G'day punters, journos, high rollers, sports news, entertainment news junkies, politicians, insiders, outsiders... one and all. Today we probe the situation where a number of Australian sports grounds could soon be named after gaming and gambling companies. How do like the sound of Betfair Stadium, Centrebet Park and PartyGaming Cricket Ground? Don't laugh, this type of scenario is on the cards, with local gaming brands likely the first to pounce, followed by international powerhouses. Media Man and Gambling911 with another ground breaking news report from the land of world class casino, media companies and sports arenas...
Australia Will Get Gambling Arenas; Aussie Aussie Aussie; Oi Oi Oil...
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".
Shane Warne; Cricket Great And Poker Celeb Wants To Help Australian Flood Disaster Efforts; Warnie Birth's A Non Hair Brained Idea And Hits The Phones...
Ausssie cricket test legend Shane Warne has been hitting the phones to his entertainment, media and sports world friends and associates, wishing to support plans for a cricketing 'Big Day Out' that may raise as much as $20 million bucks for those effected in the Australian floods, primarily effecting Queensland banana benders.
The news of the Queensland's flood disaster journeyed across to Britain... Pommie Land, and ex fast bowler Darren Gough expressed his significant interest in playing in a Legends Charity Twenty20 match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground later this month.
Warnie once again took to Twitter like a duck to water and basically offered his services to an Australian Legends team that may also include Glenn 'Ow Ah' McGrath,
Adam Gilchrist, Matthew Haydenand Darren Lehmann.
The Pommie team would be almost certainly captained by Michael Vaughan, with Gough and former Test all-rounder Adam Hollioake also confirming their availability less than 48 hours ago.
Warnie then contacted Network Nine boss David 'Gyng' Gyngell and event promoter Michael Gudinski to ensure maximum exposure and benefits for the proposed event. Warne was also involved in talks with Cricket Australia boss James Sutherland.
Cricket Australia could ratify an Australia-England Legends Twenty20 showdown within days, with Warnie hoping Gudinski can transform the day into a cricketing festival by presiding over a post-match concert.
Australia does have a solid track record for raising big bucks when the right group of people from entertainment, media, sports and business are brought together. Cricket's last charity match, for Victoria's Black Saturday bushfire victims back in 2009, raised more than $20 million. James Packer's Crown Limited and The Salvation Army also helped raise towards a million dollars for the bushfire appeals. As a nation Aussies from many walks of life are able to bond together when the going gets tough, with Mother Nature hitting the Aussies for six and then some over the past week.
The proposed fundraiser could be staged before the England-Australia one-day international on January 30 for example.
A Cricket Australia spokesman was able to confirm planning for the Legends match was under way and offered "It's early but we're looking at co-ordinating a Legends match. We're still to nut out details but James Sutherland had has a chat to Shane (Warne)," the spokesman said. "There will be a series of things leading up to that match that we're going to be doing. We think the Legends match is a great idea so we're working out ways to benefit from that enthusiasm for the people of Queensland. All funds will be going straight to the Queensland Premier's Fund appeal."
Gillard, Packer, Warnie, Murdoch (both of you sirs), Gyngell and Turnbull and a few others - you're throw of the cricket ball 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
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? 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
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Saturday, January 15, 2011
Australian Media Man Head Talks Domain Names, by Greg Tingle
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Bondi Rescue: Art imitates life with bodypaint, by Greg Tingle - 14th January 2011
World renowned Australian bodyartist and up and coming photo journalist, Eva Rinaldi, returned to her old news media stomping ground, Bondi Beach today, and we think was responsible for once again raising the temperatures of guys and gals.
On previous occasions whenever Ms Rinaldi visited Bondi Beach either a bodypainted look-a-like or Oprah Winfrey or 'Rebel Avatar's' would appear.
Well, today was a bit of mystery. There were a number of reported sightings of an artist matching Ms Rinadi's ID, friend - TV presenter Joy Hhuby and photographer Marek Jezierski.
Before you could say "Let's Paint Oprah" a couple of bodypaited Aussie stunners appeared out of the middle of nowhere, between the flags on the north end. The brunette lying on her back, appearing to be exhausted, but showing an inkling of a smile, and just a touch of pink, with much of her eco friendly bodypaint having been washed away. The blonde bombshell frantically pumping (her heart) and pounding on her chest, attempting to give the kiss of life, right between the lips. A concerned onlooker shouted "we better get help" and rushed over to the scene pulling out his mobile and looking to dial 000. A few more minutes and the victim had fully recovered. Then a light applause, and many a tourist, mainly red blooded males, asked if they would be ok to get a photo, and the rescuer and rescue-ee both obliged, seamlessly making a miraculous recovery.
One beach goer couldn't resist and asked the models their names and we understand them to now be identified as Kalais Rauchle and Tess Evans.
So, an emergency, elaborate stunt or life imitating art? For the record no Bondi Rescue lifeguards or Network Ten press types were present, so we suspect it may have been another 'Human Statue' creation.
It was 28% at Bondi Beach, Sydney today, but the buzz is Ms Rinaldi's antics raised the bar o meter at least another 10%. Bondi Beach continues to play a game of "can you top that", and the bodypainting queen of down under looks to be giving all and sundry a bit of a run for their money. We rate the performance (if that is what it was) as a Perfect 10. Yeah, Brooke Shields and Andy Warhol would have been proud.
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On previous occasions whenever Ms Rinaldi visited Bondi Beach either a bodypainted look-a-like or Oprah Winfrey or 'Rebel Avatar's' would appear.
Well, today was a bit of mystery. There were a number of reported sightings of an artist matching Ms Rinadi's ID, friend - TV presenter Joy Hhuby and photographer Marek Jezierski.
Before you could say "Let's Paint Oprah" a couple of bodypaited Aussie stunners appeared out of the middle of nowhere, between the flags on the north end. The brunette lying on her back, appearing to be exhausted, but showing an inkling of a smile, and just a touch of pink, with much of her eco friendly bodypaint having been washed away. The blonde bombshell frantically pumping (her heart) and pounding on her chest, attempting to give the kiss of life, right between the lips. A concerned onlooker shouted "we better get help" and rushed over to the scene pulling out his mobile and looking to dial 000. A few more minutes and the victim had fully recovered. Then a light applause, and many a tourist, mainly red blooded males, asked if they would be ok to get a photo, and the rescuer and rescue-ee both obliged, seamlessly making a miraculous recovery.
One beach goer couldn't resist and asked the models their names and we understand them to now be identified as Kalais Rauchle and Tess Evans.
So, an emergency, elaborate stunt or life imitating art? For the record no Bondi Rescue lifeguards or Network Ten press types were present, so we suspect it may have been another 'Human Statue' creation.
It was 28% at Bondi Beach, Sydney today, but the buzz is Ms Rinaldi's antics raised the bar o meter at least another 10%. Bondi Beach continues to play a game of "can you top that", and the bodypainting queen of down under looks to be giving all and sundry a bit of a run for their money. We rate the performance (if that is what it was) as a Perfect 10. Yeah, Brooke Shields and Andy Warhol would have been proud.
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Eva Rinaldi
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Friday, January 14, 2011
Australian Pokie And News Media Wars, by Greg Tingle - 14th January 2011
G'day punters, journos, high rollers, politicians, insiders, outsiders... one and all. The battle for your hearts, minds, wallets and purses continue as Australian gambling and media companies continue to pull out all the stops in order to achieve market domination, or is it world domination? There's something for everyone here, be it casino lovers, haters, media tarts or other. Media Man and Gambling911 with rip snorter of a news roundup for you from the land of Kangaroos, Koalas, convicts and all manner of critters...
Tennis Babe Transforms Into Casino Babe At Packer's Crown; Australian Media's Next Hot Yummie Mummy To Be?
Tennis babe Maria Sharapova commenced the Australian Open Tennis in red hot fashion 2 nights ago the world's hottest and sexiest players landed in Melbourne, home of Australia's original TV 'Underbelly'. The babe of the moment showed off a sparkling engagement ring and smile. This particular Russian babe has taken quite a liking to down under and was more than happy to show off quite a bit of leg, but only a slight bit of cleavage in her new range of tennis gear showcased at a Crown casino media and PR gig. Sharapova's lucky boyfriend, Los Angeles Lakers basketballer Sasha Vujacic, popped the big and brave question to the tennis babe last red October. Her competitors did not seem to be bothered by Sharapova's "media darling" statue or expectational good looks. World #1 Rafael Nadal stripped down during a relaxed practice session on centre court and Ana Ivanovic strutted her stuff on an outside court. Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray enjoyed a soccer workout with Melbourne Victory players at AAMI Park. Oh, weather was also a concern, with all the floods that hit Queensland, tipped to also catch part of Victoria. Tourney director Craig Tiley declared the Open weather-proof. "We have two roofs we can close. We also have five indoor courts, so for us rain is - unlike the US Open - easier to deal with. If we are thrown more challenges with the elements we will be able to do what we need to. We have those plans in place to help in terms of scheduling." Isolated showers across southern Victoria could affect the first few days of the event, which starts on Monday. The first week of last year's open was relatively mild but the mercury rose to the mid-30s by the second week of play. In 2009, tennis stars endured scorching conditions with at least three consecutive days above 43C. Paramedics had their work cut out with more than 100 spectators treated for heat exhausting or sunburn. Tiley said major redevelopment work at Melbourne Park would not get in the way of this year's Open. More than 600,000 spectators are expected to flood the Grand Slam venue over two weeks. Insiders reckon the latest range of Tennis babes cum Casino babes, are bound to raise temperates in more ways that one. Feel the heat.
Sin City Sydney - Star City Soccer Fans Ralley...
Sydney FC CEO Edwin Lugt has urged more interaction with supporters across the country after the successful staging of a fan forum in Sydney last night. Lugt spoke at a fan forum organised by Footy Fans Downunder held at Sydney’s Star City Casino Sports Theatre Bar. The forum which will head to Melbourne next month discussed a wide range of topics with fans being given the floor to ask any questions of the panel. Passionate debate and some lively ideas were discussed in front of almost 200 fans. The night also served as a fund-raiser for the Queensland flood tragedy. But as a forum for ideas, it was also a useful exercise, said Lugt. "The fact that we have this (fan forum) means the game is getting serious. It’s maturing". It's understood a few of the fans tried their luck on the pokies and roulette after the forum, some winning, some loosing, and others breaking even. The event was a win - win for both Star City, the fans and soccer big wigs.
Australian Gaming And Gambling Shares...
Company Name Price Change %Change
National Leisure & Gaming 0.01 +0.00 UP +16.66%
Crown Limited 8.57 +0.13 UP +1.54%
Aristocrat Leisure 2.94 +0.04 UP +1.37%
Ainsworth Game Technology 0.27 -0.04 DOWN -12.91%
Centrebet International 1.49 -0.02 DOWN -1.33%
Sky City 2.57 -0.03 DOWN -1.16%
Independent Senator Or Bias Senator; Bluffing The News Media Or Sincere?...
The South Australian based Senator Nick Xenaphon aka 'Mr X's in gambling and media circles, has basically accused Clubs New South Wales of resisting moves to implement new gambling legislation. Senator Xenaphon has backed anti-pokies campaigner Paul Bendat who has took it upon himself to place a full newspaper in the Illawarra Mercury, and is considering doing more. One of his targets is Clubs New South Wales chairman and former Mercury editor Peter Newell. Bendat has been threatened with legal action over the ads. Yep, its getting personal and legal. Senator Xenaphon says the ad calls on Newell to direct his members to "tell the truth" about the Federal Government's mandatory pre-commitment plans for poker machines. "When you consider that literally billions of dollars are lost each year by problem gamblers in this country and that could be avoidable, it could be substantially reduced by a sensible system of pre-commitment. "Then the club's propaganda on this whole issue in terms of how expensive it will be and how impractical it will be, these things need to be exposed." A spokesman for Clubs New South Wales says an earlier advertisement had implied Newell had been untruthful and the ad was overly personal. Joke for readers... How do you know when a politician is lying? Answer: When their lips are moving!
Crown Casino, Melbourne: 2011 Aussie Millions Poker Championship On The Way...
Australia's biggest, best and richest poker tournament has just got on the way. Aussie Millions commenced at James Packers' Crown Casino in beautiful Melbourne, home to the original 'Underbelly' TV series which featured gambling themes. We understand that the $10,600 AUD no-limit hold’em main event will snatch the attention of the poker players and commentators when it fires off on January 23rd. An deep field of 746 punters participated in the 2010 main event, with our own Tyron Krost being crowned champion, picking up $2 million, and soon after being signed u by PartyGaming's PartyPoker. Many other players (and brands) and keen to knock him off as you might expect. The field is expected to be one of the greatest ever, if not the best. High-stakes events include the $100,000 Challenge that commences on January 22, as well as the Aussie Millions high stakes cash game featuring a $200,000 minimum buy-in on Jan 24th. Last year the $100,000 Challenge attracted 24 players for a prize pool of $2.4 million, and it was Dan Shak who bested Phil Ivey heads up to earn a cool $1.2 million. Other substantial buy-in events this year include the $10,500 Australia no-limit hold’em heads-up championship and a $10,500 eight-game mixed event. Stay glued to this dial for more coverage, and don't be surprised if Fox Sports and or / ESPN give it a bit of TV coverage. Poker is big business in Australia and around the world, and media companies are keen to cash in too. Good luck to all players, and on James Packer for your commitment to the "sport".
Aussie Millions Media Run Down...
The Aussie Millions Poker Championship is the largest, richest and most prestigious gaming event in the Southern Hemisphere and ranked fifth largest in the world. Featuring a comprehensive slate of tournaments in every major poker variation, the Aussie Millions is poker's longest running tournament in the Southern Hemisphere, dating back to 1998.
Facts
- The Aussie Millions Poker Championship is held each January at Crown Casino, in Melbourne Australia
- The Aussie Millions ranks as the fifth largest poker tournament in the world by player number
- The championship includes over 20 tournaments culminating in the coveted AUD$10,600 No Limit Holdem ‘Main Event' on Sunday 23 January for Day 1 - Flight 1 (Mon 24 Flight 2, Tues 25 Flight 3 with Day 2 starting on Wednesday 26 January 2011)
- The 2011 Aussie Millions is expected to reach a prize pool of almost AUD$20 million with an expected first prize of AUD$2 million for the AUD$10,600 No Limit Holdem ‘Main Event'
- Over 2,500 individual entrants will participant and more than 600 international visitors are expected to attend including players from the United States, England, Ireland, South Africa, Scandinavia, Canada, Israel, Estonia, Portugal and Russia
- The Aussie Millions generated approximately 8,000 room nights across Melbourne in January 2010, including over 5,000 at Crown alone
- The 2010 Aussie Millions held the largest, cash buy in tournament ever with a $100,500 event attracting 30 players
- It is expected that there will be almost 900 individual players in the $10,600 Buy-In No Limit Holdem ‘Main Event'
What is being billed as the biggest game ever played, the ‘Million Dollar Cash Game' will see 10 of the greatest and most influential poker players of all-time stake a minimum of AUD$1 million to play. However, players can (and will) bring more than a mere million dollars to the table!
IMG Tennis Party: Tennis And Poker Celebs - Sunday 16th January
See some of the world's greatest tennis stars including David Nalbandian, Donald Young, Feliciano Lopez, James Blake, Marcos Baghdatis, Maria Sharapova, Marion Bartoli, Mark Knowles, Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and Venus Williams. Along with some of the world's greatest poker players in town for the Aussie Millions Poker Championship including 2005 WSOP Champion and Crown Ambassador Joe Hachem, Team Full Tilt pro's Phil Ivey, Chris Ferguson, Howard Lederer, John Juanda etc.
This exclusive gathering of world class tennis pro's and entertainment industry heavy weights will make this event one of the best parties of 2011. Crown's IMG Tennis Players Party has become one of the most high profile events of the year. Held on the eve of the Australian Open, the party is also a regular meeting spot for IMG's star players who are staying at Crown.
Aussie Millions Event Number 8 - $100,000 Challenge - Saturday 23rd January...
$100,000 No Limit Holdem Challenge will be for those with deep pockets! Look out for some high profile players with wallets in hand, looking for some wild action including the Phil Ivey and 2007 Aussie Millions Champion Gus Hansen. Up to 30 of the most prestigious and high profile poker players in the world will descend upon the Crown Poker Room for this event. Some of the world's greatest poker players heading the list include; Alexander Kostritsyn, Chris Ferguson, Erick Lindgren, Erik Seidel, Gus Hansen, Howard Lederer, Ivan Demidov, Jeff Lisandro, John Juanda, Patrik Antonius, Phil Ivey, Tom Dwan, Tong G and Tony Bloom *Total Cost (Buy-In + Entry Fee) $100,500 ($100,000 +$500). *Special thanks to Crown Casino for providing our news media with the detailed information. We look forward to continuing to cover the action.
Melbourne: Gambling Research Agenda Continues At Monash University...
Researchers from Monash University's Department of Marketing are interviewing men and women, from a range of backgrounds and age groups across Victoria, to find out more about the reasons why people gamble and how it makes them feel. Study Principal Investigator Dr Samantha Thomas said research was usually focused on problem gamblers with 'next to no' research being done on people who gamble for fun or those who feel they don't have a problem with it. "Most research is fixated on problem gamblers and psychological and social impacts associated with the negative aspects of gambling. While we're not ignoring that exists we also believe that for most people who gamble, whether it's a problem or not, that gambling has, at some stage, been a social, enjoyable past-time," Dr Thomas said. "At what point does it go from being a 'bit of a harmless flutter' to an issue that consumes their lives? At what point do gamblers realize they have a problem and does public messaging warning of the dangers of gambling have any influence on their thinking or behaviour?" Dr Thomas said public messaging and support group programs specifically responded to problem gambling using poker machines. "We know that people's gambling habits are much broader than poker machines and while the 'pokies' have been portrayed as 'evil' and 'addictive', problem gambling is also evident with people who bet online, through sports betting outlets or on casino tables," Dr Thomas said. Dr Thomas said the research involves extensive interviews and participants will be compensated for their time. "Learning more about why people gamble, when they first started to gamble, and what their social sphere is like is incredibly important in being able to put into perspective behaviours and perceptions of gambling." Dr Thomas said one emerging trend in their research to date is that it appears people who bet on sporting outcomes often do so because they believe it requires skill and knowledge and that winning on 'the punt' is a sign of personal achievement rather than just financial gain. "In contrast we see people who bet on poker machines believing more in 'personal luck' and a desire to 'beat the system' with their goal being a financial reward. Dr Thomas said the team was particularly interested in the experiences of women. "Australia has high rates of gambling in women, and we are particularly interested to how women perceive their gambling activities," Dr Thomas said. Dr Thomas said it was important for government agencies, community help organisations and the industry to be provided with information about gambling behaviours that will contribute to shaping policy and community responses.
A Media Man spokesperson said of the study "Finally, a gambling study that appears fair and balanced, and not just an attack on the great Aussie tradition of having a punt. They will be interviewing a wide array of punters, not just being focused on the so called problem gamblers, which has been quite the fodder of media beat-ups and junk science research for well over a year. We are not certain the gambling hating senators of Australia will use data from this particular study. Why? Because it looks to be honest and straight up, and not just pandering to the Australian government, the like way some Aussie politicians pandered to the American government over Wikileaks. Balanced studies on gambling in Australia are such a breath of fresh air. I might just have a punt to celebrate the good news".
Foxtel Purchases ABC TV Programs; WTF...
ABC Commercial has recently finalized contracts on more than a dozen programs to Foxtel’s owned and operated channels. The deals include the first two series of THE LIBRARIANS (12 x 30’) and all three series of THE GRUEN TRANSFER (32 x 30’), to screen on Foxtel’s Comedy Channel. A further nine programs were sold to Foxtel’s History Channel, including Screen Australia documentary series KOKODA (2 x 56’) and Chinese/Australian co-production PUYI: THE LAST CHINESE EMPEROR (2 x 52’) which will be an Australian premiere for the channel. Two documentaries, GIRLS OWN WAR STORIES (1 x 55’) and ACCENTUATE THE POSITIVE (1 x 55’) were also sold to the Bio Channel.
“Our business with Foxtel continues to grow and grow. We are very happy to be able to provide Foxtel with some of the best Australian content in the market,” said Natalie Lawley, ABC Commercial’s Sales Manager for Asia, Australia & NZ. If we hear of more gambling or poker programing on Foxtel or ABC, readers, we will let you know. Be on the lookout for Aussie Millions to get a few mentions on Foxtel - Fox Sports, as well as on the news, and ABC TV is rumoured to do some fair and balanced coverage on their sports reports via TV, radio and online.
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)
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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? What's your goss for us? 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.
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Tennis Babe Transforms Into Casino Babe At Packer's Crown; Australian Media's Next Hot Yummie Mummy To Be?
Tennis babe Maria Sharapova commenced the Australian Open Tennis in red hot fashion 2 nights ago the world's hottest and sexiest players landed in Melbourne, home of Australia's original TV 'Underbelly'. The babe of the moment showed off a sparkling engagement ring and smile. This particular Russian babe has taken quite a liking to down under and was more than happy to show off quite a bit of leg, but only a slight bit of cleavage in her new range of tennis gear showcased at a Crown casino media and PR gig. Sharapova's lucky boyfriend, Los Angeles Lakers basketballer Sasha Vujacic, popped the big and brave question to the tennis babe last red October. Her competitors did not seem to be bothered by Sharapova's "media darling" statue or expectational good looks. World #1 Rafael Nadal stripped down during a relaxed practice session on centre court and Ana Ivanovic strutted her stuff on an outside court. Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray enjoyed a soccer workout with Melbourne Victory players at AAMI Park. Oh, weather was also a concern, with all the floods that hit Queensland, tipped to also catch part of Victoria. Tourney director Craig Tiley declared the Open weather-proof. "We have two roofs we can close. We also have five indoor courts, so for us rain is - unlike the US Open - easier to deal with. If we are thrown more challenges with the elements we will be able to do what we need to. We have those plans in place to help in terms of scheduling." Isolated showers across southern Victoria could affect the first few days of the event, which starts on Monday. The first week of last year's open was relatively mild but the mercury rose to the mid-30s by the second week of play. In 2009, tennis stars endured scorching conditions with at least three consecutive days above 43C. Paramedics had their work cut out with more than 100 spectators treated for heat exhausting or sunburn. Tiley said major redevelopment work at Melbourne Park would not get in the way of this year's Open. More than 600,000 spectators are expected to flood the Grand Slam venue over two weeks. Insiders reckon the latest range of Tennis babes cum Casino babes, are bound to raise temperates in more ways that one. Feel the heat.
Sin City Sydney - Star City Soccer Fans Ralley...
Sydney FC CEO Edwin Lugt has urged more interaction with supporters across the country after the successful staging of a fan forum in Sydney last night. Lugt spoke at a fan forum organised by Footy Fans Downunder held at Sydney’s Star City Casino Sports Theatre Bar. The forum which will head to Melbourne next month discussed a wide range of topics with fans being given the floor to ask any questions of the panel. Passionate debate and some lively ideas were discussed in front of almost 200 fans. The night also served as a fund-raiser for the Queensland flood tragedy. But as a forum for ideas, it was also a useful exercise, said Lugt. "The fact that we have this (fan forum) means the game is getting serious. It’s maturing". It's understood a few of the fans tried their luck on the pokies and roulette after the forum, some winning, some loosing, and others breaking even. The event was a win - win for both Star City, the fans and soccer big wigs.
Australian Gaming And Gambling Shares...
Company Name Price Change %Change
National Leisure & Gaming 0.01 +0.00 UP +16.66%
Crown Limited 8.57 +0.13 UP +1.54%
Aristocrat Leisure 2.94 +0.04 UP +1.37%
Ainsworth Game Technology 0.27 -0.04 DOWN -12.91%
Centrebet International 1.49 -0.02 DOWN -1.33%
Sky City 2.57 -0.03 DOWN -1.16%
Independent Senator Or Bias Senator; Bluffing The News Media Or Sincere?...
The South Australian based Senator Nick Xenaphon aka 'Mr X's in gambling and media circles, has basically accused Clubs New South Wales of resisting moves to implement new gambling legislation. Senator Xenaphon has backed anti-pokies campaigner Paul Bendat who has took it upon himself to place a full newspaper in the Illawarra Mercury, and is considering doing more. One of his targets is Clubs New South Wales chairman and former Mercury editor Peter Newell. Bendat has been threatened with legal action over the ads. Yep, its getting personal and legal. Senator Xenaphon says the ad calls on Newell to direct his members to "tell the truth" about the Federal Government's mandatory pre-commitment plans for poker machines. "When you consider that literally billions of dollars are lost each year by problem gamblers in this country and that could be avoidable, it could be substantially reduced by a sensible system of pre-commitment. "Then the club's propaganda on this whole issue in terms of how expensive it will be and how impractical it will be, these things need to be exposed." A spokesman for Clubs New South Wales says an earlier advertisement had implied Newell had been untruthful and the ad was overly personal. Joke for readers... How do you know when a politician is lying? Answer: When their lips are moving!
Crown Casino, Melbourne: 2011 Aussie Millions Poker Championship On The Way...
Australia's biggest, best and richest poker tournament has just got on the way. Aussie Millions commenced at James Packers' Crown Casino in beautiful Melbourne, home to the original 'Underbelly' TV series which featured gambling themes. We understand that the $10,600 AUD no-limit hold’em main event will snatch the attention of the poker players and commentators when it fires off on January 23rd. An deep field of 746 punters participated in the 2010 main event, with our own Tyron Krost being crowned champion, picking up $2 million, and soon after being signed u by PartyGaming's PartyPoker. Many other players (and brands) and keen to knock him off as you might expect. The field is expected to be one of the greatest ever, if not the best. High-stakes events include the $100,000 Challenge that commences on January 22, as well as the Aussie Millions high stakes cash game featuring a $200,000 minimum buy-in on Jan 24th. Last year the $100,000 Challenge attracted 24 players for a prize pool of $2.4 million, and it was Dan Shak who bested Phil Ivey heads up to earn a cool $1.2 million. Other substantial buy-in events this year include the $10,500 Australia no-limit hold’em heads-up championship and a $10,500 eight-game mixed event. Stay glued to this dial for more coverage, and don't be surprised if Fox Sports and or / ESPN give it a bit of TV coverage. Poker is big business in Australia and around the world, and media companies are keen to cash in too. Good luck to all players, and on James Packer for your commitment to the "sport".
Aussie Millions Media Run Down...
The Aussie Millions Poker Championship is the largest, richest and most prestigious gaming event in the Southern Hemisphere and ranked fifth largest in the world. Featuring a comprehensive slate of tournaments in every major poker variation, the Aussie Millions is poker's longest running tournament in the Southern Hemisphere, dating back to 1998.
Facts
- The Aussie Millions Poker Championship is held each January at Crown Casino, in Melbourne Australia
- The Aussie Millions ranks as the fifth largest poker tournament in the world by player number
- The championship includes over 20 tournaments culminating in the coveted AUD$10,600 No Limit Holdem ‘Main Event' on Sunday 23 January for Day 1 - Flight 1 (Mon 24 Flight 2, Tues 25 Flight 3 with Day 2 starting on Wednesday 26 January 2011)
- The 2011 Aussie Millions is expected to reach a prize pool of almost AUD$20 million with an expected first prize of AUD$2 million for the AUD$10,600 No Limit Holdem ‘Main Event'
- Over 2,500 individual entrants will participant and more than 600 international visitors are expected to attend including players from the United States, England, Ireland, South Africa, Scandinavia, Canada, Israel, Estonia, Portugal and Russia
- The Aussie Millions generated approximately 8,000 room nights across Melbourne in January 2010, including over 5,000 at Crown alone
- The 2010 Aussie Millions held the largest, cash buy in tournament ever with a $100,500 event attracting 30 players
- It is expected that there will be almost 900 individual players in the $10,600 Buy-In No Limit Holdem ‘Main Event'
What is being billed as the biggest game ever played, the ‘Million Dollar Cash Game' will see 10 of the greatest and most influential poker players of all-time stake a minimum of AUD$1 million to play. However, players can (and will) bring more than a mere million dollars to the table!
IMG Tennis Party: Tennis And Poker Celebs - Sunday 16th January
See some of the world's greatest tennis stars including David Nalbandian, Donald Young, Feliciano Lopez, James Blake, Marcos Baghdatis, Maria Sharapova, Marion Bartoli, Mark Knowles, Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer and Venus Williams. Along with some of the world's greatest poker players in town for the Aussie Millions Poker Championship including 2005 WSOP Champion and Crown Ambassador Joe Hachem, Team Full Tilt pro's Phil Ivey, Chris Ferguson, Howard Lederer, John Juanda etc.
This exclusive gathering of world class tennis pro's and entertainment industry heavy weights will make this event one of the best parties of 2011. Crown's IMG Tennis Players Party has become one of the most high profile events of the year. Held on the eve of the Australian Open, the party is also a regular meeting spot for IMG's star players who are staying at Crown.
Aussie Millions Event Number 8 - $100,000 Challenge - Saturday 23rd January...
$100,000 No Limit Holdem Challenge will be for those with deep pockets! Look out for some high profile players with wallets in hand, looking for some wild action including the Phil Ivey and 2007 Aussie Millions Champion Gus Hansen. Up to 30 of the most prestigious and high profile poker players in the world will descend upon the Crown Poker Room for this event. Some of the world's greatest poker players heading the list include; Alexander Kostritsyn, Chris Ferguson, Erick Lindgren, Erik Seidel, Gus Hansen, Howard Lederer, Ivan Demidov, Jeff Lisandro, John Juanda, Patrik Antonius, Phil Ivey, Tom Dwan, Tong G and Tony Bloom *Total Cost (Buy-In + Entry Fee) $100,500 ($100,000 +$500). *Special thanks to Crown Casino for providing our news media with the detailed information. We look forward to continuing to cover the action.
Melbourne: Gambling Research Agenda Continues At Monash University...
Researchers from Monash University's Department of Marketing are interviewing men and women, from a range of backgrounds and age groups across Victoria, to find out more about the reasons why people gamble and how it makes them feel. Study Principal Investigator Dr Samantha Thomas said research was usually focused on problem gamblers with 'next to no' research being done on people who gamble for fun or those who feel they don't have a problem with it. "Most research is fixated on problem gamblers and psychological and social impacts associated with the negative aspects of gambling. While we're not ignoring that exists we also believe that for most people who gamble, whether it's a problem or not, that gambling has, at some stage, been a social, enjoyable past-time," Dr Thomas said. "At what point does it go from being a 'bit of a harmless flutter' to an issue that consumes their lives? At what point do gamblers realize they have a problem and does public messaging warning of the dangers of gambling have any influence on their thinking or behaviour?" Dr Thomas said public messaging and support group programs specifically responded to problem gambling using poker machines. "We know that people's gambling habits are much broader than poker machines and while the 'pokies' have been portrayed as 'evil' and 'addictive', problem gambling is also evident with people who bet online, through sports betting outlets or on casino tables," Dr Thomas said. Dr Thomas said the research involves extensive interviews and participants will be compensated for their time. "Learning more about why people gamble, when they first started to gamble, and what their social sphere is like is incredibly important in being able to put into perspective behaviours and perceptions of gambling." Dr Thomas said one emerging trend in their research to date is that it appears people who bet on sporting outcomes often do so because they believe it requires skill and knowledge and that winning on 'the punt' is a sign of personal achievement rather than just financial gain. "In contrast we see people who bet on poker machines believing more in 'personal luck' and a desire to 'beat the system' with their goal being a financial reward. Dr Thomas said the team was particularly interested in the experiences of women. "Australia has high rates of gambling in women, and we are particularly interested to how women perceive their gambling activities," Dr Thomas said. Dr Thomas said it was important for government agencies, community help organisations and the industry to be provided with information about gambling behaviours that will contribute to shaping policy and community responses.
A Media Man spokesperson said of the study "Finally, a gambling study that appears fair and balanced, and not just an attack on the great Aussie tradition of having a punt. They will be interviewing a wide array of punters, not just being focused on the so called problem gamblers, which has been quite the fodder of media beat-ups and junk science research for well over a year. We are not certain the gambling hating senators of Australia will use data from this particular study. Why? Because it looks to be honest and straight up, and not just pandering to the Australian government, the like way some Aussie politicians pandered to the American government over Wikileaks. Balanced studies on gambling in Australia are such a breath of fresh air. I might just have a punt to celebrate the good news".
Foxtel Purchases ABC TV Programs; WTF...
ABC Commercial has recently finalized contracts on more than a dozen programs to Foxtel’s owned and operated channels. The deals include the first two series of THE LIBRARIANS (12 x 30’) and all three series of THE GRUEN TRANSFER (32 x 30’), to screen on Foxtel’s Comedy Channel. A further nine programs were sold to Foxtel’s History Channel, including Screen Australia documentary series KOKODA (2 x 56’) and Chinese/Australian co-production PUYI: THE LAST CHINESE EMPEROR (2 x 52’) which will be an Australian premiere for the channel. Two documentaries, GIRLS OWN WAR STORIES (1 x 55’) and ACCENTUATE THE POSITIVE (1 x 55’) were also sold to the Bio Channel.
“Our business with Foxtel continues to grow and grow. We are very happy to be able to provide Foxtel with some of the best Australian content in the market,” said Natalie Lawley, ABC Commercial’s Sales Manager for Asia, Australia & NZ. If we hear of more gambling or poker programing on Foxtel or ABC, readers, we will let you know. Be on the lookout for Aussie Millions to get a few mentions on Foxtel - Fox Sports, as well as on the news, and ABC TV is rumoured to do some fair and balanced coverage on their sports reports via TV, radio and online.
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)
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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? What's your goss for us? 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.
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Taronga Zoo: Red-Tailed Black Cockatoo "Keerjandee" M.I.A, by Eva Rinaldi - 13th January 2011
Taronga Zoo Sydney is back in the headlines, but for a matter they would rather not be.
One of their prized birds, Keerjandee, an adorable Red-Tailed Black Cockatoo, flew away yesterday, and it's believed its whereabouts may be in the Mosman region.
As you may appreciate the Zoo keepers, management and even other birds at the zoo are anxious and missing her terribly.
The Zoo has released the following details in hope of getting a positive ID on their mate: adult female, jet black feathers with yellow speckles and bright red and orange colouring under her tail. Answers to "Keerjandee". It's suspected they may be hungry, having been looked after like a queen at Taronga for years.
Our feathered friend flew off during Wednesday afternoon’s Free Flight Bird show after getting spooked out by magpies, known is Aussie lingo as "maggies".
Zoo keepers advised she flew in the direction of Clifton Gardens but may not have travelled too far.
"She has gone for an exploration before, but normally only goes a few hundred metres before returning to her dedicated keepers," a Taronga spokeswoman said.
"She was last seen heading towards Clifton Gardens way, and although this species of bird can fly far, we believe she could still be in the local area."
Have you seen the missing cockatoo? Call Taronga Zoo on (02) 9969 2777 or tell us below.
Keepers searched all afternoon and most of last night for Keerjandee, who has has only been part of the bird show for six months.
They took out other Red-tail Black Cockatoos in the hope their calls would help track Keerjandee.
"Normally if they hear the call of another bird they will respond and therefore help us locate and bring them home, however this also proved unsuccessful," the spokeswoman said.
Red-tailed black cockatoos are not a local species but are about the same size as a sulphur crested cockatoo.
Anyone with information about the missing bird is urged to contact Taronga Zoo on (02) 9969 2777 or can contact the writer of this blog.
We are hopefully of giving a positive news update soon and will continue to pray for her positive return.
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One of their prized birds, Keerjandee, an adorable Red-Tailed Black Cockatoo, flew away yesterday, and it's believed its whereabouts may be in the Mosman region.
As you may appreciate the Zoo keepers, management and even other birds at the zoo are anxious and missing her terribly.
The Zoo has released the following details in hope of getting a positive ID on their mate: adult female, jet black feathers with yellow speckles and bright red and orange colouring under her tail. Answers to "Keerjandee". It's suspected they may be hungry, having been looked after like a queen at Taronga for years.
Our feathered friend flew off during Wednesday afternoon’s Free Flight Bird show after getting spooked out by magpies, known is Aussie lingo as "maggies".
Zoo keepers advised she flew in the direction of Clifton Gardens but may not have travelled too far.
"She has gone for an exploration before, but normally only goes a few hundred metres before returning to her dedicated keepers," a Taronga spokeswoman said.
"She was last seen heading towards Clifton Gardens way, and although this species of bird can fly far, we believe she could still be in the local area."
Have you seen the missing cockatoo? Call Taronga Zoo on (02) 9969 2777 or tell us below.
Keepers searched all afternoon and most of last night for Keerjandee, who has has only been part of the bird show for six months.
They took out other Red-tail Black Cockatoos in the hope their calls would help track Keerjandee.
"Normally if they hear the call of another bird they will respond and therefore help us locate and bring them home, however this also proved unsuccessful," the spokeswoman said.
Red-tailed black cockatoos are not a local species but are about the same size as a sulphur crested cockatoo.
Anyone with information about the missing bird is urged to contact Taronga Zoo on (02) 9969 2777 or can contact the writer of this blog.
We are hopefully of giving a positive news update soon and will continue to pray for her positive return.
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Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Sound Relief 2 Rock Concert Will Raise Funds For Queensland Flood Victims, by Greg Tingle - 11th January 2011
Music promoter, the legendary Michael Gudinski, is hectic contacting a swag of band managers after announcing Sound Relief 2 would be put on to assist Queensland flood victims.
Insiders hint Gudinski could very well ask Brisbane rock gods Powderfinger to reunite - perhaps just one last time, for the fundraiser, with dates for the concert yet to be finalised nor publicly announced.
The virgin Sound Relief concerts were held on March 14, 2009 to assist those affected by the Victorian bushfires and Queensland floods, raising in excess of $7 million.
The rock concerts took place simultaneously at the Sydney Cricket Ground and Melbourne Cricket Ground and featured a rip snorter line-up of artists including Jet, Kings of Leon, Kasey Chambers, Jack Johnson, Kylie Minogue, Coldplay, Taylor Swift and Olivia Newton-John.
Radio station Triple J broadcast live music from both venues and the major happening was screened on Foxtel's Max and Channel V television channels.
Celebs partied hard on the Sunday evening after helping pull in a huge $10 million bucks for the Queensland flood relief appeal on Network 9.
TV Telethon hosts Eddie 'Everywhere' McGuire and Leila McKinnon (wife on Network Nine boss David 'Gyng' Gyngell chilled out and sank a drink or two in the bar of Rydges Hotel in Brisbane, as the crew and volunteers including Rescue Special Ops cast Katherine Hicks and Peter Phelps celebrated the show's raving success.
Ex PM Kevin Rudd was a pretty popular backstage and even enjoyed some baby name talk with the then expectant mum Catriona Rowntree, who we understand drove all the way up from her holiday in Byron Bay to be part of the historic evening.
Popular actor Lisa McCune drove up with young son Archie after a big of filming Sea Patrol on the Gold Coast.
Insiders and punters alike are hopefully that Gudinski will be able to match, if not exceed this first Sound Relief concert and the upcoming event is tipped to attract massive amounts of mainstream and alternative press coverage, as well as doing serious internet traffic numbers. In short, it's bound to be a massive success on many levels and will be one of the greatest concerts of the decade if steps made to date are any indication. Well done to all involved.
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Insiders hint Gudinski could very well ask Brisbane rock gods Powderfinger to reunite - perhaps just one last time, for the fundraiser, with dates for the concert yet to be finalised nor publicly announced.
The virgin Sound Relief concerts were held on March 14, 2009 to assist those affected by the Victorian bushfires and Queensland floods, raising in excess of $7 million.
The rock concerts took place simultaneously at the Sydney Cricket Ground and Melbourne Cricket Ground and featured a rip snorter line-up of artists including Jet, Kings of Leon, Kasey Chambers, Jack Johnson, Kylie Minogue, Coldplay, Taylor Swift and Olivia Newton-John.
Radio station Triple J broadcast live music from both venues and the major happening was screened on Foxtel's Max and Channel V television channels.
Celebs partied hard on the Sunday evening after helping pull in a huge $10 million bucks for the Queensland flood relief appeal on Network 9.
TV Telethon hosts Eddie 'Everywhere' McGuire and Leila McKinnon (wife on Network Nine boss David 'Gyng' Gyngell chilled out and sank a drink or two in the bar of Rydges Hotel in Brisbane, as the crew and volunteers including Rescue Special Ops cast Katherine Hicks and Peter Phelps celebrated the show's raving success.
Ex PM Kevin Rudd was a pretty popular backstage and even enjoyed some baby name talk with the then expectant mum Catriona Rowntree, who we understand drove all the way up from her holiday in Byron Bay to be part of the historic evening.
Popular actor Lisa McCune drove up with young son Archie after a big of filming Sea Patrol on the Gold Coast.
Insiders and punters alike are hopefully that Gudinski will be able to match, if not exceed this first Sound Relief concert and the upcoming event is tipped to attract massive amounts of mainstream and alternative press coverage, as well as doing serious internet traffic numbers. In short, it's bound to be a massive success on many levels and will be one of the greatest concerts of the decade if steps made to date are any indication. Well done to all involved.
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Australian Pokies Saviour Or Villain; Lovers VS Haters, by Greg Tingle - 11th January 2011
G'day punters, journos, high rollers, politicians, insiders, outsiders... one and all. Today we're covering a Queensland banana bender who some clubs hate with passion, and some politicians have really letting him feel the love lately. Yep, its the lovers VS the haters, as the Aussie pubs and clubs VS government gambling war continues. Media Man and Gambling911 with another explosive news report from the front line of the war zone. Incoming...
The bloodhounds have been hard and work, and have.. er, smelt blood. We've followed the blood stained trail up the Australian east coast and have landed in Sandgate. Any otherwise pretty quite place until we reved it up a bit Casino Jack.
Front and Centre Daryl Wilson. Some media and gaming commentators reckon you're now in the firing line - in the red zone (ie: out of the "green zone"). You wanted some attention and coverage, so here it is old son. You can already just hear PM Julia Gillard rub her hands with glee, and Mr X start to break out in a smile, having formally endured the wrath of an angry mobile of pub and pokie loving club types who don't wish to be told what to think or play!
P.M Gillard is set to be advised to model proposed gambling law revamps on how Daryl Wilson ('ALP Poster Boy Of The Month Winner' - satire) runs the Sandgate RSL Memorial Club in sunny Queensland. This smart pants has allowed punters to "pre-determine" how much they can lose on poker machines.
This is of course music to the ears of Independents Nick Xenophon and Andrew Wilkie. The supporters of the plan reckon his system "demolishes" claims "mandatory" systems on pokies cannot work. Read on, and you be the judge (but try not to have nightmares about being fingerprinted or having your pension card frozen, not to mention CentreLink payments unsettled for long durations).
Enter lobby group Clubs Australia, which is asserting pressure and a loud voice to federal MPs to reduce and dumb down reform. They are arguing that self-imposed mandatory spending limits would send clubs and pubs aka "pokie palaces" broke and that technology was not widely available or just too expensive.
PM Gillard pledged mandatory gaming schemes to Mr X to secure his vote! Is that type of bribe? She pencilled in 2012 coming on 2004 to be fully operational. Punters would be "banned" (there's that word again) playing pokies anywhere down under in Australia for at least 24 hours once they reached their limit.
The Sandgate model and way of doing things will be up for discussion at P.M Gillard's select parliamentary committee.
Wilson shared he had received anonymous threats to "back off" gaming reform. Yeah, there's a bit of "Real Life Underbelly" at play here, so it does appear.
"There are times that I don't like what the industry's doing...basically the rich were raping the poor. "The greedy are trying to get a system past the politicians."
The Sandgate RSL GM basically encourages his members to set their loss limit. Once reached, their gaming card defaults and the machine sets off an alert buzzer. The other players look around to see who has been naughty or nice, an Bob's your uncle, the goose is cooked, and your off the machines, and its time to take a leak, have a drink, and see the family and friends, having to look forward to next time to feed the slots.
Punters who desire to continue gambling have to make a conscious decision to keep going. Wilson said most people did not. Mind you, his club offers great drinks, value for money, and a top menu known for fantastic seafood and steaks.
Senator Xenophon said Clubs Australia needed to come clean aka be honest. That's his point of view, not necessarily ours ok readers.
"As the Sandgate example shows, it can be done with pre-existing technology right now for $1.50 a day per machine, which is a pittance when you consider these machines take in losses of hundreds of dollars a day. When at least 40% of poker machine losses come from problem gamblers, club and pub bosses can't be allowed to stay in denial."
Some insiders say "Mr X" is making up numbers on the run. It's well know that many a pollie has fudged numbers when they are trying to get proposals into law. Remember the Iraq war and Vietnam. Say no more hey.
A Clubs Australia spokesman said Senator Xenophon had based the cost on a voluntary scheme and mandatory enforcement would cost $2 billion.
"The future of the club industry is on the line here, certainly in New South Wales, to a lesser extent in Queensland," he said.
The national gambling revenue in 2008-09 was some $19 billion plus with more than half from one armed bandits and roughly 600,000 Aussies play the pokies at least weekly. Don't ask us how many play online also, but be assured its lots.
Australian Indigenous Health Bulletin Presents: Let’s talk gambling...
The Let’s talk gambling website provides information about gambling, problem gambling, resources and access to help for Aboriginal communities in NSW. Gambling in Australia is a common activity, it also appears to be a common activity among Aboriginal people in NSW, and can cause problems for Aboriginal people; their families and communities. This website looks at the many issues central to problem gambling and provides clear and concise information on:
what is gambling
why people gamble
the levels of gambling
problems associated with gambling
the cycle of gambling
why Aboriginal people develop problems with gambling
the impact of gambling on individuals, family and friends
access to help
strategies for individuals who may have a gambling problem
A number of resources and publications are made available on the website for individuals to access. In addition, information is provided for conference or events taking place throughout Australia which tackle the issue of problem gambling.
Website
Let's Talk Gambling
http://www.ahmrc.org.au/ictim/gambling/index.htm
Media Man and Gambling911 also publicly congratulate James Packer and Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest for creating over a thousands jobs recently for qualified indigenous Australians. Packer helped facilitate jobs in the gambling and tourism sector, while Forrest got Aussies back to work in the mining sector. You really have to give the devils their due don't you. Read up past issues re GenerationOne for more background information as to their good works.
Australian National Lottery To Replace Pokies; Um, Don't Think So Casino Jack...
The term known as "problem gambling" might be reduced by replacing poker machine taxes with a national lottery, supporters reckon.
Mr X has thrown the idea around for a few years now and says Senator Nick Xenophon... the measure would replace revenue from other harmful forms of gambling as well as poker machines. Senator Xenophon said he didn't support any form of gambling "but I'm also a pragmatist. If the choice is between poker machines, where up to 50 per cent of losses come from problem gamblers, or lotteries where it is significantly less ... then that is the way forward," he said.
The idea was put forward as part of a proposed national revamp of gambling regulation.
Researchers Linda Hancock and Michele O'Neil said firmly federal control was needed to fight the states' addiction to pokies revenue and to help problem gamblers.
When former Aussie PM Kevin Rudd was in charge (before he was cut loose by the ALP and the political machine, to be replaced with a new "machine" Julia Gillard), K Rudd went on record with "I hate poker machines and I know something of their impact on families". That was way back in 2007. Doesn't time fly when you're having fun!
The states draw more than 10% of their revenue from gambling.
Senator Xenophon, who entered to Parliament on an anti-gambling platform (like we couldn't guess) stated they had too much at stake to take on the pokies industry.
"State governments are the No. 1 jackpot junkies. They can't be trusted when it comes to gambling regulation," he said.
Political and gaming analysts have been wondering whether "Mr X" can be trusted.
Readers are encouraged to know their limits when playing the slots. If you don't trust yourself, bring a friend, and if your not sure, don't bet much, or don't play for money, and just check out free games online. Most of all, have fun.
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
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? Who is good and who is evil? 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
Media Man Brand
Media Man Network
Casino News Media
Poker News Media
Global Gaming Directory
The bloodhounds have been hard and work, and have.. er, smelt blood. We've followed the blood stained trail up the Australian east coast and have landed in Sandgate. Any otherwise pretty quite place until we reved it up a bit Casino Jack.
Front and Centre Daryl Wilson. Some media and gaming commentators reckon you're now in the firing line - in the red zone (ie: out of the "green zone"). You wanted some attention and coverage, so here it is old son. You can already just hear PM Julia Gillard rub her hands with glee, and Mr X start to break out in a smile, having formally endured the wrath of an angry mobile of pub and pokie loving club types who don't wish to be told what to think or play!
P.M Gillard is set to be advised to model proposed gambling law revamps on how Daryl Wilson ('ALP Poster Boy Of The Month Winner' - satire) runs the Sandgate RSL Memorial Club in sunny Queensland. This smart pants has allowed punters to "pre-determine" how much they can lose on poker machines.
This is of course music to the ears of Independents Nick Xenophon and Andrew Wilkie. The supporters of the plan reckon his system "demolishes" claims "mandatory" systems on pokies cannot work. Read on, and you be the judge (but try not to have nightmares about being fingerprinted or having your pension card frozen, not to mention CentreLink payments unsettled for long durations).
Enter lobby group Clubs Australia, which is asserting pressure and a loud voice to federal MPs to reduce and dumb down reform. They are arguing that self-imposed mandatory spending limits would send clubs and pubs aka "pokie palaces" broke and that technology was not widely available or just too expensive.
PM Gillard pledged mandatory gaming schemes to Mr X to secure his vote! Is that type of bribe? She pencilled in 2012 coming on 2004 to be fully operational. Punters would be "banned" (there's that word again) playing pokies anywhere down under in Australia for at least 24 hours once they reached their limit.
The Sandgate model and way of doing things will be up for discussion at P.M Gillard's select parliamentary committee.
Wilson shared he had received anonymous threats to "back off" gaming reform. Yeah, there's a bit of "Real Life Underbelly" at play here, so it does appear.
"There are times that I don't like what the industry's doing...basically the rich were raping the poor. "The greedy are trying to get a system past the politicians."
The Sandgate RSL GM basically encourages his members to set their loss limit. Once reached, their gaming card defaults and the machine sets off an alert buzzer. The other players look around to see who has been naughty or nice, an Bob's your uncle, the goose is cooked, and your off the machines, and its time to take a leak, have a drink, and see the family and friends, having to look forward to next time to feed the slots.
Punters who desire to continue gambling have to make a conscious decision to keep going. Wilson said most people did not. Mind you, his club offers great drinks, value for money, and a top menu known for fantastic seafood and steaks.
Senator Xenophon said Clubs Australia needed to come clean aka be honest. That's his point of view, not necessarily ours ok readers.
"As the Sandgate example shows, it can be done with pre-existing technology right now for $1.50 a day per machine, which is a pittance when you consider these machines take in losses of hundreds of dollars a day. When at least 40% of poker machine losses come from problem gamblers, club and pub bosses can't be allowed to stay in denial."
Some insiders say "Mr X" is making up numbers on the run. It's well know that many a pollie has fudged numbers when they are trying to get proposals into law. Remember the Iraq war and Vietnam. Say no more hey.
A Clubs Australia spokesman said Senator Xenophon had based the cost on a voluntary scheme and mandatory enforcement would cost $2 billion.
"The future of the club industry is on the line here, certainly in New South Wales, to a lesser extent in Queensland," he said.
The national gambling revenue in 2008-09 was some $19 billion plus with more than half from one armed bandits and roughly 600,000 Aussies play the pokies at least weekly. Don't ask us how many play online also, but be assured its lots.
Australian Indigenous Health Bulletin Presents: Let’s talk gambling...
The Let’s talk gambling website provides information about gambling, problem gambling, resources and access to help for Aboriginal communities in NSW. Gambling in Australia is a common activity, it also appears to be a common activity among Aboriginal people in NSW, and can cause problems for Aboriginal people; their families and communities. This website looks at the many issues central to problem gambling and provides clear and concise information on:
what is gambling
why people gamble
the levels of gambling
problems associated with gambling
the cycle of gambling
why Aboriginal people develop problems with gambling
the impact of gambling on individuals, family and friends
access to help
strategies for individuals who may have a gambling problem
A number of resources and publications are made available on the website for individuals to access. In addition, information is provided for conference or events taking place throughout Australia which tackle the issue of problem gambling.
Website
Let's Talk Gambling
http://www.ahmrc.org.au/ictim/gambling/index.htm
Media Man and Gambling911 also publicly congratulate James Packer and Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest for creating over a thousands jobs recently for qualified indigenous Australians. Packer helped facilitate jobs in the gambling and tourism sector, while Forrest got Aussies back to work in the mining sector. You really have to give the devils their due don't you. Read up past issues re GenerationOne for more background information as to their good works.
Australian National Lottery To Replace Pokies; Um, Don't Think So Casino Jack...
The term known as "problem gambling" might be reduced by replacing poker machine taxes with a national lottery, supporters reckon.
Mr X has thrown the idea around for a few years now and says Senator Nick Xenophon... the measure would replace revenue from other harmful forms of gambling as well as poker machines. Senator Xenophon said he didn't support any form of gambling "but I'm also a pragmatist. If the choice is between poker machines, where up to 50 per cent of losses come from problem gamblers, or lotteries where it is significantly less ... then that is the way forward," he said.
The idea was put forward as part of a proposed national revamp of gambling regulation.
Researchers Linda Hancock and Michele O'Neil said firmly federal control was needed to fight the states' addiction to pokies revenue and to help problem gamblers.
When former Aussie PM Kevin Rudd was in charge (before he was cut loose by the ALP and the political machine, to be replaced with a new "machine" Julia Gillard), K Rudd went on record with "I hate poker machines and I know something of their impact on families". That was way back in 2007. Doesn't time fly when you're having fun!
The states draw more than 10% of their revenue from gambling.
Senator Xenophon, who entered to Parliament on an anti-gambling platform (like we couldn't guess) stated they had too much at stake to take on the pokies industry.
"State governments are the No. 1 jackpot junkies. They can't be trusted when it comes to gambling regulation," he said.
Political and gaming analysts have been wondering whether "Mr X" can be trusted.
Readers are encouraged to know their limits when playing the slots. If you don't trust yourself, bring a friend, and if your not sure, don't bet much, or don't play for money, and just check out free games online. Most of all, have fun.
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
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? Who is good and who is evil? 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
Media Man Brand
Media Man Network
Casino News Media
Poker News Media
Global Gaming Directory
Monday, January 10, 2011
Crown Casino Refuse Jackpot Payment; ClubsNSW VS PokieAct, by Greg Tingle - 10th January 2011
G'day punters, journos, high rollers, politicians, insiders, outsiders... one and all. Media Man and Gambling911 with another hardcore news report hot off the desk...
Crown Casino Refuse Jackpot "Winner"; Wrong Rewards Card!...
Crown casino has thus far refused to pay out many thousands of dollars to an elderly mum (when she was found out to have used her daughter's loyalty card on the winning poker machine.) Crown leaks advise the lady won the 800,000 award points jackpot - worth $8000 grand last Friday but Crown management had told her she had in fact committed fraud! Crown also said the winning jackpot could not be converted into cash. The Crown Signature Club provides points for every dollar spent inside the casino, offering patrons rewards such as free parking, meals and hotel discounts. Folks, you have to read the fine print. Take it from us, its hard to beat Crown, and any casino house for that matter. They are smart cookies to say the least, and that's why Media Man owns some shares in them, and we're up front about it too, unlike some other media companies. Crown spokesman Gary O'Neill said the terms and conditions were made clear to everyone who signed up for the rewards program. "On each machine in that area, the rules of the jackpot are clearly stated, plus at the end of each row of the machines the terms and conditions are clearly explained and the vital term is you must be playing with your own card to be eligible to win," O'Neill said. "As far as we're concerned, the conditions are pretty basic and they're pretty straight forward: to be eligible to get the points you obviously have to have your card in the machine." O'Neill denied the jackpot could be converted into cash, despite a Crown staff member is rumored to have told the press the points could be converted at a rate of 1c a point. "The points go on to your card, it is not a cash jackpot. You don't get money for it." Folks, play by the rules or you could end up very disappointed.
Crown Limited AGM 2010 Recap; Crown Limited Earnings Up...
Folks, Crown is powering along. For those who missed it, and since Crown and 'Our James' remains the talk of the town...Australian casino operator Crown Ltd says revenue from its local gaming and hotels operations since the start of the financial year are up on same period in 2009. Combined gaming revenue from Crown's Melbourne and Burswood casinos between July 1 and November 24 was up abut six per cent on the same period last year, chief executive Rowen Craigie said. Craigie was speaking at the group's annual general meeting in Perth. Non-gaming revenue in the same period was up by about five per cent on the same period last year, excluding the impact of the newly opened Crown Metropol hotel in Melbourne. Including the Metropol, non-gaming revenue was up around 13% on the previous corresponding period, Mr Craigie said. He said turnover from VIP gamblers at the Melbourne and Burswood casinos in the first 21 weeks of the financial year was down 10 per cent on the same period last year. "We are continuing to see an impact from the opening of the two new integrated resorts in Singapore and are yet to capitalise on the opportunity to capture the new business that Singapore potentially offers," Mr Craigie said in a prepared speech. The Metropol hotel, which opened in April, is achieving better than expected occupancy rates and room rates are "firming", he said. Melco Crown Entertainment, in which Crown holds a 33.5 per cent stake, has reported a "broad-based improvement" in the performance of its flagship resort City of Dreams in Macau, the meeting was told. Melco reported improved revenue and earnings in the three months to September 30 compared with the same period last year, Mr Craigie said.
ClubsNSW VS Pokie ACT!; PokieAct Fights Back; Some Documentation Now In Public Domain (Credit: PokieACT)...
Below is my response to an email received on Friday, 7 January around 4:30 in the afternoon. As a matter of professional courtesy, I responded to ClubsNSW's solicitors in the following terms on Sunday morning.
"I refer to your email below. I have not received either your letter nor notification of your letter from Australia Post. My email address is available on the PokieAct.org web site and has been used by the public to contact me.
Please note that because you have stated that your threatening letter is not for publication does not bind me in any way.
The advertisement you attached and commented upon has been revised in accordance with the requirements of Fairfax Media after some debate. To assist you, I have attached the revised advertisement. The revisions may eliminate your concerns.
I reject your suggestion that the advertisement makes any defamatory imputations about ClubsNSW or Mr Newell. There is no allegation that either have concealed anything nor mislead anyone. It is the normal business of ClubsNSW to advocate positions they believe to be in their member's interests and put forward those facts that support that position. In the advertisement, Mr Newell is clearly addressed as chairman of ClubsNSW and in no other capacity. ClubsNSW and Mr Newell as chairman and chief advocate for ClubsNSW are being urged to tell a number of facts that, in my opinion, I consider truths about the pokie gambling pre-commitment reform now being debated.
In substance, you raise four matters of concern to your client. These matters are considered below:
1.
The words you cite ("Casual gamblers won't be inconvenienced. They'll be able to bet safe amounts without a pre-commitment card") as not being presently established are, in fact, an accurate reflection of both the findings of the Productivity Commission and current government policy. Here's the relevant passage from the federal minister Jenny Macklin's speech at Jupiter Casino on 1 December 2010 where she states:
"We also want to minimise the impact on occasional players and overseas visitors. The Productivity Commission’s model would allow occasional gamblers to play outside the pre-commitment system, by purchasing a pre-paid card for example."
This statement was made at the 20th Annual Conference of the National Association for Gambling Studies and was widely reported in the media.
2.
The information about the cost of implementation was obtained as a result of visiting two clubs in Queensland in the company of Rohan Wenn, Senior Adviser to Sen Nick Xenophon. We were both informed by a club manager that the cost of the system in use was $1.50 per day per machine. This system presently provides nearly all of the features of partial pre-commitment as set out by the Productivity Commission. We were informed that alteration to full pre-commitment could be made within the existing pre-commitment system. The present cost of these systems does not take into account the likely economies of widespread adoption or competitive pricing between system suppliers when full pre-committment will be mandated. Those factors are likely to further reduce the cost.
3.
It is open for your client to advocate that the key recommendation and findings of the Productivity Commission about pokie gambling pre-committment are only "conjecture". I do not. I have a high regard for the Commission's research and conclusions. Reports have been published on pre-commitment trials indicating effectiveness that was significant. A report found that for those participating in the system, there was minimal reduction in the pokie gambling spend for recreational and low risk gamblers whereas moderate risk or problem gamblers expenditure was reduced by about 50%. I regard that as significant. In any event, the advertisement prominently indicates that it expresses my opinions. My opinion is reasonably based upon available information.
4.
With regard to the issue of privacy, I again refer to the Minister's speech where Ms Macklin states:
"We will also ensure that the pre-commitment system has very strong privacy arrangements for the data that is collected. The Australian Government has strict privacy legislation to protect people. These are issues that have been successfully resolved in a wide range of areas and we will be applying the highest standards to our gambling reforms."
To speculate that the government will do the complete opposite of what they state is disingenuous. My view is that the Minister is telling the truth.
To indicate that I have any malice whatsoever towards Mr Newell is mistaken. The advertisement addresses Mr Newell strictly with respect to his office as chairman of ClubsNSW. In fact, on the issue of malice, the opposite seems to be the case. Mr Newell declined to attend a meeting with Sen Xenophon if I were to be present. I flew to Canberra and did meet with Mr Ball of ClubsNSW. While there was certainly a conflict of views between myself and Mr Ball, the meeting was cordial and I felt there was mutual respect.
Mr Newell has written an article denigrating my concerns in a ClubsNSW publication. He is recently reported as using the words "panic politics" to describe my endeavours. He is also reported as stating that I have made attacks on his family. This is untrue. As a former editor of the Illawarra Mercury with a high public profile career, I am surprised that, by your letter, Mr Newell seeks to suppress the publication of facts that, in my opinion, are truths of the coming pokie gambling pre-commitment reform even though they run counter to ClubsNSW position. Notwithstanding, I would be happy to meet with Mr Newell at a time and place of mutual convenience. I would welcome a constructive dialogue same as that which has lead to reforms in Woolworths Limited's own pokie policy. Woolworths is Australia's largest pokie operator. My constructive consultation on their gambling policy was publicly acknowledged at Woolworths' recent annual general meeting. My constructive work with Wesfarmers has also been acknowledged.
It is relevant to note the promotional document produced by ClubsNSW that featured former Treasurer Egan was produced while Mr Newell held office at ClubsNSW. That promotion addressed the person ultimately responsible for policy in a similar manner as my advertisement.
Regarding publication, I am informed that it was ClubsNSW itself that provided and therefor published the advertisement to The Australian. I am not responsible for the consequences of that publication let alone Mr Salusinszky's report. In fact, when asked by Mr Salusinszky whether I believed that Mr Newell had mislead ClubsNSW members I stated that he had not. As mentioned above, it is the normal business of ClubsNSW to advocate positions they believe to be in their member's interests and put forward those facts that support that position. In any event, Mr Salusinsky's report is a matter that you should properly take up with the publishers of The Australian based upon my information that it was your client that provided The Australian with a copy of my proposed advertisement.
It is significant that the editorial column of The Australian noted that a mature community debate was under way of pokie gambling pre-committment reform. This characterisation of the advertisement is correct.
Rather than litigation, I respectfully suggest that the better course of action for your client would be to arrange for a public discussion of the issue of pre-commitment reform. Sen Xenophon's staff have informed me that he would be prepared to participate in such an open forum."
Australia's Next Hot Poker Babe; Casino Babes And Media Babes Welcome...
Poker Babes, casino babes, media babes and such have long long a favorite of Media Man and Gambling911. Some poker brands started to pick up the ball (not balls) and run with it, with PartyGaming and Virgin Games touching of things just a tad risque, but now PokerStars is further raising the bar (so to speak). There is now an opportunity for an Australasian-based hostess to follow the PokerStars (.net) Asia Pacific Poker Tour in 2011 and report back all the excitement from each event, capturing every titillating and tantalising moment. Next year you could find yourself partying hard with the boys and girls of the poker tour, celebs and more. It’s not all just fun and games. There's also the bump and grind and travelling from hotel to hotel, give to give, trying you best to keep everyone happy (but there's only 1 of you). Yes, the money is pretty good and some wonderful tips can be garnered for those friendly, open minded and receptive. Yes, you have to work hard, but some say, Party Harder! Cocktails, fine dining, TV cameras, poker gossip, lots of money and fun. Bring your portfolio, career assets and show 'em what you have. If you've got it, flaunt it! Some production exp would be handy, but not required. Lots of on the job training too!!! Bring your passion for poker and party time, and have fun. You might just be the lass (or lad) they are looking for. Oh, check out the Media Man Poker Babes and Casino Babes portfolio. You know you want to. Let Jenny and the girls on the web Woo you, if you follow our lead. Work hard and play harder! Oh, last thing, this month the Media Man Poker Babe of the Month is meeting stiff competition. A 3 way tie thus far between PartyGaming's: PartyPoker's Kara Scott, Australia's Elle Macpherson (coming from nowhere) and Gambling911's Jenny Woo (for her brains and beauty, and ability to get the scoops with her tempting and crafty ways. Carrie Stroup is also making a late charge, and might be in line for the Media Man encouragement award!
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
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? How did you see in the new year? Do you like the poker babes and casino babe feature? Is Crown Casino right or wrong in encouring there terms and conditions? 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
Crown Casino Refuse Jackpot "Winner"; Wrong Rewards Card!...
Crown casino has thus far refused to pay out many thousands of dollars to an elderly mum (when she was found out to have used her daughter's loyalty card on the winning poker machine.) Crown leaks advise the lady won the 800,000 award points jackpot - worth $8000 grand last Friday but Crown management had told her she had in fact committed fraud! Crown also said the winning jackpot could not be converted into cash. The Crown Signature Club provides points for every dollar spent inside the casino, offering patrons rewards such as free parking, meals and hotel discounts. Folks, you have to read the fine print. Take it from us, its hard to beat Crown, and any casino house for that matter. They are smart cookies to say the least, and that's why Media Man owns some shares in them, and we're up front about it too, unlike some other media companies. Crown spokesman Gary O'Neill said the terms and conditions were made clear to everyone who signed up for the rewards program. "On each machine in that area, the rules of the jackpot are clearly stated, plus at the end of each row of the machines the terms and conditions are clearly explained and the vital term is you must be playing with your own card to be eligible to win," O'Neill said. "As far as we're concerned, the conditions are pretty basic and they're pretty straight forward: to be eligible to get the points you obviously have to have your card in the machine." O'Neill denied the jackpot could be converted into cash, despite a Crown staff member is rumored to have told the press the points could be converted at a rate of 1c a point. "The points go on to your card, it is not a cash jackpot. You don't get money for it." Folks, play by the rules or you could end up very disappointed.
Crown Limited AGM 2010 Recap; Crown Limited Earnings Up...
Folks, Crown is powering along. For those who missed it, and since Crown and 'Our James' remains the talk of the town...Australian casino operator Crown Ltd says revenue from its local gaming and hotels operations since the start of the financial year are up on same period in 2009. Combined gaming revenue from Crown's Melbourne and Burswood casinos between July 1 and November 24 was up abut six per cent on the same period last year, chief executive Rowen Craigie said. Craigie was speaking at the group's annual general meeting in Perth. Non-gaming revenue in the same period was up by about five per cent on the same period last year, excluding the impact of the newly opened Crown Metropol hotel in Melbourne. Including the Metropol, non-gaming revenue was up around 13% on the previous corresponding period, Mr Craigie said. He said turnover from VIP gamblers at the Melbourne and Burswood casinos in the first 21 weeks of the financial year was down 10 per cent on the same period last year. "We are continuing to see an impact from the opening of the two new integrated resorts in Singapore and are yet to capitalise on the opportunity to capture the new business that Singapore potentially offers," Mr Craigie said in a prepared speech. The Metropol hotel, which opened in April, is achieving better than expected occupancy rates and room rates are "firming", he said. Melco Crown Entertainment, in which Crown holds a 33.5 per cent stake, has reported a "broad-based improvement" in the performance of its flagship resort City of Dreams in Macau, the meeting was told. Melco reported improved revenue and earnings in the three months to September 30 compared with the same period last year, Mr Craigie said.
ClubsNSW VS Pokie ACT!; PokieAct Fights Back; Some Documentation Now In Public Domain (Credit: PokieACT)...
Below is my response to an email received on Friday, 7 January around 4:30 in the afternoon. As a matter of professional courtesy, I responded to ClubsNSW's solicitors in the following terms on Sunday morning.
"I refer to your email below. I have not received either your letter nor notification of your letter from Australia Post. My email address is available on the PokieAct.org web site and has been used by the public to contact me.
Please note that because you have stated that your threatening letter is not for publication does not bind me in any way.
The advertisement you attached and commented upon has been revised in accordance with the requirements of Fairfax Media after some debate. To assist you, I have attached the revised advertisement. The revisions may eliminate your concerns.
I reject your suggestion that the advertisement makes any defamatory imputations about ClubsNSW or Mr Newell. There is no allegation that either have concealed anything nor mislead anyone. It is the normal business of ClubsNSW to advocate positions they believe to be in their member's interests and put forward those facts that support that position. In the advertisement, Mr Newell is clearly addressed as chairman of ClubsNSW and in no other capacity. ClubsNSW and Mr Newell as chairman and chief advocate for ClubsNSW are being urged to tell a number of facts that, in my opinion, I consider truths about the pokie gambling pre-commitment reform now being debated.
In substance, you raise four matters of concern to your client. These matters are considered below:
1.
The words you cite ("Casual gamblers won't be inconvenienced. They'll be able to bet safe amounts without a pre-commitment card") as not being presently established are, in fact, an accurate reflection of both the findings of the Productivity Commission and current government policy. Here's the relevant passage from the federal minister Jenny Macklin's speech at Jupiter Casino on 1 December 2010 where she states:
"We also want to minimise the impact on occasional players and overseas visitors. The Productivity Commission’s model would allow occasional gamblers to play outside the pre-commitment system, by purchasing a pre-paid card for example."
This statement was made at the 20th Annual Conference of the National Association for Gambling Studies and was widely reported in the media.
2.
The information about the cost of implementation was obtained as a result of visiting two clubs in Queensland in the company of Rohan Wenn, Senior Adviser to Sen Nick Xenophon. We were both informed by a club manager that the cost of the system in use was $1.50 per day per machine. This system presently provides nearly all of the features of partial pre-commitment as set out by the Productivity Commission. We were informed that alteration to full pre-commitment could be made within the existing pre-commitment system. The present cost of these systems does not take into account the likely economies of widespread adoption or competitive pricing between system suppliers when full pre-committment will be mandated. Those factors are likely to further reduce the cost.
3.
It is open for your client to advocate that the key recommendation and findings of the Productivity Commission about pokie gambling pre-committment are only "conjecture". I do not. I have a high regard for the Commission's research and conclusions. Reports have been published on pre-commitment trials indicating effectiveness that was significant. A report found that for those participating in the system, there was minimal reduction in the pokie gambling spend for recreational and low risk gamblers whereas moderate risk or problem gamblers expenditure was reduced by about 50%. I regard that as significant. In any event, the advertisement prominently indicates that it expresses my opinions. My opinion is reasonably based upon available information.
4.
With regard to the issue of privacy, I again refer to the Minister's speech where Ms Macklin states:
"We will also ensure that the pre-commitment system has very strong privacy arrangements for the data that is collected. The Australian Government has strict privacy legislation to protect people. These are issues that have been successfully resolved in a wide range of areas and we will be applying the highest standards to our gambling reforms."
To speculate that the government will do the complete opposite of what they state is disingenuous. My view is that the Minister is telling the truth.
To indicate that I have any malice whatsoever towards Mr Newell is mistaken. The advertisement addresses Mr Newell strictly with respect to his office as chairman of ClubsNSW. In fact, on the issue of malice, the opposite seems to be the case. Mr Newell declined to attend a meeting with Sen Xenophon if I were to be present. I flew to Canberra and did meet with Mr Ball of ClubsNSW. While there was certainly a conflict of views between myself and Mr Ball, the meeting was cordial and I felt there was mutual respect.
Mr Newell has written an article denigrating my concerns in a ClubsNSW publication. He is recently reported as using the words "panic politics" to describe my endeavours. He is also reported as stating that I have made attacks on his family. This is untrue. As a former editor of the Illawarra Mercury with a high public profile career, I am surprised that, by your letter, Mr Newell seeks to suppress the publication of facts that, in my opinion, are truths of the coming pokie gambling pre-commitment reform even though they run counter to ClubsNSW position. Notwithstanding, I would be happy to meet with Mr Newell at a time and place of mutual convenience. I would welcome a constructive dialogue same as that which has lead to reforms in Woolworths Limited's own pokie policy. Woolworths is Australia's largest pokie operator. My constructive consultation on their gambling policy was publicly acknowledged at Woolworths' recent annual general meeting. My constructive work with Wesfarmers has also been acknowledged.
It is relevant to note the promotional document produced by ClubsNSW that featured former Treasurer Egan was produced while Mr Newell held office at ClubsNSW. That promotion addressed the person ultimately responsible for policy in a similar manner as my advertisement.
Regarding publication, I am informed that it was ClubsNSW itself that provided and therefor published the advertisement to The Australian. I am not responsible for the consequences of that publication let alone Mr Salusinszky's report. In fact, when asked by Mr Salusinszky whether I believed that Mr Newell had mislead ClubsNSW members I stated that he had not. As mentioned above, it is the normal business of ClubsNSW to advocate positions they believe to be in their member's interests and put forward those facts that support that position. In any event, Mr Salusinsky's report is a matter that you should properly take up with the publishers of The Australian based upon my information that it was your client that provided The Australian with a copy of my proposed advertisement.
It is significant that the editorial column of The Australian noted that a mature community debate was under way of pokie gambling pre-committment reform. This characterisation of the advertisement is correct.
Rather than litigation, I respectfully suggest that the better course of action for your client would be to arrange for a public discussion of the issue of pre-commitment reform. Sen Xenophon's staff have informed me that he would be prepared to participate in such an open forum."
Australia's Next Hot Poker Babe; Casino Babes And Media Babes Welcome...
Poker Babes, casino babes, media babes and such have long long a favorite of Media Man and Gambling911. Some poker brands started to pick up the ball (not balls) and run with it, with PartyGaming and Virgin Games touching of things just a tad risque, but now PokerStars is further raising the bar (so to speak). There is now an opportunity for an Australasian-based hostess to follow the PokerStars (.net) Asia Pacific Poker Tour in 2011 and report back all the excitement from each event, capturing every titillating and tantalising moment. Next year you could find yourself partying hard with the boys and girls of the poker tour, celebs and more. It’s not all just fun and games. There's also the bump and grind and travelling from hotel to hotel, give to give, trying you best to keep everyone happy (but there's only 1 of you). Yes, the money is pretty good and some wonderful tips can be garnered for those friendly, open minded and receptive. Yes, you have to work hard, but some say, Party Harder! Cocktails, fine dining, TV cameras, poker gossip, lots of money and fun. Bring your portfolio, career assets and show 'em what you have. If you've got it, flaunt it! Some production exp would be handy, but not required. Lots of on the job training too!!! Bring your passion for poker and party time, and have fun. You might just be the lass (or lad) they are looking for. Oh, check out the Media Man Poker Babes and Casino Babes portfolio. You know you want to. Let Jenny and the girls on the web Woo you, if you follow our lead. Work hard and play harder! Oh, last thing, this month the Media Man Poker Babe of the Month is meeting stiff competition. A 3 way tie thus far between PartyGaming's: PartyPoker's Kara Scott, Australia's Elle Macpherson (coming from nowhere) and Gambling911's Jenny Woo (for her brains and beauty, and ability to get the scoops with her tempting and crafty ways. Carrie Stroup is also making a late charge, and might be in line for the Media Man encouragement award!
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
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? How did you see in the new year? Do you like the poker babes and casino babe feature? Is Crown Casino right or wrong in encouring there terms and conditions? 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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