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Saturday, January 29, 2011

bwin and PartyGaming shareholders approve merger

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bwin and PartyGaming shareholders approve merger

The legal measures specified by the merger plan can now be implemented during the next few weeks.

Vienna/Gibraltar, 28 January 2011 – bwin Interactive Entertainment AG (bwin) and PartyGaming Plc (PartyGaming) shareholders have today approved the merger of their two companies. These approvals in both extraordinary general meetings (EGM) were a condition for carrying out the proposed merger.

Commenting on the results of today’s EGMs, Jim Ryan and Norbert Teufelberger, the proposed co-CEOs of bwin.party digital entertainment plc, said: "Today’s shareholder meetings were a key milestone in the overall process, putting the transformational merger of our two companies well on the way to completion. We are delighted that both sets of shareholders have overwhelmingly recognised the strategic, operational and financial benefits of creating the world’s largest listed online gaming company."

bwin EGM details
A total of 335 shareholders attended bwin's EGM, representing a total of 18.1 million shares. The results of voting at the general meeting in Vienna have been published at www.bwin.org. The legal measures specified by the merger plan can now be implemented during the next few weeks. bwin shareholders will receive 12.23 bwin.party shares denominated in GBP for each bwin share. This share exchange will be carried out automatically and free of charge for bwin shareholders.

PartyGaming EGM details
At PartyGaming’s EGM held in Gibraltar today, all 9 resolutions relating to the approval of the merger with bwin and associated matters, including the change of name from PartyGaming Plc to bwin.party digital entertainment plc, were approved by PartyGaming shareholders.

About bwin
The bwin Group has over 20 million registered customers in more than 25 core markets. On a number of different platforms, the Group offers sports betting, poker, casino games, soft and skill games, as well as audio and video streams of top sporting events such as the German Soccer League. The holding company bwin Interactive Entertainment AG is listed in the ATX on the Vienna Stock Exchange (ID code BWIN, Reuters ID code BWIN.VI), and as the parent company provides various services such as software development, marketing, communications, human resources and finance for its subsidiaries and associated companies. The operational business of the bwin Group is carried out by subsidiaries and associated companies on the basis of licences (e.g. Germany, Italy and Gibraltar). Full details about the Company can be found on its investor relations website.

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Friday, January 28, 2011

Crown Aussie Million's Poker $250,000 World First, by Greg Tingle - 28th January 2011

G'day punters, journos, high rollers - casino whales, gambling millionaires and billionaires, poker sharks, entertainment and arts news junkies, media tycoons, politicians, insiders, outsiders, legal eagles... one and all. You know who you are. Australia continues to have Aussie Millions fever, and the poker world continues to stay clued to the action from the felt. We're got huge news from Crown Casino and also from its parent company, Crown Limited, including the one and only 'Our James' (James Packer) and friends. Media Man and Gambling911 with another exciting report...

Australia Leading The Way In High Stakes Poker Thanks To Packer's Aussie Millions!...

It's the world's richest poker tournament in history. Way to go Aussies.

How would you fancy entering the "Super High Roller" event costs $250,000 just to buy in. That's what happened folks.

We saw 20 players take a seat at the table. Some are also rumoured to have "side bets' with other players, agents and industry wheeler dealers.

The casino executive manager of table games, Sean McCreery, advised the amount of entrants took him by surprise.

"We were confident for eight but 20 players is quite unexpected. It’s exactly where we want to take the Aussie Millions in making it more attractive for the high-end players."

In a win - win - win scenario, the winner of the high-stakes event will take home $2.5 million with the 2nd and 3rd place players taking $1.5 and $1 million respectively.

Celeb poker players in yesterday's celebrity games included Shane "Warnie" Warne, known for often playing "poker her" with a certain Liz.

McCreery is wrapt with the way things have worked us thus far. "You couldn’t ask for a better table. The people who are at the table right now are a who’s who of world poker."

The quarter-of-a-million dollar price tag is the highest buy-in price ever offered with the previous record being shared between the Aussie Millions and the PokerStars Caribbean Adventure’s $100,000 challenge.

McCreery said the idea behind the high-stakes game is part of a plan by the casino to make Australia one of the foremost poker destinations in the world. "If you think about it some of these players have to fly 40 hours just to be in the tournament. We try to create a whole experience for them here at Crown. Some of the players have told me this is their favourite event of the season."

At approx 5pm EST the tourney leader was Sam Trickett, with $1.17 million in chips. Organisers were expecting the tournament to run as late as 4am. Stay tuned.


Eric Seidel Wins Aussie Millions $250,000 Super High Roller Game; Sam Trickett Comes In 2nd...

Seidel might just be the world's most famous poker player as we go to press, and Sam Trickett isn't far behind.

The winner is an American professional poker player from Las Vegas, Nevada with 8 World Series of Poker bracelets and a World Poker Tour title. He is also a member of the Poker Hall of Fame. A bit of history...Seidel was born in New York City. Originally a tournament backgammon player for eight years, he eventually started playing the stock market, and then moved on to poker. He was one of the group of now famous players from the Mayfair Club, including Howard Lederer and Dan Harrington. In his first major tournament, Seidel was runner-up in the 1988 World Series of Poker main event to Johnny Chan. This final hand was featured in the movie Rounders. Seidel made the WSOP main event final table again in 1999, finishing in 4th place in the event won by Noel Furlong. He won his first WSOP bracelet in 1992 and won his eighth and most recent bracelet in 2007. Seidel has won bracelets in five different games, including Hold'em, Omaha, and Deuce to Seven Draw. Only four players in the history of the WSOP, world champions Phil Hellmuth, Doyle Brunson, Johnny Chan, and Johnny Moss, have won more bracelets than Seidel. During the sixth season of the World Poker Tour, Seidel won the 2008 WPT Foxwoods Poker Classic, earning $992,890. In January 2008, Seidel finished in second place in the Aussie Millions $10k main event and won $1,000,000(AUD). In March 2010, Seidel finished in second place in the National Heads-Up Poker Championship and collected $250,000 after a 1-2 loss to Annie 'The Hunt' Duke in the final. His total live tournament winnings exceed $13,700,000, plus add on the 2011 Aussie Millions winning to this total. $4,352,051 has been won at the WSOP. His 60 WSOP cashes put him in 4th for all time, tied with Berry Johnston. What an ace.


Sam Trickett...

Tricket has already won just under $3 million in tournament earnings this month which puts him up to $4.5 million career earnings overall, just behind Devilfish and Roland De Wolfe on the England all-time money list.

Aussie Millions Poker Trivia...

A number of Australia's have previously won the Aussie Millions. Interestingly, the last 2 champions were both Aussies and both ending up securing sponsorship with PartyGaming's PartyPoker.com We're talking about 2010 Champion Tyron Krost and 2009 Champion Stewart Scott.

Poker pro Van Marcus, currently in Melbourne for Aussie Millions, is the chap who has his red rare Ferrari nicked from the Crown valet parking last year, in a story that generated massive international headlines. In the past days Marcus has been seeing driving around Melbourne in what looks to be the same card, but this time reportedly with a hot blonde or brunette in the passenger seat. Hows the ride girls?

Next year, Network Ten Australia is interested to have the entire or a very comprehensive showing of the Aussie Millions tournament broadcast on one or both of their TV channels. The network currently has Network Ten and Eleven. James Packer, big wig at Crown Limited and major shareholder at Network Ten and his army is keen to see Aussie Millions generate substantial TV coverage, and some at the network and casino think it may also lend itself to a reality TV show and or interactive gambling content, and we mean more than just satellite qualified steering only players from PartyPoker or Doyle's to Aussie Millions, if you follow our lead. Sounds like great business movies fellas.

Marketing and gaming advisers to James Packer have leaked that they see merit in having an Aussie Millions branded online slot game. They saw the popularity of Cleopatra and Sinatra in an online environment, and well as PartyGaming's World Poker Tour slot in land based casinos. They have not confirmed a Kerry Packer themed slot game, with some concerns it may be a uncomfortable proposal for one or two of the Packer family, however many punters and insiders think that Kerry would have loved the idea, and further would have loved the concept that a slot game will his likeness via tribute slot would actually make Crown Limited money. PartyGaming, WMS and IGT are keen to talk turkey with Crown Limited with their online plans, which may also compliment what's in store for the further development of Packer 50% owned Betfair. Who is tipped to the the contract? We think PartyGaming, based on their strong US land based casino deals, ink still drying over the last few days, but you will just have to keep watching the space.

The first Aussie Millions was held in 1998 with a $1,000 buy-in and $74k prize pool and 10 international participants mainly from New Zealand. Since then, the tournament has grown year on year, to now be a major event if not the major event (Aussies think so) on the international poker tournament circuit, and a 'must do' for any serious poker player.


Crown Limited and Network Nine powers that be - your throw of the dice. No bluff!


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)

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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 Ten Network Holdings

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Australian Casino And Gaming News, by Greg Tingle - 27th January 2011

G'day everyone. How as your Australia Day maties? The casino, gaming and sports betting news keeps coming thick and fast. Media Man and Gambling911 with the latest and greatest from the land down under...

Melbourne: Shane Warne Shows Again At Aussie Millions...

Warnie wore his poker face on Australia Day as he battled some of the world's best poker champs at the Aussie Millions Main Event at James Packers' Crown Casino. The spinner king played among the likes of former boxer and mate Jeff Fenech, fashion designer from Playboy fame, Christopher Chronis and Australian poker champ Joe Hachem. Warne and Hachem are the official poker faces of Crown Limited and both enjoy good relationships with Asia Pacific's gambling and media tycoon, James Packer aka 'Our James'.

Australian Pubs, Pokie Palaces Feel Financial Pressure, Pokie Takings May Not Save Them...

We're learned that 2 high-profile pub casualties, listed freehold owner Redcape Properties and venue operator National Leisure & Gaming (NLG) collectively owe about $860 million to their bank lenders. A senior banker told the press that pub loans totalling "several billion dollars" were spread across the bigger lenders, with the absence of pub buyers leaving few options but to extend debt repayments. Last month the Bank of New Zealand Australia, the business division of NAB, extended about $150m in NLG loans due at the end of July until January 2012. However, banks continue to lend on pub freeholds, albeit at reduced loan-to-valuation ratios of 50-60%. Few are lending on leaseholds. The harder line has fuelled fears of a further half a % softening in yields in 2011. "If a bank is only willing to lend 50% for a $20m acquisition, that limits the number of buyers able to stump up a lazy $10m," the senior industry figure said. While pub markets across Australia are under pressure, New South Wales...where there has been about 35 receiverships since 2008 - has suffered most. The latest to go into receivership is Icon Hospitality - the largest tenant of the troubled listed ING Entertainment Fund. The least affected state is Victoria, where poker machine baron Bruce Mathieson and Woolworths dominate the pub scene through their Australian Leisure & Hospitality Group partnership. Likewise, the ALE pub freehold group has the majority of its properties in Melbourne and Queensland, making it another standout in the listed pub space. Many Australian leading business peole say that the clubs need to improve entertainment, beyond just offering entertaining "one armed bandits". Also, good food for the right price may help save the skin of some Aussie pubs, clubs and hotels. No wonder the club sector is pissed off with 'Mr X', pitching proposals which will further reduce revenue streams. Aren't you glad you don't own a pub!

Victorian Government Targets Real Life Underbelly In And Around Horse Racing Scene...

The Victorian Government has authorised the state's racing officials to access information from more crime-fighting bodies, as part of a crackdown on shady characters. The Racing Integrity Commissioner, Sal Perna, can now trade data with the Australian Crime Commission, the Australian Securities and Investment Commission, Centrelink and the Victorian Ombudsman. He was already authorised to view the files of Victoria Police and the state's gambling regulator. The Racing Minister, Denis Napthine, says crime is not welcome at the racetrack. "In racing there are millions of dollars involved on a daily and yearly basis, and this can sometimes attract people of ill repute," he said. "And the Racing Integrity Commissioner needs to have access to information with other agencies so that he can investigate any suggestions of impropriety." Victoria Police was recently criticised for entering into an information sharing agreement with the Australian Football League. Dr Napthine says the AFL is a private body, and the same concerns do not apply. "The Racing Integrity Commissioner is a state public-sector employee, and he is responsible for protecting the integrity of racing in the state of Victoria, and that is why he has access to this information,' he said. "He is fully aware of the issues in terms of protecting privacy." Mr Perna is a former policeman, corporate security expert, architect of Tennis Australia's Anti-Corruption Program and also helped develop the AFL's integrity program.

Australian Man With Cancer - Leukaemia Stole Millions To Feed Gambling Habit...

A man with terminal leukaemia has been sentenced to jail for stealing millions of dollars from a law firm trust account. William Brenton Willoughby, 65, admitted stealing more than $2 million to buy and train racehorses and gamble. Adelaide District Court Judge Paul Rice said Willoughby abused his position as a loyal and trusted employee of the Magarey Farlam law firm and his behaviour was morally reprehensible. The judge said the man would serve his time harder than others because of his leukaemia and diabetes. Willoughby has been jailed for 9 years with a five-year non-parole term. Rumour had it that some inmates go get to play cards in jail, with decks of cards sometimes being smuggled in we're told. It's unknown exactly how any wagers are paid in the can, but we suspect with vice like beer, cigs or even mobile phones which are known to be smuggled in from time to time.

Alice Springs, Northern Territory: Alice Springs Memorial Club: Real Life Underbelly Crime Spree...

The manager of the Alice Springs Memorial Club says crime is out of control in the town. Andrea Sullivan said the club was broken into around one o'clock in the morning and alcohol was stolen. She said while police were taking a statement from her, the alleged offenders returned and the police chased them and arrested them. Ms Sullivan said repeated break-ins have cost the club more than $20,000 over the last couple of months. "I really think that it's as simple as this - you do the crime, you do the time" Ms Sullivan said. "The justice system has to be a lot harsher on these people especially these repeat offenders. "They're coming in over and over and over again and I can tell you the town's people are getting very tired and sick of it."
Police have been kept busy over the last two days with break-ins at two other licenced premises. Police said all of the alleged offenders have been arrested and charged. The offers decent opportunities to have a punt. TAB, Keno, Bingo and Slots we understand. From their website we learn... TAB - We have the perfect setting for the eager punter, with an up to date top tipping service supplied by Bet-Busters and screening Sky Channel, Austar and Foxtel Sports. The TAB has it’s own separate area away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the Club. Fully operational seven days a week with a fully equipped bar and ATM facilities available. KENO - We have a fully operational Keno Terminal and several screens to view the Keno situated throughout the Club. BINGO - Bingo sessions are held privately in our hall separated from the main Club area. Guests are welcome to try their luck at winning cash jackpots. Monday eyes down at 7:30 pm Sunday eyes down at 1:30 pm. Gaming - All the gaming functions are incorporated in one area of the club and include 45 Gaming Machines; Keno; TAB; Eight Ball & Darts rooms The gaming area reflects a casual and inviting ambiance with a modern and bold decor. In addition to the integrated gaming area is a further convenience of an outdoor smoking area that is central to all. The outdoor smoking area is a tastefully designed including a tiled floor and shaded area. Situated just off from the Main Bar you can enjoy a drink and a flutter on one of our 45 gaming machines. We have a 13 machine Aristocrat “Fast Lane” Hyperlink Jackpot system, 8 machine TAB “Rocket to Riches” linked Jackpot system, 7 machine IGT “Jetsetter” linked Jackpot system and an excellent variety of stand alone machines. The Club has a policy of responsible gaming and children under the age of 18 are not permitted in this room. The Gaming Room opens from 11am till late Monday to Saturday and 12pm - 9pm Sunday. We open on all public holidays except Easter Friday and Christmas Day. Members promotions are run in conjunction with the Pokies, TAB & Keno. Our Members promotions are held every fortnight and we change the prizes every three months.
Our Members Promotions have proved very popular with prizes ranging from:
Win Your Weight in Gold White Goods worth up to $10,000 Cars Huge Cash Give-aways
To collect tickets simply spend $20 on Poker Machine change, TAB, Keno, in the Bottle Shop or buy a main meal in the Bistro. All draws take place between 7pm & 9pm. To be eligible to win you must be a current Financial Member and present at the draws. *Committee Members, Staff and Family of both (including boyfriends, girlfriends, de-facto's etc) not eligible to win.


Queensland Banana Bender State: Pub Pokies And Online Pokies Becoming More Popular?...

One armed bandits are maintaining their popularity in 'The Sunshine State'. It's understand that punters might have only a 1 in a million chance of winning really big, lotto - millionaire style, but they just keep coming back for more. Yep, throw another dime in the pokie baby. Queenslanders "invested" close to $2 billion last year as the punters passion for the slots maintained its fever pace. The total pokies expenditure of $1.81 billion was slightly down on the previous year, it was the third year consecutively the number exceeded $1.8 billion. We're also learned that the 2008 figure of $1.83 billion was an all-time record. Now, this is important - those numbers Do Not take into account the rabid take up and roll our of online poker or sports betting. You know, betting over the global medium - the internet. Overall, Queenslanders spent $7 million less on pokies than last year and $28 million less than in 2008, but it still works out at in excess of $150 million every month down the slots August was the year's biggest month for slot gamblers, who put close to $170 million in the throats of the one armed bandits. August was also the biggest month for gamblers in 2008, with more than $173 million lost. Pokies remain by far the most popular games for punters in Australia, bringing in most of the estimated $17 billion spent on all forms of gambling down under each year. Some insiders think that the reduction in official spending was more a sign of the increased popularity of internet and sports-based gambling. Concentrating on pokie figures, it appears Queenslanders gambled more at the height of the global financial crisis two years ago than they did throughout 2010.

Quotes From Nick Xenophon; Gambling And Sports Betting Hater On South's Rabbitoh's Casino Deal...

"The Rabbitohs players are role models for young kids and being tethered to Star City, to NSW’s biggest gambling venue, is really sending the wrong signal"

"It normalises gambling behaviour for young kids."

"Why would the Rabbitohs want to tie their reputation to a business that causes so much misery to so many?"

"It’s a very sad development given that South Sydney was a beacon of hope for those clubs wanting to ween themselves off a reliance on gambling revenue"

"This is only one short step removed from that so there must be better ways to raise a quid rather than off the backs of problem gamblers."

"In the same way that you can’t have tobacco companies sponsoring sporting clubs, the same rule should apply to gambling because the level of harm is so significant"

A Media Man spokesperson said, "There you go Senator Xenophon. Happy. We still give you coverage even if you don't return our phone calls. Many clubs say you are out of touch with real Australians and what the typical bloke is all about. Punting has been a way of life with Aussies and sports lovers the world over since almost the beginning of time going back to the Roman Colosseum and beyond. Deal with it."


NRL - Gambling News: Luxbet Joins Rabbitohs As Senior Corporate Partner...

The South Sydney Rabbitohs have announced that Luxbet have joined the Club as a senior corporate partner today, adding to the best-in-class brands associated with the Club leading into the 2011 NRL season. Luxbet is a racing and sports corporate bookmaking operation, owned and managed by Tabcorp Holdings. Rabbitohs CEO Shane Richardson is pleased to welcome Luxbet on board with the Rabbitohs. "Luxbet is recognised as a market leader in racing and sports betting and we’re pleased to welcome them aboard for 2011. We have many well-renowned and respected companies and brands associated with our Club at the major and senior corporate partnership level and Luxbet is another that we welcome to our family." General Manager of Luxbet, Andrew Vouris, says aligning with the Rabbitohs is a good move for their organisation. "Luxbet’s sponsorship of South Sydney presents us with a tremendous opportunity to align with a club that is on the verge of an extremely exciting period," Mr Vouris said. "We have been particularly impressed with South Sydney’s vision for its future and we believe the sponsorship will deliver significant benefits to both parties."

Top Aussie Gambling Companies Respond To Flood Cry For Help...

Woolworths: $6.9 million (matching customer donations in Woolies, Big W, Dick Smith dollar for dollar)

Crown Limited: Donation tins in Crown complexes and have committed to matching all donations as well as staff contributions

Tabcorp Holdings: $1 million

Tatts Group: Going to run a dedicated lottery for the Queensland flood appeal where all profits will go to the Premier's Flood Appeal. They ran the same thing in Victoria after the Black Saturday bushfires. It will run on Wednesday 2 Feb in Queensland and is expected to raise $200,000. In addition, another donation will be made from the unclaimed prizes fund of an as. yet undecided amount

Shane Warnie Continues To Set Story Straight About 14 Mates And Self Attending Tennis Open...

Andy Roddick asked me in his box," Warne tweeted. "Said - yes ..." "How does that turn into wanting 14 tickets, VIP treatment and escorts to seats."

Warne's pissed response to the Herald story, which was sourced to two tournament officials, came as he prepared for the second round of the Aussie Millions Poker Tournament at Crown casino. He attended the Open with poker former champ Joe Hachem.


James Packer Gets Council Approval To Develop Compound At Vaucluse; Full Speed Ahead...

Media and gaming tycoon James Packer has received council approval to redevelop a 3369 square metre sloping site in Sydney’s ritzy eastern suburb of Vaucluse. Packer with wife Erica has acquired three adjoining homes between Wentworth and Victoria roads. The largest home – a 1970s, unrenovated Guildford Bell designed mansion will be retained (view from pool, right). Packer, through company Monac Developments Pty Ltd, paid $18 million for this home in mid 2009. Last year, the businessman spent another $12.05 million acquiring two smaller homes on blocks beneath the prominent large home. These have both been demolished, allowing the land to be consolidated. The Packer’s plan to replace the demolished homes with a 13-car garage, 23 metre pool, underground cinema, gym and staff quarters. A 2.4 metre high metal security gate will be developed behind two 1.7 metre metal vehicle entry gates. It’s speculated the renovation will cost about $13 million. Construction is underway. We can't wait to see the finished product.


IMF Getting Reputation For Class Action Legal Funding Inc Gambling Down Under...

Class action law firms say while the size of the claims may be bigger, there is no big jump in the number of cases. Blake Dawson partner John Emmerig says class actions are increasing. "The High Court in 2006 changed a law to allow litigation funders to fund these actions and there's a huge financial motivation for funders in doing so because they take generally between 20 to 45% of a settlement or judgment from these claims," he said. Litigation funder IMF Australia is well-known for funding some of Australia's biggest class actions such as the $145 million payout to investors from poker machine maker Aristocrat Leisure. IMF has around 10 class actions on the go.


Aussie SP Bookmaking Legend Passes Away...

Bruce Johnstone who gained fame and notoriety as one of Melbourne's best-known SP bookmakers and two-up operators as well as playing a leading role in transforming the face of basketball in Australia, has died of a blood disorder in palliative care at Yarrawonga. He was 87. Johnstone left home near Mortlake as a 15-year-old with just a swag and £5 sewn into the lining of his coat by his mother, and went on to afford a regular table at the renowned Flower Drum restaurant on Sunday evenings. Johnstone's SP bookmaking was the stuff of legend and not for nothing was he widely known as "Bruce the Bookie". But the undertaking led to problems with the police. One particular raid caused him much grief after his cockatoo fell asleep and failed to warn of the onrushing police who started battering down the door as Johnstone scrambled to collect money strewn around the room. As the plainclothes raiders were about to burst through, he cagily shouted, "Call the police, call the police, robbers are here". He is survived by his wife Emma, daughter Kay, sons Gary, Robert and Max, their partners and 75 grand and great-grandchildren. RIP.


Aristocrat Leisure Misses Aussie Government Dealine On Pokies Reform; What Next?...

Australian-listed pokies manufacturer, Aristocrat Leisure, will not meet the deadline for reforms of the gaming industry. The reforms were demanded by independent MP Andrew Wilkie, whose support for the minority Federal Government was conditional on the introduction of betting limits for gamblers. Aristocrat Leisure stated on 26 January 2011 that the new system would not be ready by 2012 as planned by the Government.

Star City (Sydney) VS Crown Casino (Melbourne); War For Entertaining Talent And Gambling Dollar...

Star City Casino: Chinese New Year - The Year Of The Rabbit...

2 - 17 February
Celebrate Chinese New Year at Star City as we bring in the Year of the Rabbit with a whole calendar of exciting festivities and events. Start with a bang on New Year's Eve with Chinese crackers in the Porte Cochere then enjoy dragon and lion dancing, roving Chinese entertainers, a delicious banquet in Lotus Pond and lots more!

Star's New Baccarat Room...

The new Baccarat room is the latest area to open as part of Star City’s extensive refurbishment. Star City has launched a luxurious new room in order to provide a better experience for the large number of customers that enjoy the game of Baccarat. Situated on the Main Gaming Floor, the new room is appointed with a dedicated buy-in desk and 18 custom made tables and chairs for your ultimate comfort. What’s more, when the urge arises to dine, the new Baccarat room is conveniently located next to Star City’s new restaurant, Fat Noodle. Join the communal dining tables and relax in the warm surroundings whilst experiencing the fast paced service and culinary theatre from the open kitchen. The opulent surroundings of the new Baccarat room will ensure you experience the thrill of the game on a whole new level! Come and see it for yourself today. Opens 24 hours, everyday.

Crown Casino, Melbourne: More Great Entertainment Coming Up...

Burlesque Royale...

Starring for the first time in Australia, UK burlesque sensation Immodesty Blaize, Burlesque Royale is a never before seen spectacular of old fashioned showgirl glamour. Featuring for the first time in Australia, International stars Kalani Kokonuts (US), Michelle L'amour (US), and Perle Noire (US). Also performing are Australian artists Danica Lee, Holly J'aDoll, Kelly Ann Doll, and Lauren La Rouge with a special performance by Mada Vs Vegas - The Duelling Magicians. Hosted by the enigmatic Supergirly, Burlesque Royale is set to take its audience on a wild ride with tongues set firmly in cheek. VIP tickets will include a complimentary drink, gift bag and access to the after party.
DATE
Friday 28 January, 2011

Dragon...

n a special 3 part concert presented by BBC 2011, DRAGON play 20 of the best songs of the 60's British pop Invasion by 20 great British bands. The show begins with DRAGON playing acoustic guitars, mandolin & melodica. They will perform a capella and acoustic versions of such great songs as Thunderclap Newman's SOMETHING IN THE AIR, Cat Stevens' MATTHEW AND SON, a rousing acoustic version of The Troggs GIRL LIKE YOU by way of The Beatles YESTERDAY and more. After a short intermission the band will be back in electric mode tearing into the Stones GET OFF MY CLOUD followed by The Beatles TICKET TO RIDE. This electric set of great British songs gets crowd singing and dancing along. Songs such as WHITE ROOM, IT'S NOT UNUSUAL and WATERLOO SUNSET and ITCHYCOO PARK all get the Dragon treatment and a new burst of life in 2010.
These are the 20 favourite songs that the guys in Dragon played when they first took up their instruments. They are timeless songs and the band loves playing them. The DRAGON versions are fresh and affectionate and have an energy that references the way these songs turned the music world upside down in the 60's.
In the encore Dragon will play 6 of their timeless hits including APRIL SUN, CELEBRATE, RAIN and ARE YOU OLD ENOUGH.
DATE
Friday 25 March, 2011

Cliff & Dusty...

Three great International artists, one unique concert experience, featuring all the hits of two music icons once described as the King & Queen of British rock but who, amazingly, never appeared on stage together. That was until now as Australian music legend Marty Rhone and the stunning Sheena Crouch make it possible to imagine what the experience might have been like. Audiences will hear all the great Cliff & Dusty classics that brought over 200 million record sales and 50 hits such as The Young Ones, Summer Holiday, Devil Woman, We Don't Talk Anymore, Dreamin', I Only Want to be With You, Son of a Preacher Man, You Don't Have to Say You Love Me and many more
Plus, direct from the UK, special guest, Sir Cliff Richard protégé Barratt Waugh, whom Cliff has described as one of the most exciting and unique talents he has come across in his 50 years in the business. We are delighted to introduce Barratt Waugh to Australian audiences. Don't miss the concert experience of the year.
DATE
Saturday 18 June, 2011


Getting board of reading yet? If so, try your luck er skill at Baccarat or Craps. If your more into luck, check out the slots like Cleopatra, Sinatra, Rambo, Goanna Gold and The Terminator. Rumour goes PartyGaming also have, or will soon get, a World Poker Tour themed online slot game. We recommend punters open an account with PartyCasino, PartyGaming and World Poker Tour, just to have all based covered. Party appears to still be the most popular online casino brand in Australia despite big efforts by the likes of 888. Marvel slot games are forcast to be some of the most popular of this year with Captain America and Thor tipped to hit Australia cinema's this year, with Spider-Man also getting a remake. Whatever your casino game of choice, good luck, and let us know how you go guys and girls. Spin to win.

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

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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

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Thursday, January 27, 2011

Sydney breaks world inflatable thong record at Bondi Beach - 26th January 2011

Sydney has broken a record on Australia Day for the most number of inflatable thongs in the ocean.

With 2068 registered thongs in the water at North Bondi beach, Sydneysiders have smashed the former record of 1301 held by Cottesloe beach in Western Australia.

"It's a great mood down here. Everyone went crazy when our MC John Mathison announced the final number," said Florence Sandford, spokeswoman for the fifth annual Havaianas Thongs Challenge.

"Now everyone's just walking around the beach carrying the giant thongs."

Bikini bodies on the beach displayed temporary Australian flag tattoos in honour of the national festivities and many people were happy to flaunt the flag on their boardies, bikinis and towels.

Lifeguard Rosie Taliano of Surf Rescue on North Bondi said there were no major first aid disasters despite the thousands on the beach. (Credit: AAP)

NRL South Sydney Rabbitohs: Star City Casino Partnership!, by Greg Tingle - 27th January 2011

G'day punters, journos, high rollers, sports nuts, casino and football team owners, entertainment news junkies, politicians, insiders, outsiders, politicians, journos... one and all. Today we probe the new and exciting deal between the legendary Aussie NRL footy team, the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the "partnership" with Tabcorp's Star City Casino. This follow the recent deal between the NRL's Penrith Panthers and Centrebet, with the teams football ground now known as Centrebet Stadium, in a $5 million dollar deal, tipped to secure the financial future of the club. Other clubs and plugging into the lucrative gambling and betting dollars, with more win - wins on the way, but at what cost? Can NRL and betting co exist in a sustainable fashion, without more sports betting scandals on the way. Centrebet Stadium, PartyGaming Cricket Ground, Paddy Power Park, Betfair Entertainment Centre?! Who know what may be around the corner. Media Man and Gambling911 kick a goal between the posts with this special report...

The tie ins between the National Rugby League and gambling, sports betting et al, continue this week with South Sydney celebrity owner Russell Crowe, tipped to present the Bunnies' new 5-year, multimillion-dollar sponsorship deal with Tabcorp's Star City.

A press conference including Crowe has been scheduled for the Pyrmont's Star City. Souths also yesterday announced the bookmaker, Luxbet (linked to Tabcorp), as a corporate partner for 2011. The online agency will run in house tipping service Bunnybet, taking over from Betezy, which launched the gambling website portal as a joint venture with the Rabbitohs in 2009, in a media campaign pushed far and wide by the Media Man agency, which covers the sector in a fair and balanced fashion, and known to focus on the positives, while also doing hard nosed coverage on the potential dangerous of excess gambling - betting.

The Souths Rabbitohs deals comes only 5 days after the Penrith Panthers announced their Australia-first venue naming-rights contract with a sports betting and gambling company, rebranding their home ground Centrebet Stadium Penrith. The northern beaches based Manly Sea Eagles will also this year have the Centrebet logo on their jumper. No word yet what's happening to the Full Tilt Poker logo that was on East's Rooters players shorts.

This bush tucker bag of NRL - gambling news comes at the same time that a high-profile NRL player is battling a huge problem, dropping at least $1500 a week at Star City. In addition, a police investigation, as well as New South Wales Crime Commission hearings, is not yet complete into irregular betting patterns reported in last year's round-24 match between North Queensland Cowboys and and Canterbury Bulldogs aka 'The Doggies' in Townsville. 'The Doggies' still struggle to live down a football betting and sex scandal from years ago, with the obviously sexual reference tie in off 'Doggie style', a often preferred sexual position of women.

Souths' Rabbitohs new commercial deals also equate to a bit of a back down from Crowe and co-owner Peter Holmes a Court since they proposed to to remove the pokies aka 'one armed bandits' from Souths Leagues Club in 2007. "There is a time and a place for gaming and I don't believe that South Sydney is the time or the place," Holmes a Court said way back then. The club has faced serious cash flow challenges, not to mention a poor win rate over the past years, despite having a club history second to none.

Current Souths chief executive Shane Richardson would not comment on the Star City sponsorship yesterday. NRL chief executive David Gallop mentioned that many of the NRL clubs have corporate partnerships with betting firms and the NRL itself is aligned with TAB Sportsbet, for which that company pays a product fee of 5 per cent of profit on rugby league punting.

Overseas operators such as PartyGaming, Paddy Power and others are said to be keen to get in on the action, and in the meantime the international headlines add fuel to the fire.

Betting agencies associated with the game must sign integrity agreements that insist on co-operation.

"Gambling on sport is as old as sport itself. We have to accept that being able to bet on a game adds a very enjoyable aspect to viewing," Gallop said. "The arrangements that we now have with betting agencies put us in a lot better position not only in terms of being compensated for the use of our intellectual property but also in our ability to access information about irregular betting. We've worked hard with all the sports to get ourselves to that position and indeed some of the matters that have been investigated and are currently being investigated - those investigations have only been possible because of those arrangements. Our ability to get to the bottom of issues … is greatly improved by those arrangements."

Gallop, however, listened to concerns that issues such as "spot betting" were a concern, as was hard core promotion. NRL broadcaster Channel Nine has been criticised for the past 12 months for its commentators' plugging betting options during broadcasts of the game.

"In terms of the promotion of gambling we do have restrictions. Individual players can't endorse individual agencies. There are elements that are concerning such as types of bets and aggressive promotion."

'Gambling Man' (MM tag) Gallop said he was not alarmed by reporting of players with gambling problems. "Our players are a cross-section of the community and there are going to be players with social problems, be they gambling , alcohol or drugs," he said.

Media Man and Gambling911 will continue to revel more details as they come to hand, so don't change your dial.


Australia Gets Gambling Arenas; Penrith Panthers First Cab Of The Rank; South Sydney Or Who Next?...

With Australia being in the world's top 10 gambling nations, it shouldn't shock or surprise that we're tipped to soon have a number of sporting arenas and grounds named after gambling and gaming companies, both national and international brands. Yep, money will talk where B.S sometimes walks. James Packer's Betfair is understood to build upon their Betfair Park branding, Europe's PartyGaming is keen, and currently Centrebet looks to be leading the charge, with many insiders saying its a case of when, not if, for the household name brand. Centrebet already has significant branding, thanks in part to a swag of TV and online adverts, plus who can forget the Centrebet branded part of Network Nine's 'The Footy Show'. The gambling companies already have a number of key targets, and many cash strapped and / or cash handy NRL team and home grounds are near the top of the hit list. For instance NRL team, The Penrith Panthers, are seriously considering having their home stadium named Centrebet Stadium. We kid you not punters. If the deal goes through, they will make history becoming the first major Australian sporting team to snatch a betting firm as the naming-rights partner for a playing venue. Horse Racing already has some naming rights deals with tracks and in the mix such as Betfair Park and then you have races named after gambling brands such as the Lasseters Cup, Lasseters known for its hotel - casino up in Australia's top end. The forecast Betfair deal comes as a police continue to probe the NRL gambling scandal that from last season following a number of "irregular" wagers was picked up in the Canterbury Bulldogs VS North Queensland Cowboys match up. The Panthers, Centrebet and a swag of gambling companies, have rather pissed off the gambling and gaming haters, who continues to get organised into lobby groups. A Media Man spokesperson such "Many people in and out of news media and gaming, the general public, are starting to get really pissed off at the gaming, gambling and sports betting haters. The bible bashers. Who do they think they are trying to push their beliefs onto others. Many Australians just love a punt, and that's the way it is. Some of the gaming haters have strong ties to church groups and there appears to be some sort of brainwashing system going on. They keep discussing the 'evils of gambling'. I mean, seriously, come on. People know not to over-do it on on the slots, sports events, poker and the like, but the haters keep trying to be the thought police. Gambling companies in Australia have a very high focus on responsible gambling with warnings everywhere. It's great to see the gambling and gaming industry place so much focus on safe better. The sports stadiums will be great for business, , but no one is forcing anyone to have a bet. It's a personal decision, as it always has been. 2011 is going to be a very exciting year for punters, especially those who like to have a bet of sports matches, and television and online website portals and brands will bring it all together nicely".
Back to the first prime target #1...The modest 22,500-capacity sports ground, owned by Penrith City Council, was in a past life known as CUA Stadium. What's up is that the club's contract with the Brisbane financial services company has expired, and negotiations between Panthers, the footy club and Centrebet have been taking place, even prior to Christmas about renaming the stadium. Other clubs and stadiums have also caught the buzz and are opening chequebooks and crunching the numbers. The first of its kind business agreement between the club and Centrebet is just about a done deal, and ink is expecting to try on contracts sooner rather than later, possibly within a fortnight. An exciting, if not controversial type of announcement is fully expected by the Panthers in the coming week. Sports and gambling commentators are quick to point out that Penrith already has ties to Centrebet, the gambling brand being lit up across the top of the video screen at the stadium. This kind of exposure has also been very good for their mobile - hand held device sector. Anti-gambling campaigner Senator Nick Xenophon is especially unhappy with the development of the gambling branded sports stadiums in Australia. He went on recent with: "How can a footy code currently embroiled in a betting scandal possibly allow a stadium to be named after a betting agency? There was a time when rugby league was all about the game. Now it's all about the odds, and that is ruining the game". Over the last couple of years the NRL (and AFL) has watered down its laws and regulations relating to clubs' deals and partnerships with gambling - sports betting firms, allowing them to be branded on footy jerseys for a virgin time. Cronulla Sharks have sponsor PokerStars (.net) on their jersey sleeves while cashed up Manly Sea Eagles are tipped to have Centrebet's signage on the back of their jerseys this season after a widely reported $1 million plus deal with the Northern Territory based betting outfit announced just before Christmas. Yep, it looks like a few clubs and stadiums will be getting their Christmas presents and will have lots to celebrate, while the gambling haters will be spewing in Grinch like fashion. The National Rugby League of course also has corporate ties with TAB Sportsbet, and is understood to snatch a 5% "product fee" via the company's rugby league betting profit. NRL spokesman John Brady advised he would not comment on individual clubs' sponsorship agreements but maintained there was no concern about the prospect of gambling agencies assuming naming rights for the game's venues, at least from his take on the situation. "It's an area that was relaxed last year. As such there are a number of betting sponsorships that are available to clubs in terms of jerseys and other opportunities," Brady said. He advised any and all betting firms involved with the NRL via sponsorship of clubs were made to sign "integrity agreements" to ensure transparency. The majority of NRL clubs now have corporate deals with betting agencies. Centrebet sponsors five teams: Penrith, Manly, Parramatta, St George Illawarra and North Queensland. "Comon' Betfair and PartyGaming, pull you're finger out", a Media Man sports journalist was overheard shouting when he found out the news of Centrebet's ongoing infiltration of the sport. Penrith's stadium pending name change has been intertwined we understand by some to the financial problems that have hit the football club's parent body, Panthers Group.
The licensed club is no longer quite the licence to print money as it was in the 90s Some audited figures about to do public by the conclusion of the month are expected to show black and white confirmation of a Murdoch - News Limited news story of last February that said Panthers were due to report a rather embarrassing net loss of $11 million bucks. Panthers are not afraid to speak on the record about their on and off field performance, which has seen better days. Ric Simpson, Panthers Group chief exec since last July, said a culture change and "renewal of process" across Panthers clubs had improved their situation. Analysts question that was a PR line or absolute truth. Mind you, we don't blame club for trying to focus on positives. "We're probably looking at reducing that loss by somewhere in the order of $8-$9 million," Simpson said. A Media Man spokesperson said "At this stage of the gaming the overseas trend of seeing sports groups and football teams pick up sponsorship and strong branding for gambling, gaming... sports betting companies looks to be moving full speed ahead down under in Australia. Centrebet might become the Bwin of Australia. PartyGaming is said to be currently crunching numbers to see if an Australian sports ground deal is viable. They already have a Aussie Millions former champion sponsored by their poker brand and a couple of Aussie poker players signed up, so anything is possible. James Packer's Betfair, a direct competitor of Centrebet is not likely to take the situation lying down either. Betfair is 50% Packer owned and wants to keep building their sports betting brand, as well as opening up many online casino games in Australia, poker and more. Could an Australian sports stadium ever be known as PartyGaming stadium or WPT Stadium? Not overnight, but never say never, stranger things have happened. It's all going to add a lot of money into the game and business of sport and entertainment, and already our firm is starting to experience some positive spin off benefits. It's all very exciting and profitable".


NRL Star Gambling Habit May Be Out Of Control...

He's a well known NRL footy star with a massive gambling problem. The star is a regular at Star City , where he often loses $1500 in a week. Mates are concerned. He's been asking his friends for money. He has never paid back loans, and friends are refusing. Teammates often accompany him on his frequents to Star City. No photographs are allowed, which sits well with the players. He was recently booted out of a watering hole after a big night on the piss. Media Man and Gambling911 hope this serves as a wake-up call before a promising career is ruined. Please bet and drink responsibly, and remember, the both often don't mix. Bet with you head, not over it! If the gambling stops being fun, it's probably time to stop. Have fun and good luck.

Crowe, Holmes A Court, Richardson, Gallop, Murdoch (both of you sirs), Gyngell and Turnbull and a few others - you're throw of the football and dice!

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 (mainly poker and some casino 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

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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

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Wednesday, January 26, 2011

PartyGaming stages a US comeback - 26th January 2011

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The International Gaming Exhibition, the most comprehensive and international business-to-business (b2b) gaming exhibition on the world stage, got underway in Earl's Court yesterday.

It's one of the most important dates on the calendar for any company active in the online, mobile, betting, bingo, casino and street gaming sectors.

They just have to be there to show their wares and hopefully drum up millions of pounds worth of business.

Whispers from the exhibition suggests that Gibraltar-based PartyGaming (1.8p easier at 190.6p), which is soon to merge with Austrian gaming group bwin to become the world's largest gaming group, has pulled off a coup on the first day of the three-day event.

It has signed a lucrative b2b deal with one or even two Big Daddy US casinos - Boyd Gaming, MGM, Las Vegas Sands and Caesars - to provide them with an online poker platform for the US market when it is finally regulated.

PartyGaming has often said it will be ready to re-enter the US games online market via such agreements once regulation allows, in the state or federal level.

New Jersey and California are two states that have made progress towards online gambling regulations.

Leisure analysts believe other states will follow and companies such as PartyGaming will gain some of the licences. The US is the top online gaming market in the world.

Many European players, including PartyGaming, withdrew form the market after the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act was created in 2006.

PartyGaming have since settled a legal dispute with the US and is raring to return to the US once regulations are installed.

Rival online gaming group 888 Holdings shed 1.75p to 47.75p. It has yet to strike a deal with US authorities to give it immunity from prosecution over its activities in America prior to the industry being outlawed in 2006. Nevertheless, it has been holding prolonged takeover talks with Britain's biggest bookmaker, Ladbrokes, 0.7p off at 130.3p.

The odds on an early rise in UK interest rates lengthened considerably following shock news of a 0.5pc contraction in fourth-quarter gross domestic product, much worse than the positive 0.5pc that the market expected. The Footsie lost an initial 20 point gain to trade 39 points lower before closing 'only' 26.14 points down at 5,917.71.

Charles Davis, economist at the Cebr, said: 'The data point to a complete loss of momentum-in the recovery at the end of the year. It is too early for the Bank of England to be thinking about interest rate rises despite inflation remaining above target. We expect rates will remain on hold at 0.5pc until 2012 and have not ruled out additional quantitative easing as fiscal tightening takes hold in earnest this year.'

Luxury goods retailer Burberry strutted its stuff with a gain of 33p to 1063p. It recently forecast full-year profits at the top end of market expectations after beating analysts' expectations with a 27pc leap in third-quarter revenue.

Finally convinced that the recent hefty share price rise has been nothing more than a mega bear squeeze ahead of next week's results, punters sold online grocer Ocado 11p lower to 227.6p. Rumoured bidder Wm Morrison dipped 2.9p to 264.7p.

Growing concern about the UK economy and continuing fears about a possible major government upheaval of the banking sector left the part-nationalised Lloyds Banking Group down a further 1.9p to 63.14p.

Despite bullish comments from broker Oriel Securities, Taylor Wimpey cheapened 1.38p to 35.89p. The broker recommends TW and is overweight on the housebuilding sector. It believes 2011 will be a more stable year for the UK housing market than 2010. Without the distractions of a General Election and a Comprehensive Spending Review it reckons a sense of normality will return to the market.

A positive trading update showing a robust order book worth £12bn and a growing new business pipeline valued at £6bn, helped Babcock International climb 8.5p to 579.5p. Investec has a sum-of-the-parts target price of 650p a share.

Forbidden Technologies added 3.5p at 33.5p after signing an agreement with global systems integrator Ericsson which will allow Ericsson to build Cloud services running Forbidden's FORscene video editing platform.

Plus-quoted Oracle Coalfields jumped 8pc to 10.625p. The coal developer and explorer has a 1.4bn tonne coal resource of lignite coal in the South Eastern desert of Singh Province, Pakistan. Interest in the stock has increased because of the potential Indonesian coal export ban and the floods in Australia.

Hand-held computer group Psion lost 5p to 94.5p after warning that it will post an operating loss for 2010 because of foreign exchange losses.

The board forecast that operating losses would be in the region of £1.5m to £2.5m but it remains confident of strong growth in the current year.

It also reported that French software services group Atos Origin had placed a €1.2m order for its rugged Workabout Pro 3. (Credit: Google News, Wires)

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Australia Day Special, by Greg Tingle - 26th January 2011

G'day and Happy Australia Day everyone. Ok, we know some of you punters, journos, high rollers - casino whales, entertainment news junkies, politicians, insiders, outsiders and legal eagles are from across the globe, and are not Australia, nor have ever been down under, but you get the idea. Did you know that some indigenous Australia's call Australia Day 'Invasion Day'! That's because most history books show that Captain James Cook and his crew invaded Australia on this day in 1988. They are known by a new names including the First Fleet, while some aboriginals will always think of them and murderous mongrels, who stole their land and pride. It's easy for many of us to get the point of the blackfellas (affectionate). Media Man and Gambling911 with a bush tucker bag full of Australian gambling, casino, poker, media and sports news. Fair winds...

Queensland Banana Bender State: Pub Pokies And Online Pokies Becoming More Popular?...

One armed bandits are maintaining their popularity in 'The Sunshine State'. It's understand that punters might have only a 1 in a million chance of winning really big, lotto - millionaire style, but they just keep coming back for more. Yep, throw another dime in the pokie baby. Queenslanders "invested" close to $2 billion last year as the punters passion for the slots maintained its fever pace. The total pokies expenditure of $1.81 billion was slightly down on the previous year, it was the third year consecutively the number exceeded $1.8 billion. We're also learned that the 2008 figure of $1.83 billion was an all-time record. Now, this is important - those numbers Do Not take into account the rabid take up and roll our of online poker or sports betting. You know, betting over the global medium - the internet. Overall, Queenslanders spent $7 million less on pokies than last year and $28 million less than in 2008, but it still works out at in excess of $150 million every month down the slots August was the year's biggest month for slot gamblers, who put close to $170 million in the throats of the one armed bandits. August was also the biggest month for gamblers in 2008, with more than $173 million lost. Pokies remain by far the most popular games for punters in Australia, bringing in most of the estimated $17 billion spent on all forms of gambling down under each year. Some insiders think that the reduction in official spending was more a sign of the increased popularity of internet and sports-based gambling. Concentrating on pokie figures, it appears Queenslanders gambled more at the height of the global financial crisis two years ago than they did throughout 2010.

Tassie 'Devil' Gambling Tycoon Devilish Quotes...

David Walsh from Tasmania was such a big hit with the readership we thought we would dig up a few more of the red hot 'The Devil's' quotes, that are too good not to share. First a refresher...Art and gambling do mix, at least that's the experience of Brits Damian Aspinall, Phil 'Tuffers' Tufnell, Australian artist Gina Sinozich, Media Man (bodypaint and burlesque "fetish") and Tasmanian gambling whale - tycoon, David 'Wicked' (satire) Walsh. You will pick up on Dave's affectionate nickname by us later. We like you David, ok mate. Tasmania's most famous or infamous gambling figure, millionaire, David Walsh yesterday gave us a peak into his art exhibit...the biggest (and weirdest) private art gallery in Tasmania, if not the Asia Pacific. The $110 million Museum of Old and New Art is nestled on the banks of Hobart's Derwent River.

Quotes By The Tasmanian Devil!...

"FUCK the art, let's rock'n'roll."

"I think formal curation is a form of mental masturbation."

"I'm not really that interested in a bunch of big names. Most of the works are by people most people haven't heard of and still won't have heard of because there's no wall labels."

"I don't want to lose control (or) something that ends up looking like a pale version of the National Gallery of Victoria".

"Subversive adult Disneyland".

"Please see reception if you are planning a pool party or a ritualistic orgy."

"It's the opportunity to mess with your head. I like the idea of people having a couple of beers and looking at the art, having a couple more and changing their mind."

"Just a privileged guy with a megaphone"

"It’s like a rich man’s soap box. I’m standing on my soapbox and I’m shouting my views like they mean something."

"I’ll take all the popular stuff out. And if you go to the toilet two or three times we’ll recommend a good urologist."

“My brother once said about me that I’d rather be outside a barrel pissing in than inside the barrel pissing out. I’m anti this idea that we know what we’re doing with certainty. I kinda think that most things that are good happen to people largely by accident, but then they start looking for explanations. You see the views of rich, successful people on television, and they tell you why they got rich and successful; they don’t interview all the people who went through the same process and didn’t. I think most things are complete crap. I want to show that you can be fortunate without believing that your fortune was anything other than fortune."

"There are so many things we do that we hide from. We hack open cows and eat their guts but we compartmentalise that away from our lives so we can pretend it’s not happening. And on a larger, more important scale, if each of us acted individually to say ‘OK, we f…ed up the atmosphere, it is our personal responsibility’, humanity would behave in a very different way."

"One of the things about having money is that … I feel a bit of guilt and a level of privilege, and it seems to be an obligation to do something, and since art is what I’ve been doing....but it wasn’t really like that. It was: I bought this small gallery, bought a bigger one, and gradually it became something of this scale. It’s become a lot more serious endeavour than I intended it to be. There’s a bit of thumbing my nose at the establishment and trying to bypass academia, but mainly I just wanted it to be a bit of fun. And it is. And it will be."

"The gambling is all a computer thing that is going on right now".

Website

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Queensand: Cairns Reef Hotel Casino Poised To Raise Big Bucks For Flood Relief On Australia Day...

Punters, let's all spare a thought for those who have been attacked by the floods on Australia Day. Numerous events are being planed around Australia, from 'Sound Relief' to and initiative from the Cairns Reef Hotel Casino 'Bring on the Sun' It will be one of the biggest events on the Australia Day calendar for the city and all funds raised will go to the Premier’s Flood Relief Appeal. There's a good old fashioned sausage sizzle, competitions and female performers including the Marlins’ cheer squad. "The whole idea is slanted towards the female performer," entertainment manager Bruce Stewart said. "We’ve got an eclectic blend of female artists coming to perform as well." Cazalys, El Mundo Tapas Bar and the Marlin Coast Bowls Club will also host events to raise money for flood victims. Cairns Regional Council will hold events across the region, including the ever-popular celebrations on the Esplanade.
Mayor Val Schier said the council was expecting a good attendance as usual with residents keen to get outside and celebrate our sunburnt country in the green and gold. "Even last year when it poured, a huge number of people came to the Aussie breakfast; we expect the same will happen this year, rain, hail or shine. It is one of those days where people can come together as a community and help celebrate why it is great to be an Australian. We live in a fantastic country and it is good for people to get out and enjoy it." Pubs and clubs will also get into the Aussie spirit with a number of activities on offer. Paradise Palms Resort and Country Club has a patriotic, fun-filled day planned with activities that pay homage to Australia’s heritage such as the much-anticipated pie-eating competition. "Everybody is welcome to come along and have some fun while tucking into our Aussie selection of meat pies, icy beers, lamingtons and classic Australian music by DJ Danny from Millennium Sounds," director of sales and marketing Darlene Holdsworth said.
Events

Join the celebrations

Paradise Palms Resort and Country Club Australia Day celebrations
What’s on: Australian menu served from noon in Restaurant 59, pie-eating and thong-throwing competitions start at 1.30pm. Pies, icy beers, lamingtons and classic Australian music on offer at the resort.
Time: 12pm. Entry free.

Bring on the Sun at Cairns Reef Hotel Casino
What’s on: Entertainment, sausage sizzle, raffles, jumping castle and more with all proceeds going to the Premier’s Flood Relief Appeal.
Time: 2pm. Entry free.

Shane Warne And Poker Mates Get VIP Star Treatment At Australian Open Tennis Sunday Night...

The spinner got there at 8pm hoping to get star VIP treatment for 14 of his closest mates. In the mix was was Joe Hachem, who he had earlier caught up with at the launch of the Aussie Millions Poker Tournament at Crown Casino. Warne requested an escort (no, not that type silly) when he arrived and posed mostly for photographs with his sunglasses on. He also spent time in Andy Roddick's player's box during his loss to Swissman Stanislas Wawrinka. It been a big couple of days of "poker her" for the legend, playing rendezvous with Liz Hurley in LA. He is expected to play in the second round of the poker tournament and could face off against Gary Ablett Jr and Jeff Fenech tomorrow. Blett made it through to the second round.


Australian Financial Review Goes Gaga For Lady Gaga; Gets Facts Wrong (We Think)...

It took us a few months of going through newspapers but we finally found the AFR to make a slip up, and its a doozy....An article reads "the complex will have a few upmarket bars, including one on the roof, and an events theatre to house live acts – think Lady Gaga – as well as awards nights." With Gaga's level of popularity she would require a much larger venue than Star City. Earlier this year, she - they played two concerts at the Sydney Entertainment Centre, capacity 12,000 or thereabouts. Do the math.

Australia's Kylie Minogue To Do The Colosseum At Caesars Palace Las Vegas: Aphrodite Live...

Mark is down Kylie fans the word over. She's doing Ceasers Sunday May 22, 2011 8pm


Melbourne: Aussie Joker Comedian Performs At Packer's Crown; Raises Cash For Flood Relief...

Melbourne folks at Crown Casino recently enjoyed 'The Jokers Comedy That Rocks' at Crown Casino. James Packer's casino donated all proceeds from last Friday night’s show to Queensland flood victims. Organiser William Leitch has happy with the way things went and showcased an evening with some of the city’s top stand-up artists, including Brad Oakes, Christine Basil and Greg Fleet. It's understood he got close to 150 people to come along, and he may be invited back on upcoming Friday nights.


Top 100 ASX Listed Companies Respond To Flood Cry For Help; Gambling And Gaming Industry Steps Up; Mining Firms and Banking Bastards Lead Charge...

1. BHP Billiton: $1.3 million (in addition, matching employee donations)

2. CBA: $1.35 million

3. Westpac: $1 million

4. ANZ: $1 million

5. NAB: $1 million

6. News Corp: $500,000 and Blue Ribbon campaign

7. Rio Tinto: $1 million ($700,000 to Premier Relief, $300,000 to Emerald community)

8. Wesfarmers: $7.5 million (plus $3.5 million from Coles customers)

9. Telstra Corp: up to $1 million by matching staff contributions (so far $338,000; is also supplying phones and free calls to people affected)

10. Woolside Petroleum: $122,395 (corporate + employees)

11. Woolworths: $6.9 million (matching customer donations in Woolies, Big W, Dick Smith dollar for dollar)

14. Fortescue Metals: Matching staff donations dollar for dollar

15. CSL: $250,000

16. QBE Insurance: not releasing a statement

17. Origin energy: $1 million

18. Macquarie Group: $200,000 (combined staff and company effort with fundraising activities continuing both here and overseas)

19. AXA Asia Pacific: No response

20. Santos: $500,000 plus use of helicopters and vehicles for clean up. Also $50,000 for flooding in WA

21. Coal and Allied Industries: (see Rio Tinto)

22. AMP: $250,000 + matching employee contributions to WA flood appeal up to $250,000

23. Suncorp Group: $100,000 (staff and customers have donated $1.5million)

24. Foster's Group: $500,000

25. Brambles: No response

26. Leighton Holdings: No response

27. Orica: No response

28. Oil Search: No response

29. Stockland: Donated $250,000 to the Premier's flood relief appeal, another $30,000 to the Mayoress Rockhampton regional flood appeal and are matching employee donations dollar for dollar

30. Coca. Cola Amatil: No response

31. Amcor: No response

32. Westfield Retail Trust: No response

33. IAG: No response

39. Crown: Donation tins in Crown complexes and have committed to matching all donations as well as staff contributions

52. Tabcorp Holdings: $1 million

78. Tatts Group: Going to run a dedicated lottery for the Queensland flood appeal where all profits will go to the Premier's Flood Appeal. They ran the same thing in Victoria after the Black Saturday bushfires. It will run on Wednesday 2 Feb in Queensland and is expected to raise $200,000. In addition, another donation will be made from the unclaimed prizes fund of an as. yet undecided amount

79. Fairfax Media: Matching staff donations

100. Seek: Reported it had made a donation to the Premier's Flood Appeal but chose not to disclose how much

Brisbane: Flood Relief Money Gets Spend On Pokies, Vice - Piss Up At Pubs...

It's been reported in a number of Queensland newspapers that the $1000 flood relief grants that went to many good folks in Granville are being used to feed slots and buy piss (beer) rather than food and necessities. Two Maryborough publicans say that in some instances the answer to that is yes, and they are disgusted. One of the publicans was so incensed by the misuse of flood relief money she telephoned Fairfax Media to complain. "A man came in bragging about how he’d got the $1000 payout because he told Centrelink he was stuck in Granville – but he was here the whole time. It makes me sick that people are openly admitting they’ve got the money for nothing, while there are people who’ve died or lost everything." She said Centrelink should have screened the applications more carefully to make sure only people who were genuinely in need received the cash. Another pub owner said his one armed bandits had not stopped buzzing since the grants became available. "We were quiet during the actual floods but this week’s been totally different. The pokies and the bottle shop have been going non-stop." Yeah, Aussie continue to love a punt, rain, hail, shine or flood!

Aussie Millions Game 8 Results...

The London based chap took down the $1,100 8 game mixed event title at Crown Casino in Melbourne adding AUD$23,800 to his almost $1.2 million in career tournament earnings. He entered the final table as the short stack, but managed to grind his way to victory and nudge away Australia's Bruno Portaro for the victory. The event marked Ashby's 8th final table appearance at the Aussie Millions that includes a side-event win back in 2005 and a seventh-place finish in the main event in 2009. Ashby also won his first WSOP bracelet this summer in the $1,500 7 Card Stud event and went well in the $10k H.O.R.S.E. for his biggest career score of $378,027. The 2011 Aussie Millions $1,100 8-Game Mixed event drew 68-players and paid the final 7.

Here are the results:
1 Richard Ashby AUD$23,800
2 Bruno Portaro AUD$16,320
3 Casey Kastle AUD$10,880
4 Daniel Ospina AUD$6,800
5 Oliver Gill AUD$4,760
6 Dane Coltman AUD$3,400
7 Paul Ravesi AUD$2,040

Aussie Main Event Day 1b: PartyPoker And Full Tilt Poker Players Feel The Pain...

PartyGaming's PartyPoker and Full Tilt Poker's powers that be likely won't be celebrating. Ok, they got news coverage and exposure, but its because their players are out. Yep, history maties. Full Tilt went well on Day 1a but Day 1b was rooted. Many of the big name pros went down for the count as locals stepped up. 209 players entered the Crown Poker room but after 7 levels of play, 80 remained. David Oppenheim, Annette Obrestad, Carlos Mortensen, David Benyamine, Andrew Feldman, Steve Yea, Andy Bloch and Gus Hansen were some of the Full Tilt players who died. Other casualties included Luke Santo, Raj Ramakrishnan, George Moussa, Michael Pedley, Graeme Putt, Martin Comer, Dennis Huntly, Jamie Pickering, Bruno Portaro, Casey Kastle, Ben Savage and Tim Marsters. 2005 World Champion Joe Hachem (tweeting he struggled with jetlag following a recent trip to the PokerStars Caribbean Adventure.)
Defending champ, 2010 Aussie Millions Main Event winner Tyron Krost (PartyGaming's PartyPoker pro went down too). A new champ will be crowned in 2011 with plenty of Aussies still in contention. The field kicked off with Jeff Rossier in the lead with 154,900, closely followed by Michael Ottobra (143,400) and Martin Drewe, After winning the Opening Event last week and going deep in another event, Drewe is now set in the chip leaders in the Main Event after getting to 136,100. Jay “SEABEAST” Kinkade did nicely with 128,700, Haibo Chu (113,900), Manny Stavropoulos (85,600), Sorel Mizzi (74,400), Michael Egan (61,100), Kent Hunter (56,400), Jeff Lisandro (55,000), Eric Assadourian (50,300), Scott Montgomery (49,200), Chris Ferguson (45,400), Lee Nelson (30,200), Neil Channing (28,800), Roland de Wolfe (26,100), Aleks Brkovic (24,600), Jackie Glazier (21,900), Grant Levy (18,300), Gary Benson (10,500) and Mel Judah (7,200) amongst those who will return on Day 2. The 3rd and final flight of the 2011 Aussie Millions Main will commence Tuesday with another strong field and a few big names expected. Even Van Marcus will front up. Van, is your Red Ferrari safe this time mate? We're looking for more good fodder to write about. How about do a publicity stunt and make world wide headlines ago. Maybe someone at Crown Casino - Crown Limited might be open to it. Stanger things have happened... like Ferrari's getting stolen on site, casino fights and a man getting stuck in the Crown Casino kitchen greese vacume.

Aussie Millions Event #9 Day 1b: Rossiter In Front...

It was done to business with players investing AUD$10,600 to buy in all with the goal of becoming the 2011 Aussie Millions Champion. 7 seven levels of play, and the 209-player field went to 80. Jeff Rossiter is in front with 154,900. Martin Drewe, 2011 Aussie Millions Event #1 winner with 136,100 - now 3rd on the leaderboard. Australian Jay Kinkade is on 128,700, and European Poker Tour mainstay Jeff Sarwer sits 5th with 120,500. Randy "nanonoko" Lew has 110,000 and Gavin Griffin 101,700 in 9th ninth and 10th place. Sorel Mizzi, Jeffrey Lisandro, Eric Assadourian, Team Full Tilt's Chris Ferguson, Full Tilt Poker Red Pros Scott Montgomery and Roland de Wolfe, Neil Channing, and Lee Nelson have also all made it to Wednesday's Day 2, but it was touch and go for some of them, testing the skill VS luck debate. Full Tilt Poker $25,000 Shootout Invitational winner David Oppenheim, Annette Obrestad, Carlos Mortensen, Andy Bloch, David Benyamine, Andrew Feldman, Gus Hansen, Joe Hachem, and David Steicke all had to say goodnight nurse. PartyGaming's - PartyPoker Tyron Krost was eliminated in a hand VS Gavin Griffin where his Ace-Queen couldn't best Griffin's Aces. The 3rd and final Day 1 flight commences Tuesday in Melbourne, Australia at 12:30 p.m. local time.

Getting board of poker yet? If so, try your luck er skill at Baccarat or Craps. If your more into luck, check out the slots like Cleopatra, Sinatra, Rambo, Goanna Gold and The Terminator. Rumour goes PartyGaming also have, or will soon get, a World Poker Tour themed online slot game. We recommend punters open an account with PartyCasino, PartyGaming and World Poker Tour, just to have all based covered. Party appears to still be the most popular online casino brand in Australia despite big efforts by the likes of 888. Marvel slot games are forcast to be some of the most popular of this year with Captain America and Thor tipped to hit Australia cinema's this year, with Spider-Man also getting a remake. Whatever your casino game of choice, good luck, and let us know how you go guys and girls. Spin to win.

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)

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If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.

*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911

*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered

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