
Questioned as to why the legals had not been released, a spokesman for the Treasurer said it would be given to the Auditor-General, who is looking into the sale.
Two sets of legal advice to a bidder sighted by The Sydney Morning Herald state the sale is in breach of the Lotteries Act legislation.
Section 27 A of the legislation says money from unclaimed prizes should go to a consolidated fund, as directed by the minister, and liability for that money should rest with the state.
The Opposition Leader, Barry O'Farrell, said that a simple reading of the legislation suggested it would have to be returned to the Parliament and if that occurred, it would then be blocked in the upper house.
The government and opposition are now waiting for the Auditor-General's report.
Aussie Censorship - Online, Offline, And Everything In Between!
Child "Experts" Push To Ban Soft Porn From Newsagents, Service Stations
Fairfax's Media's Mary-Anne Toy broke the story, and we're following up...
Dozens of Australian "child experts" are calling for a ban on the sale of porn magazines such as Playboy and Penthouse and other soft porn material from newsagents, milkbars, convenience stores, supermarkets and petrol stations. No, we're kidding you not.
The group (sounds like a cult or sorts) has requested censorship ministers (Hello again, Mr Conroy) to review the rules on which the so-called lads' mags such as People, The Picture, Ralph and Zoo are reviewed, saying they are increasingly explicit and contributing to the sexualisation of children.
A letter to the standing committee of attorneys-general/censorship ministers signed by a former chief justice of the Family Court, Alastair Nicholson, the chief executive of World Vision, Tim Costello, academics, child professionals and advocates states such material should be restricted to adults-only premises.
They are particularly disturbed by the prevalence of "teen sex" magazines featuring women apparently aged more than 18 but looking younger and styled with braces and pigtails but in highly sexualised poses and sometimes performing sex acts.
Gambling911 readers may recall the hugely popular Maxim poker babes feature. Maxim was not named by the clan, but we suspect they are not fans of poker babes Maxim style. Did we mention Jenny Woo, Pam Anderson, Rebecca Liggero, Bessie Bardot, Paris Hilton, and PartyPoker - PartyGaming sponsored Kara Scott, are competing for this month's Media Man Poker Babe Of The Month Award! Seemed timely to give you the heads up.
Julie Gale, director of the lobby group Kids Free 2B Kids, said easy access to the internet meant young people were experiencing unprecedented exposure to porn images, voluntarily or involuntarily. "But allowing pornography and overtly sexualised images to be sold in the public arena with easy access for children and teens tells them that this is acceptable. It gives it public validation."
Another campaigner, Catherine Manning of Say No 4 Kids, sent a petition with 8000 signatures to the attorneys-general calling for tighter restrictions. Many shops segregated adult material but others did not, she said.
"Exposure to adult sexualised material can send the wrong message to children about what's expected of them as adults. Girls think they should behave like 'porn stars' and boys expect them to."
Friends, coincidence or not in the timing of a proposed Australian internet filter and the calling of banning of soft porn in suburban shops et al? Does the Australian government think the public are totally stupid?
What's Really At Stake? American Living Legend Jesse Ventura Speaks Out...
Thanks to our friends at RT.com (Autonomous Nonprofit Organization)
http://www.rt.com
we have secured the following in writing...
We are being watched more than ever in the US
“There are many of us who don’t believe the status quo of what we’ve been told,” acknowledged former governor of the state of Minnesota, actor and TV host Jesse Ventura in an exclusive interview with RT.
Ventura, who has had explosive encounters with the American mainstream media, called it “soundbite news” and said it cannot be trusted at all.
“Major news organizations have really become almost monopolized. The media today is in creating news rather than reporting it. And that’s very dangerous,” he said.
Jesse Ventura shared that “the Internet is getting super powerful now, and that is what the government has to control next.”
The ex-governor warned that “Whenever government says ‘to keep you safe’ – get ready, because you are going to lose your freedoms.”
Summary: Australian, Canadian and American Readers - What Next?
If you are unhappy with your state and federal governments, let them know. Write, protest... you get the idea
Poker players and online casino players, it may be a good idea to become more familiar with the Poker Players Alliance, and become familiar with their associates in your region. Telephone and write to news media, including newspapers and television, but if your an Aussie, you might find more love with print, as Australian TV stations recently received a big payday courtesy of Senator Stephen Conroy's office and most Australian television stations have been very quite on the subject of internet censorship. The ABC, SBS (multi cultural, diverse and global) and Network Ten (covers poker) are most likely to listen to your concerns. Some talk back radio stations may also give you the time of day. Uncensored websites, bloggers and internet forums are a most effective way of getting your voice heard.
Media Man and Gambling911 recommend that you sign up for a multitude of online gaming accounts, be it PartyGaming, World Poker Tour, PokerStars, Captain Cooks, Betfair, BetUS, PKR... you get the idea. That way you have a number of accounts, so if one or more of them eventually get shutdown, or blocked from your countries "friendly" internet filter, you still have more choices. The late news... Full Tilt Poker investigation on the way in the U.S ...maybe scratch them off your "to do" list! Party rules ok, and I think no coincidence that PartyGaming is powering along and signing Government arm deals globally, most recently in France, as they were able to come to amicable terms with the United States government last year for the tune of $100 million or so. Next stop might be Canada, via way of a Canadian poker tour operation, and no coincidence that Media Man now has a Canadian Media Man website portal. http://www.mediamancanada.com
We encourage you to enjoy your "free" and "uncensored" (or thereabouts) version of the internet while you can.
In the coming weeks and months Gambling911 and Media Man will provide more details on how you can likely stop or reduce internet filtering and the "great firewall" when it comes knocking in your home town.
We leave you with more words of wisdom, just in case Jesse Ventura left you hanging for more!
In the long history of humankind (and animal kind, too) those who learned to collaborate and improvise most effectively have prevailed (Charles Darwin)
We wish the readership happy hunting, and let's keep the bastards honest. Aussie Aussie Aussie Oi Oi Oi USA USA Aussie Aussie Aussie Oi Oi Oi!
*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 writer owns shares in Crown Casino
References: Google News, Fairfax Media, Autonomous Nonprofit Organization, Tru TV
Website Network
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Canada
Media Man Asia
Casino News Media
Australian Casino News
Poker News Media
Global Gaming Directory
The Media Man and Gambling911 (and our lotto mate Pluka Duck), have been inundated with letters of support for our ongoing investigation into online (and offline) censorship, government spooks and Big Brother et al. Folks, the political machines of the world have been busy attempting to stop your poker and casino fun, poker babes, FHM, Playboy... the lot.
Australian and Asia Pacific casino king, James Packer, is dealing with changes better than most, but owning a number of Asia Pacific's casinos and being Australia's 3rd richest man puts you in a stronger position than most. A round of golf with an Aussie politician doesn't go astray either.
You're freedom of speech, freedom of expression and basic human rights are at risk. Never has this been more evident than if your an American, Canadian or Australian reader. Don't get us started on China, but its likely our friends in China will never get to read this article, or see this website, as "The Great Firewall Of China" has quite likely blocked it! Don't laugh, your country may be next, and if your not quite certain as to believe our word on it, read up on some of Jesse Ventura's (former Navy Seal and U.S politician) writings, or better yet, watch his hit TV show 'Conspiracy Theory'. Think Underbelly meets They Live meets Michael Moore, and you're on the right track!
Has your Government (or ISP) blocked your favorite poker, casino and / or porn sites (yet)? If not, it may be just a matter or time... the thought police and "bible bashers" are in full campaign swing. Just wait to you learn what the Aussie's are up to at the moment, and even more scary, its happening on the watch of poker and porn hating Australian prime minister, Kevin Rudd, and second lieutenant, Senator Stephen Conroy (Australian Communications Minister aka Minister Of Censorship And Silly Lists).
Ok, with that Stephen Spielberg sci-fi intro, let's bring it back down to earth with some more traditional hard news out of Australia, with a gambling, government, protectionism twist... it's all about money, power and control, and more money, of course!
Aussie NSW Lotteries Deal Heading For Courtroom
Rival bidders to Tatts Group are considering taking legal action in the Supreme Court of Australia in an attempt to overturn the sale of NSW Lotteries after receiving legal advice that the $850 million sale is illegal!
Sources confirm that bidders have been talking to legal eagles about a possible challenge stemming from the decision of the government and its consultants to allow Tatts Group to throw into its bid pitch a potential $200 million worth of unclaimed prizes, in the final stages of the process. Tatts was allowed to make the move despite all bidders previously being notified that they could not bid for the unclaimed prizes. Are your following this? That's what we thought... stay with us...
The Aussie government says it has legal advice that the sale is in fact legal, despite its legislation indicating unclaimed prizes would go to the taxpayer. WTF?
The Sydney Morning Herald, a Fairfax Media publication, revealed last week claims by industry sources that in the original bids, Centrebet had in fact bid $750 million, G-Tech $730 million and Tatts Group $700 million, but Tatts Group's bid was boosted to $850 million by unclaimed prizes. Bonus hey!
NSW Premier, Kristina Keneally, said on talk back radio that "all bidders in the ... lotteries tender process were given the exact same information and they had the opportunity, all of them, to put in a conforming bid and a non-conforming bid. I'm advised that all of them took the opportunity to do that, and that the Tatts Group proposal was the best in value for the taxpayer."
Bidders dispute this full stop. They advise they were repeatedly told unclaimed prizes would stay with the state and be off-limits.
Speculation exists as to whether Tatts Group had won the right to unclaimed prizes would mean that NSW Lotteries would now be less inclined to publicise large prizes that had not been claimed.
Tatts formally took control of NSW Lotteries on the 1st April. NSW Lotteries press releases called on the winner of $30million on Tuesday night, with a ticket bought in Sydney's inner west, to come forward. An Ashfield couple claimed the prize.
Mike Baird, the opposition's Treasury spokesman, said "This whole transaction is symptomatic of Labor arrogance, incompetence and backroom deals. This ... needs to be exposed and we need to understand what requirements there are of Tatts to ensure unclaimed prizes are given every opportunity to be claimed."
Mr Baird heavily criticised the government for not releasing the legal advice supporting the sale.
Questioned as to why the legals had not been released, a spokesman for the Treasurer said it would be given to the Auditor-General, who is looking into the sale.
Two sets of legal advice to a bidder sighted by The Sydney Morning Herald state the sale is in breach of the Lotteries Act legislation.
Section 27 A of the legislation says money from unclaimed prizes should go to a consolidated fund, as directed by the minister, and liability for that money should rest with the state.
The Opposition Leader, Barry O'Farrell, said that a simple reading of the legislation suggested it would have to be returned to the Parliament and if that occurred, it would then be blocked in the upper house.
The government and opposition are now waiting for the Auditor-General's report.
Aussie Censorship - Online, Offline, And Everything In Between!
Child "Experts" Push To Ban Soft Porn From Newsagents, Service Stations
Fairfax's Media's Mary-Anne Toy broke the story, and we're following up...
Dozens of Australian "child experts" are calling for a ban on the sale of porn magazines such as Playboy and Penthouse and other soft porn material from newsagents, milkbars, convenience stores, supermarkets and petrol stations. No, we're kidding you not.
The group (sounds like a cult or sorts) has requested censorship ministers (Hello again, Mr Conroy) to review the rules on which the so-called lads' mags such as People, The Picture, Ralph and Zoo are reviewed, saying they are increasingly explicit and contributing to the sexualisation of children.
A letter to the standing committee of attorneys-general/censorship ministers signed by a former chief justice of the Family Court, Alastair Nicholson, the chief executive of World Vision, Tim Costello, academics, child professionals and advocates states such material should be restricted to adults-only premises.
They are particularly disturbed by the prevalence of "teen sex" magazines featuring women apparently aged more than 18 but looking younger and styled with braces and pigtails but in highly sexualised poses and sometimes performing sex acts.
Gambling911 readers may recall the hugely popular Maxim poker babes feature. Maxim was not named by the clan, but we suspect they are not fans of poker babes Maxim style. Did we mention Jenny Woo, Pam Anderson, Rebecca Liggero, Bessie Bardot, Paris Hilton, and PartyPoker - PartyGaming sponsored Kara Scott, are competing for this month's Media Man Poker Babe Of The Month Award! Seemed timely to give you the heads up.
Julie Gale, director of the lobby group Kids Free 2B Kids, said easy access to the internet meant young people were experiencing unprecedented exposure to porn images, voluntarily or involuntarily. "But allowing pornography and overtly sexualised images to be sold in the public arena with easy access for children and teens tells them that this is acceptable. It gives it public validation."
Another campaigner, Catherine Manning of Say No 4 Kids, sent a petition with 8000 signatures to the attorneys-general calling for tighter restrictions. Many shops segregated adult material but others did not, she said.
"Exposure to adult sexualised material can send the wrong message to children about what's expected of them as adults. Girls think they should behave like 'porn stars' and boys expect them to."
Friends, coincidence or not in the timing of a proposed Australian internet filter and the calling of banning of soft porn in suburban shops et al? Does the Australian government think the public are totally stupid?
What's Really At Stake? American Living Legend Jesse Ventura Speaks Out...
Thanks to our friends at RT.com (Autonomous Nonprofit Organization)
http://www.rt.com
we have secured the following in writing...
We are being watched more than ever in the US
“There are many of us who don’t believe the status quo of what we’ve been told,” acknowledged former governor of the state of Minnesota, actor and TV host Jesse Ventura in an exclusive interview with RT.
Ventura, who has had explosive encounters with the American mainstream media, called it “soundbite news” and said it cannot be trusted at all.
“Major news organizations have really become almost monopolized. The media today is in creating news rather than reporting it. And that’s very dangerous,” he said.
Jesse Ventura shared that “the Internet is getting super powerful now, and that is what the government has to control next.”
The ex-governor warned that “Whenever government says ‘to keep you safe’ – get ready, because you are going to lose your freedoms.”
Summary: Australian, Canadian and American Readers - What Next?
If you are unhappy with your state and federal governments, let them know. Write, protest... you get the idea
Poker players and online casino players, it may be a good idea to become more familiar with the Poker Players Alliance, and become familiar with their associates in your region. Telephone and write to news media, including newspapers and television, but if your an Aussie, you might find more love with print, as Australian TV stations recently received a big payday courtesy of Senator Stephen Conroy's office and most Australian television stations have been very quite on the subject of internet censorship. The ABC, SBS (multi cultural, diverse and global) and Network Ten (covers poker) are most likely to listen to your concerns. Some talk back radio stations may also give you the time of day. Uncensored websites, bloggers and internet forums are a most effective way of getting your voice heard.
Media Man and Gambling911 recommend that you sign up for a multitude of online gaming accounts, be it PartyGaming, World Poker Tour, PokerStars, Captain Cooks, Betfair, BetUS, PKR... you get the idea. That way you have a number of accounts, so if one or more of them eventually get shutdown, or blocked from your countries "friendly" internet filter, you still have more choices. The late news... Full Tilt Poker investigation on the way in the U.S ...maybe scratch them off your "to do" list! Party rules ok, and I think no coincidence that PartyGaming is powering along and signing Government arm deals globally, most recently in France, as they were able to come to amicable terms with the United States government last year for the tune of $100 million or so. Next stop might be Canada, via way of a Canadian poker tour operation, and no coincidence that Media Man now has a Canadian Media Man website portal. http://www.mediamancanada.com
We encourage you to enjoy your "free" and "uncensored" (or thereabouts) version of the internet while you can.
In the coming weeks and months Gambling911 and Media Man will provide more details on how you can likely stop or reduce internet filtering and the "great firewall" when it comes knocking in your home town.
We leave you with more words of wisdom, just in case Jesse Ventura left you hanging for more!
In the long history of humankind (and animal kind, too) those who learned to collaborate and improvise most effectively have prevailed (Charles Darwin)
We wish the readership happy hunting, and let's keep the bastards honest. Aussie Aussie Aussie Oi Oi Oi USA USA Aussie Aussie Aussie Oi Oi Oi!
*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 writer owns shares in Crown Casino
References: Google News, Fairfax Media, Autonomous Nonprofit Organization, Tru TV
Website Network
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Canada
Media Man Asia
Casino News Media
Australian Casino News
Poker News Media
Global Gaming Directory
Sunday, April 04, 2010
Australian Gambling News: Tattersalls Complete NSW Lottery Sale, by Greg Tingle - 4th April 2010
Australia's gambling, gaming and igaming sector shows little sign of slowing down, in fact it looks like full speed ahead with James Packer's Crown Casino continuing to lead the charge.
Packer has been rumored to be eyeing off a part or full purchase in Tabcorp (owner and operator of Star City Casino in Sydney, and Jupiter's Casino on the Gold Coast), to name but a few.
Could Australian "protectionism" be coming into play? Is "protectionism" a form of racism, as a country aims to protect its own, and blocking out foreign nations in the process? Is Australia continuing down the China path, and who or what will stop the madness? So many questions, yet so few answers, as the Rudd Government sticks to its agenda and "stays on message" (just like the U.S Government did with its crimes against humanity relating to "the war on terrorism"). Jesse Ventura, Australia may need you to expose the truth. It's all good fodder for Conspiracy Theory.
Media Man down under and Gambling911 report...
Tatts Group Ltd says it has completed the acquisition of NSW Lotteries from the NSW Government. The deal is now subject to review by the NSW Auditor General.
Tatts said in a statement on that the acquisition has been completed, "and NSW Lotteries is now part of the Tatts Group".
The sale carries with it a 40-year exclusive licence to conduct public lotteries in NSW.
Controversy has swirled around the deal as it was revealed that Tatts bought the Lotteries with an unconfirmed bid of $850 million.
The bid allowed for the rights to the Lotteries' unclaimed prizes pool to be retained by Tatts, whereas other bidders advise they were denied the right to include unclaimed prizes in their bid.
The NSW Opposition and the NSW Green party now say, supported by advice from unnamed senior partners of two Sydney law firms, that the sale is illegal under the legislation that allowed the deal, according to reports carried by The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age last Thursday.
Announcing completion of the acquisition, Tatts Group said that Tatts Lotteries produced earnings before tax, interest, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of $119 million in 2009. Those are the sorts of numbers that even give igaming powerhouse, PartyGaming, a run for their money.
"The acquisition of NSW Lotteries is expected to produce an additional $120 million of EBITDA by 2014," Tatts Group said in its statement.
The late news...
We almost forgot, with casino fever at an all time high, Media Man has bit the bullet and launched http://www.mediamancasino.com It's not "white label", but a little birdie tells us its heading in that direction. Media Man management advise its hosted overseas "in protest to the proposed Australian internet filter and blacklist".
Gambling911 and Media Man International are recommending to readers that may be "down under" in the Asia Pacific region that if you enjoy games of skill and games of chance to sign up now to a few accounts, in case that may help keep online casino and online gaming accounts active, if or when the Australian internet filter aka "Great Australian Firewall" will spoil your fun. PartyGaming (inc World Poker Tour and its Playtech powered casinos), PokerStars, Captain Cooks, PKR and Betfair are some of the brands most popular in Australia.
Media Man tips that a device and "secret way" of circumventing the proposed internet filter is on the way, but its not "letting the cat out of the bag" quite yet, as the art of war continues between Aussie web publishers, media companies and the Australian government continues.
Media Man advises publicily that if the Australian government throws too much red tape at media, publising and internet companies, thus reducing productivity, revenue, income et al, that management may have to put promised job offers to Australian indigenous peoples via GenerationOne on hold.
Internet Snapshot Guide And The Idiots Guide to iGaming, Gaming and Politics
No one owns the internet!
The internet was invented in the United States and was designed to withstand a nuclear war.
Australians are some of the most passionate gamblers in the world, both at land based venues and online.
Cleopatra, Sinatra, Black Rhino, Hitman, Mission: Impossible and Tomb Raider are some of Australia's favorite slot games.
Crown Casino is home to one of the world's most popular and richest poker tournaments, Aussie Millions.
It is legal to participate in affiliate programs, casino affiliate programs and the like.
The Australian Federal government has some interest to regulate igaming and their Productivity Commission report is due to go public in approximately a month.
Senator Stephen Conroy have received at least one reported death threat over his censorship agenda, via way of internet forum, and reported in Fairfax Media.
Australia is now on the Enemies Of The Internet list complied by Reports Without Boarders
http://www.rsf.org/en-pays51-Australia.html
The United States administration has gone on record that it does not support Australia's proposed internet filter. The U.S, European Union and World Trade Organization are considering stepping in and urging the Australian government to seriously reconsider its stance on censorship. The censorship may cost the Australian and world economy billions, with media and entertainment giants such as Google, Yahoo!, Bing, Microsoft, News Corp, Marvel - Disney, DC Comics, Sony, Apple, Dell, Virgin Enterprises Limited, Paramount Pictures, Playboy, Penthouse, FHM, UFC, World Poker Tour, World Series of Poker, ESPN, SBS (and Gambling911), being just some of those likely to be adversely affected. Loss of income is set to result in job losses and the price of goods and services skyrocketing in some sectors. Some industries and brands may be forced to go "underground" and many "black markets" are expected to rise and prosper, and demand goes up for certain "vices". Consumer protection measures are likely to be lost should the Australian internet filter go ahead.
In closing, we think Australia's James Packer sums it up beautifully with his famous "Internet is like electricity", something Australian politicians have seemed to cotton on with pretty well of late.
Are we on the cusp of 'The End Days' aka 'The End Times', which Nostradamus gives considerable mention to in the quatrains, as the New World Order continues to take hold, or it just business as usual? 2012 is not far off, and soon you will be able to place bets on it! Readers, you be the judge, and bet with your head, not over it.
PS: Readers, thanks for your letters. Gambling911, Media Man and Plucka Duck (of Hey Hey "Chook Lotto" fame) appreciate each and every one of you.
*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 bakers dozen of industry vertical covered.
*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited
*Media Man is a member of the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Media Man Canada
Casino News Media
Australian Casino News
Australian Sports Entertainment
Poker News Media
Global Gaming Directory
Packer has been rumored to be eyeing off a part or full purchase in Tabcorp (owner and operator of Star City Casino in Sydney, and Jupiter's Casino on the Gold Coast), to name but a few.
Could Australian "protectionism" be coming into play? Is "protectionism" a form of racism, as a country aims to protect its own, and blocking out foreign nations in the process? Is Australia continuing down the China path, and who or what will stop the madness? So many questions, yet so few answers, as the Rudd Government sticks to its agenda and "stays on message" (just like the U.S Government did with its crimes against humanity relating to "the war on terrorism"). Jesse Ventura, Australia may need you to expose the truth. It's all good fodder for Conspiracy Theory.
Media Man down under and Gambling911 report...
Tatts Group Ltd says it has completed the acquisition of NSW Lotteries from the NSW Government. The deal is now subject to review by the NSW Auditor General.
Tatts said in a statement on that the acquisition has been completed, "and NSW Lotteries is now part of the Tatts Group".
The sale carries with it a 40-year exclusive licence to conduct public lotteries in NSW.
Controversy has swirled around the deal as it was revealed that Tatts bought the Lotteries with an unconfirmed bid of $850 million.
The bid allowed for the rights to the Lotteries' unclaimed prizes pool to be retained by Tatts, whereas other bidders advise they were denied the right to include unclaimed prizes in their bid.
The NSW Opposition and the NSW Green party now say, supported by advice from unnamed senior partners of two Sydney law firms, that the sale is illegal under the legislation that allowed the deal, according to reports carried by The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age last Thursday.
Announcing completion of the acquisition, Tatts Group said that Tatts Lotteries produced earnings before tax, interest, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of $119 million in 2009. Those are the sorts of numbers that even give igaming powerhouse, PartyGaming, a run for their money.
"The acquisition of NSW Lotteries is expected to produce an additional $120 million of EBITDA by 2014," Tatts Group said in its statement.
The late news...
We almost forgot, with casino fever at an all time high, Media Man has bit the bullet and launched http://www.mediamancasino.com It's not "white label", but a little birdie tells us its heading in that direction. Media Man management advise its hosted overseas "in protest to the proposed Australian internet filter and blacklist".
Gambling911 and Media Man International are recommending to readers that may be "down under" in the Asia Pacific region that if you enjoy games of skill and games of chance to sign up now to a few accounts, in case that may help keep online casino and online gaming accounts active, if or when the Australian internet filter aka "Great Australian Firewall" will spoil your fun. PartyGaming (inc World Poker Tour and its Playtech powered casinos), PokerStars, Captain Cooks, PKR and Betfair are some of the brands most popular in Australia.
Media Man tips that a device and "secret way" of circumventing the proposed internet filter is on the way, but its not "letting the cat out of the bag" quite yet, as the art of war continues between Aussie web publishers, media companies and the Australian government continues.
Media Man advises publicily that if the Australian government throws too much red tape at media, publising and internet companies, thus reducing productivity, revenue, income et al, that management may have to put promised job offers to Australian indigenous peoples via GenerationOne on hold.
Internet Snapshot Guide And The Idiots Guide to iGaming, Gaming and Politics
No one owns the internet!
The internet was invented in the United States and was designed to withstand a nuclear war.
Australians are some of the most passionate gamblers in the world, both at land based venues and online.
Cleopatra, Sinatra, Black Rhino, Hitman, Mission: Impossible and Tomb Raider are some of Australia's favorite slot games.
Crown Casino is home to one of the world's most popular and richest poker tournaments, Aussie Millions.
It is legal to participate in affiliate programs, casino affiliate programs and the like.
The Australian Federal government has some interest to regulate igaming and their Productivity Commission report is due to go public in approximately a month.
Senator Stephen Conroy have received at least one reported death threat over his censorship agenda, via way of internet forum, and reported in Fairfax Media.
Australia is now on the Enemies Of The Internet list complied by Reports Without Boarders
http://www.rsf.org/en-pays51-Australia.html
The United States administration has gone on record that it does not support Australia's proposed internet filter. The U.S, European Union and World Trade Organization are considering stepping in and urging the Australian government to seriously reconsider its stance on censorship. The censorship may cost the Australian and world economy billions, with media and entertainment giants such as Google, Yahoo!, Bing, Microsoft, News Corp, Marvel - Disney, DC Comics, Sony, Apple, Dell, Virgin Enterprises Limited, Paramount Pictures, Playboy, Penthouse, FHM, UFC, World Poker Tour, World Series of Poker, ESPN, SBS (and Gambling911), being just some of those likely to be adversely affected. Loss of income is set to result in job losses and the price of goods and services skyrocketing in some sectors. Some industries and brands may be forced to go "underground" and many "black markets" are expected to rise and prosper, and demand goes up for certain "vices". Consumer protection measures are likely to be lost should the Australian internet filter go ahead.
In closing, we think Australia's James Packer sums it up beautifully with his famous "Internet is like electricity", something Australian politicians have seemed to cotton on with pretty well of late.
Are we on the cusp of 'The End Days' aka 'The End Times', which Nostradamus gives considerable mention to in the quatrains, as the New World Order continues to take hold, or it just business as usual? 2012 is not far off, and soon you will be able to place bets on it! Readers, you be the judge, and bet with your head, not over it.
PS: Readers, thanks for your letters. Gambling911, Media Man and Plucka Duck (of Hey Hey "Chook Lotto" fame) appreciate each and every one of you.
*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 bakers dozen of industry vertical covered.
*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited
*Media Man is a member of the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Media Man Canada
Casino News Media
Australian Casino News
Australian Sports Entertainment
Poker News Media
Global Gaming Directory
Friday, April 02, 2010
Australian Chook Lotto Goose Not Laying Golden Gambling Egg, by Greg Tingle - 2nd April 2010
Red tape can be a pain in the tail for web publishers, casino entrepreneurs and the like, and man down under Greg Tingle at Media Man invest egg ates for Gambling911 ...
real news, spin or April Fools... you be the judge..think Donald Trump, Calvin Ayre and Steve Wynn have got issues with red tape, rules and regulations... legal eagles may have a field day with what our friends 'Plucka Duck' and TV host Daryl Somers are going through this Easter.
Australian TV, gambling and lotto, don't mix, at least that's the story thus far for an Australian iconic comedy and variety show.
Hey Hey It's Saturday host Daryl Somers is going to need a special licence in every Australian state and territory to get the showcase segment back on the air cum April 14.
He said 'Chook Lotto', where Jacki MacDonald collected numbered frozen chickens from a cage to award prizes to a contestant, is subject to the same rules as any lottery operator because it is considered a game of luck rather than a game of skill.
Somers also had to apply for a permit for resident chook man 'Plucka Duck'.
"It's absurd," Somers said.
"Bureaucracy is now threatening the very nature of show business these days.
"We're talking about a bit of fun on a variety show not a new poker machine venue!
"All we're trying to do is give people a good entertaining segment that's part of Australian television history and it's being tied down by bureaucrats.
"The segment ran for years and didn't turn viewers into problem gamblers."
The 'chook lotto' matter comes just days after Aussie Formula One driver Mark Webber branded Victoria a "nanny state" for its stringent road rules.
Somers was able to get around the laws in last year's hugely successful reunion specials by not awarding prizes.
He now tells us recreating the cage that holds the frozen chooks had been a costly exercise because it now had to meet complex OH&S guidelines.
"It's 10 times more difficult to get anything done these days because of all this pointless bureaucracy," he said.
Opposition state gaming minister Michael O'Brien slammed the 'Chook Lotto' red tape.
"Gambling laws are designed to limit problem gambling and keep corruption at bay," Mr O'Brien said.
"I don't think the underworld is interested in 'Chook Lotto' and I don't think anyone ever lost their house because of 'Chook Lotto' either.
"It does seem that this is bureaucracy gone mad and I would urge the regulator to sit down and do everything it can to try and ensure this icon returns to our screens."
Spokeswoman for State Gaming Minister, Tony Robinson, advise any competition that offers prizes of more than $5000 needs a permit under state law.
"If Chook Lotto is run the way it always has been in the past, it will need a permit in Victoria if the total prize value is above $5000," she said.
"The purpose of requiring permits is to ensure that lotteries are conducted fairly. "Harmonising state regulations will make it easier to run national trade promotion lotteries - but unfortunately not in time for this year's Hey Hey It's Saturday."
Punters, does Somers, the Aussie Gambling minister or the Cook have egg on its face, you be the judge, and Happy Easter, and may you luck be Eggs Lent.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company.
*No chooks, birds or animals were harmed in this special invest egg ation.
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Australian Casino News
real news, spin or April Fools... you be the judge..think Donald Trump, Calvin Ayre and Steve Wynn have got issues with red tape, rules and regulations... legal eagles may have a field day with what our friends 'Plucka Duck' and TV host Daryl Somers are going through this Easter.
Australian TV, gambling and lotto, don't mix, at least that's the story thus far for an Australian iconic comedy and variety show.
Hey Hey It's Saturday host Daryl Somers is going to need a special licence in every Australian state and territory to get the showcase segment back on the air cum April 14.
He said 'Chook Lotto', where Jacki MacDonald collected numbered frozen chickens from a cage to award prizes to a contestant, is subject to the same rules as any lottery operator because it is considered a game of luck rather than a game of skill.
Somers also had to apply for a permit for resident chook man 'Plucka Duck'.
"It's absurd," Somers said.
"Bureaucracy is now threatening the very nature of show business these days.
"We're talking about a bit of fun on a variety show not a new poker machine venue!
"All we're trying to do is give people a good entertaining segment that's part of Australian television history and it's being tied down by bureaucrats.
"The segment ran for years and didn't turn viewers into problem gamblers."
The 'chook lotto' matter comes just days after Aussie Formula One driver Mark Webber branded Victoria a "nanny state" for its stringent road rules.
Somers was able to get around the laws in last year's hugely successful reunion specials by not awarding prizes.
He now tells us recreating the cage that holds the frozen chooks had been a costly exercise because it now had to meet complex OH&S guidelines.
"It's 10 times more difficult to get anything done these days because of all this pointless bureaucracy," he said.
Opposition state gaming minister Michael O'Brien slammed the 'Chook Lotto' red tape.
"Gambling laws are designed to limit problem gambling and keep corruption at bay," Mr O'Brien said.
"I don't think the underworld is interested in 'Chook Lotto' and I don't think anyone ever lost their house because of 'Chook Lotto' either.
"It does seem that this is bureaucracy gone mad and I would urge the regulator to sit down and do everything it can to try and ensure this icon returns to our screens."
Spokeswoman for State Gaming Minister, Tony Robinson, advise any competition that offers prizes of more than $5000 needs a permit under state law.
"If Chook Lotto is run the way it always has been in the past, it will need a permit in Victoria if the total prize value is above $5000," she said.
"The purpose of requiring permits is to ensure that lotteries are conducted fairly. "Harmonising state regulations will make it easier to run national trade promotion lotteries - but unfortunately not in time for this year's Hey Hey It's Saturday."
Punters, does Somers, the Aussie Gambling minister or the Cook have egg on its face, you be the judge, and Happy Easter, and may you luck be Eggs Lent.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company.
*No chooks, birds or animals were harmed in this special invest egg ation.
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Monday, March 29, 2010
Obama Administration Against Australia Internet Filter
In a story widely covered by Gambling911.com and special correspondent Greg Tingle of Media Man Int., Senator Stephen Conroy, who is Australia's acting Communications Minister, is looking to move forward with attempts at censoring thousands of Internet websites including those related to online gambling.
"The Rudd Government's controversial internet filter legislation, with add on ‘blacklist' on the side, is still being drafted and is unlikely to be debated in parliament until at the middle of June and might be pushed back even further," Tingle says. "Internet lovers, gamers, media - journalists, entrepreneurs and lovers or freedom of expression have been rejoicing and see the latest development as a victory of sorts in the internet control ‘war'."
And now it appears, US President Barack Obama has entered the fray, expressing discontent over Conroy's filtering frenzy.
David Olsen of Dynamic Business Worldwide:
"Coming off the back of Google's announcement they are no longer censoring their Chinese search engine, officials from Obama's State Department are mounting a diplomatic assault on internet censorship worldwide."
US State Department spokesman Noel Clay raised concerns about the proposed Internet filter.
"The US and Australia are close partners on issues related to cyber matters generally, including national security and economic issues," Mr Clay said.
"We do not discuss the details of specific diplomatic exchanges, but can say that in the context of that ongoing relationship, we have raised our concerns on this matter with Australian officials."
Conroy's ‘black list' had been leaked last year and included everything from a dentist's website to the online betting exchange Betfair, which operates legally in Australia.
Just last week, Google announced it will no longer be censoring its Chinese website. Google has been highly critical of the Australian Internet filtering proposal.
"Our primary concern is that the scope of content to be filtered is too wide," Google wrote in its submission, also suggesting the filter would slow browsing speeds.
"Some limits, like child pornography, are obvious. No Australian wants that to be available-and we agree," the Google submission said. "But moving to a mandatory ISP level filtering regime with a scope that goes well beyond such material is heavy-handed and can raise genuine questions about restrictions on access to information."
"The Rudd Government's controversial internet filter legislation, with add on ‘blacklist' on the side, is still being drafted and is unlikely to be debated in parliament until at the middle of June and might be pushed back even further," Tingle says. "Internet lovers, gamers, media - journalists, entrepreneurs and lovers or freedom of expression have been rejoicing and see the latest development as a victory of sorts in the internet control ‘war'."
And now it appears, US President Barack Obama has entered the fray, expressing discontent over Conroy's filtering frenzy.
David Olsen of Dynamic Business Worldwide:
"Coming off the back of Google's announcement they are no longer censoring their Chinese search engine, officials from Obama's State Department are mounting a diplomatic assault on internet censorship worldwide."
US State Department spokesman Noel Clay raised concerns about the proposed Internet filter.
"The US and Australia are close partners on issues related to cyber matters generally, including national security and economic issues," Mr Clay said.
"We do not discuss the details of specific diplomatic exchanges, but can say that in the context of that ongoing relationship, we have raised our concerns on this matter with Australian officials."
Conroy's ‘black list' had been leaked last year and included everything from a dentist's website to the online betting exchange Betfair, which operates legally in Australia.
Just last week, Google announced it will no longer be censoring its Chinese website. Google has been highly critical of the Australian Internet filtering proposal.
"Our primary concern is that the scope of content to be filtered is too wide," Google wrote in its submission, also suggesting the filter would slow browsing speeds.
"Some limits, like child pornography, are obvious. No Australian wants that to be available-and we agree," the Google submission said. "But moving to a mandatory ISP level filtering regime with a scope that goes well beyond such material is heavy-handed and can raise genuine questions about restrictions on access to information."
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Friday, March 12, 2010
Australian News Media, Gaming And Human Rights Under Et Al Under Attack By Aussie Government - Australia Iran North Korea Connection
Gaming, news media, entertainment and freedom of expression fans, your internet is in danger, at least if your one of our Australian readers.
The folks down under in Australia have spoken loud and clear...for almost a year now... they don't want their internet (or coffee as a general rule), filtered by the powers that be in the Australian government.
This most important of news stories has been covered in considerable detail by Media Man, Gambling911, and many of the world's leading news outlets.
What's at stake? Human rights and censorship, and that's just the tip of the iceberg folks.
Media rights watchdog Reporters Without Borders has now listed Australia along with Iran and North Korea in a report on countries that pose a threat regarding internet censorship.
Paris-based RWB (Reporters Without Borders) put Australia and South Korea on its list of countries "under surveillance" in its "Internet Enemies" report delivered last Thursday.
Australia was listed for the government's plan to block access to websites featuring material such as rape, drug use, bestiality and child sex abuse. Gambling911 and Media Man do not support those vices, however we do believed that if people want to enjoy online poker, casino games and even a bit of regular porn, they should be able to! You're beloved Maxim, FHM, Penthouse and Playboy Poker Babes could even be in danger of becoming "illegal"!
Detractors are saying that the plan is a seriously misguided measure that will harm civil liberties by blocking a broader range of content than just "net nasty" content.
Communications Minister Stephen Conroy has advised he plans to introduce legislation by the end of next week that would require ISPs to block a blacklist of "refused classification" websites for all Australians.
It is not currently certain if the government will meet this deadline; a spokeswoman for Senator Conroy said the legislation would be introduced "after it has been considered by caucus and cabinet".
The inclusion on "Internet Enemies" follows the naming of Senator Conroy as the "Internet Villain Of The Year" last July at the Internet Service Providers’ Association annual awards in London, a honour that Sen. Conroy shrugged off.
The latest report was of particular interest to Aussie campaigner Peter Coroneos, the MD of the IIA (Internet Industry Association), who told the press that it showed the international reception to the proposed internet filter.
"This regrettably puts Australia on notice that, despite the Rudd Government’s best intentions, any mandatory filtering policy is likely to be perceived internationally in ways that will not benefit our reputation as a free and open society," he said.
"It will likely be used by less open societies as a vindication of their internet censorship regimes, despite any domestic attempts to draw distinctions. Mandatory filtering is mandatory filtering by whatever colour it is painted."
Senator Conroy's spokeswoman defended the internet filtering, advising RC content is already prohibited in physical media distributed offline.
"Under Australia’s existing Classification regulations this material is not available in newsagencies, it is not on library shelves, you cannot watch it on a DVD or at the cinema and it is not shown on television," she said.
There's hope yet however...Whether the internet filtering scheme gets up will likely depend on the position of the Liberal party, as the Greens have already pledged to oppose the legislation.
The opposition has yet to come to a final position on the matter but in a speech to the Grattan Institute earlier this week shadow treasurer Joe Hockey said the policy was "likely to be unworkable in practice". He expressed concerns that the scope of blocked websites could be expanded in the future and said it was up to parents, not governments, to regulate their childrens' internet use.
A spokeswoman for Hockey said today that the shadow treasurer's comments should not be interpreted as confirmation that the opposition would oppose the filtering legislation, as a decision had not yet been made at this this time.
In South Korea, the RSF report added, "draconian laws are creating too many specific restrictions on web users by challenging their anonymity and promoting self-censorship".
"These countries are worrying us because they have measures that could have repercussions for freedom of expression on the internet," RSF secretary general Jean-Francois Julliard said at an internet rights award ceremony on Thursday.
Russia and Turkey were also added to the watchlist, which is a stage below RSF's top "Enemies of the internet", the countries it considers the 12 worst web freedom violators.
These include Saudi Arabia, Burma, China, North Korea, Iran and Vietnam.
"The world's largest netizen prison is in China, which is far out ahead of other countries with 72 detainees, followed by Vietnam and then by Iran, which have all launched waves of brutal attacks on websites in recent months," RSF's report said.
A senior manager of Google, David Drummond, said there was an "alarming trend" of government interference in online freedom, not only in countries that are judged to have poor human rights records.
He pointed to Australia's plans as a classic example, saying that there "the wide scope of content prohibited could include socially and politically controversial material".
The Australian case "is an example of where these benign intentions can result in the spectre of true censorship".
"Here in Europe, even in France, at this very moment, some are tempted by this slippery path of network filtering."
As recently as last month, after Senator Conroy called on YouTube to censor videos in accordance with his filtering scheme, the search giant's head of policy in Australia, Iarla Flynn, said: "The scope of RC is simply too broad and can raise genuine questions about restrictions on access to information. RC includes the grey realms of material instructing in any crime from [painting] graffiti to politically controversial crimes such as euthanasia, and exposing these topics to public debate is vital for democracy."
Gambling911 and Media Man International are advising Aussie punters to enjoy online poker and casino games while they can at websites such as PartyPoker, PartyCasino, PKR, PokerStars and Betfair.
Management at Gambling911 is hopeful that their own website (which reports on poker, gaming, gambling, sports betting and politics) doesn't end up being banned by the Aussie government.
A little birdie has told us that the Australian government should expect more attacks on their own websites in retribution, and rumours are circulating of more protests being arranged on Australian soil, and one disturbing report of a public riot being organised. Stay tuned for more on this developing situation.
*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911
*The writer is a member of Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance and the National Press Club
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company
http://www.mediamanint.com
The folks down under in Australia have spoken loud and clear...for almost a year now... they don't want their internet (or coffee as a general rule), filtered by the powers that be in the Australian government.
This most important of news stories has been covered in considerable detail by Media Man, Gambling911, and many of the world's leading news outlets.
What's at stake? Human rights and censorship, and that's just the tip of the iceberg folks.
Media rights watchdog Reporters Without Borders has now listed Australia along with Iran and North Korea in a report on countries that pose a threat regarding internet censorship.
Paris-based RWB (Reporters Without Borders) put Australia and South Korea on its list of countries "under surveillance" in its "Internet Enemies" report delivered last Thursday.
Australia was listed for the government's plan to block access to websites featuring material such as rape, drug use, bestiality and child sex abuse. Gambling911 and Media Man do not support those vices, however we do believed that if people want to enjoy online poker, casino games and even a bit of regular porn, they should be able to! You're beloved Maxim, FHM, Penthouse and Playboy Poker Babes could even be in danger of becoming "illegal"!
Detractors are saying that the plan is a seriously misguided measure that will harm civil liberties by blocking a broader range of content than just "net nasty" content.
Communications Minister Stephen Conroy has advised he plans to introduce legislation by the end of next week that would require ISPs to block a blacklist of "refused classification" websites for all Australians.
It is not currently certain if the government will meet this deadline; a spokeswoman for Senator Conroy said the legislation would be introduced "after it has been considered by caucus and cabinet".
The inclusion on "Internet Enemies" follows the naming of Senator Conroy as the "Internet Villain Of The Year" last July at the Internet Service Providers’ Association annual awards in London, a honour that Sen. Conroy shrugged off.
The latest report was of particular interest to Aussie campaigner Peter Coroneos, the MD of the IIA (Internet Industry Association), who told the press that it showed the international reception to the proposed internet filter.
"This regrettably puts Australia on notice that, despite the Rudd Government’s best intentions, any mandatory filtering policy is likely to be perceived internationally in ways that will not benefit our reputation as a free and open society," he said.
"It will likely be used by less open societies as a vindication of their internet censorship regimes, despite any domestic attempts to draw distinctions. Mandatory filtering is mandatory filtering by whatever colour it is painted."
Senator Conroy's spokeswoman defended the internet filtering, advising RC content is already prohibited in physical media distributed offline.
"Under Australia’s existing Classification regulations this material is not available in newsagencies, it is not on library shelves, you cannot watch it on a DVD or at the cinema and it is not shown on television," she said.
There's hope yet however...Whether the internet filtering scheme gets up will likely depend on the position of the Liberal party, as the Greens have already pledged to oppose the legislation.
The opposition has yet to come to a final position on the matter but in a speech to the Grattan Institute earlier this week shadow treasurer Joe Hockey said the policy was "likely to be unworkable in practice". He expressed concerns that the scope of blocked websites could be expanded in the future and said it was up to parents, not governments, to regulate their childrens' internet use.
A spokeswoman for Hockey said today that the shadow treasurer's comments should not be interpreted as confirmation that the opposition would oppose the filtering legislation, as a decision had not yet been made at this this time.
In South Korea, the RSF report added, "draconian laws are creating too many specific restrictions on web users by challenging their anonymity and promoting self-censorship".
"These countries are worrying us because they have measures that could have repercussions for freedom of expression on the internet," RSF secretary general Jean-Francois Julliard said at an internet rights award ceremony on Thursday.
Russia and Turkey were also added to the watchlist, which is a stage below RSF's top "Enemies of the internet", the countries it considers the 12 worst web freedom violators.
These include Saudi Arabia, Burma, China, North Korea, Iran and Vietnam.
"The world's largest netizen prison is in China, which is far out ahead of other countries with 72 detainees, followed by Vietnam and then by Iran, which have all launched waves of brutal attacks on websites in recent months," RSF's report said.
A senior manager of Google, David Drummond, said there was an "alarming trend" of government interference in online freedom, not only in countries that are judged to have poor human rights records.
He pointed to Australia's plans as a classic example, saying that there "the wide scope of content prohibited could include socially and politically controversial material".
The Australian case "is an example of where these benign intentions can result in the spectre of true censorship".
"Here in Europe, even in France, at this very moment, some are tempted by this slippery path of network filtering."
As recently as last month, after Senator Conroy called on YouTube to censor videos in accordance with his filtering scheme, the search giant's head of policy in Australia, Iarla Flynn, said: "The scope of RC is simply too broad and can raise genuine questions about restrictions on access to information. RC includes the grey realms of material instructing in any crime from [painting] graffiti to politically controversial crimes such as euthanasia, and exposing these topics to public debate is vital for democracy."
Gambling911 and Media Man International are advising Aussie punters to enjoy online poker and casino games while they can at websites such as PartyPoker, PartyCasino, PKR, PokerStars and Betfair.
Management at Gambling911 is hopeful that their own website (which reports on poker, gaming, gambling, sports betting and politics) doesn't end up being banned by the Aussie government.
A little birdie has told us that the Australian government should expect more attacks on their own websites in retribution, and rumours are circulating of more protests being arranged on Australian soil, and one disturbing report of a public riot being organised. Stay tuned for more on this developing situation.
*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911
*The writer is a member of Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance and the National Press Club
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company
http://www.mediamanint.com
Tuesday, March 09, 2010
Boyfriend of Victorian Premier daughter ejected from Australia's Crown Casino, by Greg Tingle - 9th March 2010
We can now confirm that state police have questioned the boyfriend of Elizabeth Brumby, the daughter of Victorian Premier John Brumby, over an incident at Crown Casino in Melbourne.
The 23-year-old man was ejected from a private function on Friday night after security guards accused him of being drunk. The guards had no need to use plastic handcuffs on this occasion, a unique initiative getting mixed reactions from the Australian hotel, club and casino sector.
No charges have been laid at the time of publishing.
In a brief media statement, Mr Brumby said his daughter tried to defuse the situation and described it as a "private matter".
Crown Limited shares remain strong at 8.270 (share price, not blood alcohol reading)
Media Man and Gambling911 will continue to report from the sometimes battlefield that is the Australian land based casino sector. PS: no plastic handcuffs required in online casinos.
*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911
*The writer is the founder and director of Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com , primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company
*The writer owns shares in Crown Casino
The 23-year-old man was ejected from a private function on Friday night after security guards accused him of being drunk. The guards had no need to use plastic handcuffs on this occasion, a unique initiative getting mixed reactions from the Australian hotel, club and casino sector.
No charges have been laid at the time of publishing.
In a brief media statement, Mr Brumby said his daughter tried to defuse the situation and described it as a "private matter".
Crown Limited shares remain strong at 8.270 (share price, not blood alcohol reading)
Media Man and Gambling911 will continue to report from the sometimes battlefield that is the Australian land based casino sector. PS: no plastic handcuffs required in online casinos.
*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911
*The writer is the founder and director of Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com , primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company
*The writer owns shares in Crown Casino
Gambling News and Findings From Australia Get Mixed Reviews, by Greg Tingle - 9th March 2010
It's been a painstaking process, but Gambling911 via the Media Man down under in Aussie Land, has got their hands on some interesting data of substance, released by our "friends" at the New South Wales government no less!
The good news is that a recent survey by the NSW government has demonstrated that rate of problem gambling in the state is declining and that it now has fewer "problem gamblers" per head of population than the southerly friends in Victoria. Yeah, The State Of Origin is on... go The Blues.
Not to any great surprises, the scientific (whaling term ala Japanese whaling) findings have been greeted with furious scepticism by an academic expert and by anti-pokies campaigner Senator Nick Xenophon, who has named the survey a ''snow job'' from a government dependent on gambling revenue. If there was one man in Australia that possibly hated the pokes more than Kevin "Bloody" Rudd, that would be Nicky X, coming out of the blue corner.
The gambling and gaming survey, which was included in the New South Wales Population Health Survey at the request of Gaming and Racing Minister Kevin Greene, found that only 0.4 per cent of the state's adult population are "problem gamblers", down from the last survey in 2006 that found the rate to be 0.8 per cent. It concluded 2.5 per cent were low-risk gamblers and 1.2 per cent were moderate-risk gamblers.
The results of the telephone based survey also found that Victoria had a "problem gambling" rate of 0.7 per cent, while South Australia and the "banana benders" in Queensland were on a par with NSW.
Minister Greene advised that the findings showed measures introduced by the NSW government to help problem gamblers were making a positive impact. Its Responsible Gambling Fund, taken from a levy on casino profits, has poured money into front-line and telephone counselling services. Measures introduced last year included further capping machine numbers and banning credit card cash withdrawals from ATMs in gaming venues.
''These findings are very encouraging and we hope it's a sign that our high-quality counselling service and strict harm minimisation laws are making a real difference,'' Mr Greene said.
However Senator Xenophon as can be expected queried how a telephone survey could accurately gauge the level of problem gambling in the community, arguing many "problem gamblers" were either in denial or already had had their landlines disconnected!
''This survey shows just how desperate the NSW Government is to cover up the extent of problem gambling, he said.
''The NSW government is hopelessly compromised when it rakes in well over $1 billion in poker machine taxes a year.''
Monash University senior lecturer in Health Social Sciences Dr Charles Livingstone, a board member of the journal International Gambling Studies, agreed that telephone surveys of problem gambling tended to contain a "selection bias". His interpretation of gambling data collected in NSW in the past decade showed a problem gambling rate about 2.5 per cent in the adult population, which had remained largely unchanged. ''Gambling continues to be very much out of control in New South Wales'' Dr Livingstone said.
The survey also interestingly contradicts the findings of a draft Productivity Commission report released last October, which found that measures introduced by state governments to limit problem gambling in the past decade had been largely ineffective.
Media Man can advise from from first hand accounts that its basically impossible to enter a venue such as a pub, hotel or casino in Australia without seeing a number of extremely visible warnings and alerts as to the potential dangers of problem gambling. Be it Bondi Icebergs Bergs Gaming, Bondi Hotel's Stardust Rooms, or the good ol Crown Casino, they all carry substantial signage. One of the signs even read something to the effect of "Generally your chances of winning a substantial prize are less than one in a million".
Trusted and highly ethical casinos such as PartyGaming's PartyCasino and Virgin Games Virgin Casino also carry quality information about harm prevention and minimization, the odds of winning, and who to contact if you think you may have a gambling problem. One in million hey...Aw well, you got to be in it to win it.
The Productivity Commission has just handed its final report on gambling to the federal government and is receiving mixed reports.
Gambling policy, health and internet censorship remain of great interest to voters for state and federal elections, and yes, you can bet on election outcomes at agencies such as Centrebet International, who are now also taking bets on the financial markets, following the lead from PartyGaming with their InterTrader deal with London Capital Group last January.
Media Man and Gambling911 remind the readership and punters to know your limits and keep it fun, be it at a land based gambling den or at any number of online casinos.
*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company http://www.mediamanint.com
*The writer owns shares in Crown Casino and is a pro active member of Richard Branson's Virgin Unite
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Global Gaming Directory.net
Casino News Media
Casino News Media.net
The good news is that a recent survey by the NSW government has demonstrated that rate of problem gambling in the state is declining and that it now has fewer "problem gamblers" per head of population than the southerly friends in Victoria. Yeah, The State Of Origin is on... go The Blues.
Not to any great surprises, the scientific (whaling term ala Japanese whaling) findings have been greeted with furious scepticism by an academic expert and by anti-pokies campaigner Senator Nick Xenophon, who has named the survey a ''snow job'' from a government dependent on gambling revenue. If there was one man in Australia that possibly hated the pokes more than Kevin "Bloody" Rudd, that would be Nicky X, coming out of the blue corner.
The gambling and gaming survey, which was included in the New South Wales Population Health Survey at the request of Gaming and Racing Minister Kevin Greene, found that only 0.4 per cent of the state's adult population are "problem gamblers", down from the last survey in 2006 that found the rate to be 0.8 per cent. It concluded 2.5 per cent were low-risk gamblers and 1.2 per cent were moderate-risk gamblers.
The results of the telephone based survey also found that Victoria had a "problem gambling" rate of 0.7 per cent, while South Australia and the "banana benders" in Queensland were on a par with NSW.
Minister Greene advised that the findings showed measures introduced by the NSW government to help problem gamblers were making a positive impact. Its Responsible Gambling Fund, taken from a levy on casino profits, has poured money into front-line and telephone counselling services. Measures introduced last year included further capping machine numbers and banning credit card cash withdrawals from ATMs in gaming venues.
''These findings are very encouraging and we hope it's a sign that our high-quality counselling service and strict harm minimisation laws are making a real difference,'' Mr Greene said.
However Senator Xenophon as can be expected queried how a telephone survey could accurately gauge the level of problem gambling in the community, arguing many "problem gamblers" were either in denial or already had had their landlines disconnected!
''This survey shows just how desperate the NSW Government is to cover up the extent of problem gambling, he said.
''The NSW government is hopelessly compromised when it rakes in well over $1 billion in poker machine taxes a year.''
Monash University senior lecturer in Health Social Sciences Dr Charles Livingstone, a board member of the journal International Gambling Studies, agreed that telephone surveys of problem gambling tended to contain a "selection bias". His interpretation of gambling data collected in NSW in the past decade showed a problem gambling rate about 2.5 per cent in the adult population, which had remained largely unchanged. ''Gambling continues to be very much out of control in New South Wales'' Dr Livingstone said.
The survey also interestingly contradicts the findings of a draft Productivity Commission report released last October, which found that measures introduced by state governments to limit problem gambling in the past decade had been largely ineffective.
Media Man can advise from from first hand accounts that its basically impossible to enter a venue such as a pub, hotel or casino in Australia without seeing a number of extremely visible warnings and alerts as to the potential dangers of problem gambling. Be it Bondi Icebergs Bergs Gaming, Bondi Hotel's Stardust Rooms, or the good ol Crown Casino, they all carry substantial signage. One of the signs even read something to the effect of "Generally your chances of winning a substantial prize are less than one in a million".
Trusted and highly ethical casinos such as PartyGaming's PartyCasino and Virgin Games Virgin Casino also carry quality information about harm prevention and minimization, the odds of winning, and who to contact if you think you may have a gambling problem. One in million hey...Aw well, you got to be in it to win it.
The Productivity Commission has just handed its final report on gambling to the federal government and is receiving mixed reports.
Gambling policy, health and internet censorship remain of great interest to voters for state and federal elections, and yes, you can bet on election outcomes at agencies such as Centrebet International, who are now also taking bets on the financial markets, following the lead from PartyGaming with their InterTrader deal with London Capital Group last January.
Media Man and Gambling911 remind the readership and punters to know your limits and keep it fun, be it at a land based gambling den or at any number of online casinos.
*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company http://www.mediamanint.com
*The writer owns shares in Crown Casino and is a pro active member of Richard Branson's Virgin Unite
Website Network
Media Man
Global Gaming Directory
Global Gaming Directory.net
Casino News Media
Casino News Media.net
Tuesday, March 02, 2010
Hawaii: Lawmakers Say No to Casinos - 25th February 2010
Legislators killed a bill on Wednesday that would have allowed a casino in tourist-filled Waikiki. A second measure allowing gambling on Hawaiian homelands will not get a vote after the House Finance Committee scuttled the idea. Gambling interests pitched casinos as a way to help rejuvenate the tourism industry and to bring $86 million a year in tax revenue to a state facing a projected $1.2 billion deficit. But opponents argued a casino would eat up tourist money, tarnish the state’s family-friendly image and increase crime.
Australian and International Gambling News, by Greg Tingle - 1st March 2010
G'day punters, and other interested parties (like casino tycoons and Australian political parties).
What a massive week for casino news just passed, and judging upon earlier indicators, this week out to give it a run for its money.
Having said that, Media Man is still waiting for the Australian Productivity Gambling Report... Prime Minster Rudd and Senator Stephen Conroy, it looks like you're late again! Our readership and that of our publishing and broadcasting friends and associates want to know the facts. Aren't we important enough to make the VIP list.
On the 26th of last month the Australian Productivity Commission apparently handed in its final report, yet it could be as late as June before it is made public! The government does not have to release the report for 25 sitting days. If the commission sticks to its draft recommendations, and the News Limited understands it is likely to hold close to them, Clubs Australia predicts the measures would result in a conservative 30 per cent drop in revenue. That would mean $2 billion and 11,500 jobs gone in NSW alone, clubs say.
The Aussie government had another bad PR week. Rudd was forced to demote Peter "Burning The Midnight Oil" Garrett over an environmental stuff up, and this has appeared to take a lot of heat and attention away from Senator Conroy and the proposed internet filter, at least for the time being.
Politics and iGaming Politics
Australians encouraged to fight online fraud
The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, today encouraged Australians to fight online fraud during National Consumer Fraud Week. The Australasian Consumer Fraud Taskforce's Online Offensive - Fighting Fraud Online - will run throughout the week to increase awareness of online consumer fraud. Don't supposed this may be directed at punters checking out igaming websites!
On that subject, clean bill of health by the way to Virgin Games, PartyCasino, Noble Casino, BetUS and Captain Cooks. Party now has the ECOGRA approved label for what its worth. If you blinked and missed it, Virgin Casino - Virgin Games is not available for Australian or U.S players at the moment, however Virgin are interested in expanding their gaming and igaming services to a number of counties that their CEO considers currently in the "grey area". As covered in detail by Gambling911 and eGaming Review, Virgin also plans to expand its virtual world project in conjunction with Game Domain International - AWOMO (A World Of My Own). Virgin's big cheese says they are aiming to become a "total gaming destination". Last month PartyCasino won the Casino News Media Online Casino Of The Month award and Virgin Casino scored second place.
Kevin "Bloody" Rudd VS Tony "The Bruiser" Abbott; Punters tipping Julie Gillard to replace Rudd within 6 months and that Senator Stephen Conroy won't last in his position. Centrebet is offering $4 on Julia Gillard replacing Kev in the hot seat by the next election.
Prime Minister Kevin Rudd is rattled over his government's failings and his own political mortality, federal Opposition Leader Tony Abbott says.
Mr Rudd made an on-air apology during a television interview yesterday for the government's home insulation scheme and for his own delay over an election promise to reform the public hospital system.
The most recent poll of NSW voters in The Sun-Herald indicates that, on a two-party preferred basis, both sides of politics have 50 per cent of the vote - a drop of almost three percentage points on Labor's election-winning 52.7 per cent in 2007.
Mr Rudd said the government took a "whacking" in the polls and expects Labor to take "an even bigger whacking" with voters in the future.
Mr Abbott today accused the Mr Rudd of "getting a headline" with his "I'm sorry routine" but noted that the government's failings had affected Mr Rudd.
"I think he looked just rattled," Mr Abbott told reporters in Sydney.
"I think the problem is that the Prime Minister is rattled by intimations of political mortality.
"I think he's shocked by the scale of his government's own ineptitude. I think that's what got him rattled."
The Idiots Guide to iGaming politics and What It Means To Punters In Practical Terms
Numerous gaming and igaming laws are confusing and often controdict each other. Even the USDOJ (United States Department of Justice) and the EU (European Union) can't agree on many aspects.
United States - some states of the U.S are more igaming and gaming friendly than others. There's been numerous poker and online poker cases in the courts over the years and often the judge throws the case out of court or the online poker players win. The Poker Players Alliance, Poker News Daily and iGaming Business - CAP have been doing a very solid job of covering the weekly saga of politics mixed with gambling, as have our friends at Gambling911.
Australians can play casino games and poker at PartyCasino, Noble Casino, PKR, PokerStars, BetUS. Aussies can't current play at Virgin Casino, nor can Americans.
Special "anti filter devices" are predicted to hit the American and Australian blackmarket (pubs and hotels et al) within months, and insiders say the Aussie "blacklist" and proposed internet filter was the undisputed catalyst for the development. "Demand is sky high and people will pay considerably for the convenience and benefits", said a reliable source who has chosen not to be identified.
Punters and gaming entrepreneurs, we recommend you get up to speed with the financial ins, outs and all round offerings from a bush tucker bag of online casinos, credit cards and the like. Little birdie tell us that VISA, American Express and many others will soon not touch anything online gambling related with 10 foot barge pole. Next thing online casino owners will have to hand deliver bags full of cash to their hard working affiliate partners!
Betfair Tax Breaks
The Tasmanian Government has offered tax breaks to keep the gambling agency Betfair in the state.
Labor has revealed that before it went into caretaker mode, it made an agreement with the company half-owned by James Packer.
The deal would see Betfair keep its call centre and 130 jobs in Hobart for the next 10 years.
The Premier, David Bartlett says the agreement will cost taxpayers about $2 million over the next two years, but he says the deal will save jobs, and quickly pay for itself.
"In the short-term, yes there will be a revenue decrease," he says.
"But that revenue decrease will be more than offset by 130 jobs on site, and increased transaction rates, over the life of the next five to 10 years."
The agreement will not be formally approved until parliament returns after the March 20 state election.
Australian Horse Racing
Racing Victoria chief steward Terry Bailey has dropped the bombshell that all 10 rides of Danny Nikolic remain under investigation.
While many thought the far-reaching investigation solely revolved around the charges brought on Friday, Bailey said stewards had not concluded their probe.
Bailey said stewards would this week focus on the charges against Nikolic and former bookmaker Neville Clements, which centre on their refusal to provide certain items to the investigation.
"We'll cross one bridge at a time," Bailey said.
"The investigation (into the 10 rides) is ongoing. Until such time as we get all the evidence ... then we will hand down some decisions."
As the investigation intensified, the fallout saw:
AUSTRALIAN Jockeys' Association reaffirm its opposition to betting exchanges.
NIKOLIC'S elder brother, John, relinquish his trainer's licence in Queensland.
VICTORIA'S first integrity commissioner, Sal Perna, who starts in his new job today, likely to be asked to inquire into several aspects of the investigation.
BAILEY decline to comment on any correlation between phone records and horses being laid to lose on Betfair.
AJA chairman Ross Inglis said the innuendo surrounding Nikolic and New South Wales jockey John Keating only strengthened the association's view that betting exchanges had no place in racing.
Inglis said even when a jockey was 100 per cent innocent, the implication of someone laying a horse the jockey rode remained.
"We were opposed from day one and we remain opposed," Inglis said.
He said the AJA was "very annoyed" that innuendo hovered over Nikolic concerning the 10-rides, given the exhaustive nature of the investigation.
John Nikolic , embroiled in a Queensland Racing inquiry, said attempts to link his brother to his probe had forced him to get out of the industry.
John Nikolic and Keating are involved in an inquiry into the run of beaten favourite Baby Bonus at Sunshine Coast in January.
"I'm pretty much over this crap," Nikolic said.
"I sold my stables the other day and I'll be sending a letter to Queensland Racing on Monday to let them know I'll be relinquishing my licence.
"I was just training as a hobby, racing a few horses with friends.
"When it's no longer enjoyable and I'm getting negative publicity and it's impacting on my family, it's time to get out."
It is believed Perna will be asked to look at all aspects of the Nikolic case, particularly how it found its way into the media.
Bailey said the investigation into Nikolic's rides would continue once Thursday's inquiry - which will be open to the media - concluded.
He said stewards were obliged to ask questions, regardless of who was involved, until they were satisfied they had all the answers.
Bailey declined to comment on whether any trainer was unhappy with any of the 10 Nikolic rides in question.
Nikolic faces a charge of refusing to give stewards his mobile phone and also leaving the area of the jockeys' room at Flemington to phone Clements on New Year's Day.
Clements, who is not a licensed person, must answer a charge of not providing stewards his " complete and original phone records" for a five-month period.
Magic Millions - Media, advertising and racing tycoon John Singleton has been in discussions with long time friend and associate, Gerry Harvey, as to whether Magic Millions should remain on the Gold Coast or to send the annual main even further south to Melbourne.
Problem Gamblers - Women More Than Men Become Problems
University of Queensland researcher Dr Timothy Lee says women now make up 64 per cent of the nation's poker machine users.
He says strategies to combat problem gambling should be tailored to include the habits of female gamblers.
"They tend to prefer some simple type of gambling and they are easily addicted," he said.
"They also have some tendency to hide their gambling activities and behaviour."
Erica Baxter in line for ARIA award
Casino King James Packer's wife Erica Baxter, along with actor Toni Collette and the late Belinda Emmett, are all in the running for an ARIA award nomination this year.
The three are among those eligible for nomination in the Best Female category. All three artists had full-length albums that were released in Australia in the past 12 months. Comon' Erica, go for the jackpot! John Singleton's most vocally talented daughter, Sally Bell has written a ripper song about race horses and her SONY BMG agreement is understood to be going fantastic. The Singleton's have been spotted at Sydney's Piano Bar on more than one occasion.
New South Wales Deaf Poker Championship
No, its not a bad joke. Poker has become extremely popular with the deaf.
Sokong Kim, founding member of Deaf Poker Australia, organised the first Australian Deaf Poker Championship in August, 2009, and he said the response was overwhelming.
“We attracted 88 players from across Australia in the first ever championship,” Mr Kim said.
“The atmosphere was excellent and the Australian Poker League was impressed.”
Mr Kim hopes for a similar response at the state championship. Players must have some form of hearing loss and understand Australian Sign Language (Auslan) to compete.
“We also welcome interpreters, workers, and all people with deaf family members,” Mr Kim said.
“The idea is to make it a charity event and gather together a range of people who make up the deaf community through poker.”
Players who progress to the final table will win a seat in the monthly regional Australian Poker League tournament.
The overall winner receives a seat at the Australian Poker League Pro Open and elects a deaf organisation to receive the proceeds.
For more information contact Burwood RSL or Deaf Poker Australia.
Media Man "Art Of War" Tactics And Wrestling - UFC - Casino connection
As discussion heats up in Australia and the U.S about further regulating the igaming and gaming industry, virtual land grabs (domain name purchases) and land development (website development) remains the order of the day. This week sees the Media Man group re launch Poker News Media, Virtual Worlds Media and Wrestling News Media. Wrestling you say? Yes, Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair both have major gaming and igaming deals, and Kevin Nash (once known as Vinnie Vegas) also has gaming on his official website. Flair's still pushing for his NC Education deal to be expanded across America... Wooooo! Historically its been proved that there is considerable cross over audience between wrestling and casinos. Pity fans can't bet on matches (since the "winner" is predetermined... some might argue the odd horse race and boxing match is also). Over a decade ago World Wrestling Entertainment actually purchased a casino in Vegas, but went on later sell it for a profit (cop that Donald Trump). UFC also enjoys a strong association in the casino sector with Frank and Lorenzo Fertitta owning the Station Casinos operation, based in Summerlin, Nevada. In addition, the UFC is one of the most popular sports in the world for taking sports bets. Closer to home, North Sydney's NextGen Gaming is rumored to be working on an Andre The Giant online slot game. If anyone can topple Party's and Virgin's King Kong slot it would be Andre.
Financial Markets
CWN - CROWN LIMITED $8.0200
TAH - TABCORP HOLDINGS LIMITED $6.8300
CIL - CENTREBET INTERNATIONAL LIMITED $1.4600
Australians Remain In World's Top Ten Gambling Nations
Australians spend about $18 billion a year on gambling, and almost a third of that flows to state revenue. The United States is understood to be the current leading spenders on gambling and in recent years China via the Macau connection have been raking it in. No doubt Australia's James Packer wouldn't mind to make the Guinness World Records List for most profitable casino group with his Crown-Melco City Of Dreams Macau.
The late news... City Of Dreams is not interested in selling to Harrah's Entertainment (or anyone else) for the foreseeable future.
Till next time, keep it fun, stay legal, and bet with your head, not over it. Still time to decide it you want your coffee and internet filtered or non-filtered. Make your vote count! Aussie Election possible within 6 months. Aussie Aussie Aussie, Oi Oi, Oi.
*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company
*The writer owns shares in Crown Casino
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What a massive week for casino news just passed, and judging upon earlier indicators, this week out to give it a run for its money.
Having said that, Media Man is still waiting for the Australian Productivity Gambling Report... Prime Minster Rudd and Senator Stephen Conroy, it looks like you're late again! Our readership and that of our publishing and broadcasting friends and associates want to know the facts. Aren't we important enough to make the VIP list.
On the 26th of last month the Australian Productivity Commission apparently handed in its final report, yet it could be as late as June before it is made public! The government does not have to release the report for 25 sitting days. If the commission sticks to its draft recommendations, and the News Limited understands it is likely to hold close to them, Clubs Australia predicts the measures would result in a conservative 30 per cent drop in revenue. That would mean $2 billion and 11,500 jobs gone in NSW alone, clubs say.
The Aussie government had another bad PR week. Rudd was forced to demote Peter "Burning The Midnight Oil" Garrett over an environmental stuff up, and this has appeared to take a lot of heat and attention away from Senator Conroy and the proposed internet filter, at least for the time being.
Politics and iGaming Politics
Australians encouraged to fight online fraud
The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, today encouraged Australians to fight online fraud during National Consumer Fraud Week. The Australasian Consumer Fraud Taskforce's Online Offensive - Fighting Fraud Online - will run throughout the week to increase awareness of online consumer fraud. Don't supposed this may be directed at punters checking out igaming websites!
On that subject, clean bill of health by the way to Virgin Games, PartyCasino, Noble Casino, BetUS and Captain Cooks. Party now has the ECOGRA approved label for what its worth. If you blinked and missed it, Virgin Casino - Virgin Games is not available for Australian or U.S players at the moment, however Virgin are interested in expanding their gaming and igaming services to a number of counties that their CEO considers currently in the "grey area". As covered in detail by Gambling911 and eGaming Review, Virgin also plans to expand its virtual world project in conjunction with Game Domain International - AWOMO (A World Of My Own). Virgin's big cheese says they are aiming to become a "total gaming destination". Last month PartyCasino won the Casino News Media Online Casino Of The Month award and Virgin Casino scored second place.
Kevin "Bloody" Rudd VS Tony "The Bruiser" Abbott; Punters tipping Julie Gillard to replace Rudd within 6 months and that Senator Stephen Conroy won't last in his position. Centrebet is offering $4 on Julia Gillard replacing Kev in the hot seat by the next election.
Prime Minister Kevin Rudd is rattled over his government's failings and his own political mortality, federal Opposition Leader Tony Abbott says.
Mr Rudd made an on-air apology during a television interview yesterday for the government's home insulation scheme and for his own delay over an election promise to reform the public hospital system.
The most recent poll of NSW voters in The Sun-Herald indicates that, on a two-party preferred basis, both sides of politics have 50 per cent of the vote - a drop of almost three percentage points on Labor's election-winning 52.7 per cent in 2007.
Mr Rudd said the government took a "whacking" in the polls and expects Labor to take "an even bigger whacking" with voters in the future.
Mr Abbott today accused the Mr Rudd of "getting a headline" with his "I'm sorry routine" but noted that the government's failings had affected Mr Rudd.
"I think he looked just rattled," Mr Abbott told reporters in Sydney.
"I think the problem is that the Prime Minister is rattled by intimations of political mortality.
"I think he's shocked by the scale of his government's own ineptitude. I think that's what got him rattled."
The Idiots Guide to iGaming politics and What It Means To Punters In Practical Terms
Numerous gaming and igaming laws are confusing and often controdict each other. Even the USDOJ (United States Department of Justice) and the EU (European Union) can't agree on many aspects.
United States - some states of the U.S are more igaming and gaming friendly than others. There's been numerous poker and online poker cases in the courts over the years and often the judge throws the case out of court or the online poker players win. The Poker Players Alliance, Poker News Daily and iGaming Business - CAP have been doing a very solid job of covering the weekly saga of politics mixed with gambling, as have our friends at Gambling911.
Australians can play casino games and poker at PartyCasino, Noble Casino, PKR, PokerStars, BetUS. Aussies can't current play at Virgin Casino, nor can Americans.
Special "anti filter devices" are predicted to hit the American and Australian blackmarket (pubs and hotels et al) within months, and insiders say the Aussie "blacklist" and proposed internet filter was the undisputed catalyst for the development. "Demand is sky high and people will pay considerably for the convenience and benefits", said a reliable source who has chosen not to be identified.
Punters and gaming entrepreneurs, we recommend you get up to speed with the financial ins, outs and all round offerings from a bush tucker bag of online casinos, credit cards and the like. Little birdie tell us that VISA, American Express and many others will soon not touch anything online gambling related with 10 foot barge pole. Next thing online casino owners will have to hand deliver bags full of cash to their hard working affiliate partners!
Betfair Tax Breaks
The Tasmanian Government has offered tax breaks to keep the gambling agency Betfair in the state.
Labor has revealed that before it went into caretaker mode, it made an agreement with the company half-owned by James Packer.
The deal would see Betfair keep its call centre and 130 jobs in Hobart for the next 10 years.
The Premier, David Bartlett says the agreement will cost taxpayers about $2 million over the next two years, but he says the deal will save jobs, and quickly pay for itself.
"In the short-term, yes there will be a revenue decrease," he says.
"But that revenue decrease will be more than offset by 130 jobs on site, and increased transaction rates, over the life of the next five to 10 years."
The agreement will not be formally approved until parliament returns after the March 20 state election.
Australian Horse Racing
Racing Victoria chief steward Terry Bailey has dropped the bombshell that all 10 rides of Danny Nikolic remain under investigation.
While many thought the far-reaching investigation solely revolved around the charges brought on Friday, Bailey said stewards had not concluded their probe.
Bailey said stewards would this week focus on the charges against Nikolic and former bookmaker Neville Clements, which centre on their refusal to provide certain items to the investigation.
"We'll cross one bridge at a time," Bailey said.
"The investigation (into the 10 rides) is ongoing. Until such time as we get all the evidence ... then we will hand down some decisions."
As the investigation intensified, the fallout saw:
AUSTRALIAN Jockeys' Association reaffirm its opposition to betting exchanges.
NIKOLIC'S elder brother, John, relinquish his trainer's licence in Queensland.
VICTORIA'S first integrity commissioner, Sal Perna, who starts in his new job today, likely to be asked to inquire into several aspects of the investigation.
BAILEY decline to comment on any correlation between phone records and horses being laid to lose on Betfair.
AJA chairman Ross Inglis said the innuendo surrounding Nikolic and New South Wales jockey John Keating only strengthened the association's view that betting exchanges had no place in racing.
Inglis said even when a jockey was 100 per cent innocent, the implication of someone laying a horse the jockey rode remained.
"We were opposed from day one and we remain opposed," Inglis said.
He said the AJA was "very annoyed" that innuendo hovered over Nikolic concerning the 10-rides, given the exhaustive nature of the investigation.
John Nikolic , embroiled in a Queensland Racing inquiry, said attempts to link his brother to his probe had forced him to get out of the industry.
John Nikolic and Keating are involved in an inquiry into the run of beaten favourite Baby Bonus at Sunshine Coast in January.
"I'm pretty much over this crap," Nikolic said.
"I sold my stables the other day and I'll be sending a letter to Queensland Racing on Monday to let them know I'll be relinquishing my licence.
"I was just training as a hobby, racing a few horses with friends.
"When it's no longer enjoyable and I'm getting negative publicity and it's impacting on my family, it's time to get out."
It is believed Perna will be asked to look at all aspects of the Nikolic case, particularly how it found its way into the media.
Bailey said the investigation into Nikolic's rides would continue once Thursday's inquiry - which will be open to the media - concluded.
He said stewards were obliged to ask questions, regardless of who was involved, until they were satisfied they had all the answers.
Bailey declined to comment on whether any trainer was unhappy with any of the 10 Nikolic rides in question.
Nikolic faces a charge of refusing to give stewards his mobile phone and also leaving the area of the jockeys' room at Flemington to phone Clements on New Year's Day.
Clements, who is not a licensed person, must answer a charge of not providing stewards his " complete and original phone records" for a five-month period.
Magic Millions - Media, advertising and racing tycoon John Singleton has been in discussions with long time friend and associate, Gerry Harvey, as to whether Magic Millions should remain on the Gold Coast or to send the annual main even further south to Melbourne.
Problem Gamblers - Women More Than Men Become Problems
University of Queensland researcher Dr Timothy Lee says women now make up 64 per cent of the nation's poker machine users.
He says strategies to combat problem gambling should be tailored to include the habits of female gamblers.
"They tend to prefer some simple type of gambling and they are easily addicted," he said.
"They also have some tendency to hide their gambling activities and behaviour."
Erica Baxter in line for ARIA award
Casino King James Packer's wife Erica Baxter, along with actor Toni Collette and the late Belinda Emmett, are all in the running for an ARIA award nomination this year.
The three are among those eligible for nomination in the Best Female category. All three artists had full-length albums that were released in Australia in the past 12 months. Comon' Erica, go for the jackpot! John Singleton's most vocally talented daughter, Sally Bell has written a ripper song about race horses and her SONY BMG agreement is understood to be going fantastic. The Singleton's have been spotted at Sydney's Piano Bar on more than one occasion.
New South Wales Deaf Poker Championship
No, its not a bad joke. Poker has become extremely popular with the deaf.
Sokong Kim, founding member of Deaf Poker Australia, organised the first Australian Deaf Poker Championship in August, 2009, and he said the response was overwhelming.
“We attracted 88 players from across Australia in the first ever championship,” Mr Kim said.
“The atmosphere was excellent and the Australian Poker League was impressed.”
Mr Kim hopes for a similar response at the state championship. Players must have some form of hearing loss and understand Australian Sign Language (Auslan) to compete.
“We also welcome interpreters, workers, and all people with deaf family members,” Mr Kim said.
“The idea is to make it a charity event and gather together a range of people who make up the deaf community through poker.”
Players who progress to the final table will win a seat in the monthly regional Australian Poker League tournament.
The overall winner receives a seat at the Australian Poker League Pro Open and elects a deaf organisation to receive the proceeds.
For more information contact Burwood RSL or Deaf Poker Australia.
Media Man "Art Of War" Tactics And Wrestling - UFC - Casino connection
As discussion heats up in Australia and the U.S about further regulating the igaming and gaming industry, virtual land grabs (domain name purchases) and land development (website development) remains the order of the day. This week sees the Media Man group re launch Poker News Media, Virtual Worlds Media and Wrestling News Media. Wrestling you say? Yes, Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair both have major gaming and igaming deals, and Kevin Nash (once known as Vinnie Vegas) also has gaming on his official website. Flair's still pushing for his NC Education deal to be expanded across America... Wooooo! Historically its been proved that there is considerable cross over audience between wrestling and casinos. Pity fans can't bet on matches (since the "winner" is predetermined... some might argue the odd horse race and boxing match is also). Over a decade ago World Wrestling Entertainment actually purchased a casino in Vegas, but went on later sell it for a profit (cop that Donald Trump). UFC also enjoys a strong association in the casino sector with Frank and Lorenzo Fertitta owning the Station Casinos operation, based in Summerlin, Nevada. In addition, the UFC is one of the most popular sports in the world for taking sports bets. Closer to home, North Sydney's NextGen Gaming is rumored to be working on an Andre The Giant online slot game. If anyone can topple Party's and Virgin's King Kong slot it would be Andre.
Financial Markets
CWN - CROWN LIMITED $8.0200
TAH - TABCORP HOLDINGS LIMITED $6.8300
CIL - CENTREBET INTERNATIONAL LIMITED $1.4600
Australians Remain In World's Top Ten Gambling Nations
Australians spend about $18 billion a year on gambling, and almost a third of that flows to state revenue. The United States is understood to be the current leading spenders on gambling and in recent years China via the Macau connection have been raking it in. No doubt Australia's James Packer wouldn't mind to make the Guinness World Records List for most profitable casino group with his Crown-Melco City Of Dreams Macau.
The late news... City Of Dreams is not interested in selling to Harrah's Entertainment (or anyone else) for the foreseeable future.
Till next time, keep it fun, stay legal, and bet with your head, not over it. Still time to decide it you want your coffee and internet filtered or non-filtered. Make your vote count! Aussie Election possible within 6 months. Aussie Aussie Aussie, Oi Oi, Oi.
*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company
*The writer owns shares in Crown Casino
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Casino News Media
Casino News Media.net
Global Gaming Directory
Global Gaming Directory.net
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Betfair Announces 10-year commitment to Tasmania - 22nd February 2010
Another milestone in the Betfair Australia story was reached today as the company announced an in-principle agreement with the Tasmanian Government to keep its operations there for a further 10 years.
“Today's announcement is an important step towards providing long-term certainty for Betfair in Australia and its Tasmanian workforce,” said Betfair Australia's CEO, Andrew Twaits.
“We were under a lot of pressure to prove ourselves as a company here in Australia, and we've well and truly done that. In the last four years, we've helped to reshape the wagering landscape in areas of integrity, harm minimisation and industry funding for racing and sports. Importantly, we've also encouraged a better deal for punters.
“This agreement is a big step forward for the future of racing, not only in Tasmania, but right across Australia. Our contribution to both racing and sports has been significant and we look forward to continuing our commitment right across the country.”
The new agreement is subject to various conditions including approval by the Tasmanian Gaming Commission and legislation being passed by the new parliament to reduce the tax on betting exchanges to 5% of gross revenue.
Betfair Australia commenced operations at its Hobart headquarters in February 2006 after it became the first betting exchange to be licensed in Australia. Today the business employs 135 staff, matches more than 1 million bets a day and has 135,000 Australian and New Zealand customers.
The company has also contributed more than $5m in product fees directly to racing and sports as well as nearly $8m in sponsorships. In Tasmania Betfair has contributed in excess of $20m to the local economy.
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Australian Casino News
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Global Gaming Directory
“Today's announcement is an important step towards providing long-term certainty for Betfair in Australia and its Tasmanian workforce,” said Betfair Australia's CEO, Andrew Twaits.
“We were under a lot of pressure to prove ourselves as a company here in Australia, and we've well and truly done that. In the last four years, we've helped to reshape the wagering landscape in areas of integrity, harm minimisation and industry funding for racing and sports. Importantly, we've also encouraged a better deal for punters.
“This agreement is a big step forward for the future of racing, not only in Tasmania, but right across Australia. Our contribution to both racing and sports has been significant and we look forward to continuing our commitment right across the country.”
The new agreement is subject to various conditions including approval by the Tasmanian Gaming Commission and legislation being passed by the new parliament to reduce the tax on betting exchanges to 5% of gross revenue.
Betfair Australia commenced operations at its Hobart headquarters in February 2006 after it became the first betting exchange to be licensed in Australia. Today the business employs 135 staff, matches more than 1 million bets a day and has 135,000 Australian and New Zealand customers.
The company has also contributed more than $5m in product fees directly to racing and sports as well as nearly $8m in sponsorships. In Tasmania Betfair has contributed in excess of $20m to the local economy.
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Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Betfair tax breaks - 22nd February 2010
The Tasmanian Government has offered tax breaks to keep the gambling agency Betfair in the state.
Labor has revealed that before it went into caretaker mode, it made an agreement with the company half-owned by James Packer.
The deal would see Betfair keep its call centre and 130 jobs in Hobart for the next 10 years.
The Premier, David Bartlett says the agreement will cost taxpayers about $2 million over the next two years, but he says the deal will save jobs, and quickly pay for itself.
"In the short-term, yes there will be a revenue decrease," he says.
"But that revenue decrease will be more than offset by 130 jobs on site, and increased transaction rates, over the life of the next five to 10 years."
The agreement will not be formally approved until parliament returns after the March 20 state election.
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Global Gaming Directory
Global Gaming Directory.net
Labor has revealed that before it went into caretaker mode, it made an agreement with the company half-owned by James Packer.
The deal would see Betfair keep its call centre and 130 jobs in Hobart for the next 10 years.
The Premier, David Bartlett says the agreement will cost taxpayers about $2 million over the next two years, but he says the deal will save jobs, and quickly pay for itself.
"In the short-term, yes there will be a revenue decrease," he says.
"But that revenue decrease will be more than offset by 130 jobs on site, and increased transaction rates, over the life of the next five to 10 years."
The agreement will not be formally approved until parliament returns after the March 20 state election.
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Media Man International
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Australian Casino News
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Casino News Media.net
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Global Gaming Directory
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Monday, February 22, 2010
Australian Gambling: James Packer Vows to Help Jobless, by Greg Tingle - 22nd February 2010
Australian casino king and major media player, James Packer, has vowed to help ease plight of Australia's jobless.
Entitled the Australian Employment Covenant, the Rudd government-backed initiative aims to find 50,000 jobs for indigenous Australians. As the project rolls out Australia will get to know it as Generation One.
In an extremely rare interview, Linda Silmalis of News Limited's The Sunday Telegraph was able to secure a telephone interview with Mr Packer.
The casino comeback king wouldn't be pushed on politics (recently enjoying a spot of golf with Sen. Stephen Conroy might do that to a man), but he opened right up when it came to social and community matters, with a focus on getting Indigenous Australians sustainable employment.
The Packer empire includes Australia's Crown Casino, Burswood Entertainment Centre, City Of Dreams, Macau and Altira Macau. Mr Packer also has a share in pay TV operator, Foxtel.
Crown Casino is strongly indicating it will employ a significant number of indigenous Australian and Team Packer is also communicating with corporate Australia on how they can be part of this historic project.
Packer is collaborating with Aussie mining king Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest. A bush tucker bag of other great Aussie's are also assisting including but not limited to News Limited chairman Rupert Murdoch, Seven Network boss Kerry Stokes, and of course wife, Erica Baxter. Murdoch did some historic campaigning for Indigenous Australia whilst editor of Adelaide's The News circa 1959, later being showcased in modern classic, 'Black and White'.
There's considerable resources at hand, and by Packer speak, this is a hand up, not a hand out. However, to kick-start things Kerry Stokes and Packer are both putting in $2 million for a start.
In the telephone interview with Linda Silmalis of The Sunday Telegraph, "Kerry and I are each putting in $2 million to the project and we're doing it because we believe in Andrew's vision.
"It is not another welfare program. Both the Covenant and Generation One are about getting actual outcomes. We have actually got some bona fides in this area - Crown is already up to 75 jobs. We want to get it up into the hundreds.
"The goal is to work with people in businesses to try to get training and job placements.
"When someone gets training within a specific business, it makes it far more likely they will get a home in that business."
"I think with anyone, when they have a child, it opens up a new dimension to your life".
"I got to spend a year in the Northern Territory as a jackeroo and that gave me exposure to the way some Aboriginal communities are that others never get.
"I got to see good things and some not so good things. I always had a desire to do something, but I needed the right opportunity, and Andrew's vision and infectious enthusiasm made it easy for me to become involved.
"Andrew and I went to see Kerry Stokes, and we said, 'We'd love you to do this with us', and he agreed.
"At the casino, we are training people in hospitality, in security, areas where it will lead to jobs. I think corporate Australia wants to do more and it will become easier as more people become involved.
"It is a good concept and I think it will become easier as time goes on."
Media Man applauds the Packer - Forrest and friends collaboration that clearly demonstrates a far reaching way of demonstrating one's real wealth. We are also hopeful that both the Labor and Liberal party pick up on some of Mr Packer's wisdom when it comes to matters such as the internet and censorship. Mr Packer famously said "Internet is like electricity", something Media Man and Gambling911 management and readers are well aware of, as is Senator Conroy. As of this writing Sen Conroy has remained silent on mentions of himself in comparisons with award winning documentary, 'Casino Jack and the United States of Money'.
On a lighter note Sen. Conroy has turned out to be quite the sportsman, not only a keen golfer, but a passionate snowboarder, even getting a trip away to enjoy the Winter Olympics in Vancouver. Let's just hope that Conroy's recent collaborations with Team Packer and friends help produce some gold for many parties, starting with both indigenous Australia and internet gaming fans and entrepreneurs. Aussie Aussie Aussie, Oi Oi Oi!
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. http://www.mediamanint.com
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Entitled the Australian Employment Covenant, the Rudd government-backed initiative aims to find 50,000 jobs for indigenous Australians. As the project rolls out Australia will get to know it as Generation One.
In an extremely rare interview, Linda Silmalis of News Limited's The Sunday Telegraph was able to secure a telephone interview with Mr Packer.
The casino comeback king wouldn't be pushed on politics (recently enjoying a spot of golf with Sen. Stephen Conroy might do that to a man), but he opened right up when it came to social and community matters, with a focus on getting Indigenous Australians sustainable employment.
The Packer empire includes Australia's Crown Casino, Burswood Entertainment Centre, City Of Dreams, Macau and Altira Macau. Mr Packer also has a share in pay TV operator, Foxtel.
Crown Casino is strongly indicating it will employ a significant number of indigenous Australian and Team Packer is also communicating with corporate Australia on how they can be part of this historic project.
Packer is collaborating with Aussie mining king Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest. A bush tucker bag of other great Aussie's are also assisting including but not limited to News Limited chairman Rupert Murdoch, Seven Network boss Kerry Stokes, and of course wife, Erica Baxter. Murdoch did some historic campaigning for Indigenous Australia whilst editor of Adelaide's The News circa 1959, later being showcased in modern classic, 'Black and White'.
There's considerable resources at hand, and by Packer speak, this is a hand up, not a hand out. However, to kick-start things Kerry Stokes and Packer are both putting in $2 million for a start.
In the telephone interview with Linda Silmalis of The Sunday Telegraph, "Kerry and I are each putting in $2 million to the project and we're doing it because we believe in Andrew's vision.
"It is not another welfare program. Both the Covenant and Generation One are about getting actual outcomes. We have actually got some bona fides in this area - Crown is already up to 75 jobs. We want to get it up into the hundreds.
"The goal is to work with people in businesses to try to get training and job placements.
"When someone gets training within a specific business, it makes it far more likely they will get a home in that business."
"I think with anyone, when they have a child, it opens up a new dimension to your life".
"I got to spend a year in the Northern Territory as a jackeroo and that gave me exposure to the way some Aboriginal communities are that others never get.
"I got to see good things and some not so good things. I always had a desire to do something, but I needed the right opportunity, and Andrew's vision and infectious enthusiasm made it easy for me to become involved.
"Andrew and I went to see Kerry Stokes, and we said, 'We'd love you to do this with us', and he agreed.
"At the casino, we are training people in hospitality, in security, areas where it will lead to jobs. I think corporate Australia wants to do more and it will become easier as more people become involved.
"It is a good concept and I think it will become easier as time goes on."
Media Man applauds the Packer - Forrest and friends collaboration that clearly demonstrates a far reaching way of demonstrating one's real wealth. We are also hopeful that both the Labor and Liberal party pick up on some of Mr Packer's wisdom when it comes to matters such as the internet and censorship. Mr Packer famously said "Internet is like electricity", something Media Man and Gambling911 management and readers are well aware of, as is Senator Conroy. As of this writing Sen Conroy has remained silent on mentions of himself in comparisons with award winning documentary, 'Casino Jack and the United States of Money'.
On a lighter note Sen. Conroy has turned out to be quite the sportsman, not only a keen golfer, but a passionate snowboarder, even getting a trip away to enjoy the Winter Olympics in Vancouver. Let's just hope that Conroy's recent collaborations with Team Packer and friends help produce some gold for many parties, starting with both indigenous Australia and internet gaming fans and entrepreneurs. Aussie Aussie Aussie, Oi Oi Oi!
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. http://www.mediamanint.com
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Monday, February 15, 2010
Cyber attacks against Australia 'will continue' - 12th February 2010
An activist group that temporarily blocked access to key Australian government websites plans to continue its cyber attacks, the BBC has learned.
The group, known as Anonymous, was protesting against the Australian government's proposals to apply filters to the internet in the country.
A man claiming to be a representative of the group said that around 500 people were involved in the attack.
The method they are using is known as Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS).
DDoS is illegal in many countries including the United Kingdom. There is no indication that the attack was carried out from within Britain. DDoS attacks typically call on machines in many different nations, making them hard to trace.
The sites were intermittently blocked on 10 and 11 February. The action has been condemned by various bodies including the Systems Administrators Guild of Australia (SAGE-AU) and Electronic Frontiers Australia.
"All it takes is a few people to basically send junk traffic to their websites which is causing them to be offline," the man, calling himself Coldblood, told BBC News.
"The people who are currently attacking (the government websites) are planning to keep doing it. It will probably keep happening until either they get bored or it gets sorted out."
The sites are currently back online but the domains of individual politicians, including that of Stephen Conroy (minister for broadband, communications and the digital economy), were among those targeted.
Web filters
Anonymous is protesting against Australia's plan to apply a country-wide filter to block certain content in 2011.
The Australian government has said that trials have shown the filtering technology to be 100% effective in preventing access to designated sites.
The banned sites would be selected by an independent classifications body guided by public complaints, Senator Conroy has said.
He said the aim of the filter is to make the internet a safer place for Australian children.
Speaking to the BBC, Coldblood said that the activists did not support the creation of illegal content but that banning it would not tackle the issue.
"If something is illegal which is done on the internet the government should try and prosecute them," he said.
"If they ban it it will just appear somewhere again. What they really need to do is go after the people who are making this content."
The group consists of "a few thousand people" based all over the world Coldblood said.
They staged cyber attacks on Iran following the election protests and have publicly protested against the Scientology movement.
This was sparked after the Church of Scientology requested the removal of a clip from YouTube featuring Hollywood actor Tom Cruise.
"One of our main missions is against censorship on the internet," said Coldblood.
The group had not had any direct contact with the Australian government, he added.
SAGE-AU said the attack was "the wrong way to express disagreement with the proposed law."
"The impact of DOS attacks is frequently felt less by government agencies than by system administrators, many of them SAGE-AU members, who are responsible for managing websites and servers," continues a statement on its website.
YouTube in Australia
Senator Conroy has also contacted Google requesting that the company begins to filter YouTube content in the country.
Google says that while it complies with the laws of the individual countries in which it has a presence, it would only investigate and consider removing content after receiving a "valid legal request" about something already posted on the site.
"We first check that the request meets both the letter and spirit of the law, and we will seek to narrow it if the request is overly broad," said a spokesperson.
"YouTube is a platform for free expression. We have clear policies about what is allowed and not allowed on the site." (Credit: BBC)
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The group, known as Anonymous, was protesting against the Australian government's proposals to apply filters to the internet in the country.
A man claiming to be a representative of the group said that around 500 people were involved in the attack.
The method they are using is known as Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS).
DDoS is illegal in many countries including the United Kingdom. There is no indication that the attack was carried out from within Britain. DDoS attacks typically call on machines in many different nations, making them hard to trace.
The sites were intermittently blocked on 10 and 11 February. The action has been condemned by various bodies including the Systems Administrators Guild of Australia (SAGE-AU) and Electronic Frontiers Australia.
"All it takes is a few people to basically send junk traffic to their websites which is causing them to be offline," the man, calling himself Coldblood, told BBC News.
"The people who are currently attacking (the government websites) are planning to keep doing it. It will probably keep happening until either they get bored or it gets sorted out."
The sites are currently back online but the domains of individual politicians, including that of Stephen Conroy (minister for broadband, communications and the digital economy), were among those targeted.
Web filters
Anonymous is protesting against Australia's plan to apply a country-wide filter to block certain content in 2011.
The Australian government has said that trials have shown the filtering technology to be 100% effective in preventing access to designated sites.
The banned sites would be selected by an independent classifications body guided by public complaints, Senator Conroy has said.
He said the aim of the filter is to make the internet a safer place for Australian children.
Speaking to the BBC, Coldblood said that the activists did not support the creation of illegal content but that banning it would not tackle the issue.
"If something is illegal which is done on the internet the government should try and prosecute them," he said.
"If they ban it it will just appear somewhere again. What they really need to do is go after the people who are making this content."
The group consists of "a few thousand people" based all over the world Coldblood said.
They staged cyber attacks on Iran following the election protests and have publicly protested against the Scientology movement.
This was sparked after the Church of Scientology requested the removal of a clip from YouTube featuring Hollywood actor Tom Cruise.
"One of our main missions is against censorship on the internet," said Coldblood.
The group had not had any direct contact with the Australian government, he added.
SAGE-AU said the attack was "the wrong way to express disagreement with the proposed law."
"The impact of DOS attacks is frequently felt less by government agencies than by system administrators, many of them SAGE-AU members, who are responsible for managing websites and servers," continues a statement on its website.
YouTube in Australia
Senator Conroy has also contacted Google requesting that the company begins to filter YouTube content in the country.
Google says that while it complies with the laws of the individual countries in which it has a presence, it would only investigate and consider removing content after receiving a "valid legal request" about something already posted on the site.
"We first check that the request meets both the letter and spirit of the law, and we will seek to narrow it if the request is overly broad," said a spokesperson.
"YouTube is a platform for free expression. We have clear policies about what is allowed and not allowed on the site." (Credit: BBC)
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