G'day punters, casino and gambling millionaires and billionaires, legal eagles, government officials...one and all. Australia's capital, Canberra, may be getting slots in its casino sooner rather than latter, tipped to win its 16 year battle for the 'bandits'. We also learn that the offline gambling world continues to ramp up its business dealings with the online gaming sector. We've also got the connection between NRL clubs and pokies, and lots more.. Media Man and Gambling911 take you on another voyage of discovery down under to Australia...
Casino Canberra In Nations Capital Tipped To Get Pokies; Punters Rejoice After 18 Years...
Punters in Canberra may not have to wait much longer before they can play the likes of Cleopatra, Black Rhino, Where's The Gold, Gone Fishing, Top Gun, Monopoly, Outback Jack and the rest of their pokie friends, some of which are found via online portals like Media Man International and Casino News Media.
Casino Canberra have been fighting for pokies for 16-years to operate the 'one armed bandits' out of its Glebe Park gambling den. ACT Labor Party insiders have leaked that former treasurer Ted Quinlan will recommend in his considerable review of the region's revenue base that the casino be allowed to operate machines in the venue. The casino has been lobbying to have pokies since 1995, when it says the opening of 'Sin City' Sydney's Star City Casino whacked them in the guts. Last year it raised the stakes by offering the ACT Government a whopping $10 million one-off payment simply to be allowed to operate the machines. To date the Government has not budged and refused flat out to permit any departure from Canberra's "not-for-profit" business model of distribution of machines. The ACT Labor Party snatched in excess of $600,000 in revenue from its Labor Club pokies operation last year, according to returns from the ACT Electoral Commission. Gaming Minister Andrew Barr has refused to discuss the matter as we go to print. Mr Quinlan has been commissioned to conduct a "root-and-branch review" of the entire ACT tax system, including gambling revenues, and it's understood he told party colleagues that he was preparing to recommend that the casino be granted its long time wish for 200 machines. It's believed that Quinlan noted that the Productivity Commission observed last year, "the prohibition on Canberra casino's operation of gaming machines is difficult to justify". Quinlan refused to confirm or deny the reports as we approach print. "I won't enter into the discussion". Casino Canberra marketing manager Peter Cursley said a recommendation from the Quinlan Review for pokies at the casino would be acknowledging the weight of evidence. "There's been a number of government-commissioned reports," he said. "All those reports have all either suggested that there should be machines in the casino or stated that there would be no harm done by machines in the casino." The casino has long argued pokies would contribute 30% in gross gaming revenue tax, delivering an annual revenue stream of about $4 million to the ACT Government. Canberra punters have been patiently waiting over a decade to play classic slots like Cleopatra, Monopoly and Wheel Of Fortune in their home state of Canberra and insiders are tipping the casino may just grant them their wish within the next few months. Time will tell if it would be a true win - win - win, but Casino Canberra would surly win. Canberra based players continue to play online poker machines in the meantime or travel to Melbourne's Crown or Sydney's Star City...of course in search of the elusive jackpots.
NRL Clubs Look To Make Up For Shotfall; Result Of Proposed Pokie Law Changes...
The National Rugby League clubs in 'Sin City' Sydney have a list of requests (getting closer to demands we hear) to offset the effect on their takings, should the Aussie government implement proposals like 'smart cards' onto 'one armed bandits' (slots aka pokies). The licensed clubs which are behind the footy clubs estimate the dip in revenue and cost of implementing the changes in attempt to reduce problem gambling will force them to cease many community support initiatives, like nurturing up and coming junior players, helping out aged care, schools and the like. It's the flow on effect. Should the federal government keep at these gaming reforms, clubs reckon a couple of things will assist them on the bean counter side of things...
The election of a Coalition government in NSW
A billion-dollar broadcasting deal for rugby league
A High Court decision upholding a turnover tax on wagering
The NSW state election will be on March 26 and Labor is set to go down for the count in spectacular fashion. The Coalition (Liberals and Nationals) have inked a memorandum of understanding with Sydney's whale size licensed clubs giving them tax relief on pokies, snatching St George Leagues Club (The Dragons) $800,000. Clubs with larger gambling revenue (Penrith Panthers and Canterbury Bulldogs), will also get more of the action. St George's annual contribution to football is $3 million: $2.7 million is put aside to the NRL team and $300,000 to the club's junior representative teams. Media deals can also be a big part of the financial future of clubs. The clubs are seeking a billion-dollar TV rights deal. This would effectively raise the NRL's revenue from broadcasting by a massive 50%, and would be expected to double the NRL's annual grant to its 16 clubs, currently at $3.5 million. We will have to wait until the conclusion of the end of next season to see what happens with the TV contract. Free-to-air rights holder, Network Nine, has committed to pay more for the content, while Network Ten and Channel Seven have advised they are in the running to make bids to attempt to snatch the TV rights offerings. Tax is always a big thing for business. A 1.5 per cent turnover tax on wagering, is tipped to increase NRL revenue by as much as $20 mill. Sweet money if you can get it. This would facilitate the NRL to grab higher product fees, further increase annual club grants and thus reduce clubs' dependence on 'one armed bandits'. The news is not all good for the clubs. Friday's High Court decision granting Northern Territory corporate bookmakers and Betfair leave to appeal against a Federal Court decision upholding the turnover tax may play on the minds of the Sydney NRL club powers that be. It does't mean the High Court will reverse the Federal Court decision that gives legitimacy to product fees being based on the existing gross profit model, however NRL clubs would have preferred the High Court did not grant leave to appeal. The federal government's agenda to address problem gambling is set out in a memorandum to the presidents of licensed clubs on March 3 we understand. The Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Jenny Macklin, favours a pre-commitment scheme where "We use technology to give people a tool, at the beginning of a gambling session, to think about how much they want to spend, set limits and stick to them. Under the model recommended by the Productivity Commission, players can set the limit as high or low as they like and players could choose no limit at all if they prefer." In a letter to the minister on March 9, the general manager of St George Leagues Club, Danny Robinson, set out his board's concerns. "This club cannot afford to spend the estimated costs of $6 million on the required technology to implement such a system. The expected reduction in revenue for this club would be $14 million per year which, together with the costs associated with the implementation of mandatory pre-commitment, would cause this club to close. Closure of this famous club would result in the loss of jobs for hundreds of workers and the loss of facilities enjoyed by over 30,000 members. The club's current contribution of over $4 million per year for sport and sporting facilities would be lost to the community … The club's annual contribution of $300,000 to local hospitals and children with special needs would also be lost." Robinson stages the flow on effects would occur without guarantee a pokie pre-commitment system would work. The system hasn't worked well in other countries with many experts, private and government saying the system is a failure, and a waste of time and money. Gamblers will continue to gamble, especially problem gamblers, with lots of loop holes - fake ID, makes cards, club hopping, removing fingerprints and all manner of other cleaver tactics, in attempt to outsmart 'Big Brother'.
Australia's Aristocrat Rumoured Signed Deal With Online Gaming's Game Account; Other Online Casinos Also Look For New Games...
The whale size casino games provider Aristocrat which supplies some of the hottest casino games to land based casinos around the world has inked a deal with the online gambling company Game Account to provide gaming content to their impressive portfolio of games. GameAccount network who are licensed by Alderney Gambling Control Commission has stated that this deal will be an endeavor to bring Aristocrat's vast library of gaming content to regulated online gaming websites. The initial focus of this new partnership will be based on the European market because the company is based in London and will eventually spread to other regulated markets. Online gamblers are hanging out for high quality content with better gaming experiences and as the online gaming industry grows and matures they plan on providing exactly that, stated Gillian Findlay, the General Manager for Aristocrat. Aristocrat’s games have been hits for many years across the globe and now the goal is to bring these highly recommended games to the online world. In order to make this happen teaming with Game Account which has a robust platform to host their games is a good start and with their relationships with trusted online operators and with the players that frequent their gaming sites this partnership is tipped for success. This new partnership will see a broad selection of Aristocrat games including their best, such as 50 lions and Dolphin Treasure as well as some new and exciting games being developed. Dermot Smurfit the managing Director for Game Account Network said "We are delighted to enable Aristocrat to bring its market leading slots to the online gaming market in Europe.” PartyGaming's PartyCasino.com and Virgin Enterprises Virgin Casino have also been adding new games to the portfolio of late, with NextGen Gaming tipped to add more in the coming months. Party's in house team 'The Games Studio' continues to work on more Hollywood themes and some website portals are also developing their own games, with some work been outsources. Could it be that Gambling911 or Media Man might soon have it's own themed slot games? IGT also continues to release new games via its online arm, WagerWorks. The land based sector of the gambling world continues to get into bed with its online counterpart. Stay tuned.
Adelaide Casino Switches Off Outdoor Pokies...
The Adelaide Casino has turned off poker machines which are installed in its outdoor smoking area, due to some people power pressure. The gaming section was opened last week and has 20 outside poker machines enabling people to gamble while smoking. Some MPs expressed concerns that casino operator SkyCity was trying to exploit a loophole in South Australia's smoking laws, pointing out pubs could not install outdoor pokies. SA Premier Mike Rann said the move was not a good look for the Adelaide Casino. "What they've done looks to most people like trying to get round the rules," he said. "Now if it's legal and there's a loophole then we should look at closing that loophole. "I would like to see the casino do the right thing and I think at the moment what they've done is the wrong thing." SA Gambling Minister Bernard Finnigan has asked gambling control authorities to prepare a report for him. "I've asked the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner for a full report on the matter as to what the current regulations are," he said. "We're certainly committed to making sure that we have smoke-free gambling areas in the casino and elsewhere." Independent Senator Nick Xenophon said SkyCity Casino was exploiting a loophole in legislation by putting machines outside. "We know from the research there's a clear link between gambling and smoking, particularly with poker machines," he said. "Now it can continue, people playing, because they don't go out to get a cigarette break. "It clearly is a breach of the spirit of the legislation. It's a loophole and the Government needs to act now." Independent MLC John Darley also said he would demand the Government act. In a statement, casino general manager David Christian said authorities were notified last December the casino would be putting machines in the area, which was licenced for gambling decades ago.
Former Legal Eagles Ordered To Pay $637k For Trust Breach...
An ex Melbourne lawyer who stole from clients to pay for a gambling addiction, has been ordered to pay $637,000 to the Legal Services Board for breach of trust. Gabriel Werden lost his right to practice law and was sentenced to almost six years in prison in 2006. He was convicted of a string of theft charges and obtaining financial advantage by deception, after admitting he stole $1.1 million from nine clients. Werden claimed he was being threatened by loan sharks, who were helping to pay for his gambling addiction at Crown Casino. The Victorian Supreme Court this morning ordered Werden to pay the Legal Services Board $637,000 for breach of trust.
CEO Magazine Rejects James Packer Interview Rumour...
Bean Media Group, publishers of the influential and highly-regarded business publication, The CEO Magazine, have today refused to confirm reports that The CEO Magazine will be conducting an exclusive interview with Australian businessman, James Packer. The CEO Magazine is Australia's leading business magazine focused directly at high-level executives in Australian companies. The CEO Magazine is a bi-monthly title that provides its readers with a wealth of articles discussing business strategy, expert opinion, analysis, corporate case studies, emerging trends, leadership, growth opportunities and challenges facing our country's leading business leaders. The CEO Magazine explores how Australian businesses can improve the way they manage their operations, staff, technology and supply chains with a view to creating a more profitable and successful business. Whilst The CEO Magazine is extremely meticulous in selection for interviews within the title, rumours of a one-on-one interview with James Packer have surfaced this week. "Due to the high profile nature of The CEO Magazine, it is impossible for us to confirm who will be included in upcoming magazines until publication date. Content is kept strictly between the publisher and any leading senior executive that have been chosen for selection," said a spokesperson for publisher, Bean Media Group. The next issue of The CEO Magazine is due out next month. About The CEO Magazine, Australia's leading business title specifically for high-level and senior executives. The publisher of The CEO Magazine is Bean Media Group, a multi-award-winning media company based in Sydney, Australia.
Media Man Looks To Get Own Branded Slot And Classic Games...
In a scoop word leaked that Media Man International has put feelers out for its own branded slot and classics casino games. The rumour mill leaked that they had seen a couple of other websites develop their own games over the years, and they basically feel its time to do the same thing, as a natural part of their business development. They have just started making enquiries to the likes of NextGen Gaming, PartyGaming, Virgin and IGT. Gambling911 is understood to have the exclusive on this one, so yet another reason to not change your dial, unless you want to hop on over to Media Man Int in case any more leaks in the story open up. Media Man often breaks news on its blog network before the site, so that's the tip punters.
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered
Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...
Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...
PartyCasino.com (Many of the world's best slot games. Aussies and Kiwi's welcome).
Captain Cooks Casino
Betfair (sports betting only)
PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)
PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)
Profiles
Australian Casinos
World Casino Directory
Global Gaming Directory
Casino Travel
Casinos
Australia
Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:
Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered
*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited and Network Ten
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Canada
Media Man Games
Media Man Brand
Media Man Network
Casino News Media
Poker News Media
Australian Casino News
Casino News Australia
Global Gaming Directory
Political News Media blog. Australian and international politics. Local, State, Federal. American politics. Part of the Media Man Group
Friday, March 18, 2011
Monday, March 14, 2011
Gambling And Politics Mix In Australia, by Greg Tingle - 14th March 2011
G'day punters, gambling and casino millionaires and billionaires, politicians...one and all. Gambling and politics continue to be a volatile mix of cocktail down under in Australia. Media Man and Gambling911 offer up a triple cocktail with gambling and politics served on the rocks...
Internet Big Part Of Problem Gambling States Another Expert...
Professor of psychology Alex Blaszczynski says internet sports betting is changing the face of problem gamblers seeking help. He says the image of someone sitting at the pokies for hours on end is being replaced by young men gambling on the net. "Today we are seeing many young men who are losing large sums of money from betting on sports over the internet," he said. "They can literally lose a fortune without leaving the comfort of their own home." Figures released by the University of Sydney's gambling clinics show a 70 per cent increase in internet sports betting clients from 2008-9 to 2010-11. "With more and more people gaining access to higher internet speeds and wireless internet via their smart phones, you can gamble anytime and anywhere," Professor Blaszczynski said. He says with football season about to start, he expects an increase in people seeking help for problem gambling on the net. Clinical psychologist Christopher Hunt says increased promotion of gambling through sports media was a concern. "It's difficult to watch most kinds of sporting matches these days without being made aware of the prices that various outlets are giving for bets," he said. He says it is natural that people with an interest in sport try their luck gambling. "Unfortunately some of these people will lose more than they planned to and become problem gamblers," he said.
Joe Hockey Favours Welfare Quarantining...
Shadow treasurer Joe Hockey wants long-term welfare recipients to have their payments managed. Hockey said the long-term unemployed and those on disability pensions should be case managed by Centrelink. "We have to meet head-on the challenge of growing welfare dependency," he told ABC Radio yesterday. Hockey also said people with drug and gambling problems should have their welfare payments quarantined. But Australian Council of Social Service's chief executive Cassandra Goldie said it was the wrong approach. "There is still very little evidence to say that compulsory income management actually makes a difference," she said. Big Brother stays on the gambling and welfare spectrum's, but just how big Big Brother is remains to be seen.
Tasmania: Greens Party Keen To See Community Take On Casinos...
The Tasmanian Greens will push for poker machines in the Federal Group's casinos to be subject to the community support levy, like those in other gaming venues. Leader Nick McKim told Parliament that Tasmanians lost $214 million on poker machines last year. He said applying the community support tax to casino poker machines would raise $2.6 million a year which could be spent on programs to treat gambling addicts. McKim denied his plan would unfairly disadvantage the Federal Group which runs the state's casinos. "Everyone has to pay their way in these tough times," he said. "Secondly Federal Hotels Group have had a very good ride for a very long, long period of time from the Tasmanian Government, and from the Tasmanian people, and it is time as the good corporate citizens they aspire to be, they chipped in."
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered
Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...
Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...
PartyCasino.com (Many of the world's best slot games. Aussies and Kiwi's welcome).
Captain Cooks Casino
Betfair (sports betting only)
PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)
PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)
Profiles
Australian Casinos
World Casino Directory
Global Gaming Directory
Casino Travel
Casinos
Australia
Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:
Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Canada
Media Man Games
Media Man Brand
Media Man Network
Casino News Media
Poker News Media
Australian Casino News
Casino News Australia
Global Gaming Directory
Internet Big Part Of Problem Gambling States Another Expert...
Professor of psychology Alex Blaszczynski says internet sports betting is changing the face of problem gamblers seeking help. He says the image of someone sitting at the pokies for hours on end is being replaced by young men gambling on the net. "Today we are seeing many young men who are losing large sums of money from betting on sports over the internet," he said. "They can literally lose a fortune without leaving the comfort of their own home." Figures released by the University of Sydney's gambling clinics show a 70 per cent increase in internet sports betting clients from 2008-9 to 2010-11. "With more and more people gaining access to higher internet speeds and wireless internet via their smart phones, you can gamble anytime and anywhere," Professor Blaszczynski said. He says with football season about to start, he expects an increase in people seeking help for problem gambling on the net. Clinical psychologist Christopher Hunt says increased promotion of gambling through sports media was a concern. "It's difficult to watch most kinds of sporting matches these days without being made aware of the prices that various outlets are giving for bets," he said. He says it is natural that people with an interest in sport try their luck gambling. "Unfortunately some of these people will lose more than they planned to and become problem gamblers," he said.
Joe Hockey Favours Welfare Quarantining...
Shadow treasurer Joe Hockey wants long-term welfare recipients to have their payments managed. Hockey said the long-term unemployed and those on disability pensions should be case managed by Centrelink. "We have to meet head-on the challenge of growing welfare dependency," he told ABC Radio yesterday. Hockey also said people with drug and gambling problems should have their welfare payments quarantined. But Australian Council of Social Service's chief executive Cassandra Goldie said it was the wrong approach. "There is still very little evidence to say that compulsory income management actually makes a difference," she said. Big Brother stays on the gambling and welfare spectrum's, but just how big Big Brother is remains to be seen.
Tasmania: Greens Party Keen To See Community Take On Casinos...
The Tasmanian Greens will push for poker machines in the Federal Group's casinos to be subject to the community support levy, like those in other gaming venues. Leader Nick McKim told Parliament that Tasmanians lost $214 million on poker machines last year. He said applying the community support tax to casino poker machines would raise $2.6 million a year which could be spent on programs to treat gambling addicts. McKim denied his plan would unfairly disadvantage the Federal Group which runs the state's casinos. "Everyone has to pay their way in these tough times," he said. "Secondly Federal Hotels Group have had a very good ride for a very long, long period of time from the Tasmanian Government, and from the Tasmanian people, and it is time as the good corporate citizens they aspire to be, they chipped in."
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered
Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...
Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...
PartyCasino.com (Many of the world's best slot games. Aussies and Kiwi's welcome).
Captain Cooks Casino
Betfair (sports betting only)
PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)
PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)
Profiles
Australian Casinos
World Casino Directory
Global Gaming Directory
Casino Travel
Casinos
Australia
Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:
Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Canada
Media Man Games
Media Man Brand
Media Man Network
Casino News Media
Poker News Media
Australian Casino News
Casino News Australia
Global Gaming Directory
Monday, March 07, 2011
Aussie MP Seeks iGaming Crackdown; Australia In Top 10 Gambling Nations, by Greg Tingle - 7th March 2011
G'day punters, gamers, legal eagles, law enforcement officials, politicians...one and all. Today a couple more members of Australian Parliament are seeking a crackdown on igaming aka online gambling in Australia. In the meantime, Australia maintains its top 10 status as a gambling nation, thought to be currently about lucky #7 on the list. Media Man and Gambling911 with this crackdown report...
The so called "Independent" MP Andrew Wilkie is ramping up his eagle eye on online gambling, telling numerous Australian press here is strong evidence it is a significant problem and only likely to worsen. Wilkie will request the parliamentary committee to reform the "Wild West" industry, according to the report, after Australians dropped around $1 billion in online gambling last year. While betting on sports and horse racing is legal in Australia, several other online gaming websites and web portals exist, despite some being illegal. People who play the online games are not breaking the law, according to Fairfax Media, a situation Wilkie desires to reverse. "We need to get in here and nip it in the bud, and avoid getting into the situation we have with poker machines, where it's so big and entrenched," Wilkie said. Fairfax Media and competitor, News Limited, already carry a number of wagering options on their website network, mixing in news, pr, sports betting and games (play for free or play for money), a formula other media companies such as Media Man have also followed with significant success.
A Media Man spokesperson said "Offering a wide array of promotions, brands, content, even games, is a popular formula for many Australian media companies in the current landscape. Fairfax Media, News Limited, as well as our Australian and international arm, also offer a range of games, some of which can be played for free or for money. News Limited, Fairfax, nor ourselves, are casinos or sports betting agencies, but we can offer the reader access via b2b agreements. Many legal eagles in Australia believe that Australian laws pertaining to the internet, b2b, affiliates, content sharing and the like are not up to speed with the rest of the world. We believe that the Liberal Party is better equipped to embrace b2b commerce better than the Australian Labour party, but it would be great to see us proved wrong. News Limited, Fairfax Media and Media Man cover over a dozen different business sectors, and gaming, igaming and sports betting are just a couple of them. Betting enjoys a cross over with sport, and gaming also enjoys a cross over with movies themes, be it Marvel Entertainment or Paramount Pictures branded games. Poker is also popular, with big brands such as PartyGaming offering satellites on a yearly basis to the world famous Aussie Millions conducted at James Packer's Crown Casino. iGaming is a big part of the future of b2b commerce this year, and will continue to be. Legal eagles will be busy as the battle for hearts and minds continues, and that's no bluff".
Australia Remains In World's Top 10 Gambling Nations In 2011...
The dinkim Aussies are known for lots of things on the world stage... great beaches, women, beers, great boobs, wildlife, champion athletes, and now, gambling nuts. Yep, some of the world's most passionate punters still call Australia home.
Would you believe there's 1 one armed bandit for 110 people down under. That puts Aussie Land squarely in the top 10 gambling havens, right up there with Monaco (famous for James Bond casino antics) and Macau (hello our friends at James Packer's City of Dreams).
The Aussies have the 8th highest total number of gambling machines, with roughly 187,000 in pubs and clubs aka "pokie palaces", industry stats tell a story of.
Anti-gambling activists aka "gambling haters" and "casino haters" are strongly encouraging the Gillard - ALP Government to adopt a "stop, revive, survive" style approach...similar to the safe driving campaign, in order to assist poker machine reform and introduce a mandatory cut-off period to help people break their habits... if they have a habit, if you follow our lead.
"The player logs in with his or her personal code and the machine stops after, for example, two hours' playing," researcher Charlotte Fabiansson said in research provided to the Government by the Social Justice and Social Change Research Group at the University of Western Sydney.
"The player can choose to take a 15 or 30 minutes, break or take out eventual winnings and leave the machine."
Under Dr Fabiansson's prop, the pokie used by the players would be untouched during their "revive" breaks.
The player should not be able switch to a new machine without the revive break," she said.
Numbers coming from the manufactures of gaming machines show Australia ranks 7th on an worldwide list of pokies per head with one machine for every 110 people.
First place goes to "lucky winner" Monaco, which has one machine for every 16 people. Japan and the Netherlands Antilles were also in the top 10. Countries giving Australia a run for its money include New Zealand and Britain, who rates closer to one machine for every 300 people.
Don't ask us if sheep also play in New Zealand... we don't want to know, but an insider joked "some Kiwi poker machine players are a bit like sheep, even if they don't have wool and have 2 legs instead of 4". The smart ass was having a sledge, and was not at all serious.
Australia is currently 7th we understand for the total number of gaming machines with approx 187,000, but insiders say we are quickly rose to lucky 7th position in bragging rights.
Britain has roughly 217,000 machines but, but has triple the population, has far fewer per capita.
Both the current and former Australian Prime Ministers Julia Gillard and Kevin Rudd, are not big fans of poker machines, with Rudd appearing to have the most hate towards the one armed bandits.
Gillard have recently felt the wrath of the powerful Australian clubs and pubs associations like Clubs Australia and ClubsNSW. Gillards's ALP is up against strong competition from the Aussie states and territories, and the mighty gaming industry.
Last year the Australian Productivity Commission proposed cutting cash payments down to $250 from the present $2000 limit, banning ATM's from all venues and increasing the present shutdown limit for poker machines from 6 hours per day in yet another attempt to fix "problem gambling".
Some of Australia's major banks and financial institutions have also jumped on board the campaign against many of the proposed changes.
They in fact wrote to the Federal Government a few times to state that a plan to limit withdrawal amounts and move ATMs further away from gaming areas would not work.
Anti-pokies campaigner and so called independent Senator Nick Xenophon called on the Federal Government to bypass the states and take action on its own.
"It shouldn't be underestimated what a powerful vested interest the pokie machine industry is from clubs to casinos to manufacturers. Of course they are squealing," he said.
Senator Xenophon said the Federal Government should use its taxation powers to make pokie machines unprofitable.
"It's a question of political will. I believe Kevin Rudd was genuine when he said he hated the pokies and the damage they did to families. But how will those strong words translate into action? He has talked the talk and now he has to walk the walk," Senator Xenophon said. Mr X was talking of Rudd, and he's been just as vocal this year calling on Julia Gillard to step up. Xenophon always has something to say, which is good, as it helps fill up news reports on the touchy subject of gambling.
Mr X has also recently brought more attention to online gambling, which has taken off in a big way down under, with slots and sports betting leading the charge. Media Man data shows that Hollywood and entertainment themed games from the likes of Marvel Entertainment, Paramount Pictures and FremantleMedia are some of the most popular. Even companies behind the the image of Frank Sinatra, Rambo (StudioCanal) and Tarzan (Edgar Rice Burroughs) have jumped on the gambling bandwagon, with more tipped to follow.
Recently James Packer associated media company, Ten Network Holdings, let it be known they see a place for more gambling programming, and leaks say to expect to see a gambling show or channel. Packer recently stepped down from the Ten board, but gaming and igaming remains on their agenda. Insiders say it will be much bigger than 'The Poker Star' which was fronted by former Australian poker world champion (WSOP) Joe Hachem, who these days is one of the faces of Crown Casino, the other being mate, Shane Warnie, never short of a headline or spinning yarn. Network Ten has also recently launched Channel 'Eleven' and insiders say the channel is just begging for gambling shows, adding to the promos currently being seen. Warnie and Hachem also get regular features in the Australian newspapers about their passion for poker and gambling, and both are keen to please their mate and associate, James Packer, the king of Australian gambling, who is now once again a major force in the Australian media landscape. The UK's Virgin king, Richard Branson, has also been watching the Australian gambling and gaming space closely, and has met with 'Our James' at least one time. Branson is understood to not want to do anything in Australia until "grey areas" are cleared up, while Warne's and Hachem's brands appear full speed ahead, as are PartyGaming including its World Poker Tour, PartyPoker and branded games, with more overseas firms wanting to make more of a mark down under including Paddy Power, William Hill Online, PKR and Playtech. PartyGaming's World Poker Tour continues to be broadcast into Australia via Foxtel - Fox Sports and Fox8 we understand, with Foxtel interested to broadcast more poker and casino themed content down under, pushed along by online promotions and b2b agreements, ready for the next range of interactive television developments, (which will have to be signed off by Senator Stephen Conroy and friends, we suspect). The ACMA is also closely monitoring the situation.
A Media Man spokesperson said "Many of the UK and Gibraltar based igaming and gaming companies see Australia and Tasmania are maybe just the next Gibraltar and Alderney, two regions known to be gambling friendly." They went on to clarify "Well, maybe if or when the Australian Liberal Party win the next election. I'm tipping its when, not if".
Media Man conducted a recent street research on the subject of gambling and the results showed that most Australian adults of legal age up do enjoy a punt. Only 1 person in a batch of 10 found gambling "evil", with everyone else saying it was a personal choice. 60% of those who took the survey likened the Australian government's war on pub pokies as to their battle with the Australian mining companies (which many feel left the Australian government with egg on its face).
Stay tuned daily for more on the Australian pokie, gambling and casino wars.
Gillard, Packer, Murdoch (both of you sirs), Branson, Ryan, Trump, Gyngell and Turnbull - you're throw of the dice!
Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Will Australian ever get to #1 position for gambling? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered
*the writer owns shares in Crown Limited, Ten Network Holdings and Virgin.
Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...
Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...
PartyCasino.com
Captain Cooks Casino
Betfair (sports betting only)
PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)
PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)
Profiles
Australian Casinos
World Casino Directory
Global Gaming Directory
Casino Travel
Casinos
Australia
Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:
Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered
*the writer is a fan of Sydney Roosters And South Sydney Rabbitohs
Website Network
Media Man International
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Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Media Man Canada
Media Man Games
Media Man Brand
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Casino News Media
Poker News Media
Global Gaming Directory
The so called "Independent" MP Andrew Wilkie is ramping up his eagle eye on online gambling, telling numerous Australian press here is strong evidence it is a significant problem and only likely to worsen. Wilkie will request the parliamentary committee to reform the "Wild West" industry, according to the report, after Australians dropped around $1 billion in online gambling last year. While betting on sports and horse racing is legal in Australia, several other online gaming websites and web portals exist, despite some being illegal. People who play the online games are not breaking the law, according to Fairfax Media, a situation Wilkie desires to reverse. "We need to get in here and nip it in the bud, and avoid getting into the situation we have with poker machines, where it's so big and entrenched," Wilkie said. Fairfax Media and competitor, News Limited, already carry a number of wagering options on their website network, mixing in news, pr, sports betting and games (play for free or play for money), a formula other media companies such as Media Man have also followed with significant success.
A Media Man spokesperson said "Offering a wide array of promotions, brands, content, even games, is a popular formula for many Australian media companies in the current landscape. Fairfax Media, News Limited, as well as our Australian and international arm, also offer a range of games, some of which can be played for free or for money. News Limited, Fairfax, nor ourselves, are casinos or sports betting agencies, but we can offer the reader access via b2b agreements. Many legal eagles in Australia believe that Australian laws pertaining to the internet, b2b, affiliates, content sharing and the like are not up to speed with the rest of the world. We believe that the Liberal Party is better equipped to embrace b2b commerce better than the Australian Labour party, but it would be great to see us proved wrong. News Limited, Fairfax Media and Media Man cover over a dozen different business sectors, and gaming, igaming and sports betting are just a couple of them. Betting enjoys a cross over with sport, and gaming also enjoys a cross over with movies themes, be it Marvel Entertainment or Paramount Pictures branded games. Poker is also popular, with big brands such as PartyGaming offering satellites on a yearly basis to the world famous Aussie Millions conducted at James Packer's Crown Casino. iGaming is a big part of the future of b2b commerce this year, and will continue to be. Legal eagles will be busy as the battle for hearts and minds continues, and that's no bluff".
Australia Remains In World's Top 10 Gambling Nations In 2011...
The dinkim Aussies are known for lots of things on the world stage... great beaches, women, beers, great boobs, wildlife, champion athletes, and now, gambling nuts. Yep, some of the world's most passionate punters still call Australia home.
Would you believe there's 1 one armed bandit for 110 people down under. That puts Aussie Land squarely in the top 10 gambling havens, right up there with Monaco (famous for James Bond casino antics) and Macau (hello our friends at James Packer's City of Dreams).
The Aussies have the 8th highest total number of gambling machines, with roughly 187,000 in pubs and clubs aka "pokie palaces", industry stats tell a story of.
Anti-gambling activists aka "gambling haters" and "casino haters" are strongly encouraging the Gillard - ALP Government to adopt a "stop, revive, survive" style approach...similar to the safe driving campaign, in order to assist poker machine reform and introduce a mandatory cut-off period to help people break their habits... if they have a habit, if you follow our lead.
"The player logs in with his or her personal code and the machine stops after, for example, two hours' playing," researcher Charlotte Fabiansson said in research provided to the Government by the Social Justice and Social Change Research Group at the University of Western Sydney.
"The player can choose to take a 15 or 30 minutes, break or take out eventual winnings and leave the machine."
Under Dr Fabiansson's prop, the pokie used by the players would be untouched during their "revive" breaks.
The player should not be able switch to a new machine without the revive break," she said.
Numbers coming from the manufactures of gaming machines show Australia ranks 7th on an worldwide list of pokies per head with one machine for every 110 people.
First place goes to "lucky winner" Monaco, which has one machine for every 16 people. Japan and the Netherlands Antilles were also in the top 10. Countries giving Australia a run for its money include New Zealand and Britain, who rates closer to one machine for every 300 people.
Don't ask us if sheep also play in New Zealand... we don't want to know, but an insider joked "some Kiwi poker machine players are a bit like sheep, even if they don't have wool and have 2 legs instead of 4". The smart ass was having a sledge, and was not at all serious.
Australia is currently 7th we understand for the total number of gaming machines with approx 187,000, but insiders say we are quickly rose to lucky 7th position in bragging rights.
Britain has roughly 217,000 machines but, but has triple the population, has far fewer per capita.
Both the current and former Australian Prime Ministers Julia Gillard and Kevin Rudd, are not big fans of poker machines, with Rudd appearing to have the most hate towards the one armed bandits.
Gillard have recently felt the wrath of the powerful Australian clubs and pubs associations like Clubs Australia and ClubsNSW. Gillards's ALP is up against strong competition from the Aussie states and territories, and the mighty gaming industry.
Last year the Australian Productivity Commission proposed cutting cash payments down to $250 from the present $2000 limit, banning ATM's from all venues and increasing the present shutdown limit for poker machines from 6 hours per day in yet another attempt to fix "problem gambling".
Some of Australia's major banks and financial institutions have also jumped on board the campaign against many of the proposed changes.
They in fact wrote to the Federal Government a few times to state that a plan to limit withdrawal amounts and move ATMs further away from gaming areas would not work.
Anti-pokies campaigner and so called independent Senator Nick Xenophon called on the Federal Government to bypass the states and take action on its own.
"It shouldn't be underestimated what a powerful vested interest the pokie machine industry is from clubs to casinos to manufacturers. Of course they are squealing," he said.
Senator Xenophon said the Federal Government should use its taxation powers to make pokie machines unprofitable.
"It's a question of political will. I believe Kevin Rudd was genuine when he said he hated the pokies and the damage they did to families. But how will those strong words translate into action? He has talked the talk and now he has to walk the walk," Senator Xenophon said. Mr X was talking of Rudd, and he's been just as vocal this year calling on Julia Gillard to step up. Xenophon always has something to say, which is good, as it helps fill up news reports on the touchy subject of gambling.
Mr X has also recently brought more attention to online gambling, which has taken off in a big way down under, with slots and sports betting leading the charge. Media Man data shows that Hollywood and entertainment themed games from the likes of Marvel Entertainment, Paramount Pictures and FremantleMedia are some of the most popular. Even companies behind the the image of Frank Sinatra, Rambo (StudioCanal) and Tarzan (Edgar Rice Burroughs) have jumped on the gambling bandwagon, with more tipped to follow.
Recently James Packer associated media company, Ten Network Holdings, let it be known they see a place for more gambling programming, and leaks say to expect to see a gambling show or channel. Packer recently stepped down from the Ten board, but gaming and igaming remains on their agenda. Insiders say it will be much bigger than 'The Poker Star' which was fronted by former Australian poker world champion (WSOP) Joe Hachem, who these days is one of the faces of Crown Casino, the other being mate, Shane Warnie, never short of a headline or spinning yarn. Network Ten has also recently launched Channel 'Eleven' and insiders say the channel is just begging for gambling shows, adding to the promos currently being seen. Warnie and Hachem also get regular features in the Australian newspapers about their passion for poker and gambling, and both are keen to please their mate and associate, James Packer, the king of Australian gambling, who is now once again a major force in the Australian media landscape. The UK's Virgin king, Richard Branson, has also been watching the Australian gambling and gaming space closely, and has met with 'Our James' at least one time. Branson is understood to not want to do anything in Australia until "grey areas" are cleared up, while Warne's and Hachem's brands appear full speed ahead, as are PartyGaming including its World Poker Tour, PartyPoker and branded games, with more overseas firms wanting to make more of a mark down under including Paddy Power, William Hill Online, PKR and Playtech. PartyGaming's World Poker Tour continues to be broadcast into Australia via Foxtel - Fox Sports and Fox8 we understand, with Foxtel interested to broadcast more poker and casino themed content down under, pushed along by online promotions and b2b agreements, ready for the next range of interactive television developments, (which will have to be signed off by Senator Stephen Conroy and friends, we suspect). The ACMA is also closely monitoring the situation.
A Media Man spokesperson said "Many of the UK and Gibraltar based igaming and gaming companies see Australia and Tasmania are maybe just the next Gibraltar and Alderney, two regions known to be gambling friendly." They went on to clarify "Well, maybe if or when the Australian Liberal Party win the next election. I'm tipping its when, not if".
Media Man conducted a recent street research on the subject of gambling and the results showed that most Australian adults of legal age up do enjoy a punt. Only 1 person in a batch of 10 found gambling "evil", with everyone else saying it was a personal choice. 60% of those who took the survey likened the Australian government's war on pub pokies as to their battle with the Australian mining companies (which many feel left the Australian government with egg on its face).
Stay tuned daily for more on the Australian pokie, gambling and casino wars.
Gillard, Packer, Murdoch (both of you sirs), Branson, Ryan, Trump, Gyngell and Turnbull - you're throw of the dice!
Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Will Australian ever get to #1 position for gambling? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered
*the writer owns shares in Crown Limited, Ten Network Holdings and Virgin.
Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...
Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...
PartyCasino.com
Captain Cooks Casino
Betfair (sports betting only)
PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)
PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)
Profiles
Australian Casinos
World Casino Directory
Global Gaming Directory
Casino Travel
Casinos
Australia
Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:
Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered
*the writer is a fan of Sydney Roosters And South Sydney Rabbitohs
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Media Man Canada
Media Man Games
Media Man Brand
Media Man Network
Casino News Media
Poker News Media
Global Gaming Directory
Tuesday, March 01, 2011
Australia Gambling With Legal Eagles And Politics, by Greg Tingle - 1st March 2011
G'day punters, gaming and casino millionaires, billionaires, legal eagles, law enforcement officials, politicians and everyone else. Today we look at a curious situation with a gambler who dropped a heap of money at Crown Casino in Melbourne, pokie lovers and haters in the political scene and a whole lot more. Media Man and Gambling911 with your daily dose of Australian news. Just what the doctor ordered...
High Rolling Aussie Whale Harry Kakavas Avoids Bankruptcy...
Crown casino has not been successful in its attempt send 'High Rolling Harry K' into bankruptcy. The major win for Mr Kakavas at a Collins St creditors meeting means he is now free to chase his $30 mil battle against Crown in the Victorian Court of Appeal. A hearing of his appeal against a Supreme Court judge's dismissal of his $35 million claim against the gaming company for gambling losses is set for June. Kakavas, who owes more than $50 mil, yesterday won the backing of 22 out of 31 creditors, headed by Challenger Bank and all 8 of his legal reps, including top silk Allan Myers, QC. The Gold Coast property tycoon (of sorts) has pledged to pay $555,000 to his creditors over a 10-month period and another $5 million if he wins the appeal against Crown. On Friday, Crown issued an application in the Federal Court attempting to prevent the creditors meeting going ahead. The application was later abandoned. Kakavas, a fully diagnosed "pathological gambler", lost roughly $30 million bucks at Crown circa 2005-06. At the pinnacle of his gambling he was betting up to $300,000 grand on the flip of a single card, once losing a whopping $2.4 million in 43 minutes if you believe the yarn. He has boldly accused the casino of devising a plot to lure him back to the casino with cash incentives and use of a luxury jet. His legal eagles will argue Justice David Harper made 36 errors in his 2009 judgment in favour of James Packer's casino. The appeal will be based on Justice Harper's finding that Kakavas's gambling addiction did not disadvantage him in his dealings with Crown. Kakavas has already paid $210,000 in security costs in order for the appeal to proceed. We're hopeful that things may get resolved amicably, but word is there's bit of bad blood, so stay tuned.
Tattersalls Targets Melbourne Housing Estate For Pokie Palace Fun And Games...
A poker machine venue in a new housing estate in Melbourne's north would be part of a safe and friendly "boutique hotel", gaming giant Tattersalls claims. Tattersalls says in a submission to VCAT that the development would result in many jobs and a big financial investment in Doreen's Laurimar estate. "The benefits are many and should not be lightly treated," it says. The City of Whittlesea and a residents' group led by a local Baptist minister claim a poker machine venue would have a negative impact on the growing community's welfare. The council has gone to VCAT in a bid to overturn a decision by the Victorian Commission for Gambling Regulation to approve the venue. Tattersalls wants to install 40 "one armed bandits" at the planned Laurimar tavern, with annual gaming revenue expected to reach up to $4.2 million. The VCGR has also given the green light to the Bridge Inn hotel, 5km from Laurimar, to put in 40 machines. In its submission, Tattersalls says Laurimar's boutique venue would be safe and friendly and could be managed responsibly. "The proposal would deliver a range of social and recreational opportunities for the community which would facilitate community interaction and sense of place," it says. "The evidence is very much to the effect that this community is advantaged in terms of social cohesion and values to accommodate licensed premises and gaming." The VCGR says in its submission that the City of Whittlesea is one of Melbourne's fastest growing municipalities and there is increasing demand for modern, family friendly sporting, entertainment, dining and social facilities. "The Whittlesea community will benefit from a modern tavern with a range of entertainment options," it says. The commission says it is satisfied that the tavern would be operated by people experienced in electronic gaming machines. The hearing before Judge Felicity Hampel and town planner Anthony Liston continues today. Good or bad idea? The judge will tell us soon enough.
Man Rips Off Employer Of $600,000 To Feed Gambling Addiction...
A problem gambler recruited a Victorian based mate to help with a false invoice scam to rip off nearly $600,000 from his Brisbane based employer, a court heard yesterday. Prosecutor Julie Aylward told the District Court in Brisbane that Leslie Jones had used a persistent and calculated fraud to pinch $583,339 from his employer B and R Enclosures. Ms Aylward said there were 221 false invoices issued of which money was paid on 220. She said no restitution was made and the company had to bear the loss while its profit margin had gone up since Jones had been caught. Judge Kerry O'Brien said there was some complexity about Jones's offending and he had to impose a sentence of seven years' jail. He said, however, after taking into account the mitigating circumstances he would set a parole eligibility date at February 28, 2013.
Jones, 50, pleaded to aggravated fraud between July 24, 1998 and October 5, 2005. Earlier, Aylward outlined how Jones and a man named Kevin Tidball became mates when working for Ford Australia in Victoria and they remained in contact after they both resigned. She said Jones came to Brisbane to work for B and R Enclosures while Tidball opened his own engineering company. B and R Enclosures, a steel fabrication business, outsourced some its work to overseas companies and relied on them to ship goods to Australia in a "timely and cost effective way". Aylward advised Jones was responsible to ensure the goods were shipped to Australia and Jones was aware there was regularly a surplus between the budgeted cost of freight and the actual cost. "It is alleged Jones put in place a process using the services of Tidball to defraud the company of this surplus," she added. Aylward said Jones got Tidball's company to submit invoices which were paid by B and R Enclosures although no actual work had been done. Tidball kept a modest 10% of what was paid and deposited the rest in Jones's bank account. She said Tidball was sentenced to a wholly suspended 12 months' jail in relation to the cunning scam when he appeared in the Brisbane Magistrates Court last year. Barrister James Godbolt, for Jones, said his client had a good work history in England before coming to Australia where he worked at the Ford company in Victoria and then in Brisbane. He said Jones had developed a gambling addiction after a relationship breakdown and a family illness placed him under stress. Godbolt said Jones had since sought assistance to overcome his addiction. Gambling addiction has been linked to dozens of fraud cases that Gambling911 and Media Man have covered over the last number of years.
Terri Irwin's Australia Zoo; Some Financial Challenges But Las Vegas Deal Part Of 10 Year Business Plan...
Steve Irwin made the the globe aware about Australia and its wildlife. He attracted millions of tourists to our great land. Now, five years after his death Australia Zoo numbers are down in a big way. Zoo boss Terri Irwin this week has rejected claims her husband's legacy was at risk, but admitted the zoo had been forced to go through the painful process of shedding 22 employees to cut costs. Mrs Irwin declared the showpiece "had survived for 40 years and would thrive for another 40". She said times were tough for many tourism businesses because of recent devastating weather events. This could not have come at a worse time with official figures showing the numbers of international tourists already were on the slide because of the strong Australian dollar. Ironically, the challenge for Australia Zoo is to engender more support from Australians, especially Queenslanders. Mrs Irwin, whose leadership brought her recognition as Owner Manager of the Year at the Queensland Management Excellence Awards in November, believes local support holds the key to their future success. She urged people to look to their own back yard for amazing holiday experiences instead of heading overseas. "Australians are famous for sticking up for their mates. This is what they do best. We really need them to do this now," she said, adding she would step up her hands-on leadership of the operation and strive to make it even better. Bindi, 12, and Robert, 7, also would continue to help develop the dream, which began when their grandfather Bob founded the Beerwah Reptile and Fauna Park in 1970. Australia Zoo and was propelled to stardom by their parents Steve and Terri, after they took over in 1992. Their passion and vision ensured it grew into a world-class facility and conservation icon, taking out Major Tourist Attraction at the Queensland and Australian Tourism Awards and being inducted into the Queensland Tourism Hall of Fame. Mrs Irwin said that people continued to be just as generous in donating funds towards helping animals and vowed that the zoo's conservation activities would charge ahead. A new Africa exhibit, with giraffes and rhinos, soon would make a spectacular appearance. Mrs Irwin would not rule out having to sell some of the Beerwah attraction's property holdings and indicated the roll-out of a $300 million plan to replicate Australia Zoo in the gambling mecca of Las Vegas may be put back. "It remains on our 10-year business plan but our immediate focus is here," she said. The world, it seems, can wait while challenges continue at home. Mrs Irwin said a renewed focus on "our core business" was the only way forward. "I want people to spend a day with us and be able to say 'that was an amazing experience'," Mrs Irwin said. "I will make sure everything Steve stood for and his legacy will continue." "We continue with our core business - the animals are OK, that we maintain as many of our team as we can and that we move forward in the future," she said. "I'm not looking at consolidating to stop, I'm looking at consolidating so that we can plan on growing again in the future. "I have absolutely no intention of closing Australia Zoo - again our wildlife hospital is running, our wildlife experiences are continuing and we fund our conservation projects with people who come into Australia Zoo. "We have conservation projects, both throughout Australia and the world, and while the projects are not seeing the influx of cash that they have in the past, none of them have stopped. "Nothing has closed. Nothing will close." She says she intends to honour a promise to her late husband Steve Irwin to keep Australia Zoo operating successfully. Ms Irwin says the zoo's problems are similar to those being experienced by many Australian businesses. She says expansion plans locally and in the United States, most likely via the Las Vegas strip, have slowed but will not be axed. "Certainly I haven't shelved Steve's 10-year business plan," she said. "I don't think it's a matter of if, it's a matter of when - so I wouldn't shelve anything. "Certainly I'm not going to be going ahead full speed at this time, but we are going ahead." Business analysts believe that a Terri Irwin crocodile themed venture such a a fun part in Las Vegas would likely be a success and would plug into a captive audience keen to spend their money on quality entertainment.
Anti Gambling Independents Nick Xenophon And Andrew Wilkie Continue To Battle On...
A couple of folk who are wary of the Australian Labor Club donations are the anti-gambling independents Nick Xenophon and Andrew Wilkie. "It is a very dramatic example of how big business and big money corrupts the policies of the political parties," Wilkie tells me. He describes Labor's acceptance of the donations as "a significant conflict of interest" between the ALP and poker machine reform. "It's one of the many reasons why nothing has been done about poker machine reform before I came along," he says. Xenophon and Wilkie are insisting on reforms to try to curtail problem gambling, including the introduction of mandatory pre-commitment. Precommitment involves gamblers compulsorily signing up to a system which will, at a nominated limit, shut off their ability to play the machines like Cleopatra, Black Rhino, Derby Day, Where's The Gold and so on. It would involve the use of smart card tech, although not with fingerprint or biometric ID, that would either turn off the machine, or enable the player to keep playing without paying. To be somewhat effective, the card would have to work at every machine in every club. The clubs are not keen on the concept, stating it will cost thousands of jobs and slash revenue, and are ready for a massive brawl, already being played out in the press and at various venues where the two pokie hating "independent MP" show their face and run their spin. Under the terms of Wilkie's agreement to support Gillard, the government has until May 31 to secure an agreement on precommitment with the states, and if it does not, then it must legislate unilaterally by budget 2012 to impose it. In view of the link between the pokies venues run by Labor clubs and the coffers of the Labor Party, Xenophon wants Gillard to step up now and get the Labor clubs to introduce mandatory precommitment as an example to other clubs. "It would be the responsible thing," he says. "I think it would have enormous moral authority for Julia Gillard to do this." Wilkie says this is a top idea and would trigger the ALP to claim the moral high ground. But so arrogant is he of winning government and parliamentary support for the measures he has put forward that he believes they will be in force in every pub, club and casino in Australia, with the exception the very smallest in the same time duration. The states are so far refusing to play ball and a meeting of state gaming ministers with the federal minister responsible, Jenny Macklin, on Friday made very little progress. Wilkie was not present but was hanging over the discussion with Macklin repeatedly referring to the government's deal with him. "He was like Banquo's ghost," one leaker spoke. NSW premier-in-waiting Barry O'Farrell has signed an agreement with Clubs NSW to support a system of precommitment that is "voluntary for the player, venue-based and cost-effective". Victorian Gaming Minister Michael O'Brien argues his state is already ahead of the game, pardon the pub, with plans to remove ATMs from gaming venues by July next year, and the rollout of mandatory precommitment for all machines with voluntary sign up for players by 2015-16. "We won't want to see those policies compromised by the Wilkie agreement," he says. He insists precommitment has to be mandatory for both machines and all regular gamblers. Tony Windsor and Rob Oakeshott are not saying yet which way they will go on the issue, but Wilkie is confident he will get enough support to get his measures through the lower house. Word on the street is that Wilkie is a "dead man walking" and may end up being a key reason that Labour is going down for the count. Many Aussies think Labour is out of touch with the people. If the government reneges on the agreement, Wilkie is adamant he will withdraw his support for the government. "Whether that brings her (Gillard) down or not is a separate issue," he says. "I might withdraw my support from her and give it to Abbott or not give it to anyone." Australian are some of the most passionate gamblers in the world and have been so ever since Captain Cook discovered Australia in 1788. PartyGaming, Betfair, and Centrebet are understood to be the most popular online gaming brands in Australia. Crown Limited, Tabcorp and Tatts Group are the big 3 of land based gaming and gambling in Australia. Rumours persist that James Packer's Crown Limited may look to buy out Tabcorp in the coming years, but that is speculation. Australia is forecast to remain in the world's top 10 gaming countries for the foreseeable future.
Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...
Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...
PartyCasino.com
Captain Cooks Casino
Betfair (sports betting only)
PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)
PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)
Profiles
Australian Casinos
World Casino Directory
Global Gaming Directory
Casino Travel
Casinos
Australia
Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:
Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered
*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited
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High Rolling Aussie Whale Harry Kakavas Avoids Bankruptcy...
Crown casino has not been successful in its attempt send 'High Rolling Harry K' into bankruptcy. The major win for Mr Kakavas at a Collins St creditors meeting means he is now free to chase his $30 mil battle against Crown in the Victorian Court of Appeal. A hearing of his appeal against a Supreme Court judge's dismissal of his $35 million claim against the gaming company for gambling losses is set for June. Kakavas, who owes more than $50 mil, yesterday won the backing of 22 out of 31 creditors, headed by Challenger Bank and all 8 of his legal reps, including top silk Allan Myers, QC. The Gold Coast property tycoon (of sorts) has pledged to pay $555,000 to his creditors over a 10-month period and another $5 million if he wins the appeal against Crown. On Friday, Crown issued an application in the Federal Court attempting to prevent the creditors meeting going ahead. The application was later abandoned. Kakavas, a fully diagnosed "pathological gambler", lost roughly $30 million bucks at Crown circa 2005-06. At the pinnacle of his gambling he was betting up to $300,000 grand on the flip of a single card, once losing a whopping $2.4 million in 43 minutes if you believe the yarn. He has boldly accused the casino of devising a plot to lure him back to the casino with cash incentives and use of a luxury jet. His legal eagles will argue Justice David Harper made 36 errors in his 2009 judgment in favour of James Packer's casino. The appeal will be based on Justice Harper's finding that Kakavas's gambling addiction did not disadvantage him in his dealings with Crown. Kakavas has already paid $210,000 in security costs in order for the appeal to proceed. We're hopeful that things may get resolved amicably, but word is there's bit of bad blood, so stay tuned.
Tattersalls Targets Melbourne Housing Estate For Pokie Palace Fun And Games...
A poker machine venue in a new housing estate in Melbourne's north would be part of a safe and friendly "boutique hotel", gaming giant Tattersalls claims. Tattersalls says in a submission to VCAT that the development would result in many jobs and a big financial investment in Doreen's Laurimar estate. "The benefits are many and should not be lightly treated," it says. The City of Whittlesea and a residents' group led by a local Baptist minister claim a poker machine venue would have a negative impact on the growing community's welfare. The council has gone to VCAT in a bid to overturn a decision by the Victorian Commission for Gambling Regulation to approve the venue. Tattersalls wants to install 40 "one armed bandits" at the planned Laurimar tavern, with annual gaming revenue expected to reach up to $4.2 million. The VCGR has also given the green light to the Bridge Inn hotel, 5km from Laurimar, to put in 40 machines. In its submission, Tattersalls says Laurimar's boutique venue would be safe and friendly and could be managed responsibly. "The proposal would deliver a range of social and recreational opportunities for the community which would facilitate community interaction and sense of place," it says. "The evidence is very much to the effect that this community is advantaged in terms of social cohesion and values to accommodate licensed premises and gaming." The VCGR says in its submission that the City of Whittlesea is one of Melbourne's fastest growing municipalities and there is increasing demand for modern, family friendly sporting, entertainment, dining and social facilities. "The Whittlesea community will benefit from a modern tavern with a range of entertainment options," it says. The commission says it is satisfied that the tavern would be operated by people experienced in electronic gaming machines. The hearing before Judge Felicity Hampel and town planner Anthony Liston continues today. Good or bad idea? The judge will tell us soon enough.
Man Rips Off Employer Of $600,000 To Feed Gambling Addiction...
A problem gambler recruited a Victorian based mate to help with a false invoice scam to rip off nearly $600,000 from his Brisbane based employer, a court heard yesterday. Prosecutor Julie Aylward told the District Court in Brisbane that Leslie Jones had used a persistent and calculated fraud to pinch $583,339 from his employer B and R Enclosures. Ms Aylward said there were 221 false invoices issued of which money was paid on 220. She said no restitution was made and the company had to bear the loss while its profit margin had gone up since Jones had been caught. Judge Kerry O'Brien said there was some complexity about Jones's offending and he had to impose a sentence of seven years' jail. He said, however, after taking into account the mitigating circumstances he would set a parole eligibility date at February 28, 2013.
Jones, 50, pleaded to aggravated fraud between July 24, 1998 and October 5, 2005. Earlier, Aylward outlined how Jones and a man named Kevin Tidball became mates when working for Ford Australia in Victoria and they remained in contact after they both resigned. She said Jones came to Brisbane to work for B and R Enclosures while Tidball opened his own engineering company. B and R Enclosures, a steel fabrication business, outsourced some its work to overseas companies and relied on them to ship goods to Australia in a "timely and cost effective way". Aylward advised Jones was responsible to ensure the goods were shipped to Australia and Jones was aware there was regularly a surplus between the budgeted cost of freight and the actual cost. "It is alleged Jones put in place a process using the services of Tidball to defraud the company of this surplus," she added. Aylward said Jones got Tidball's company to submit invoices which were paid by B and R Enclosures although no actual work had been done. Tidball kept a modest 10% of what was paid and deposited the rest in Jones's bank account. She said Tidball was sentenced to a wholly suspended 12 months' jail in relation to the cunning scam when he appeared in the Brisbane Magistrates Court last year. Barrister James Godbolt, for Jones, said his client had a good work history in England before coming to Australia where he worked at the Ford company in Victoria and then in Brisbane. He said Jones had developed a gambling addiction after a relationship breakdown and a family illness placed him under stress. Godbolt said Jones had since sought assistance to overcome his addiction. Gambling addiction has been linked to dozens of fraud cases that Gambling911 and Media Man have covered over the last number of years.
Terri Irwin's Australia Zoo; Some Financial Challenges But Las Vegas Deal Part Of 10 Year Business Plan...
Steve Irwin made the the globe aware about Australia and its wildlife. He attracted millions of tourists to our great land. Now, five years after his death Australia Zoo numbers are down in a big way. Zoo boss Terri Irwin this week has rejected claims her husband's legacy was at risk, but admitted the zoo had been forced to go through the painful process of shedding 22 employees to cut costs. Mrs Irwin declared the showpiece "had survived for 40 years and would thrive for another 40". She said times were tough for many tourism businesses because of recent devastating weather events. This could not have come at a worse time with official figures showing the numbers of international tourists already were on the slide because of the strong Australian dollar. Ironically, the challenge for Australia Zoo is to engender more support from Australians, especially Queenslanders. Mrs Irwin, whose leadership brought her recognition as Owner Manager of the Year at the Queensland Management Excellence Awards in November, believes local support holds the key to their future success. She urged people to look to their own back yard for amazing holiday experiences instead of heading overseas. "Australians are famous for sticking up for their mates. This is what they do best. We really need them to do this now," she said, adding she would step up her hands-on leadership of the operation and strive to make it even better. Bindi, 12, and Robert, 7, also would continue to help develop the dream, which began when their grandfather Bob founded the Beerwah Reptile and Fauna Park in 1970. Australia Zoo and was propelled to stardom by their parents Steve and Terri, after they took over in 1992. Their passion and vision ensured it grew into a world-class facility and conservation icon, taking out Major Tourist Attraction at the Queensland and Australian Tourism Awards and being inducted into the Queensland Tourism Hall of Fame. Mrs Irwin said that people continued to be just as generous in donating funds towards helping animals and vowed that the zoo's conservation activities would charge ahead. A new Africa exhibit, with giraffes and rhinos, soon would make a spectacular appearance. Mrs Irwin would not rule out having to sell some of the Beerwah attraction's property holdings and indicated the roll-out of a $300 million plan to replicate Australia Zoo in the gambling mecca of Las Vegas may be put back. "It remains on our 10-year business plan but our immediate focus is here," she said. The world, it seems, can wait while challenges continue at home. Mrs Irwin said a renewed focus on "our core business" was the only way forward. "I want people to spend a day with us and be able to say 'that was an amazing experience'," Mrs Irwin said. "I will make sure everything Steve stood for and his legacy will continue." "We continue with our core business - the animals are OK, that we maintain as many of our team as we can and that we move forward in the future," she said. "I'm not looking at consolidating to stop, I'm looking at consolidating so that we can plan on growing again in the future. "I have absolutely no intention of closing Australia Zoo - again our wildlife hospital is running, our wildlife experiences are continuing and we fund our conservation projects with people who come into Australia Zoo. "We have conservation projects, both throughout Australia and the world, and while the projects are not seeing the influx of cash that they have in the past, none of them have stopped. "Nothing has closed. Nothing will close." She says she intends to honour a promise to her late husband Steve Irwin to keep Australia Zoo operating successfully. Ms Irwin says the zoo's problems are similar to those being experienced by many Australian businesses. She says expansion plans locally and in the United States, most likely via the Las Vegas strip, have slowed but will not be axed. "Certainly I haven't shelved Steve's 10-year business plan," she said. "I don't think it's a matter of if, it's a matter of when - so I wouldn't shelve anything. "Certainly I'm not going to be going ahead full speed at this time, but we are going ahead." Business analysts believe that a Terri Irwin crocodile themed venture such a a fun part in Las Vegas would likely be a success and would plug into a captive audience keen to spend their money on quality entertainment.
Anti Gambling Independents Nick Xenophon And Andrew Wilkie Continue To Battle On...
A couple of folk who are wary of the Australian Labor Club donations are the anti-gambling independents Nick Xenophon and Andrew Wilkie. "It is a very dramatic example of how big business and big money corrupts the policies of the political parties," Wilkie tells me. He describes Labor's acceptance of the donations as "a significant conflict of interest" between the ALP and poker machine reform. "It's one of the many reasons why nothing has been done about poker machine reform before I came along," he says. Xenophon and Wilkie are insisting on reforms to try to curtail problem gambling, including the introduction of mandatory pre-commitment. Precommitment involves gamblers compulsorily signing up to a system which will, at a nominated limit, shut off their ability to play the machines like Cleopatra, Black Rhino, Derby Day, Where's The Gold and so on. It would involve the use of smart card tech, although not with fingerprint or biometric ID, that would either turn off the machine, or enable the player to keep playing without paying. To be somewhat effective, the card would have to work at every machine in every club. The clubs are not keen on the concept, stating it will cost thousands of jobs and slash revenue, and are ready for a massive brawl, already being played out in the press and at various venues where the two pokie hating "independent MP" show their face and run their spin. Under the terms of Wilkie's agreement to support Gillard, the government has until May 31 to secure an agreement on precommitment with the states, and if it does not, then it must legislate unilaterally by budget 2012 to impose it. In view of the link between the pokies venues run by Labor clubs and the coffers of the Labor Party, Xenophon wants Gillard to step up now and get the Labor clubs to introduce mandatory precommitment as an example to other clubs. "It would be the responsible thing," he says. "I think it would have enormous moral authority for Julia Gillard to do this." Wilkie says this is a top idea and would trigger the ALP to claim the moral high ground. But so arrogant is he of winning government and parliamentary support for the measures he has put forward that he believes they will be in force in every pub, club and casino in Australia, with the exception the very smallest in the same time duration. The states are so far refusing to play ball and a meeting of state gaming ministers with the federal minister responsible, Jenny Macklin, on Friday made very little progress. Wilkie was not present but was hanging over the discussion with Macklin repeatedly referring to the government's deal with him. "He was like Banquo's ghost," one leaker spoke. NSW premier-in-waiting Barry O'Farrell has signed an agreement with Clubs NSW to support a system of precommitment that is "voluntary for the player, venue-based and cost-effective". Victorian Gaming Minister Michael O'Brien argues his state is already ahead of the game, pardon the pub, with plans to remove ATMs from gaming venues by July next year, and the rollout of mandatory precommitment for all machines with voluntary sign up for players by 2015-16. "We won't want to see those policies compromised by the Wilkie agreement," he says. He insists precommitment has to be mandatory for both machines and all regular gamblers. Tony Windsor and Rob Oakeshott are not saying yet which way they will go on the issue, but Wilkie is confident he will get enough support to get his measures through the lower house. Word on the street is that Wilkie is a "dead man walking" and may end up being a key reason that Labour is going down for the count. Many Aussies think Labour is out of touch with the people. If the government reneges on the agreement, Wilkie is adamant he will withdraw his support for the government. "Whether that brings her (Gillard) down or not is a separate issue," he says. "I might withdraw my support from her and give it to Abbott or not give it to anyone." Australian are some of the most passionate gamblers in the world and have been so ever since Captain Cook discovered Australia in 1788. PartyGaming, Betfair, and Centrebet are understood to be the most popular online gaming brands in Australia. Crown Limited, Tabcorp and Tatts Group are the big 3 of land based gaming and gambling in Australia. Rumours persist that James Packer's Crown Limited may look to buy out Tabcorp in the coming years, but that is speculation. Australia is forecast to remain in the world's top 10 gaming countries for the foreseeable future.
Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...
Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...
PartyCasino.com
Captain Cooks Casino
Betfair (sports betting only)
PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)
PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)
Profiles
Australian Casinos
World Casino Directory
Global Gaming Directory
Casino Travel
Casinos
Australia
Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:
Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered
*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Media Man Canada
Media Man Games
Media Man Brand
Media Man Network
Casino News Media
Poker News Media
Global Gaming Directory
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Tabcorp And Crown Want Aussie Gvt To Lift Game On High Rollers, by Greg Tingle - 24th February 2011
G'day punters, casino millionaires and billionaires, politicians, legal eagles, one and all. Australia's leading gaming companies, namely Tabcorp (Star City etc) and Crown Limited (Crown Casino and Burswood Casino etc) are demanding the the Australian government lift its game to help down under become more high roller whale friendly, especially at our international airports in Sydney and Melbourne. We probe and examine if the fact that the Gillard government not officially being a big fan of gambling is a factor, or if its a smoke screen hiding something more sinister. Media Man and Gambling911 hit the runway as we play plans, trains, automobiles (and politics)...
Tabcorp And Crown Limited To Aussie Government: Lift You're Game For High Rollers In Airports...
Tabcorp casinos big wig Larry Mullin has joined the pack of not happy Aussie casino and gambling tycoons and top brass telling the federal government to lift their game - streamline customs and immigration paperwork and checks for Oriental high-rollers flying down under into Australia, backing up his Crown Casino equal Rowen Craigie. Mullin advised making visas easier to obtain and installing "VIP customs lounges" at major airports to allow high-roller customers to avoid unsatisfactory queues should be seriously considered, and pronto. He said Australia needed to consider a similar model to Singapore, which has created a private lounge to fast-track customs and immigration processing for high-rolling whales. It's understood revenue from Singapore's two land based casinos opened last year is already close to $US5 billion a year. "The customers and the customer experience is everything. That first and last impression is so helpful, especially after long flights. "You go into Singapore, they pick you up in a golf cart and drive you to a private area and there's a government official in the receiving area. You almost feel as if you are going into a hotel experience, that was the seamlessness of it. I understand why you need the processes that are there, but I think we need to explore and get as fast as we can similar type of conveniences here." Mullin said Crown Casino chief exec Rowen Craigie was heading up the discussions with the federal government in his role as the president of the Australasian Casino Association. Craigie last month said the improvements were necessary in order for Australia to plug into the lucrative middle and upper-class Chinese tourism market and compete with Singapore. Tabcorp, which will launch its first personalised jet service for high-roller customers tomorrow, generates less than 10% of its casino revenues from high-rollers. But it is the fastest-growing arm of its business, with revenues from VIP customers up 36% to $32.9 million in the December half. Tabcorp is understood to have spent about $40m leasing the 14-seater jet which came on high recommendation by rock star Bon Jovi, a friend of Mullin. It will start transiting in punters from Asia tomorrow. The firm, which is spending a massive $960m on renovating its flagship Star City casino in Sydney, is now also throwing in $160m on its domestic and international VIP businesses to upgrade digs, improve and expand private gambling facilities and lease two private jets. Originally the jets were going to be purchased, but the bean counters thought better to lease. Mullin also advised Tabcorp, which plans to demerge its casino division by mid-year, was planning to work with the New South Wales government on tourism campaigns targeting potential casino customers. "As our project gets more mature we would like to get better placed in that," he said. Various gambling experts have leaked to Media Man that they expect Crown and Tabcorp to have a better year than last, as well as improved government dealings.
Tatts Gets Profit; Good News Finally...
Tatts Group Ltd has reported a 3.4% lift in first half net profit as the gambling and gaming company sees signs of growth reemerging after set backs due to recent natural disasters such as floods and cyclones. Net profit rose to $149.91 million for the 6 months to December 31 from $144.96 million a year earlier, Melbourne based Tatts said in a statement on Thursday. Revenue jumped 17.4% to $1.62 billion. The firm declared a interim dividend of 10.5 cents per share, fully franked. Chief executive Dick McIlwain said the growth rates of the first half were showing signs of re-emerging after the disruption from the floods in Queensland and Victoria and Cyclone Yasi in Northern Queensland. Tatts said investors and other observers had enquired about the effect on the business from the natural disasters. The company said there was very little damage to company facilities while a significant number of agents and hosts suffered short term damage to electricity supply. Shares in Tatts declined 3.5 cents, or 1.4 per cent, to $2.435.
Aristocrat Leisure Shares Up; Back To Profit!
Airistocrat shares surged to a 3-month high today after the gaming machine supplier returned to the profit zone for 2010. Its stock rose 14 cents, or 4.4%, to $3.30 by 1029 AEDT, the best since November 25, 2010. Aristocrat Leisure today booked a net profit of $77.19 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to a loss of $157.8m in 2009. Revenue fell 25.1% to $680.5m. Aristocrat declared a dividend of 1.5 cents per share, nil franked, compared to no final dividend in the prior year.
Melco Crown Makes US$16 Million Profit; Crown's James Packer Pleased; Could Have Been Much Worse...
Melco Crown Entertainment announced yesterday it recorded net income for the fourth quarter of 2010 of US$16.3 million (MOP130 million), compared with a net loss of US$89.7 million a year earlier. It was the company’s second consecutive quarterly profit. The gain in bottom-line results was driven by the year-over-year improvement in the operating performance at City of Dreams and Altira Macau, the company said. Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) was US$133.8 million for the fourth quarter of 2010, as compared to adjusted EBITDA of US$2.7 million in the fourth quarter of 2009. Lawrence Ho, co-chairman and chief executive officer of Melco Crown Entertainment, said "our fourth quarter results demonstrate our success in driving operating leverage and in improving the profitability of our portfolio of assets. Our mass market table games business continues to grow and our rolling chip segment remains strong," he said. James Packer, who teamed up on the project via Melco Crown, is understood to have been pleased with the result. The Packer family remains on good terms with the Ho's. It's one happy family again (or at least mainly), which is what we like to hear.
Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...
Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...
PartyCasino.com
Captain Cooks Casino
Betfair (sports betting only)
PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)
PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)
Profiles
Australian Casinos
World Casino Directory
Global Gaming Directory
Casino Travel
Casinos
Australia
Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:
Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered.
*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited and Virgin
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Media Man Canada
Media Man Games
Media Man Brand
Media Man Network
Casino News Media
Poker News Media
Global Gaming Directory
Tabcorp And Crown Limited To Aussie Government: Lift You're Game For High Rollers In Airports...
Tabcorp casinos big wig Larry Mullin has joined the pack of not happy Aussie casino and gambling tycoons and top brass telling the federal government to lift their game - streamline customs and immigration paperwork and checks for Oriental high-rollers flying down under into Australia, backing up his Crown Casino equal Rowen Craigie. Mullin advised making visas easier to obtain and installing "VIP customs lounges" at major airports to allow high-roller customers to avoid unsatisfactory queues should be seriously considered, and pronto. He said Australia needed to consider a similar model to Singapore, which has created a private lounge to fast-track customs and immigration processing for high-rolling whales. It's understood revenue from Singapore's two land based casinos opened last year is already close to $US5 billion a year. "The customers and the customer experience is everything. That first and last impression is so helpful, especially after long flights. "You go into Singapore, they pick you up in a golf cart and drive you to a private area and there's a government official in the receiving area. You almost feel as if you are going into a hotel experience, that was the seamlessness of it. I understand why you need the processes that are there, but I think we need to explore and get as fast as we can similar type of conveniences here." Mullin said Crown Casino chief exec Rowen Craigie was heading up the discussions with the federal government in his role as the president of the Australasian Casino Association. Craigie last month said the improvements were necessary in order for Australia to plug into the lucrative middle and upper-class Chinese tourism market and compete with Singapore. Tabcorp, which will launch its first personalised jet service for high-roller customers tomorrow, generates less than 10% of its casino revenues from high-rollers. But it is the fastest-growing arm of its business, with revenues from VIP customers up 36% to $32.9 million in the December half. Tabcorp is understood to have spent about $40m leasing the 14-seater jet which came on high recommendation by rock star Bon Jovi, a friend of Mullin. It will start transiting in punters from Asia tomorrow. The firm, which is spending a massive $960m on renovating its flagship Star City casino in Sydney, is now also throwing in $160m on its domestic and international VIP businesses to upgrade digs, improve and expand private gambling facilities and lease two private jets. Originally the jets were going to be purchased, but the bean counters thought better to lease. Mullin also advised Tabcorp, which plans to demerge its casino division by mid-year, was planning to work with the New South Wales government on tourism campaigns targeting potential casino customers. "As our project gets more mature we would like to get better placed in that," he said. Various gambling experts have leaked to Media Man that they expect Crown and Tabcorp to have a better year than last, as well as improved government dealings.
Tatts Gets Profit; Good News Finally...
Tatts Group Ltd has reported a 3.4% lift in first half net profit as the gambling and gaming company sees signs of growth reemerging after set backs due to recent natural disasters such as floods and cyclones. Net profit rose to $149.91 million for the 6 months to December 31 from $144.96 million a year earlier, Melbourne based Tatts said in a statement on Thursday. Revenue jumped 17.4% to $1.62 billion. The firm declared a interim dividend of 10.5 cents per share, fully franked. Chief executive Dick McIlwain said the growth rates of the first half were showing signs of re-emerging after the disruption from the floods in Queensland and Victoria and Cyclone Yasi in Northern Queensland. Tatts said investors and other observers had enquired about the effect on the business from the natural disasters. The company said there was very little damage to company facilities while a significant number of agents and hosts suffered short term damage to electricity supply. Shares in Tatts declined 3.5 cents, or 1.4 per cent, to $2.435.
Aristocrat Leisure Shares Up; Back To Profit!
Airistocrat shares surged to a 3-month high today after the gaming machine supplier returned to the profit zone for 2010. Its stock rose 14 cents, or 4.4%, to $3.30 by 1029 AEDT, the best since November 25, 2010. Aristocrat Leisure today booked a net profit of $77.19 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to a loss of $157.8m in 2009. Revenue fell 25.1% to $680.5m. Aristocrat declared a dividend of 1.5 cents per share, nil franked, compared to no final dividend in the prior year.
Melco Crown Makes US$16 Million Profit; Crown's James Packer Pleased; Could Have Been Much Worse...
Melco Crown Entertainment announced yesterday it recorded net income for the fourth quarter of 2010 of US$16.3 million (MOP130 million), compared with a net loss of US$89.7 million a year earlier. It was the company’s second consecutive quarterly profit. The gain in bottom-line results was driven by the year-over-year improvement in the operating performance at City of Dreams and Altira Macau, the company said. Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) was US$133.8 million for the fourth quarter of 2010, as compared to adjusted EBITDA of US$2.7 million in the fourth quarter of 2009. Lawrence Ho, co-chairman and chief executive officer of Melco Crown Entertainment, said "our fourth quarter results demonstrate our success in driving operating leverage and in improving the profitability of our portfolio of assets. Our mass market table games business continues to grow and our rolling chip segment remains strong," he said. James Packer, who teamed up on the project via Melco Crown, is understood to have been pleased with the result. The Packer family remains on good terms with the Ho's. It's one happy family again (or at least mainly), which is what we like to hear.
Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...
Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...
PartyCasino.com
Captain Cooks Casino
Betfair (sports betting only)
PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)
PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)
Profiles
Australian Casinos
World Casino Directory
Global Gaming Directory
Casino Travel
Casinos
Australia
Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:
Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered.
*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited and Virgin
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Media Man Canada
Media Man Games
Media Man Brand
Media Man Network
Casino News Media
Poker News Media
Global Gaming Directory
Sunday, February 06, 2011
Australian Media And Gambling Wars; Aussie Rich List, by Greg Tingle - 6th February 2011
G'day punters, journos, sports nuts, high rollers - casino whales, gambling millionaires and billionaires, media tycoons, politicians, insiders, outsiders, ... one and all. You know who you are. This is yet another instalment into the Australian media wars, with a dash of the Aussie rich list (a few gaming gambling types there) for good measure... Media Man and Gambling911 prob the Australian media business, and do the math on whose loaded up to the hilt down under...
James Packer and Lachlan Murdoch Rumoured To Be Worried With Network Ten News Progress...
After only two weeks on air, the Ten Network’s news evolution has reportedly come under scrutiny from new stakeholders James Packer and Lachlan Murdoch, thanks to a poor ratings performance. On Thursday night 6pm with George Negus attracted its lowest audience to date with only 398,000 viewers. The state based Ten Evening News at 6:30pm performed even worse, attracting only 362,000 viewers. The direction and performance of the George Negus fronted news vehicle is said to be of particular concern to new stakeholders Packer and Murdoch, the press reports. The pair reportedly told Ten Network executives they're worried that the international content of the bulletin is a turn-off for viewers. "Basically (an) email sent to Ten bosses said the predominance of overseas stories was unwise and indulgent and not calculated to build ratings," a well-placed source told Confidential. However, another Ten executive dismissed the report as "utter bollocks", going on to reaffirm the network’s long term commitment to the two-and-a-half hour news and current affairs block. "This is not a two-week plan or three-month one - you can't do what we've done and expect instant results - this is a long haul," a spokeswoman said. Rivals from other network’s have also expressed their thoughts on the $20 million a year investment in news, with one source pointing towards the timeslot winning lead-in 6pm with George Negus receives. "Aren't they conveniently overlooking the substantial lead-in it's provided every night by Ten's 5:00pm news which has always rated respectably for yonks?", said the source. On Thursday, David Gyngell, chief executive of the Nine Entertainment Company, described the performance as worse than he had expected.
Nine Network Presents Weekend 5pm New Slot...
The Nine Network will launched a new national 5:00pm weekend news bulletin Saturday, taking advantage of the Ten Network's recent departure from the timeslot. Nine's director of news and current affairs, Mark Calvert, told The Spy Report that the bulletin will be a permanent addition to the network's Saturday and Sunday schedule once the cricket season concludes tomorrow. Calvert unexpectedly announced the move via his Twitter account. "Missing having news at 5:00pm? Feeling abandoned by Channel Ten News at weekends? See Nine News first at five with Wendy Kingston," he posted. "Incredible flood rescue pix Nine News at 5:00pm. Yep, 5:00pm. You know...when Channel Ten News used to be on at weekends. Nine News at 5:00pm and 6:00pm. "Working harder than ever - Peter Stefanovic, Tracy Vo, Lizzie Pearl to get ready for Nine News first at 5:00pm then more at 6:00pm." Ten abandoned its national 5:00pm bulletin on weekends as part of its $20 million early evening revamp it unveiled two weeks ago. Since then, it has instead opted for a 6:00pm state-based service rivalling those on Nine and Seven. At this stage, it's unknown whether the half-hour bulletin will broadcast into Sydney and Brisbane when Nine's Sunday Afternoon Football returns on March 13. Nine's Afternoon News Hour will also continue to air weekdays from 4:30pm.
Australia's Richest Person Gina Rinehart Adds Value To Channel Ten Sports...
'Our Gina' loves sport, at least as far as it being a strong part of the line up on Network Nine. Fellow shareholders James Packer and Lachlan Murdoch also like sport, especially the cricket (sports betting connection), but Rinehart is more of an all rounder when it comes to the sports media side of the business. Our friends and Fairfax Media have secured a strong leak aka deep throat delivering the following: "She's tough, opinionated, sometimes difficult but never frightened". Rinehart is understood to be very happy with her 10% per cent stake in the network, and intends on getting her money's worth (and continuing to exercise her clout). Packer and Murdoch recently told Ten executives that while they like sport, they believe the network more than they should be, particularly for AFL broadcasting rights. The late great media and gambling tycoon, Kerry Packer, put aside an AFL $780 million deal over five years, not long before his passing away, but Packer Jr may want to talk it about a bit more. The AFL is set to receive the $1 billion at its next contract commencing at 2012. Ten wants to renegotiate its deal with Channel Seven over AFL coverage. David White, the sports director of Ten, has advised analysts that returns from AFL over the past season were not good. It is anticipated Ten will go after an improved ratio with Seven of their share of future fees, or demand an allocation of higher-rating match ups. Under the existing 7 - 10 agreement both networks must bid together, however if Ten is unable to improve its payment or game quality ratios, the deal might collapse. "Ten now has two directors (Packer and Murdoch) who would support the move to walk," a leak said. Rinehart may lobby to retain the agreement in support of Kerry Stokes, the owner of Seven. The word is her main reason for investing a dab of her $4.75 billion wealth for 10% of Ten is political influence. He took note of the success of the advertising campaign against the mining tax and sees the powerful control of the media on the political landscape, and those who work in it. Packer snatched his 17.9% take in Ten ($128 million) to boost his political clout, and then went on to selling half to Murdoch. JP likes the gambling and sport connection, as do many NRL and AFL clubs ala Rabbitohs - Star City and his own Crown Casino - Melbourne Storm baby. Packer gets on well at this stage of the game with Australian Communications Minister, Stephen Conroy, and they are understood to enjoy a spot of golf from time to time. Packer and Murdoch famously had a bite with him at Crown Casino months ago. This past Thursday Conroy announced amendments to sport's anti-siphoning list, allowing free-to-air networks to show live sport on their digital channels! This falls into line with the ministers strategy to move Australia quickly away from analog TV. Ten has the only sports-dedicated digital channel (One) at this time. Should Packer and Murdoch be successful in convincing the Network Ten board that One is too costly and must be closed up, or switch programming, it would automatically undermine Conroy's plan to use sport to boost along the uptake of digital TV. It would also quite possibly piss off the big wigs at the NRL and AFL. AFL games shown live on a free-to-air network's principal channel in Melbourne could be shown live on its digital channel in New South Wales and Queensland, rather than suffer piss weak ratings, as Ten suffered in Sydney and Brisbane, especially on Saturday evenings. At the moment Queensland AFL fans who want Seven's coverage of Friday nights must subscribe to pay TV operator Foxtel, part-owned by companies associated with Packer and Murdoch. Shutting up shot on One would be a strategic step with a major goal being to protect this money machine, but a leaker revealed Packer would be hesitant to make too much noise or agro that might stir up regulators, with Crown Limited going so well. Best not have the government tests applied to the ownership of a casino licence if you follow. Packer is also keen to ramp up online gambling, expanding on his 50% owned Betfair. He's also aware of overseas gaming giants like PartyGaming eyeing off the Asia Pacific region, and its well known PartyGaming have the smarts to ink big government deals, as well as land based casino and b2b deals. Party also have the Hollywood branded deals performing well, so Party could be an opportunity or a threat to Packer, depending upon which way the wind is blowing, and what Australian politicians decide will be law in the online space, with the Liberal Party calling for full regulation, something PartyGaming, Media Man and we understand, Betfair, are all keen to see happen. In will also get rid of any bad eggs in the iGaming space down under. Back to the traditional news media, if Ten walks from its AFL deal with Channel Seven, it would therefore leave a 7 - Foxtel consortium as the only bidder worth their salt. Sen. Conroy "decoupled" the existing anti-siphoning arrangement where free-to-air on-sold the bottom 4 games a week to pay TV, permitting Foxtel to bid directly. Gyngell's Network Nine reserving its art of war strategy for NRL rights which expire in 2012, it is unlikely the Australian Football League will be able to hold a auction for the rights. So, no challenger to Seven for the top 4 games and Nil to Foxtel for the other 4, the AFL may not get their $1 billion bucks with JP and Murdoch Jr paying less for rights, helping make sure of continuing solid profit margins in Foxtel and Fox Sports. 'Our Gina' out in the Wild Wild West - West Australia, looks to be a key player in all of this, and not just because she's loaded and is now down under's richest woman. Yep, politics, power and money all take a seat in the box beside professional sports being broadcast on Australian TV. Don't even start us on Aussie TV being broadcast on the internet. That's all sports, but stay turned in the coming days and weeks for more on the art of war that is Australian news media.
Australian Rich List
1 Georgina Rinehart, 56, $9b (mining)
2 Andrew Forrest, 49, $6.9b (mining)
3 James Packer, 43, $4.4b (gambling, media and new media)
4 Frank Lowy, 80, $4.3b (property)
5 Harry Triguboff, 77, $3.4b (property)
6 John Gandel, 76, $3.3b
7 Anthony Pratt, 50, $2.7b
8 Kerr Neilson, 61, $2.4b
9 David Hains, 80, $2b
10 Kerry Stokes, 70, $1.9b
11 Lindsay Fox, 73, $US1.7b
12 Angela Bennett & Michael Wright, 66, $1.55b
13 Leslie Alan Wilson, 69, $1.5b
14 Paul Ramsay, 75, $1.45b
15 Michael Hintze, 57, $1.4b
16 Chris Wallin, 58, $1.3b
17 Gerald Harvey, 71, $1.2b
18 Solomon Lew, 65, $1.15b
19 Leonard Buckeridge, 75, $1.1b
20 Stanley Perron, 88, $1.05b
Source: Forbes
Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...
Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...
PartyCasino.com
Captain Cooks Casino
Betfair (sports betting only)
PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)
PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)
Profiles
Australian Casinos
World Casino Directory
Global Gaming Directory
Casino Travel
Casinos
Australia
Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:
Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Media Man Canada
Media Man Games
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Casino News Media
Poker News Media
Global Gaming Directory
James Packer and Lachlan Murdoch Rumoured To Be Worried With Network Ten News Progress...
After only two weeks on air, the Ten Network’s news evolution has reportedly come under scrutiny from new stakeholders James Packer and Lachlan Murdoch, thanks to a poor ratings performance. On Thursday night 6pm with George Negus attracted its lowest audience to date with only 398,000 viewers. The state based Ten Evening News at 6:30pm performed even worse, attracting only 362,000 viewers. The direction and performance of the George Negus fronted news vehicle is said to be of particular concern to new stakeholders Packer and Murdoch, the press reports. The pair reportedly told Ten Network executives they're worried that the international content of the bulletin is a turn-off for viewers. "Basically (an) email sent to Ten bosses said the predominance of overseas stories was unwise and indulgent and not calculated to build ratings," a well-placed source told Confidential. However, another Ten executive dismissed the report as "utter bollocks", going on to reaffirm the network’s long term commitment to the two-and-a-half hour news and current affairs block. "This is not a two-week plan or three-month one - you can't do what we've done and expect instant results - this is a long haul," a spokeswoman said. Rivals from other network’s have also expressed their thoughts on the $20 million a year investment in news, with one source pointing towards the timeslot winning lead-in 6pm with George Negus receives. "Aren't they conveniently overlooking the substantial lead-in it's provided every night by Ten's 5:00pm news which has always rated respectably for yonks?", said the source. On Thursday, David Gyngell, chief executive of the Nine Entertainment Company, described the performance as worse than he had expected.
Nine Network Presents Weekend 5pm New Slot...
The Nine Network will launched a new national 5:00pm weekend news bulletin Saturday, taking advantage of the Ten Network's recent departure from the timeslot. Nine's director of news and current affairs, Mark Calvert, told The Spy Report that the bulletin will be a permanent addition to the network's Saturday and Sunday schedule once the cricket season concludes tomorrow. Calvert unexpectedly announced the move via his Twitter account. "Missing having news at 5:00pm? Feeling abandoned by Channel Ten News at weekends? See Nine News first at five with Wendy Kingston," he posted. "Incredible flood rescue pix Nine News at 5:00pm. Yep, 5:00pm. You know...when Channel Ten News used to be on at weekends. Nine News at 5:00pm and 6:00pm. "Working harder than ever - Peter Stefanovic, Tracy Vo, Lizzie Pearl to get ready for Nine News first at 5:00pm then more at 6:00pm." Ten abandoned its national 5:00pm bulletin on weekends as part of its $20 million early evening revamp it unveiled two weeks ago. Since then, it has instead opted for a 6:00pm state-based service rivalling those on Nine and Seven. At this stage, it's unknown whether the half-hour bulletin will broadcast into Sydney and Brisbane when Nine's Sunday Afternoon Football returns on March 13. Nine's Afternoon News Hour will also continue to air weekdays from 4:30pm.
Australia's Richest Person Gina Rinehart Adds Value To Channel Ten Sports...
'Our Gina' loves sport, at least as far as it being a strong part of the line up on Network Nine. Fellow shareholders James Packer and Lachlan Murdoch also like sport, especially the cricket (sports betting connection), but Rinehart is more of an all rounder when it comes to the sports media side of the business. Our friends and Fairfax Media have secured a strong leak aka deep throat delivering the following: "She's tough, opinionated, sometimes difficult but never frightened". Rinehart is understood to be very happy with her 10% per cent stake in the network, and intends on getting her money's worth (and continuing to exercise her clout). Packer and Murdoch recently told Ten executives that while they like sport, they believe the network more than they should be, particularly for AFL broadcasting rights. The late great media and gambling tycoon, Kerry Packer, put aside an AFL $780 million deal over five years, not long before his passing away, but Packer Jr may want to talk it about a bit more. The AFL is set to receive the $1 billion at its next contract commencing at 2012. Ten wants to renegotiate its deal with Channel Seven over AFL coverage. David White, the sports director of Ten, has advised analysts that returns from AFL over the past season were not good. It is anticipated Ten will go after an improved ratio with Seven of their share of future fees, or demand an allocation of higher-rating match ups. Under the existing 7 - 10 agreement both networks must bid together, however if Ten is unable to improve its payment or game quality ratios, the deal might collapse. "Ten now has two directors (Packer and Murdoch) who would support the move to walk," a leak said. Rinehart may lobby to retain the agreement in support of Kerry Stokes, the owner of Seven. The word is her main reason for investing a dab of her $4.75 billion wealth for 10% of Ten is political influence. He took note of the success of the advertising campaign against the mining tax and sees the powerful control of the media on the political landscape, and those who work in it. Packer snatched his 17.9% take in Ten ($128 million) to boost his political clout, and then went on to selling half to Murdoch. JP likes the gambling and sport connection, as do many NRL and AFL clubs ala Rabbitohs - Star City and his own Crown Casino - Melbourne Storm baby. Packer gets on well at this stage of the game with Australian Communications Minister, Stephen Conroy, and they are understood to enjoy a spot of golf from time to time. Packer and Murdoch famously had a bite with him at Crown Casino months ago. This past Thursday Conroy announced amendments to sport's anti-siphoning list, allowing free-to-air networks to show live sport on their digital channels! This falls into line with the ministers strategy to move Australia quickly away from analog TV. Ten has the only sports-dedicated digital channel (One) at this time. Should Packer and Murdoch be successful in convincing the Network Ten board that One is too costly and must be closed up, or switch programming, it would automatically undermine Conroy's plan to use sport to boost along the uptake of digital TV. It would also quite possibly piss off the big wigs at the NRL and AFL. AFL games shown live on a free-to-air network's principal channel in Melbourne could be shown live on its digital channel in New South Wales and Queensland, rather than suffer piss weak ratings, as Ten suffered in Sydney and Brisbane, especially on Saturday evenings. At the moment Queensland AFL fans who want Seven's coverage of Friday nights must subscribe to pay TV operator Foxtel, part-owned by companies associated with Packer and Murdoch. Shutting up shot on One would be a strategic step with a major goal being to protect this money machine, but a leaker revealed Packer would be hesitant to make too much noise or agro that might stir up regulators, with Crown Limited going so well. Best not have the government tests applied to the ownership of a casino licence if you follow. Packer is also keen to ramp up online gambling, expanding on his 50% owned Betfair. He's also aware of overseas gaming giants like PartyGaming eyeing off the Asia Pacific region, and its well known PartyGaming have the smarts to ink big government deals, as well as land based casino and b2b deals. Party also have the Hollywood branded deals performing well, so Party could be an opportunity or a threat to Packer, depending upon which way the wind is blowing, and what Australian politicians decide will be law in the online space, with the Liberal Party calling for full regulation, something PartyGaming, Media Man and we understand, Betfair, are all keen to see happen. In will also get rid of any bad eggs in the iGaming space down under. Back to the traditional news media, if Ten walks from its AFL deal with Channel Seven, it would therefore leave a 7 - Foxtel consortium as the only bidder worth their salt. Sen. Conroy "decoupled" the existing anti-siphoning arrangement where free-to-air on-sold the bottom 4 games a week to pay TV, permitting Foxtel to bid directly. Gyngell's Network Nine reserving its art of war strategy for NRL rights which expire in 2012, it is unlikely the Australian Football League will be able to hold a auction for the rights. So, no challenger to Seven for the top 4 games and Nil to Foxtel for the other 4, the AFL may not get their $1 billion bucks with JP and Murdoch Jr paying less for rights, helping make sure of continuing solid profit margins in Foxtel and Fox Sports. 'Our Gina' out in the Wild Wild West - West Australia, looks to be a key player in all of this, and not just because she's loaded and is now down under's richest woman. Yep, politics, power and money all take a seat in the box beside professional sports being broadcast on Australian TV. Don't even start us on Aussie TV being broadcast on the internet. That's all sports, but stay turned in the coming days and weeks for more on the art of war that is Australian news media.
Australian Rich List
1 Georgina Rinehart, 56, $9b (mining)
2 Andrew Forrest, 49, $6.9b (mining)
3 James Packer, 43, $4.4b (gambling, media and new media)
4 Frank Lowy, 80, $4.3b (property)
5 Harry Triguboff, 77, $3.4b (property)
6 John Gandel, 76, $3.3b
7 Anthony Pratt, 50, $2.7b
8 Kerr Neilson, 61, $2.4b
9 David Hains, 80, $2b
10 Kerry Stokes, 70, $1.9b
11 Lindsay Fox, 73, $US1.7b
12 Angela Bennett & Michael Wright, 66, $1.55b
13 Leslie Alan Wilson, 69, $1.5b
14 Paul Ramsay, 75, $1.45b
15 Michael Hintze, 57, $1.4b
16 Chris Wallin, 58, $1.3b
17 Gerald Harvey, 71, $1.2b
18 Solomon Lew, 65, $1.15b
19 Leonard Buckeridge, 75, $1.1b
20 Stanley Perron, 88, $1.05b
Source: Forbes
Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...
Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...
PartyCasino.com
Captain Cooks Casino
Betfair (sports betting only)
PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)
PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)
Profiles
Australian Casinos
World Casino Directory
Global Gaming Directory
Casino Travel
Casinos
Australia
Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:
Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Media Man Canada
Media Man Games
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Media Man Network
Casino News Media
Poker News Media
Global Gaming Directory
Saturday, February 05, 2011
Clubs Reject Wilkie's Pokie Plan
ClubsAustralia has told the parliamentary committee on gambling that the Federal Government’s plan to force limits on how much people can bet on poker machines will not reduce problem gambling.
Executive Director of ClubsAustralia Anthony Ball told the committee that the technology has failed to reduce problem gambling in Norway, which is the only country in the world to have installed mandatory pre-commitment technology on poker machines.
“The Norwegian Government admits that the rate of problem gambling has actually increased over the past 3 years. Not surprisingly, gamblers have simply switched from poker machines to the internet where credit card betting is allowed.
“Mandatory pre-commitment in Norway has failed to deliver what it promised. The country is barely one third of the size of NSW, and yet the Norwegian Government has managed to link just 2,300 machines in the last 2 years. At that rate it’ll take more than 170 years to network all of Australia.
“The anti-gambling lobby has tried to use the existence of pre-commitment technology in Norway as justification for their refusal to trial the system in Australia.
“But this claim ignores a recommendation from the Productivity Commission that the technology should be trialled in one state or territory.
“There has never been a trial of this technology in Australia. Andrew Wilkie knows this, the Federal Government knows this, anyone who has read the Productivity Commission’s report into gambling knows this.
“Experts are lining up to reveal this technology for the multi-billion dollar lemon that it is.
“Already Australia’s leading problem gambling researcher has said mandatory pre-commitment won’t reduce problem gambling and could actually delay people from getting help.
“Forcing clubs to spend billions of dollars on a network so the Federal Government can know how much people are gambling will only kill off clubs and their support for community and sporting groups.
“Andrew Wilkie has already admitted this technology will have a central database with people’s gambling history recorded. Australians have made it abundantly clear they simply won’t accept such an intrusion into their spending and leisure habits,” Anthony Ball said.
Below is what Andrew Wilkie told the ABC’s 7.30 Report on 2 September last year:
“Something like a swipe card or USB plug. Some means by which individual gamblers can be recognised by the machines and recognised by the network of machines, so we can keep track of problem gamblers, machines can shut down when a problem gambler has exceeded reasonable limits, where loss amounts per hour can be regulated.”
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Media Man International
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Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Media Man Canada
Media Man Games
Media Man Brand
Media Man Network
Casino News Media
Poker News Media
Global Gaming Directory
Executive Director of ClubsAustralia Anthony Ball told the committee that the technology has failed to reduce problem gambling in Norway, which is the only country in the world to have installed mandatory pre-commitment technology on poker machines.
“The Norwegian Government admits that the rate of problem gambling has actually increased over the past 3 years. Not surprisingly, gamblers have simply switched from poker machines to the internet where credit card betting is allowed.
“Mandatory pre-commitment in Norway has failed to deliver what it promised. The country is barely one third of the size of NSW, and yet the Norwegian Government has managed to link just 2,300 machines in the last 2 years. At that rate it’ll take more than 170 years to network all of Australia.
“The anti-gambling lobby has tried to use the existence of pre-commitment technology in Norway as justification for their refusal to trial the system in Australia.
“But this claim ignores a recommendation from the Productivity Commission that the technology should be trialled in one state or territory.
“There has never been a trial of this technology in Australia. Andrew Wilkie knows this, the Federal Government knows this, anyone who has read the Productivity Commission’s report into gambling knows this.
“Experts are lining up to reveal this technology for the multi-billion dollar lemon that it is.
“Already Australia’s leading problem gambling researcher has said mandatory pre-commitment won’t reduce problem gambling and could actually delay people from getting help.
“Forcing clubs to spend billions of dollars on a network so the Federal Government can know how much people are gambling will only kill off clubs and their support for community and sporting groups.
“Andrew Wilkie has already admitted this technology will have a central database with people’s gambling history recorded. Australians have made it abundantly clear they simply won’t accept such an intrusion into their spending and leisure habits,” Anthony Ball said.
Below is what Andrew Wilkie told the ABC’s 7.30 Report on 2 September last year:
“Something like a swipe card or USB plug. Some means by which individual gamblers can be recognised by the machines and recognised by the network of machines, so we can keep track of problem gamblers, machines can shut down when a problem gambler has exceeded reasonable limits, where loss amounts per hour can be regulated.”
Website Network
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Media Man Asia
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Media Man Games
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Global Gaming Directory
Monday, November 29, 2010
Brumby concedes election defeat - 29th November 2010
Victorian Labor leader John Brumby has fronted the media and conceded defeat following Saturday's state election that gave a narrow win to the Coalition led by Ted Baillieu.
His family and many of his former cabinet colleagues were present for the announcement.
Mr Brumby's office had earlier said he would make no statement on his future until all the votes were counted in the south-east Melbourne seat of Bentleigh.
But he now says it will be almost impossible for Labor to take the seat on current count trends.
Mr Brumby says he called Mr Baillieu before the media conference to pass on his congratulations.
"The electorate has spoken and we must accept their verdict no matter how close the result," he said.
Mr Brumby blamed the baggage of 11 years in office as the main reason for his downfall.
"The people of Victoria felt it was time to give another team a chance," he said.
"Not glossing over issues raised in the campaign... governments seeking to serve a mandate in excess of a decade face a seriously difficult time.
"Often it has been a bridge too far.
"Victors have the right to write history, but I believe Victoria is a stronger, better, fairer place than we found it 11 years ago."
Mr Brumby became premier in 2007 after Steve Bracks retired.
He leaves without having received the people's endorsement.
He also did not say whether he will stay on as Labor leader.
Victory in Bentleigh gives the Liberal/National Coalition the 45 seats it needs to form government.
Mr Baillieu will visit Government House this evening.
This morning Mr Baillieu presided over what was his party's last shadow cabinet meeting before forming government.
He walked through Parliament House flanked by his frontbench team and briefly posed for the TV cameras before shutting the door to begin the meeting.
Cheering and applause could be heard soon after.
His family and many of his former cabinet colleagues were present for the announcement.
Mr Brumby's office had earlier said he would make no statement on his future until all the votes were counted in the south-east Melbourne seat of Bentleigh.
But he now says it will be almost impossible for Labor to take the seat on current count trends.
Mr Brumby says he called Mr Baillieu before the media conference to pass on his congratulations.
"The electorate has spoken and we must accept their verdict no matter how close the result," he said.
Mr Brumby blamed the baggage of 11 years in office as the main reason for his downfall.
"The people of Victoria felt it was time to give another team a chance," he said.
"Not glossing over issues raised in the campaign... governments seeking to serve a mandate in excess of a decade face a seriously difficult time.
"Often it has been a bridge too far.
"Victors have the right to write history, but I believe Victoria is a stronger, better, fairer place than we found it 11 years ago."
Mr Brumby became premier in 2007 after Steve Bracks retired.
He leaves without having received the people's endorsement.
He also did not say whether he will stay on as Labor leader.
Victory in Bentleigh gives the Liberal/National Coalition the 45 seats it needs to form government.
Mr Baillieu will visit Government House this evening.
This morning Mr Baillieu presided over what was his party's last shadow cabinet meeting before forming government.
He walked through Parliament House flanked by his frontbench team and briefly posed for the TV cameras before shutting the door to begin the meeting.
Cheering and applause could be heard soon after.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Woolworths: The Fast Cash People?, by Greg Tingle - 19th November 2010
Gambling and especially potential harm re "problem gambling" continues to get a strong news run in Australia. Today we explore the business relationship that retailer Woolworths (slogan - 'The Fast Food People') aka 'The Fast Cash People' (satire) enjoys in the Australian gaming and gambling industry. Media Man and Gambling911 take a ride on the shopping trolley jackpot with this special report...
Woolworths on Thursday found itself defending its significant business involvement in Australian pokies, as the echoes that they are causing social harm continues.
What's the one armed bandit link we hear you ask. Woolworths, via its majority holding in the ALH Group venture with Melbourne businessman and Aussie pokies king Bruce Mathieson, is Australia's largest poker machine operator and is likely to face more negative press and noise over "problem gambling" due to the anti-pokies stance of some key federal Independent MPs and senators. It's mainly a small but vocal minority, but it gives they a platform to get noticed.
A Media Man insider said 'For some MP's the pokies thing is gold. Some of them see pokies as the new thing to jump upon. Rather like pokies is the new porn to jump up an down about. For the past few years in Australia porn and also the environment were big issues for polies, then mining, not pokies gets a lot of heat. Next year it will be something else".
Woolies Chief executive Michael Luscombe, speaking after the company's annual shareholder meeting in Brisbane said it had no plans at all to exit the poker machines business.
Luscombe advised the firm was planning to introduce a policy to help reduce problem gambling, but he could not or would not immediately name the specific nature.
A communications assistant type then went on to describe the voluntary precommitment policy, under which punters can choose to set limits for wager amounts.
Stephen Maybe, political and media commentator, and anti pokies activist quizzed if Woolworths had decided to pursue court action to prevent councils from such a move or had agreed to a deal with the Victorian Labor Party to use legislation to prevent council action if the Brumby Government was re-elected. Luscombe said he was not aware of any agreement with Labor.
Mayne also said nationwide more than $10 billion was lost on pokies each year. He said Manningham council was investigating the possibility of increasing the rate bill of Woolworths' gaming venues from $100,000 to $400,000.
Woolworths' hotels business enjoyed about $176.7 million in fiscal 2010 pretax earnings and added 6 properties, taking its total number of hotels and clubs to 284.
Woolworths issued a special report on its social, environmental and governance policies, however the report's one-page summary of key 2010 challenges did not mention action to address "problem gambling".
The company noted it adhered to gambling-related laws and planned voluntary measures.
Woolworths also came under fire over its approach to executive pay, with the Australian Shareholders Association citing concern over lack of transparency as the reason for rejecting the remuneration report.
The outfit had good news on its latest trading, with Luscombe stating there had been no direct impact on its business from the latest official rate rise. He expected Christmas trading this year would be "reasonably good".
The company continued to expect 8-11% growth in fiscal 2011 net profit.
He said the company was likely to open more than the 150 home-improvement stores targeted. It has secured 90 sites and planned to open the first stores in Victoria from about July..
Chairman James Strong said the company was keeping its eye out for takeover opportunities.
"The board remains open and alert to a wide range of possibilities that could add value for our shareholders," he said.
Woolies shares rose 24 cents to $27.74 yesterday.
By all accounts Woolworths is making a killing with its current links to the Australian pokies business, and shows no sign of slowing down.
Christmas jackpots are on the way, as the pokies lovers vs pokies haters war down under continues.
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Wrap Up...
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? What do you think about Woolworths being involved in gambling? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis.
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Woolworths on Thursday found itself defending its significant business involvement in Australian pokies, as the echoes that they are causing social harm continues.
What's the one armed bandit link we hear you ask. Woolworths, via its majority holding in the ALH Group venture with Melbourne businessman and Aussie pokies king Bruce Mathieson, is Australia's largest poker machine operator and is likely to face more negative press and noise over "problem gambling" due to the anti-pokies stance of some key federal Independent MPs and senators. It's mainly a small but vocal minority, but it gives they a platform to get noticed.
A Media Man insider said 'For some MP's the pokies thing is gold. Some of them see pokies as the new thing to jump upon. Rather like pokies is the new porn to jump up an down about. For the past few years in Australia porn and also the environment were big issues for polies, then mining, not pokies gets a lot of heat. Next year it will be something else".
Woolies Chief executive Michael Luscombe, speaking after the company's annual shareholder meeting in Brisbane said it had no plans at all to exit the poker machines business.
Luscombe advised the firm was planning to introduce a policy to help reduce problem gambling, but he could not or would not immediately name the specific nature.
A communications assistant type then went on to describe the voluntary precommitment policy, under which punters can choose to set limits for wager amounts.
Stephen Maybe, political and media commentator, and anti pokies activist quizzed if Woolworths had decided to pursue court action to prevent councils from such a move or had agreed to a deal with the Victorian Labor Party to use legislation to prevent council action if the Brumby Government was re-elected. Luscombe said he was not aware of any agreement with Labor.
Mayne also said nationwide more than $10 billion was lost on pokies each year. He said Manningham council was investigating the possibility of increasing the rate bill of Woolworths' gaming venues from $100,000 to $400,000.
Woolworths' hotels business enjoyed about $176.7 million in fiscal 2010 pretax earnings and added 6 properties, taking its total number of hotels and clubs to 284.
Woolworths issued a special report on its social, environmental and governance policies, however the report's one-page summary of key 2010 challenges did not mention action to address "problem gambling".
The company noted it adhered to gambling-related laws and planned voluntary measures.
Woolworths also came under fire over its approach to executive pay, with the Australian Shareholders Association citing concern over lack of transparency as the reason for rejecting the remuneration report.
The outfit had good news on its latest trading, with Luscombe stating there had been no direct impact on its business from the latest official rate rise. He expected Christmas trading this year would be "reasonably good".
The company continued to expect 8-11% growth in fiscal 2011 net profit.
He said the company was likely to open more than the 150 home-improvement stores targeted. It has secured 90 sites and planned to open the first stores in Victoria from about July..
Chairman James Strong said the company was keeping its eye out for takeover opportunities.
"The board remains open and alert to a wide range of possibilities that could add value for our shareholders," he said.
Woolies shares rose 24 cents to $27.74 yesterday.
By all accounts Woolworths is making a killing with its current links to the Australian pokies business, and shows no sign of slowing down.
Christmas jackpots are on the way, as the pokies lovers vs pokies haters war down under continues.
Media Man Profiles
Australia
Australia Casinos
Politics
News
Casino News
Financial News
Entertainment News
Media News
Technology News
Sports News
News
Wrap Up...
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? What do you think about Woolworths being involved in gambling? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis.
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Media Man Canada
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Saturday, November 06, 2010
James Packer Casino King Tribute To Alan Jones Media King, by Greg Tingle - 5th November 2010
In a very special getting together in Sydney, Australia's gambling king, and up and coming media tycoon, James Packer, has paid tribute to Australian radio broadcasting legend Alan Jones, in a powerful and emotional speech. Media Man and Gambling911 cross now to the action...
Australian media and gambling business champion, James Packer, gave a powerful, emotional and heartfelt address overnight in tribute to talkback radio king and racing identity Alan Jones.
For the uninitiated, Jones is every part the living legend of media, racing and people power circles. Jones and the guest were celebrating his 25 years as a broadcaster in a glitz event at Sydney's Darling Harbour. Media Man favorite gambling tycoon, Packer headlined the impressive event.
Let's go through some of the highlights...
Packer's voice got croaky after describing how Jones had assisted thousands of people, many totally anonymously, showing just how giving of heart and spirit the great man was.
"Alan, no one will ever take your place. You are without peer my friend," Packer said, looking to get touch teary eyed.
Earlier in the evening he told the story of how his late father, Kerry Packer, has encouraged and then persuaded Jones to give up politics for life as a media commentator on Network Nine and then onto Radio 2UE, and before then representing competitor 2GB Radio.
"What do you want to be son...the Prime Minister or a millionaire," KP (Kerry Packer) said to Jones.
"Alan took the money, not the box."
The magical night, which was hosted by advertising and media legend John Singleton and attended by the whose who of politics, media, and arts, also featured tributes from people as diverse as Liberal Party powerbroker Michael Kroger and pop icons Human Nature.
Jones's long-time colleague at 2UE and a veteran of more than 6 decades in radio, John Brennan said Jones was the best broadcaster he had ever heard because of his ability to connect with listeners and his efficiency of description.
"I think that Alan Jones is the Roger Federer of radio," he wasn't afraid to share with the audience.
Even former Aussie prime minister John Howard touched on a remark from Packer that Jones would "pick and stick" by his mates and friends, describing the legend as "an Australian who never let his cobbers down".
He said Jones, more than anyone else, understood the power of talkback radio to influence politics.
"Alan has understood the temperament and the nature of the Australian people They don't like being told by self-appointed cultural dietitians that we should be ashamed of our past - Alan understood that", Howard shared.
He said he had appreciated Jones's support while in office and paid tribute to the broadcaster's record of winning a massive 155 radio ratings surveys.
Jones, who went on to speak last, said Howard was in his mind "the best prime minister Australia has had".
He thanked the people who attended - friends, family and other guests, including some of his listeners, as well as generously paying tribute to his support team at Radio 2GB.
Jones advised his main campaign would be against opencut mining which he thinks turns too much rich pastoral land into wastelands for profit. He elaborated and said he was hopeful he would be able to continue to make people feel better as a result of his work, both broadcasting, community and more.
"The aim of power in this world is to lift people, not crush them," he shared.
Jones has also greatly contributed to the Australia gaming and horse racing industry, with speaking on what's best for Australian racing being one of his passions. It was Jones who basically told Australian racing to lift its game or see more competition knocking on the door of Australia. Jones and his team are aware of the PartyGaming - PMU deal inked earlier this year, and Jones has also offered commentary in the past on Packer's Betfair and the like. Jones is understood to be a supported of regulated gaming and racing, and a believer in responsible gaming, as is Gambling911 and Media Man.
Well done to everyone involved, and Alan, thank you for assisting some of my mates over the years also, which in turn assisted me, and James, thank you also for the opportunity to offer commentary on you, your company, initiatives like GenerationOne, and to offer some b2b to some of your companies showcase events like Crown Casino Aussie Millions Poker Championship. It is truly appreciated and never taken for granted. Long live the Jones, Packer and 'Singo' (Singleton) legends. All Aussie champions of business, community and people power.
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Australia
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Wrap Up...
It was wonderful to hear about the good deeds of media tycoons wasn't it We salute both Packer, Jones, and the good folks who helped put together such a fantastic happening. It was also a nice change to read about big time Australian media players without all the agro and such. Stay tuned for more of the best on gambling, media, entertainment and sports right here at Gambling911.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis. Media Man also publish Media Man News http://www.mediamannews.com
Website Network
Media Man International
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Global Gaming Directory
Australian media and gambling business champion, James Packer, gave a powerful, emotional and heartfelt address overnight in tribute to talkback radio king and racing identity Alan Jones.
For the uninitiated, Jones is every part the living legend of media, racing and people power circles. Jones and the guest were celebrating his 25 years as a broadcaster in a glitz event at Sydney's Darling Harbour. Media Man favorite gambling tycoon, Packer headlined the impressive event.
Let's go through some of the highlights...
Packer's voice got croaky after describing how Jones had assisted thousands of people, many totally anonymously, showing just how giving of heart and spirit the great man was.
"Alan, no one will ever take your place. You are without peer my friend," Packer said, looking to get touch teary eyed.
Earlier in the evening he told the story of how his late father, Kerry Packer, has encouraged and then persuaded Jones to give up politics for life as a media commentator on Network Nine and then onto Radio 2UE, and before then representing competitor 2GB Radio.
"What do you want to be son...the Prime Minister or a millionaire," KP (Kerry Packer) said to Jones.
"Alan took the money, not the box."
The magical night, which was hosted by advertising and media legend John Singleton and attended by the whose who of politics, media, and arts, also featured tributes from people as diverse as Liberal Party powerbroker Michael Kroger and pop icons Human Nature.
Jones's long-time colleague at 2UE and a veteran of more than 6 decades in radio, John Brennan said Jones was the best broadcaster he had ever heard because of his ability to connect with listeners and his efficiency of description.
"I think that Alan Jones is the Roger Federer of radio," he wasn't afraid to share with the audience.
Even former Aussie prime minister John Howard touched on a remark from Packer that Jones would "pick and stick" by his mates and friends, describing the legend as "an Australian who never let his cobbers down".
He said Jones, more than anyone else, understood the power of talkback radio to influence politics.
"Alan has understood the temperament and the nature of the Australian people They don't like being told by self-appointed cultural dietitians that we should be ashamed of our past - Alan understood that", Howard shared.
He said he had appreciated Jones's support while in office and paid tribute to the broadcaster's record of winning a massive 155 radio ratings surveys.
Jones, who went on to speak last, said Howard was in his mind "the best prime minister Australia has had".
He thanked the people who attended - friends, family and other guests, including some of his listeners, as well as generously paying tribute to his support team at Radio 2GB.
Jones advised his main campaign would be against opencut mining which he thinks turns too much rich pastoral land into wastelands for profit. He elaborated and said he was hopeful he would be able to continue to make people feel better as a result of his work, both broadcasting, community and more.
"The aim of power in this world is to lift people, not crush them," he shared.
Jones has also greatly contributed to the Australia gaming and horse racing industry, with speaking on what's best for Australian racing being one of his passions. It was Jones who basically told Australian racing to lift its game or see more competition knocking on the door of Australia. Jones and his team are aware of the PartyGaming - PMU deal inked earlier this year, and Jones has also offered commentary in the past on Packer's Betfair and the like. Jones is understood to be a supported of regulated gaming and racing, and a believer in responsible gaming, as is Gambling911 and Media Man.
Well done to everyone involved, and Alan, thank you for assisting some of my mates over the years also, which in turn assisted me, and James, thank you also for the opportunity to offer commentary on you, your company, initiatives like GenerationOne, and to offer some b2b to some of your companies showcase events like Crown Casino Aussie Millions Poker Championship. It is truly appreciated and never taken for granted. Long live the Jones, Packer and 'Singo' (Singleton) legends. All Aussie champions of business, community and people power.
Media Man Profiles
Australia
Radio
Television
James Packer
Alan Jones
John Singleton
Entertainment News
Wrap Up...
It was wonderful to hear about the good deeds of media tycoons wasn't it We salute both Packer, Jones, and the good folks who helped put together such a fantastic happening. It was also a nice change to read about big time Australian media players without all the agro and such. Stay tuned for more of the best on gambling, media, entertainment and sports right here at Gambling911.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis. Media Man also publish Media Man News http://www.mediamannews.com
Website Network
Media Man International
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Wednesday, November 03, 2010
Conn. Wrestling Fans: Not Totally Sold On Linda McMahon Ex WWE Boss, by Greg Tingle - 3rd November 2010
Linda McMahon wasn't the first pro wrestling aka sports entertainment personality to enter mainstream politics, nor will she the last, but tipsters say she might end up being the most talked about, perhaps even to eclipse legendary Jesse "The Body" Ventura, now host of cable's 'Conspiracy Theory'.
To stake the obvious, being talked about doesn't automatically equal votes.
I'm an Aussie (Australian) so I can't vote for Linda, but you bet, I would if I could. She's likable, intelligent and has a proven track record in running a business - a business that she helped turn into a multi billion dollar concern, and has employed thousands of people over the years. That business - The World Wrestling Entertainment "sports entertainment" powerhouse is one of the world's most well known brands and provides millions, perhaps even billions of people with family friendly (these days) entertainment. A lot has changed since the smoke filled arena and bodybuilder - steroid era.
Wrestling fans or not, it is not fair to blame Linda or Vince McMahon on the steroids found in wrestling, or the ultra high level of early deaths found in the wrestling profession. No one forces wrestlers to take steroids or any drugs, but it is acknowledged that in the past - circa 1990 "monster" (big) wrestlers were usually pushed to the top of the card, and that was linked to earning capacity. The life of a pro wrestler can be presented as glamorous, but it is also one that doesn't come without high risks, injuries and the body encountering frequent pain over the years. The WWE has hundreds of wrestlers on their rooster which helps in given the talent a break when they need, as there is always another wrestler available to fill up the card.
Let's now swing forward to the here and now, with an upcoming election upon us...
Connecticut fans of World Wrestling Entertainment have advised Republican U.S. Senate candidate Linda McMahon's ties to the wrestling aka "sports entertainment" company won't guarantee their votes come the Election.
Pro wrestling fanatics in Hartford on Saturday said the former WWE CEO's political - media campaign has "no bearing" on their enjoyment of the WWE. The company was in Hartford's XL Center for Fan Appreciation Day, which as you can imagine was a fantastic event and quite the moral booster for WWE management and "independent contractors" (wrestlers).
McMahon is running against Democratic state Attorney General Richard Blumenthal for the seat of retiring Democratic U.S Sen. Christopher Dodd. A recent poll obtained by Media Man showed Blumenthal leading McMahon at the time of this publication.
WWE representatives say the weekend show wasn't so much about rallying voters. They say it was held to thank fans for supporting the company despite what they have named as unfair attacks on its image from state Democrats and sections of the media. For the record let it be known that Media Man has given fair and balanced coverage to the WWE over the years, even back to when it wasn't afraid to call itself World Wrestling Federation and "pro wrastling". Sometimes we even ran some negative based articles, when they were in order, based on the company's actions.
Only a few weeks ago current WWE top brass Vince McMahon started his own campaign: 'Stand Up For WWE', which by all accounts has been a global phenomenal success.
The global news media should be fair to WWE and Linda McMahon. A quick snapshot shows:
Linda McMahon has a proven track record in business
Politically savvy candidate
Strong community ties
Built leading global brand
WWE is family friendly entertainment (usually)
WWE Wellness Policy (which has proven to be a serious policy, unlike in some other sports and fields of endeavor)
So, wrestling fans or not, when you vote in the upcoming election, vote with your head. Don't be deterred by media beat ups or bias articles.
Will Linda McMahon and her tag team partner of sorts, Vince "Mr McMahon", lay the smack down on their political opponents? You can bet it will be a fight to the finish. Stay tuned to Media Man and Gambling911 for the aftermath of 'Celebrity Death Match' Connecticut style.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. The also offer political analysis
*Media Man conducts some b2b business with World Wrestling Entertainment and publishes Wrestling News Media http://www.wrestlingnewsmedia.com
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To stake the obvious, being talked about doesn't automatically equal votes.
I'm an Aussie (Australian) so I can't vote for Linda, but you bet, I would if I could. She's likable, intelligent and has a proven track record in running a business - a business that she helped turn into a multi billion dollar concern, and has employed thousands of people over the years. That business - The World Wrestling Entertainment "sports entertainment" powerhouse is one of the world's most well known brands and provides millions, perhaps even billions of people with family friendly (these days) entertainment. A lot has changed since the smoke filled arena and bodybuilder - steroid era.
Wrestling fans or not, it is not fair to blame Linda or Vince McMahon on the steroids found in wrestling, or the ultra high level of early deaths found in the wrestling profession. No one forces wrestlers to take steroids or any drugs, but it is acknowledged that in the past - circa 1990 "monster" (big) wrestlers were usually pushed to the top of the card, and that was linked to earning capacity. The life of a pro wrestler can be presented as glamorous, but it is also one that doesn't come without high risks, injuries and the body encountering frequent pain over the years. The WWE has hundreds of wrestlers on their rooster which helps in given the talent a break when they need, as there is always another wrestler available to fill up the card.
Let's now swing forward to the here and now, with an upcoming election upon us...
Connecticut fans of World Wrestling Entertainment have advised Republican U.S. Senate candidate Linda McMahon's ties to the wrestling aka "sports entertainment" company won't guarantee their votes come the Election.
Pro wrestling fanatics in Hartford on Saturday said the former WWE CEO's political - media campaign has "no bearing" on their enjoyment of the WWE. The company was in Hartford's XL Center for Fan Appreciation Day, which as you can imagine was a fantastic event and quite the moral booster for WWE management and "independent contractors" (wrestlers).
McMahon is running against Democratic state Attorney General Richard Blumenthal for the seat of retiring Democratic U.S Sen. Christopher Dodd. A recent poll obtained by Media Man showed Blumenthal leading McMahon at the time of this publication.
WWE representatives say the weekend show wasn't so much about rallying voters. They say it was held to thank fans for supporting the company despite what they have named as unfair attacks on its image from state Democrats and sections of the media. For the record let it be known that Media Man has given fair and balanced coverage to the WWE over the years, even back to when it wasn't afraid to call itself World Wrestling Federation and "pro wrastling". Sometimes we even ran some negative based articles, when they were in order, based on the company's actions.
Only a few weeks ago current WWE top brass Vince McMahon started his own campaign: 'Stand Up For WWE', which by all accounts has been a global phenomenal success.
The global news media should be fair to WWE and Linda McMahon. A quick snapshot shows:
Linda McMahon has a proven track record in business
Politically savvy candidate
Strong community ties
Built leading global brand
WWE is family friendly entertainment (usually)
WWE Wellness Policy (which has proven to be a serious policy, unlike in some other sports and fields of endeavor)
So, wrestling fans or not, when you vote in the upcoming election, vote with your head. Don't be deterred by media beat ups or bias articles.
Will Linda McMahon and her tag team partner of sorts, Vince "Mr McMahon", lay the smack down on their political opponents? You can bet it will be a fight to the finish. Stay tuned to Media Man and Gambling911 for the aftermath of 'Celebrity Death Match' Connecticut style.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. The also offer political analysis
*Media Man conducts some b2b business with World Wrestling Entertainment and publishes Wrestling News Media http://www.wrestlingnewsmedia.com
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Media Man Canada
Media Man Games
Media Man Brand
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Global Gaming Directory
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