G'day Yankies, Aussies, punters, casino and gambling millionaires, billionaires, legal eagles, politicians, 3D lovers, entertainment news junkies - one and all. Avatar might have jump started 3D a few years ago, but there's a lot more to the 3D world than those friendly critters. Today we revisit the world of 3D movies and 3D slots, discovering what's hot, what's not and what's worth spinning to win. Media Man and Gambling911 throw on the dorky glasses with this special 3D report...
Not that long ago Hollywood was so in love by 3D that some directors worried there might be no future for movies in old-fashioned 2D. Now some box office figures are being leaked for 2010 - 2011, and they are a bit on the train wreck side of the tracks.
US cinema attendance for the past 2 years is down some 10%, and box office take in the 10 days to 26 December - a key holiday period - was down a massive 30%.
Box-office income for the year was down roughly 2.6%, however, that's due to higher ticket prices, particularly for 3D blockbusters.
What up then? The last few years of strongly promoted 3D films didn't sustain the positive buzz or experience created by "Avatar", nor its record box-office income. Now., 3D is looking like a quite the gimmick that doesn't really pull US nor Australian audiences back for more action.
Richard Greenfield, an analyst at BTIG Research may be corrected when he told the press post Avatar "While the horror and gross-out comedy genres may benefit from 3D (think "Saw 3D" or "Jackass 3D"), the vast majority of 3D movies this year have been disappointing at best."
The electronics industry is swimming in its own 3D bloodbath. Companies rushed 3DTVs to stores and not that many moved out the doors. "By anyone's account, 3DTV sales were a disappointment" advised Pete Putman of Insight Media.
US and Australian consumers greeted the new technology with a a luke warm response at best. Leichtman Research Group reports that 80% of American households they surveyed knew about 3DTV, but less than 1% own a 3D set and just 8% percent have any interest in buying one.
Analysts cite issues including big price tags, the need for expensive 3D shutter glasses, and the lack of 3D programming, but that's not all. The need for any kind of 3D glasses gets in the way of how viewers watch television. May TV buffs also do other things at the same time...multitasking, talking with each other, and walking in and out of the room. Plus, its no secret that watching intense 3D too long can make people sick in the guts, and some people even report sore eyes and a headache.
What does the future hold? Today's 3D TV technology is light years ahead of the technology used during the 3D boom of the 1950s. But it will have a difficult time living up to Hollywood's wildest expectations.
PartyGaming - Betsoft Gaming - 3D News; More 3D Slots On The Way in 2011...
Industry innovators Betsoft Gaming have announced that Partycasino.com, understood to be the world's largest online casino, is releasing a swag of 3D slot. Betsoft's Slots3 first blockbuster slot Heist in now in Party's casino as well as via their convenient download client. Yeah baby, and more Slots3 titles are soon to follow. Heist, a 5 reel, 30 payline cinematic 3D slots game, showcases the life of professional safecracker Neil Quailand as he evades his nemesis, Detective Al Kowalski. The game features scatter pays, wild reels, exciting safecracking bonus rounds and free spins, all presented in Betsoft's vividly rich Slots3 style. 'We are absolutely delighted to form this partnership with an industry leader like PartyCasino.com,' says Aliya Alpiyeva, Betsoft's Director of Marketing. 'Heist, the first Slots3 game to be delivered, is a proven classic, one that we feel will thrill PartyCasino.com's enormous and loyal player base. The cinematic realism of this true 3D game appeals to a wide range of players, drawing them into Quailand's quest for the perfect bank heist. With additional Slots3 games yet to come, we at Betsoft are looking forward to adding more games to PartyCasino.com A PartyCasino spokesman said: 'We are delighted to welcome Heist to our portfolio of games and look forward to adding more Betsoft games in the near future. Heist is just one of dozens and dozens games we will be adding to the world's largest online casino in the coming months.'
Bally Pro Series Cabinets Deliver HD Video, Custom Surround-Sound, 3D Animations...
Many of Bally’s games showcased in the Company’s ICE stand #3540 will be featured on the new ALPHA 2™ Pro Series cabinets. ALPHA 2 features an INTEL® Core™ 2 processor; four gigabytes of dual-channel memory; Realtek™ high-definition audio; and leading video technology. This powerful platform is optimized for dual screen, multi game; uses HD video technology for exciting 3D graphics, animations, and up to a four-monitor play experience; supports both existing and new game libraries; and is network and server-based ready. These sleek, streamlined cabinets are available in upright, slant, spinning-wheel, and configurations with digital, wheel, and hammerhead top displays. “Our game developers and hardware and software engineers have outdone themselves, and operator feedback has been truly outstanding,” said Gavin Isaacs, Bally Technologies’ Chief Operating Officer. Isaacs added that the Pro Series cabinets are download and configuration-ready, and the Company has a library of downloadable games.
Green Hornet Movie in 3D...
GenreAction/Adventure
Comedy
Running time 119 min
Actors Seth Rogen, Jay Chou, Cameron Diaz, Chrtistoph Waltz
Director Michel Gondry
Screen writer Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg
Target Teenage
OFLC rating M
Year 2011
Language English
The Green Hornet movie for current era has been a long time coming, with or without 3D. Fortunately, you want to put on those glasses for this flick. Believe it or not, the iconic character began life as a radio series at a cash strapped and tight ass Detroit, USA radio station in 1936. The station's co-owner, George Trendle, did not want to pay the networks for serials so what do you do? You commission your own of course. The radio station WXYZ, created a big hit with The Lone Ranger and so then the boss decided it was time to create another hero in the same vien, but with more appeal.
Trendle and his team of writers invented Britt Reid, the bright and youth full publisher of newspaper, The Daily Sentinel. He becomes a crimefighter by night with the assist of Kato, a talented Oriental if there ever was. The radio deal went thru to the early 1950s and was brought back in the mid-1960s for TV. Future martial arts legend, Bruce Lee, played Kato.
This was pulp fiction at its best. Now we are getting to enjoy the classics all over again, some with 3D, some without.
The script for The Green Hornet was written by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg.
Rogen is an up and coming star of American comedy. Never mind the face he's Canadian in real life. He plays Reid and the Taiwanese pop rock star Jay Chou is Kato. The director is Michel Gondry, one of the great visual entrepreneurs in today's cinema. He's done a great job with The Green Hornet in 3D.
You want to be checking out the comedy with Rogen and Chou burning up Los Angeles in face masks, blowing stuff up ala Mythbusters like, in a souped up 60s Chrysler Imperial now known to the masses as "The Black Beauty". No, we don't know the details of the product placement - the car, but its a good match for the movie, no question.
Reid inherits the newspaper biz after the death of his old man (Tom Wilkinson). He learns that his dad's mechanic is a technical whiz and a martial arts killing machine. Reid hires the journalism graduate Lenore Case (Cameron Diaz), while he and Kato become crimefighters. He likes to piss off Los Angeles crime kingpin Benjamin Chudnofsky (Christoph Waltz), a murderer, and doesn't mind bending and breaking rules to get his own style of justice.
This flick has money maker written all over it in our opinion.
Gondry turns The Green Hornet into a visual effects bonanza that will see it be referenced by the industry for years to come. It might even add some much needed spark to the 3D sector.
Marvel Entertainment's Thor And Captain America: The First Avenger In 3D!...
Marvel's Kevin Feige, Thor director Kenneth Branagh, and Captain America director Joe Johnston, all say that going 3D on these films was the way to go.
Branagh: "Is it led by story? Can this offer a different type of experience and exploit what we have in the story? It absolutely can... we travel very long distances in the movie and the opportunity to export and exploit the journey of the hero is really offered up as a great potential enhancement here."
Kevin Feige: "an unprecedented amount of time" will be devoted to the conversion process. The films will benefit from the fact that the 3D choice was made early on "with passion and planning" and not in post-production. "In being able to think in 3D from the start -- and having every bit of our special effects rendered in true 3D -- we have the opportunity to do it right. When you're working with a director like Ken Branagh or Joe Johnston, they're not going to settle for less than perfect image. They're not going to settle for something that isn't up to the artistry of everything else they've done on the film. They're not going to put on some overlay in the last 10/12 weeks of post-production for a fiscal reason."
Marvel Comics Films Expected To Raise Popularity Of Marvel Slots Again...
Thor and Captain America online slot patronage is expected to skyrocket with the Marvel films releases this year. PartyGaming is not making any secret of massive sign up bonuses for new players and new competitors like the Winner brand are also looking to plug into the excitement. We expect PartyGaming's PartyCasino.com to maintain domination, but give the others credit for hanging in there. Learn more about the history of Marvel, the comics, movies and games on the Media Man Int website portal, and don't forget to check out the news of Marvel Comics living legend Stan Lee. Excelsior!
IGT Little Shop of Horrors® 3D Video Reel; Online Casinos Screaming Out For Land Based Casino Game...
Hungry for more 3D? The cult-classic The Little Shop of Horrors chomps its way to casinos in a 3D video reel game. Feed the hungry plant to start Tumbling Reels® excitement. Win again and again as Audrey Junior crunches its way up the reels. When the plant hits the top, it's time to play the Pick a Bud bonus for credits, a win multiplier, or Free Games with more wilds! Packed with campy fun, zany characters, and spectacular 3D, The Little Shop of Horrors is unforgettable entertainment!
New James Bond: 3D Confirmed!...
The new James Bond film will be in 3D. The British spy movie franchise which stars Daniel Craig as 007 has been delayed again because the bosses reportedly now want the movie to utilise new three-dimensional technology. An insider said: "The 23rd Bond movie has been put back a few months and that has given them the time to prepare to film it in 3-D. Everyone involved in the project is really excited because it will take the franchise in a new direction." The as yet untitled project had already been delayed due to issues (financial and legal etc) surrounding the impending sale of MGM Studios. Producer Michael G. Wilson previously said: "Our timeline's a little up in the air, so we have to be flexible. We just don't know enough about the situation to comment, but we know it's uncertain." Sam Mendes - who won an Oscar for his debut feature 'American Beauty' - is also reportedly set to direct the film. Sara Keene, Sam's publicist, confirmed he had met representatives of the Bond franchise to discuss the possibility of him helming the movie but is adamant nothing has been finalised. She said: "I can confirm that he has had a meeting, but Sam always has lots of projects on the table that he might direct next. Sam's method is to have a number of projects as possible next films and at some point confirm which film he's going to do." Some media and gaming commentators are already telling Bond's people (Sony etc) to seriously look at doing a Bond 3D online slot game, as well as putting out a new slot for land based casinos. They might as well cash in, and what better way right.
Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...
Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...
PartyCasino.com
Captain Cooks Casino
Betfair (sports betting only)
PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)
PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)
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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? Is 3D your thing? 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 22, 2011
PartyCasino Wins Media Man 'Online Casino Of The Month' Award
PartyCasino.com Wins Media Man Online Casino Award
PartyCasino.com has been awarded the Media Man and Casino News Media "Online Casino Of The Month".
PartyGaming's igaming suite has grown a custom to winning awards since they first opened for business in 1997.
The competition for the coveted award was intense again this month with massive bids from both WPTCasino.com, Captain Cooks Casino, Virgin Casino, Betfair, PKR and Noble Casino however there can only be one winner... ladies and gentlemen, that's PartyCasino.com
The award follows PartyPoker's EGR Poker Operator Of The Year and PartyGaming also made the shortlist for EGR Operator Of The Year. Recently PartyGaming's PartyPoker.com also won the Casino News Media "Online Poker Website Of The Month".
The Media Man - Casino News Media accolade is based on a combination of elements including user experience, innovation, trustworthiness, customer service, gameplay, affiliate program offerings, newsworthiness and company values.
PartyCasino.com is one of a number of PartyGaming brands.
The most popular PartyCasino.com games of late include Heist, Circus, Rambo, Palladium Slot, The Godfather, Sinatra, Slotbox, Call Of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, Mission: Impossible, The Terminator, Cleopatra, Sinatra, Thor, The Incredible Hulk, The Amazing Spider-Man, Monopoly, Resident Evil, Melon Madness, Wheel Of Fortune and Mega Fortune Wheel.
The PartyCasino.com jackpot is currently approaching the $2 million mark. Players can also compete for The Big One and Marvel Hero Jackpot, playing the Marvel super hero themed online slot games.
PartyCasino's most recent game releases include Shaaark! SuperBet, Crocodopolis, Alice's Wonderland, Glamour Puss, Super Cubes, Heist, Palladium Slot and Circus Slot.
PartyGaming CEO Jim Ryan has gone on record advising PartyCasino will soon feature more Hollywood blockbuster themed slots. A few in the know journalists and media agents have been recently tipped off that an all time classic movie adaption will be showcased in the PartyCasino portfolio within 1 month. PartyCasino has the world's most impressive line up of Hollywood themed games, and more are just around the corner.
PartyCasino.com and PartyPoker.com customers can also benefit from rewards and bonuses via PartyPoints and the Palladium Lounge. Be certain to check out the PartyCasino exclusive "Cash Machine" that is being championed as one of the greatest online casino promos ever.
Media Man, Casino News Media and Global Gaming Directory do have a b2b relationship with PartyGaming, as they do with dozens of other companies in the gaming, igaming, media and entertainment industry.
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PartyGaming PartyCasino PartyPoker PartyBingo Circus PartyCasino Marvel Slots The Big One Melon Madness Casino World Poker Tour PartyCasino Promotions
PartyCasino.com has been awarded the Media Man and Casino News Media "Online Casino Of The Month".
PartyGaming's igaming suite has grown a custom to winning awards since they first opened for business in 1997.
The competition for the coveted award was intense again this month with massive bids from both WPTCasino.com, Captain Cooks Casino, Virgin Casino, Betfair, PKR and Noble Casino however there can only be one winner... ladies and gentlemen, that's PartyCasino.com
The award follows PartyPoker's EGR Poker Operator Of The Year and PartyGaming also made the shortlist for EGR Operator Of The Year. Recently PartyGaming's PartyPoker.com also won the Casino News Media "Online Poker Website Of The Month".
The Media Man - Casino News Media accolade is based on a combination of elements including user experience, innovation, trustworthiness, customer service, gameplay, affiliate program offerings, newsworthiness and company values.
PartyCasino.com is one of a number of PartyGaming brands.
The most popular PartyCasino.com games of late include Heist, Circus, Rambo, Palladium Slot, The Godfather, Sinatra, Slotbox, Call Of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, Mission: Impossible, The Terminator, Cleopatra, Sinatra, Thor, The Incredible Hulk, The Amazing Spider-Man, Monopoly, Resident Evil, Melon Madness, Wheel Of Fortune and Mega Fortune Wheel.
The PartyCasino.com jackpot is currently approaching the $2 million mark. Players can also compete for The Big One and Marvel Hero Jackpot, playing the Marvel super hero themed online slot games.
PartyCasino's most recent game releases include Shaaark! SuperBet, Crocodopolis, Alice's Wonderland, Glamour Puss, Super Cubes, Heist, Palladium Slot and Circus Slot.
PartyGaming CEO Jim Ryan has gone on record advising PartyCasino will soon feature more Hollywood blockbuster themed slots. A few in the know journalists and media agents have been recently tipped off that an all time classic movie adaption will be showcased in the PartyCasino portfolio within 1 month. PartyCasino has the world's most impressive line up of Hollywood themed games, and more are just around the corner.
PartyCasino.com and PartyPoker.com customers can also benefit from rewards and bonuses via PartyPoints and the Palladium Lounge. Be certain to check out the PartyCasino exclusive "Cash Machine" that is being championed as one of the greatest online casino promos ever.
Media Man, Casino News Media and Global Gaming Directory do have a b2b relationship with PartyGaming, as they do with dozens of other companies in the gaming, igaming, media and entertainment industry.
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Friday, January 21, 2011
Gibraltar Raises Taxes on Online Gambling Companies
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The British territory of Gibraltar has announced that it will be drastically inflating its taxes on all online gambling firms starting in January, a decision that could prove costly for several online poker sites. Online gambling companies are currently paying just a 1% tax in Gibraltar, with a ceiling of £425,000, but starting next month, they’ll be forced into the same 10% tax rate as other Gibraltar businesses pay.
Gibraltar has been an ideal location for many online gambling sites due to the low tax rate and has become something of an “online gambling capital” as a result. Poker rooms such as PartyPoker and 888poker currently hold their headquarters in the territory and the online bookmakers Ladbrokes and William Hill made the move to Gibraltar in 2009 – a decision that was expected to cost the Treasury of the United Kingdom about £12 million per year.
Gibraltar’s first minister, Peter Caruana, said the tax increase has been called for by Gibraltar government’s decision to conform to European law. "To comply with EU law, we must phase out the tax exempt company in 2010," Caruana said. "However, in order to sustain our successful economic model, we must retain a commitment to a very competitive corporate tax model."
PartyGaming, which owns and operates PartyPoker from Gibraltar, recently released details concerning its long-awaited merger with online gambling giant bwin. PartyGaming said in a statement that it would keep its headquarters in Gibraltar while bwin continues to operate in Austria. Whether the news of the tax increase changes those plans remains to be seen. "We’ve known about this for some time and we’ve factored it in," said PartyGaming spokesman John Shepherd. "The tax is still going to be very low."
According to a report in The Guardian, while online companies will now pay the standard 10% tax rate paid by other businesses, they will still not be subjected to any Value Added Tax (VAT), meaning that Gibraltar will remain an attractive setting for gambling companies. VAT is a consumption tax only on the "value added" to a product, material or service – similar to the state sales tax that most U.S. residents pay.
Many experts seem confident that the tax increase won’t cause companies like PartyGaming to flee to other locations. Victor Chandler, Chairman of independent bookmaker Victor Chandler International, expressed his assurance in an interview with regional newspaper El Pais: "Nobody will leave, although we’ll all complain about the tax going up." Chandler began his U.K.-based company in 1946 that does much of its business online, including sports betting, casino games, and poker.
The decision will likely add up to big things for Gibraltar in the near future. Under the current 1% tax rate, Gibraltar collected £10.5 million in revenue from online gambling taxes in 2009. So long as online gambling firms decide to stay put, the government can expect to see that number magnify in the coming years.
Online gambling has proven to be an extremely important source of revenue for Gibraltar and it is believed that 2,000 people currently work in the sector, which is around 12% of the island’s workforce. The industry has also helped to protect the local economy against neighboring Spain’s harsh economic conditions. Of Gibraltar’s 30,000 residents, only 600 (2%) are unemployed. The bordering Spanish city of La Línea de la Concepción is estimated to have 10,000 of its 65,000 inhabitants (15%) out of work. (Credit: Poker News Daily)
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The British territory of Gibraltar has announced that it will be drastically inflating its taxes on all online gambling firms starting in January, a decision that could prove costly for several online poker sites. Online gambling companies are currently paying just a 1% tax in Gibraltar, with a ceiling of £425,000, but starting next month, they’ll be forced into the same 10% tax rate as other Gibraltar businesses pay.
Gibraltar has been an ideal location for many online gambling sites due to the low tax rate and has become something of an “online gambling capital” as a result. Poker rooms such as PartyPoker and 888poker currently hold their headquarters in the territory and the online bookmakers Ladbrokes and William Hill made the move to Gibraltar in 2009 – a decision that was expected to cost the Treasury of the United Kingdom about £12 million per year.
Gibraltar’s first minister, Peter Caruana, said the tax increase has been called for by Gibraltar government’s decision to conform to European law. "To comply with EU law, we must phase out the tax exempt company in 2010," Caruana said. "However, in order to sustain our successful economic model, we must retain a commitment to a very competitive corporate tax model."
PartyGaming, which owns and operates PartyPoker from Gibraltar, recently released details concerning its long-awaited merger with online gambling giant bwin. PartyGaming said in a statement that it would keep its headquarters in Gibraltar while bwin continues to operate in Austria. Whether the news of the tax increase changes those plans remains to be seen. "We’ve known about this for some time and we’ve factored it in," said PartyGaming spokesman John Shepherd. "The tax is still going to be very low."
According to a report in The Guardian, while online companies will now pay the standard 10% tax rate paid by other businesses, they will still not be subjected to any Value Added Tax (VAT), meaning that Gibraltar will remain an attractive setting for gambling companies. VAT is a consumption tax only on the "value added" to a product, material or service – similar to the state sales tax that most U.S. residents pay.
Many experts seem confident that the tax increase won’t cause companies like PartyGaming to flee to other locations. Victor Chandler, Chairman of independent bookmaker Victor Chandler International, expressed his assurance in an interview with regional newspaper El Pais: "Nobody will leave, although we’ll all complain about the tax going up." Chandler began his U.K.-based company in 1946 that does much of its business online, including sports betting, casino games, and poker.
The decision will likely add up to big things for Gibraltar in the near future. Under the current 1% tax rate, Gibraltar collected £10.5 million in revenue from online gambling taxes in 2009. So long as online gambling firms decide to stay put, the government can expect to see that number magnify in the coming years.
Online gambling has proven to be an extremely important source of revenue for Gibraltar and it is believed that 2,000 people currently work in the sector, which is around 12% of the island’s workforce. The industry has also helped to protect the local economy against neighboring Spain’s harsh economic conditions. Of Gibraltar’s 30,000 residents, only 600 (2%) are unemployed. The bordering Spanish city of La Línea de la Concepción is estimated to have 10,000 of its 65,000 inhabitants (15%) out of work. (Credit: Poker News Daily)
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Wednesday, January 19, 2011
IGT And Aristocrat Leisure: Gaming And Casino War, by Greg Tingle - 19th January 2011
G'day Yankies, Aussies, punters, casino and gambling millionaires, billionaires, legal eagles, politicians - one and all. The Australian VS American casino wars escalate once again. While many details of America's IGT (International Gaming Technology) VS Australia's Aristocrat Leisure legal situation remain sketchy, both companies remain in the spotlight, domestically and internationally, and remarkably Aristocrat's shares have continued to climb in the past few days. 'The Crat' is also gearing up for a massive national and international gaming expo itinerary, that should see them power ahead, if they can hold off potentially very expensive legal proceedings. Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com and Gambling911 continue to apply the probe to Aristocrat and IGT, with just a dash of Party and WMS for good measure...
Background On IGT And Aristocrat Leisure...
Readers will likely be family with both companies. IGT is widely considered the original and the best, and in recent years has expanded their online gaming arm known WagerWorks. Many of the world's leading online casinos such as PartyGaming's PartyCasino and Richard Branson's Virgin Casino carry the WagerWorks online games. Some of the most popular titles include Cleopatra, Monopoly, Wheel Of Fortune, Double Diamond, Elvis, Battle Ship and Da Vinci Diamonds, with Cleo holding the world's most popular online and offline slot of all time.
The gambling and gaming industry is known for its copy cats, trademark infringements and massive law suits, with "legal eagles" know to be very fond of the sector and its substantial payout jackpots!
This lawsuit situation between IGT and Aristocrat follows a long line of legal actions in gambling including PartyGaming VS WMS, Marvel Entertainment VS Cryptologic, Michael Jackson Estate VS "Michael Jackson Casino", Majestic Star Casino LLC VS "Majestic Star Casino" (online) and Vegas Pinnacle Entertainment VS Eskay SEO ("Belterra Casino Indiana")
Media Man's http://www.mediamanint.com Greg Tingle offered the following "The latest lawsuit from IGT against Australia's Aristocrat Leisure is not a surprise in my opinion. It's been a long time coming, with both parties being able to come to a mutually beneficial settlement to date. IGT is largely considered the world's most successful gaming machine manufacture, and some would say the original and best, of the modern era. Australia's Aristocrat has come under some substantial financial pressure in recent years, and this lawsuit action may very well add to this. The land based and online gambling community, legal and government sectors will be watching this one closely. My money is on IGT to win, but stranger things have happened. May the best brand win."
Press Release...
LAS VEGAS, Nov. 15, 2010
International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT) today announced the filing of a patent infringement lawsuit against Aristocrat Leisure Limited of Australia and its U.S. Affiliate Aristocrat Technologies, Inc., (collectively "Aristocrat") in connection with the sale and distribution of Aristocrat's gaming devices, including particularly Aristocrat's Viridian WS slot machines. The lawsuit comes after failed attempts to resolve the IP disputes between Aristocrat and IGT.
The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. In the suit, IGT asserts that Aristocrat has willfully infringed and continues to infringe two patents directed to fundamental capabilities for authentication of gaming software:
U.S. Patent 6,620,047 entitled "Electronic Gaming Apparatus Having Authentication Data Sets"; and U.S. Patent No. RE 39,370 entitled "Electronic Casino Gaming System with Improved Play Capacity, Authentication and Security." "We filed this case because IGT's intellectual property is being knowingly and unfairly exploited by Aristocrat," said Robert C. Melendres, Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary at IGT. "IGT is the world's leading innovator and creator of intellectual property in the gaming industry."
About IGT
International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT) is a global leader in the design, development, and manufacture of gaming machines and systems products, as well as online and mobile gaming solutions for regulated markets. SOURCE IGT
Share Prices: IGT VS Aristocrat (19th January 2011)...
International Gaming Technology
IGT: NYSE: IGT $18.75 USD -0.05 (-0.27%)
Aristocrat Leisure: 3.040: ASX (Australia Securities Exchange)
WMS: NYSE: $46.45; Change is 0.71 (1.51%)
Australian Gaming Shares Pick Of The Bunch: Aristocrat Leisure! (Hell Freezes Over)..
The best performing stock in the S&P/ASX200 was Aristocrat Leisure shares advanced 3.33% to close at $3.10.
Aristocrat Technologies Australia To Hit National And International Trade Show Circuit Big Time This Year; Positive Exposure May Boost Sales And Positive Buzz...
Trade Show - Date - Venue...
IGE 25 Jan 11 - 27 Jan 11 Earls Court, London, UK
Club Managers Association Australia (CMAA) Trade Show 28 Feb 11 - 02 Mar 11 Sydney, NSW, Australia
Hospitality & Gaming Australiasia (HGA) show 16 Mar 11 - 17 Mar 11 Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
National Indian Gaming Association (NIGA) 03 Apr 11 - 06 Apr 11 San Diego, CA, USA
Southern Gaming Summit 04 May 11 - 05 May 11 Biloxi, MS, USA
Great Plains Indian Gaming Show 16 May 11 - 18 May 11 Mystic Lake, Minnesota
Gaming Technology Summit 24 May 11 - 25 May 11 Henderson, NV, Las Vegas
G2E Asia 07 Jun 11 - 09 Jun 11 The Venetian, Macau
SAGSE – Panama City 22 Jun 11 - 23 Jun 11 Panama City, Panama
Australasian Gaming Expo (AGE) 21 Aug 11 - 23 Aug 11 Sydney, NSW, Australia
Oasis Summit 07 Sep 11 - 09 Sep 11 Las Vegas, Nevada
Global Gaming Expo (G2E) 04 Oct 11 - 06 Oct 11 Las Vegas, NV, USA
SAGSE - Buenos Aires 09 Nov 11 - 11 Nov 11 Buenos Aires, Argentina
TribalNet11 Conference 14 Nov 11 - 17 Nov 11 NV, USA
IGT Current News...
IGT to Showcase Future of Gaming at International Casino Exhibition (ICE) 2011 in London...
International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT), a global leader in creating the major games that players love and the casino network systems that improve the player experience, will display the latest groundbreaking casino games and network systems products, as well as innovative mobile and online offerings, at stand 3430 at the International Casino Exhibition (ICE) on Jan. 25-27, 2011. This year IGT will show how "It's a Whole New Game" by displaying a wide range of games for the casino floor and the interactive world at London's Earls Court Exhibition Centre.
"At ICE 2011, we are excited to show ICE attendees what makes IGT a world leader in gaming," said Craig Churchill, IGT's senior vice president of International Sales. "From the latest in slot floor technology to cutting-edge mobile and online products, IGT is dedicated to providing our international customers with the very best products and end-to-end networked gaming solutions to help them meet their operating objectives and deliver unparalleled player experiences."
IGT is known for delivering the most recognizable names in popular culture to the casino floor, and this year, the Company will display some of its biggest names yet. From an amazing Premium Products lineup, also known as MegaJackpots(R), to the new Core Player Affinity Suite, the big titles at ICE will confirm IGT's dedication to bringing thrilling moments to players.
Star Wars(TM) Droid(TM) Huntis set to become the most popular Star Wars casino game ever released. A well-researched understanding of what game elements excite players and a highly creative visual experience combine to deliver lively gaming action. The game comes complete with four galactic bonus rounds and a Premium Products top award.
The new Dirty Dancing(R) Slot features the iconic characters Baby and Johnny (played by Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey) in a game infused with nostalgia, famous songs and video clips. This Premium Products game includes a new Spin Magic feature that turns minor symbol outcomes into wilds.
At ICE 2011, IGT will be the center of attention with the show-stopping Center Stage Series. Offering operators the ability to refresh content with the latest high-impact games, the Center Stage Series will be on display, complete with incredible sound chairs, oversized screens, big bonuses and the biggest game titles for the casino floor.
Debuting on IGT's Center Stage lineup at ICE will be The Dark Knight(TM), which will be featured on the platform's 103-inch screen. Players can choose to play Batman or the Joker to immerse themselves in group and individual bonuses while enjoying the thematic film experience. Also joining the lineup will be American Idol(R) MultiPLAY video slots. This game delivers entertainment that is packed with action. The unique group play Audition Bonus includes memorable video clips and songs from the show.
IGT is changing the game again as it shows ICE attendees its award-winning game designs that bring skill to the casino floor. The new Reel Edge(TM) series of games was named Best Slot Product at the recent 8th Annual Gaming and Technology Awards. For the first time, spinning-reel players can stop the reels to attempt to create wins and use an arcade-style joystick to control the outcome of the 100 percent skill-based bonuses in the top box. On display from the Reel Edge(TM) series of games will be the vampire-inspired Blood Life(TM) and Red, White & Blue Falling Stars(TM).
IGT's Core games continue to offer an unmatched library of video and spinning-reel slots. And this year, the new Player Affinity Suite brings strong, recognizable brands to the casino floor that are sure to generate player interest. Among the new titles on display will be Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey(TM) 5 Reel Circus(TM) and The Greatest Show On Earth(TM) games. Also joining IGT's Core games is the top-performing favorite Siberian Storm(TM).
IGT continues to lead the industry by providing the network systems products that create the competitive edge needed in today's constantly changing gaming industry. Adding to the award-winning sbX(TM) Experience Management system, IGT will show new Service Window applications that provide players with customized gaming experiences and operators with access to the extensive IGT game library.
IGT will display the most innovative online and mobile gaming products in the industry at ICE 2011. The recent announcement of the formation of IGT's Interactive Division shows the Company's ongoing dedication to building on the strengths that IGT already enjoys in the online and mobile gaming markets. With a combined total of 18 years of experience in the online and mobile industry, IGT's WagerWorks and Million-2-1 groups have been rebranded and merged into a single global division. Since 2005, IGT has handled more than $10 billion in online wagers, with more than 1.5 billion online transactions annually.
IGT will also debut the new online game Star Trek(TM)at ICE, featuring some of the most innovative bonus rounds ever seen in an online slot game. IGT's online and mobile offerings at ICE will also include the Company's successful iPhone(R) and iPad(R) games, with popular titles such as Cleopatra(R) and Kitty Glitter(R). During the show, the free-to-play version of Cleopatra(R) will be available for download from the iPhone(R) app store at no cost.
IGT Brings Server-Based Technology to the Cannery Casino and Hotel in Las Vegas, Nev. (15th December 2010)...
International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT), a global leader in creating the major games that players love and the systems that improve the player experience, has signed an agreement with the Cannery Casino and Hotel in Las Vegas, Nev., to install IGT's industry-leading server-based game management solution. This agreement marks continued momentum in the growing adoption of game-to-system (G2S) server-based technology in the industry worldwide.
"There's no doubt our server-based solutions continue to gain momentum among operators," said Ron Rivera, IGT senior vice president of North America sales. "We're delighted that the Cannery has signed on as an IGT customer. With the combined horsepower of the AVP(R) machine and the industry's largest game library, the Cannery now has a distinct competitive advantage in using these tools to create a world-class player experience."
"We're excited to share the benefits of server-based technology with our players," said Xavier Walsh, COO of Cannery Resorts. "This innovative technology makes it easier than ever to adjust the floor to keep up with the expectations of our players and to deliver the games - and the experience - they're looking for at the Cannery. It's another way to differentiate ourselves from the competition."
IGT's Tier One package is a lease-based offering that combines Floor Manager and IGT's AVP(R) machines, plus access to IGT's game library of high-performing themes, giving the Cannery the power to deploy their choice of more than 300 compelling game themes to their floor in a matter of seconds, based on market conditions. The Tier One package is designed to provide a bank-level, server-based game management solution on 40 machines, with the potential for an eventual floorwide conversion.
Upon regulatory approval of IGT's server-based management system for this property, the Cannery will join the growing roster of leading casino operators worldwide who are optimizing their business using IGT's server-based solution. More than 20 different casinos in eight states and three countries have partnered with IGT for the innovation and the technology that deliver results to the bottom line.
IGT Explains The Pokies Industry In Australia And New Zealand...
Poker machines, or the 'pokies', have been a respectable Australian and New Zealand pastime for more than 50 years. Poker machines positively contribute to these economies; they provide revenue which is poured back into local communities, provide tens of thousands of jobs locally and are responsibly enjoyed by many people. In this heavily regulated industry, IGT ensures strict cooperation and compliance with government regulators across each jurisdiction it serves. The regulation of Australia's and New Zealand's poker machine industries is regarded as the toughest in the world. All our machines operate subject to jurisdictional legislation and regulation, in addition to the Australian/New Zealand Gaming Machine National Standard, which was developed by participants from all gaming regulators in Australia and New Zealand.
Offline Casino Games Found In Online Casinos...
Many of IGT's slot games are found in PartyGaming's PartyCasino and Richard Branson's Virgin Casino. PartyGaming's online casino brand can be accessed by Canadians, Australian's and New Zealanders, whereas Virgin Casino can not. Cleopatra, Wheel of Fortune and Monopoly are understood to be consistently the most popular online casino games found at Party. See Media Man Int reviews and profiles for more information.
Casino Reviews
http://www.mediamanint.com/profiles/casino_reviews.html
WMS Industries Inc: A Snapshot (Of The Company Currently Going Legal On PartyGaming)...
WMS Industries Inc. was formed in 1974 and achieved great success in the pinball, video arcade and home video game markets. With a demonstrated track record as a company that could "make great games", video and software technology, and manufacturing facilities all in place, WMS' foray into gaming was a natural progression for the corporation. WMS Gaming Inc. started out in the video lottery terminal (VLT) business in 1991. The company created, manufactured and placed VLTs in jurisdictions throughout North America. Once successfully established in the video lottery market, WMS Gaming moved into the casino gaming business with the introduction of a video poker game. A year later, the Company unveiled a complete line of technically advanced upright slot machines. In 1997, the company premiered what would be, and still is, its most successful video slot machine to date, Reel 'em In®. This multi-coin, multi-line game offered tons of bells and whistles for the slot player. In an effort to produce an enhanced playing experience, WMS Gaming installed full color high-resolution screens in its games, created full color, detailed graphics, provided an entertaining game theme with many betting options, and increased the hit frequency. These features translated to tremendous player acceptance, increased play and therefore, increased earnings. Since 1998, WMS Industries has been engaged entirely in the manufacture, sale, leasing and licensing of gaming machines. WMS Industries Inc. is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (symbol: WMS). The Company's subsidiary is WMS Gaming Inc.
About Aristocrat: A Snapshot...
With over 50 years industry experience and over 2000 staff globally, Aristocrat has built on its Australian market leadership and reputation to become a premium supplier of groundbreaking technologies and services to the international gaming industry. Aristocrat enjoys a well-earned reputation for outstanding performance and strong brand equity in more than 200 jurisdictions around the world. The diverse product line-up extends from electronic gaming machines to complete gaming solutions, including systems, services, electronic tables, and ancillary equipment. Our vision is clear: Aristocrat aims to become the leading provider of gaming solutions. Imagination, focus and creativity play major roles in achieving this vision. Aristocrat is committed to working in partnership with industry, governments and regulators and our core values of integrity and respect for the individual and the communities within which the company operates underpin relationships with all stakeholders. Aristocrat offices are located in Australia, the USA, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Sweden, Argentina, Japan, and Macau. Each staff member is focused on fulfilling the needs of customers at all levels, while the global management structure drives innovation in business areas. Aristocrat’s core values of integrity and respect for the individual and the communities within which the company operates, underpin relationships with all stakeholders. Aristocrat is committed to working in partnership with industry, governments, and regulators to ensure it meets all responsibilities.
Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...
Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...
PartyCasino.com
Captain Cooks Casino
Betfair (sports betting only)
PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)
PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)
Profiles
Australian Casinos
World Casino Directory
Global Gaming Directory
Casino Travel
Casinos
Australia
Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:
Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Who will win the poker machine manufacturer wars? 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
Background On IGT And Aristocrat Leisure...
Readers will likely be family with both companies. IGT is widely considered the original and the best, and in recent years has expanded their online gaming arm known WagerWorks. Many of the world's leading online casinos such as PartyGaming's PartyCasino and Richard Branson's Virgin Casino carry the WagerWorks online games. Some of the most popular titles include Cleopatra, Monopoly, Wheel Of Fortune, Double Diamond, Elvis, Battle Ship and Da Vinci Diamonds, with Cleo holding the world's most popular online and offline slot of all time.
The gambling and gaming industry is known for its copy cats, trademark infringements and massive law suits, with "legal eagles" know to be very fond of the sector and its substantial payout jackpots!
This lawsuit situation between IGT and Aristocrat follows a long line of legal actions in gambling including PartyGaming VS WMS, Marvel Entertainment VS Cryptologic, Michael Jackson Estate VS "Michael Jackson Casino", Majestic Star Casino LLC VS "Majestic Star Casino" (online) and Vegas Pinnacle Entertainment VS Eskay SEO ("Belterra Casino Indiana")
Media Man's http://www.mediamanint.com Greg Tingle offered the following "The latest lawsuit from IGT against Australia's Aristocrat Leisure is not a surprise in my opinion. It's been a long time coming, with both parties being able to come to a mutually beneficial settlement to date. IGT is largely considered the world's most successful gaming machine manufacture, and some would say the original and best, of the modern era. Australia's Aristocrat has come under some substantial financial pressure in recent years, and this lawsuit action may very well add to this. The land based and online gambling community, legal and government sectors will be watching this one closely. My money is on IGT to win, but stranger things have happened. May the best brand win."
Press Release...
LAS VEGAS, Nov. 15, 2010
International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT) today announced the filing of a patent infringement lawsuit against Aristocrat Leisure Limited of Australia and its U.S. Affiliate Aristocrat Technologies, Inc., (collectively "Aristocrat") in connection with the sale and distribution of Aristocrat's gaming devices, including particularly Aristocrat's Viridian WS slot machines. The lawsuit comes after failed attempts to resolve the IP disputes between Aristocrat and IGT.
The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. In the suit, IGT asserts that Aristocrat has willfully infringed and continues to infringe two patents directed to fundamental capabilities for authentication of gaming software:
U.S. Patent 6,620,047 entitled "Electronic Gaming Apparatus Having Authentication Data Sets"; and U.S. Patent No. RE 39,370 entitled "Electronic Casino Gaming System with Improved Play Capacity, Authentication and Security." "We filed this case because IGT's intellectual property is being knowingly and unfairly exploited by Aristocrat," said Robert C. Melendres, Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary at IGT. "IGT is the world's leading innovator and creator of intellectual property in the gaming industry."
About IGT
International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT) is a global leader in the design, development, and manufacture of gaming machines and systems products, as well as online and mobile gaming solutions for regulated markets. SOURCE IGT
Share Prices: IGT VS Aristocrat (19th January 2011)...
International Gaming Technology
IGT: NYSE: IGT $18.75 USD -0.05 (-0.27%)
Aristocrat Leisure: 3.040: ASX (Australia Securities Exchange)
WMS: NYSE: $46.45; Change is 0.71 (1.51%)
Australian Gaming Shares Pick Of The Bunch: Aristocrat Leisure! (Hell Freezes Over)..
The best performing stock in the S&P/ASX200 was Aristocrat Leisure shares advanced 3.33% to close at $3.10.
Aristocrat Technologies Australia To Hit National And International Trade Show Circuit Big Time This Year; Positive Exposure May Boost Sales And Positive Buzz...
Trade Show - Date - Venue...
IGE 25 Jan 11 - 27 Jan 11 Earls Court, London, UK
Club Managers Association Australia (CMAA) Trade Show 28 Feb 11 - 02 Mar 11 Sydney, NSW, Australia
Hospitality & Gaming Australiasia (HGA) show 16 Mar 11 - 17 Mar 11 Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
National Indian Gaming Association (NIGA) 03 Apr 11 - 06 Apr 11 San Diego, CA, USA
Southern Gaming Summit 04 May 11 - 05 May 11 Biloxi, MS, USA
Great Plains Indian Gaming Show 16 May 11 - 18 May 11 Mystic Lake, Minnesota
Gaming Technology Summit 24 May 11 - 25 May 11 Henderson, NV, Las Vegas
G2E Asia 07 Jun 11 - 09 Jun 11 The Venetian, Macau
SAGSE – Panama City 22 Jun 11 - 23 Jun 11 Panama City, Panama
Australasian Gaming Expo (AGE) 21 Aug 11 - 23 Aug 11 Sydney, NSW, Australia
Oasis Summit 07 Sep 11 - 09 Sep 11 Las Vegas, Nevada
Global Gaming Expo (G2E) 04 Oct 11 - 06 Oct 11 Las Vegas, NV, USA
SAGSE - Buenos Aires 09 Nov 11 - 11 Nov 11 Buenos Aires, Argentina
TribalNet11 Conference 14 Nov 11 - 17 Nov 11 NV, USA
IGT Current News...
IGT to Showcase Future of Gaming at International Casino Exhibition (ICE) 2011 in London...
International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT), a global leader in creating the major games that players love and the casino network systems that improve the player experience, will display the latest groundbreaking casino games and network systems products, as well as innovative mobile and online offerings, at stand 3430 at the International Casino Exhibition (ICE) on Jan. 25-27, 2011. This year IGT will show how "It's a Whole New Game" by displaying a wide range of games for the casino floor and the interactive world at London's Earls Court Exhibition Centre.
"At ICE 2011, we are excited to show ICE attendees what makes IGT a world leader in gaming," said Craig Churchill, IGT's senior vice president of International Sales. "From the latest in slot floor technology to cutting-edge mobile and online products, IGT is dedicated to providing our international customers with the very best products and end-to-end networked gaming solutions to help them meet their operating objectives and deliver unparalleled player experiences."
IGT is known for delivering the most recognizable names in popular culture to the casino floor, and this year, the Company will display some of its biggest names yet. From an amazing Premium Products lineup, also known as MegaJackpots(R), to the new Core Player Affinity Suite, the big titles at ICE will confirm IGT's dedication to bringing thrilling moments to players.
Star Wars(TM) Droid(TM) Huntis set to become the most popular Star Wars casino game ever released. A well-researched understanding of what game elements excite players and a highly creative visual experience combine to deliver lively gaming action. The game comes complete with four galactic bonus rounds and a Premium Products top award.
The new Dirty Dancing(R) Slot features the iconic characters Baby and Johnny (played by Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey) in a game infused with nostalgia, famous songs and video clips. This Premium Products game includes a new Spin Magic feature that turns minor symbol outcomes into wilds.
At ICE 2011, IGT will be the center of attention with the show-stopping Center Stage Series. Offering operators the ability to refresh content with the latest high-impact games, the Center Stage Series will be on display, complete with incredible sound chairs, oversized screens, big bonuses and the biggest game titles for the casino floor.
Debuting on IGT's Center Stage lineup at ICE will be The Dark Knight(TM), which will be featured on the platform's 103-inch screen. Players can choose to play Batman or the Joker to immerse themselves in group and individual bonuses while enjoying the thematic film experience. Also joining the lineup will be American Idol(R) MultiPLAY video slots. This game delivers entertainment that is packed with action. The unique group play Audition Bonus includes memorable video clips and songs from the show.
IGT is changing the game again as it shows ICE attendees its award-winning game designs that bring skill to the casino floor. The new Reel Edge(TM) series of games was named Best Slot Product at the recent 8th Annual Gaming and Technology Awards. For the first time, spinning-reel players can stop the reels to attempt to create wins and use an arcade-style joystick to control the outcome of the 100 percent skill-based bonuses in the top box. On display from the Reel Edge(TM) series of games will be the vampire-inspired Blood Life(TM) and Red, White & Blue Falling Stars(TM).
IGT's Core games continue to offer an unmatched library of video and spinning-reel slots. And this year, the new Player Affinity Suite brings strong, recognizable brands to the casino floor that are sure to generate player interest. Among the new titles on display will be Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey(TM) 5 Reel Circus(TM) and The Greatest Show On Earth(TM) games. Also joining IGT's Core games is the top-performing favorite Siberian Storm(TM).
IGT continues to lead the industry by providing the network systems products that create the competitive edge needed in today's constantly changing gaming industry. Adding to the award-winning sbX(TM) Experience Management system, IGT will show new Service Window applications that provide players with customized gaming experiences and operators with access to the extensive IGT game library.
IGT will display the most innovative online and mobile gaming products in the industry at ICE 2011. The recent announcement of the formation of IGT's Interactive Division shows the Company's ongoing dedication to building on the strengths that IGT already enjoys in the online and mobile gaming markets. With a combined total of 18 years of experience in the online and mobile industry, IGT's WagerWorks and Million-2-1 groups have been rebranded and merged into a single global division. Since 2005, IGT has handled more than $10 billion in online wagers, with more than 1.5 billion online transactions annually.
IGT will also debut the new online game Star Trek(TM)at ICE, featuring some of the most innovative bonus rounds ever seen in an online slot game. IGT's online and mobile offerings at ICE will also include the Company's successful iPhone(R) and iPad(R) games, with popular titles such as Cleopatra(R) and Kitty Glitter(R). During the show, the free-to-play version of Cleopatra(R) will be available for download from the iPhone(R) app store at no cost.
IGT Brings Server-Based Technology to the Cannery Casino and Hotel in Las Vegas, Nev. (15th December 2010)...
International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT), a global leader in creating the major games that players love and the systems that improve the player experience, has signed an agreement with the Cannery Casino and Hotel in Las Vegas, Nev., to install IGT's industry-leading server-based game management solution. This agreement marks continued momentum in the growing adoption of game-to-system (G2S) server-based technology in the industry worldwide.
"There's no doubt our server-based solutions continue to gain momentum among operators," said Ron Rivera, IGT senior vice president of North America sales. "We're delighted that the Cannery has signed on as an IGT customer. With the combined horsepower of the AVP(R) machine and the industry's largest game library, the Cannery now has a distinct competitive advantage in using these tools to create a world-class player experience."
"We're excited to share the benefits of server-based technology with our players," said Xavier Walsh, COO of Cannery Resorts. "This innovative technology makes it easier than ever to adjust the floor to keep up with the expectations of our players and to deliver the games - and the experience - they're looking for at the Cannery. It's another way to differentiate ourselves from the competition."
IGT's Tier One package is a lease-based offering that combines Floor Manager and IGT's AVP(R) machines, plus access to IGT's game library of high-performing themes, giving the Cannery the power to deploy their choice of more than 300 compelling game themes to their floor in a matter of seconds, based on market conditions. The Tier One package is designed to provide a bank-level, server-based game management solution on 40 machines, with the potential for an eventual floorwide conversion.
Upon regulatory approval of IGT's server-based management system for this property, the Cannery will join the growing roster of leading casino operators worldwide who are optimizing their business using IGT's server-based solution. More than 20 different casinos in eight states and three countries have partnered with IGT for the innovation and the technology that deliver results to the bottom line.
IGT Explains The Pokies Industry In Australia And New Zealand...
Poker machines, or the 'pokies', have been a respectable Australian and New Zealand pastime for more than 50 years. Poker machines positively contribute to these economies; they provide revenue which is poured back into local communities, provide tens of thousands of jobs locally and are responsibly enjoyed by many people. In this heavily regulated industry, IGT ensures strict cooperation and compliance with government regulators across each jurisdiction it serves. The regulation of Australia's and New Zealand's poker machine industries is regarded as the toughest in the world. All our machines operate subject to jurisdictional legislation and regulation, in addition to the Australian/New Zealand Gaming Machine National Standard, which was developed by participants from all gaming regulators in Australia and New Zealand.
Offline Casino Games Found In Online Casinos...
Many of IGT's slot games are found in PartyGaming's PartyCasino and Richard Branson's Virgin Casino. PartyGaming's online casino brand can be accessed by Canadians, Australian's and New Zealanders, whereas Virgin Casino can not. Cleopatra, Wheel of Fortune and Monopoly are understood to be consistently the most popular online casino games found at Party. See Media Man Int reviews and profiles for more information.
Casino Reviews
http://www.mediamanint.com/profiles/casino_reviews.html
WMS Industries Inc: A Snapshot (Of The Company Currently Going Legal On PartyGaming)...
WMS Industries Inc. was formed in 1974 and achieved great success in the pinball, video arcade and home video game markets. With a demonstrated track record as a company that could "make great games", video and software technology, and manufacturing facilities all in place, WMS' foray into gaming was a natural progression for the corporation. WMS Gaming Inc. started out in the video lottery terminal (VLT) business in 1991. The company created, manufactured and placed VLTs in jurisdictions throughout North America. Once successfully established in the video lottery market, WMS Gaming moved into the casino gaming business with the introduction of a video poker game. A year later, the Company unveiled a complete line of technically advanced upright slot machines. In 1997, the company premiered what would be, and still is, its most successful video slot machine to date, Reel 'em In®. This multi-coin, multi-line game offered tons of bells and whistles for the slot player. In an effort to produce an enhanced playing experience, WMS Gaming installed full color high-resolution screens in its games, created full color, detailed graphics, provided an entertaining game theme with many betting options, and increased the hit frequency. These features translated to tremendous player acceptance, increased play and therefore, increased earnings. Since 1998, WMS Industries has been engaged entirely in the manufacture, sale, leasing and licensing of gaming machines. WMS Industries Inc. is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (symbol: WMS). The Company's subsidiary is WMS Gaming Inc.
About Aristocrat: A Snapshot...
With over 50 years industry experience and over 2000 staff globally, Aristocrat has built on its Australian market leadership and reputation to become a premium supplier of groundbreaking technologies and services to the international gaming industry. Aristocrat enjoys a well-earned reputation for outstanding performance and strong brand equity in more than 200 jurisdictions around the world. The diverse product line-up extends from electronic gaming machines to complete gaming solutions, including systems, services, electronic tables, and ancillary equipment. Our vision is clear: Aristocrat aims to become the leading provider of gaming solutions. Imagination, focus and creativity play major roles in achieving this vision. Aristocrat is committed to working in partnership with industry, governments and regulators and our core values of integrity and respect for the individual and the communities within which the company operates underpin relationships with all stakeholders. Aristocrat offices are located in Australia, the USA, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Sweden, Argentina, Japan, and Macau. Each staff member is focused on fulfilling the needs of customers at all levels, while the global management structure drives innovation in business areas. Aristocrat’s core values of integrity and respect for the individual and the communities within which the company operates, underpin relationships with all stakeholders. Aristocrat is committed to working in partnership with industry, governments, and regulators to ensure it meets all responsibilities.
Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...
Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...
PartyCasino.com
Captain Cooks Casino
Betfair (sports betting only)
PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)
PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)
Profiles
Australian Casinos
World Casino Directory
Global Gaming Directory
Casino Travel
Casinos
Australia
Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:
Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Who will win the poker machine manufacturer wars? 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
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Australian Casino Tourism Smoking Hot Report, by Greg Tingle - 18th January 2011
G'day punters, journos, high rollers - casino whales, entertainment news junkies, politicians, insiders, outsiders, legal eagles... one and all. Today we cover the subject of Australian casinos tourism, smoking policy in Aussie casinos, pubs, hotels and the like, and what it all means to the Australian bottom line. We've also got a bit of Aussie sports and gaming news gossip and more. Media Man and Gambling911 with another fair dinkum Aussie style report maties...
Gambling On Australian Tourism: Casino Sector Important To Down Under...
Tourism operates in a globally competitive market and is experiencing tough conditions, but things are on up upswing. Tourism operators who focus on key strengths and niche areas, be it the casino tourism or sex tourism sector are performing better (pardon the pun) than most.
A current trend is that Aussies are still heading off overseas, and the good news for the casino sector is the Macau, the Philippines and also Las Vegas are still pulling in the punters for their style of casino entertainment.
Currently, the equivalent of 30.2% of the population is taking an overseas trip each year, and this may rise to about 50% by 2015-16. To become more competitive, the Australian tourism industry needs to recognise this trend. A more aggressive approach could be taken in the international travel market to attract more visitors and improve industry revenue and profit growth.
Domestic tourism accounts for roughly 75% of total industry revenue. While trip growth will remain low, expenditure will rise gradually, particularly as business and corporate travel rebounds. Operators are set to continue to discount tourism products to maintain cashflow.
It is projected that the Australian tourism industry will generate $84.2 billion in revenue during 2010-11, which represents real growth of 2.3% over 2009-10. However, Australia will continue to lose its share of the global international traveller market, as many new destinations emerge.
In the coming years the industry is expected to experience ongoing bloody tough competition in most areas, particularly in the domestic and international airline industries, as discounted tickets continue to dominate passenger air travel markets.
The introduction of expanded domestic services by discount airlines, such as AirAsia, provides increasing opportunities to expand tourism in Australia. Airfare competition for Qantas and United Airlines on the Pacific route to the United States has escalated significantly with the introduction of services by Virgin Airlines and US operator Delta since mid-2009. The industry will be negatively affected by the trend in the accommodation industry towards fragmentation, however, as travellers shift their preferences towards serviced apartments and other smaller styles of accommodation. The increasing ageing of the population may see some rising demand for newer forms of purpose-built, long-stay and comfortable accommodation in major tourist regions, which will benefit the industry.
It is expected that there will be far fewer traditional shopfront travel agents, particularly independent ones, as the online travel information, booking and payment revolution becomes part for the course and just the way its done for most travellers by 2015-16.
Casino And Gaming...
Growth in gaming-linked establishments is tipped to take a dive as the proportion of disposable income allocated to gaming, betting and gambling et al continues to decline.
Australian Casinos List...
Punters, we know your just begging to get your current Australian land based casino hotspots back on file, many of which are massive tourist attractions, so here it is...
New South Wales
Star City Casino (Sydney)
Victoria
Crown Casino (Melbourne)
Queensland
Conrad Treasury Casino (Brisbane)
Jupiters Hotel & Casino (Gold Coast)
Jupiters Townsville Casino (Townsville)
The Reef Hotel Casino (Cairns)
South Australia
Skycity Adelaide (Adelaide)
Western Australia
Burswood Entertainment Complex aka Burswood Casino (Perth)
Tasmania
Wrest Point Hotel Casino (Hobart)
Country Club Casino (Launceston)
Australian Capital Territory
Casino Canberra (Canberra)
Northern Territory
Lasseters Hotel Casino (Alice Springs)
Skycity Darwin (formerly MGM Grand Casino) (Darwin)
Media Man International Profile On Australia
http://www.mediamanint.com/profiles/australia.html
Tobacco Industry VS Government Wars: Australian Sinners Key Target...
The tobacco industry has launched a fresh and "backdoor" type attack on legislation to make plain packaging of cigarettes compulsory, using a regional FTO (free trade agreement) to which Australia is expected to sign up to.
Tobacco giant Philip Morris has used Australia's plain-packaging laws, set to come into effect next year, to debate the need for "investor state" provisions in the upcoming Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement. This would basically facilitate companies to sue member governments if they pass legislation curtailing business activities!
Thomas Faunce, an Australian Research Council future fellow at the Australian National University, called on the federal government to resist the inclusion of investor state provisions in the agreement. He said the provisions duplicated ground that had already been covered in the 2005 Australia-US free trade pact.
"Australia can rebut such attempts on the basis that they reopen the (free trade agreement) negotiations where an investor-state clause was expressly excluded," Associate Professor Faunce wrote in a critique published today in the Medical Journal of Australia.
Negotiations on the trade agreement - between the US, Australia, New Zealand and six South American and south-east Asian countries - intensified last year and are expected to be completed in September.
In a submission on the proposed trade agreement to the US trade representative, Philip Morris cited Australia's plain-packaging laws among "initiatives of concern".
The company said it supported laws to reduce any harm caused by tobacco, but opposed "extreme and disproportionate regulation … which has the effect of violating international law and expropriating intellectual property rights".
Simon Chapman, a professor of public health at the University of Sydney, said the company's stance was consistent with the tobacco industry's history of attempting to use trade agreements to defeat individual countries' health laws.
"It's yet another sign of the degree to which the industry will go to to defeat and delay any measure that will actually work (to cut smoking rates)" he said.
The World Trade Organisation's Uruguay Round had established the right of countries "to put health considerations above international trade considerations".
Patricia Ranald, of the Australian Fair Trade and Investment Network, which advises on human rights, and the environment, said Australia would receive little export benefit from the treaty because the free trade agreement was already in place.
"What we want to say to our government is that we should negotiate about trade issues but not about social policies," Dr Ranald said.
Craig Emerson, the Minister for Trade, would not commit on excluding investor-state provisions from the trade pact, saying he was not prepared to make policy on the run.
But he said Philip Morris would be "whistling in the wind" if it tried to undermine national anti-tobacco laws.
The tobacco industry ie: smoking, has long been linked to other industries such as gambling (where punters often chase land based pokies where smoking is allowed), the sex and fetish industry, fashion (models smoke instead of eat correctly, not to put on weight) and motorsport (especially F1), but exposure of tobacco products on cars has been massively reduced - more than halved, over the past 5 years, with energy drinks like Red Bull picking up some of the slack.
Aussie Millions Update...
Crown Casino - Event 4: $1,100 No Limit Hold'em Shootout! The famous poker tournament is already 5 days in punters. An Aussie and a South African gent have got their gold rings.
The shootout format is the talk of the poker world, at least as far as Aussie Millions goes. To progress through to the next stage, a player must best all punters at their poker table in a shootout fashion. This is the virgin time a shootout tournament has been run at the Aussie Millions The jet setter pros have been arriving at James Packers' Crown Casino and world class poker room.
Names who appear to be lock ins include Annette '16' Obrestad, James Akenhead, Scott Montgomery and Jonathan Karamalikis.
A 4th Aussie Millions gold ring is up for grabs, and more likely than not, within the next 48 hours we can report on who snatches it.
Aussie Test Side Visit To Crown Casino Just Not Cricket; Or Not?...
Ex crick test stars have defended Michael Clarke and Phil Hughes after visiting Crown Casino leading up to the ill fated match against the Pommies. Cricket Australia boss James Sutherland ridiculed the decision by vice-captain Clarke and Hughes to attend a 7.30am breakfast function at Crown Casino during the Boxing Day Test as "a supreme error of judgment". Immediate past Australian Cricketers' Association president Darren "Boof" Lehmann argued with Sutherland's media bashing advising it was "off the mark". "It was for charity and charities need as much as support as they can. I don't have a problem with it," said Lehmann. "Who is going to tell the charity that they are going to miss out on $20,000 or $30,000? I was disappointed with the criticism. It is wrong. As you have seen in Queensland over the past few weeks, there's more important things than a game of cricket." Dual World Cup winning batsman Lehmann advised attending a breakfast function had no impact on the pair's below-par batting in the crushing fourth Test defeat to England at the MCG. "I have done those breakfasts before Test matches. You literally walk in and sometimes only speak for 10 minutes and then you walk out. It is a big hoo-ha that doesn't affect the players but does make a big difference to the charity." Clarke and Hughes are also being called to account re an alleged drinking session at Melbourne's World Bar the evening before Australia was bashed by an innings and 157 runs. Ex Australian batsman Greg Blewett said players should be permitted to have a couple of beverages at night but it was safer to do it at the team hotel. "I am sure because they are losing people will pick on whatever they see as inappropriate behaviour," said Blewett. "I personally haven't got a problem with it, having a couple of beers after play, as long as they were not out to all hours. I guess that is why, even after a Test has finished, a lot of the guys now prefer to stay indoors at the ground or hotel and have a few beers as they don't know what will be happening with photos that end up on social networking sites."
Cricketers Drinking On Eve Before Ashes Defeat: Good Or Bad, Or No Difference?...
A second witness has come to light, leaping out of the shadows, claiming he witnessed Aussie cricketers Michael Clarke and Phil Hughes drinking at a Melbourne bar well into the night on the eve of their brutal Ashes series defeat at the MCG. A photo has surfaced of the cricketers posing with fans at The World Restaurant and Bar in Southbank, reportedly taken 12 hours before the Australian team took to the field on the 4th and final day of the Boxing Day Test. The outcome was England retaining the Ashes on Australian soil for the 1st time in 24 years.
National Leisure & Gaming Manager Appoints CEO - Director...
National Leisure & Gaming Ltd appointed Daniel Brady as chief executive officer (CEO) and a director on January 17, 2011. Brady has acted as the company’s general manager since the resignation of CEO and managing director Andrew Jolliffe in June 2010. He will receive a fixed remuneration of $272,500 per annum including superannuation and a bonus of $100,000 subject to performance conditions. He currently holds no shares in the company.
National Leisure & Gaming - snapshot
Price at 4:20 pm: 0.70c
Price change from previous trading day: 16.7%
Cairns' Reef Hotel Casino Host Benefit For QLD Flood...
The famous Reef Hotel Casino has announced welcome details of its Bring on The Sun Australia Day benefit to raise much-needed funds for Queensland's devastated flood victims. All money raised at the event on January 26 will go to the Premier’s Flood Relief Appeal, with the casino already pledging a generous $15,000 to boost up donations. The gambling den joins the many local businesses continuing to open their spirit and purses to raise funds for fellow Queenslanders in their time of need.
Entry is free to the event which will feature the city’s best female entertainers from 2pm until late, giveaways and fundraising activities including the humble Aussie sausage sizzle. Entertainment manager Bruce Stewart advised casino staff were looking forward to doing their part to help flood victims. "We actually have some staff donating their time to come in on Australia Day, including some of the management. There will be a roster of raffle sellers and sausage sizzle sellers, which is a really nice gesture from the staff. A lot of the entertainers are coming on board to donate their time and talent to raise funds." Cazalys Cairns is also encouraging businesses and residents to support their Cairns Gives Back: Flood Relief Appeal.
Marketing manager Maddy Ellis said the Red Cross had requested cash instead of food, clothing or linen. "So Cazalys is putting together a mega raffle that will run until Australia Day to raise money for the appeal," she said. "Prizes have been generously donated by local business." Tickets are $5 each or 10 for $45 and can be purchased from Cazalys reception, over the phone on 4054 1464 or online at the website. Ms Ellis said local businesses which wanted to donate prizes should contact the club.
Mareeba business Coffee Works will donate $1 from every purchase to flood victims.
"This isn’t pity money … it’s about new beginnings and putting out a helping hand to get people back on their feet," owner Annie Webber said. "I was in Brisbane for the 74 floods and I remember what it was like." Media Man and Gambling911 commend the great spirit of Australians who are chipping in to make a positive difference. A Media Man spokesperson said "In times of dire need Aussies are known for getting together to help out their fellow Aussies and mates. It reminds us of the Anzac spirit You put your life on the line and your own needs on the back burner to help our your mates in need. Media, mums and dads, construction companies, casinos, emergency services... folks from all walks of life are coming together to help each other see the devastation through. Aussies have see the light at the end of the the tunnel and are making significant progress to getting things back to normal".
Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...
Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...
PartyCasino.com
Captain Cooks Casino
Betfair (sports betting only)
PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)
PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)
Profiles
Australian Casinos
World Casino Directory
Global Gaming Directory
Casino Travel
Casinos
Australia
Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:
Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Media Man Canada
Media Man Games
Media Man Brand
Media Man Network
Casino News Media
Poker News Media
Global Gaming Directory
Gambling On Australian Tourism: Casino Sector Important To Down Under...
Tourism operates in a globally competitive market and is experiencing tough conditions, but things are on up upswing. Tourism operators who focus on key strengths and niche areas, be it the casino tourism or sex tourism sector are performing better (pardon the pun) than most.
A current trend is that Aussies are still heading off overseas, and the good news for the casino sector is the Macau, the Philippines and also Las Vegas are still pulling in the punters for their style of casino entertainment.
Currently, the equivalent of 30.2% of the population is taking an overseas trip each year, and this may rise to about 50% by 2015-16. To become more competitive, the Australian tourism industry needs to recognise this trend. A more aggressive approach could be taken in the international travel market to attract more visitors and improve industry revenue and profit growth.
Domestic tourism accounts for roughly 75% of total industry revenue. While trip growth will remain low, expenditure will rise gradually, particularly as business and corporate travel rebounds. Operators are set to continue to discount tourism products to maintain cashflow.
It is projected that the Australian tourism industry will generate $84.2 billion in revenue during 2010-11, which represents real growth of 2.3% over 2009-10. However, Australia will continue to lose its share of the global international traveller market, as many new destinations emerge.
In the coming years the industry is expected to experience ongoing bloody tough competition in most areas, particularly in the domestic and international airline industries, as discounted tickets continue to dominate passenger air travel markets.
The introduction of expanded domestic services by discount airlines, such as AirAsia, provides increasing opportunities to expand tourism in Australia. Airfare competition for Qantas and United Airlines on the Pacific route to the United States has escalated significantly with the introduction of services by Virgin Airlines and US operator Delta since mid-2009. The industry will be negatively affected by the trend in the accommodation industry towards fragmentation, however, as travellers shift their preferences towards serviced apartments and other smaller styles of accommodation. The increasing ageing of the population may see some rising demand for newer forms of purpose-built, long-stay and comfortable accommodation in major tourist regions, which will benefit the industry.
It is expected that there will be far fewer traditional shopfront travel agents, particularly independent ones, as the online travel information, booking and payment revolution becomes part for the course and just the way its done for most travellers by 2015-16.
Casino And Gaming...
Growth in gaming-linked establishments is tipped to take a dive as the proportion of disposable income allocated to gaming, betting and gambling et al continues to decline.
Australian Casinos List...
Punters, we know your just begging to get your current Australian land based casino hotspots back on file, many of which are massive tourist attractions, so here it is...
New South Wales
Star City Casino (Sydney)
Victoria
Crown Casino (Melbourne)
Queensland
Conrad Treasury Casino (Brisbane)
Jupiters Hotel & Casino (Gold Coast)
Jupiters Townsville Casino (Townsville)
The Reef Hotel Casino (Cairns)
South Australia
Skycity Adelaide (Adelaide)
Western Australia
Burswood Entertainment Complex aka Burswood Casino (Perth)
Tasmania
Wrest Point Hotel Casino (Hobart)
Country Club Casino (Launceston)
Australian Capital Territory
Casino Canberra (Canberra)
Northern Territory
Lasseters Hotel Casino (Alice Springs)
Skycity Darwin (formerly MGM Grand Casino) (Darwin)
Media Man International Profile On Australia
http://www.mediamanint.com/profiles/australia.html
Tobacco Industry VS Government Wars: Australian Sinners Key Target...
The tobacco industry has launched a fresh and "backdoor" type attack on legislation to make plain packaging of cigarettes compulsory, using a regional FTO (free trade agreement) to which Australia is expected to sign up to.
Tobacco giant Philip Morris has used Australia's plain-packaging laws, set to come into effect next year, to debate the need for "investor state" provisions in the upcoming Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement. This would basically facilitate companies to sue member governments if they pass legislation curtailing business activities!
Thomas Faunce, an Australian Research Council future fellow at the Australian National University, called on the federal government to resist the inclusion of investor state provisions in the agreement. He said the provisions duplicated ground that had already been covered in the 2005 Australia-US free trade pact.
"Australia can rebut such attempts on the basis that they reopen the (free trade agreement) negotiations where an investor-state clause was expressly excluded," Associate Professor Faunce wrote in a critique published today in the Medical Journal of Australia.
Negotiations on the trade agreement - between the US, Australia, New Zealand and six South American and south-east Asian countries - intensified last year and are expected to be completed in September.
In a submission on the proposed trade agreement to the US trade representative, Philip Morris cited Australia's plain-packaging laws among "initiatives of concern".
The company said it supported laws to reduce any harm caused by tobacco, but opposed "extreme and disproportionate regulation … which has the effect of violating international law and expropriating intellectual property rights".
Simon Chapman, a professor of public health at the University of Sydney, said the company's stance was consistent with the tobacco industry's history of attempting to use trade agreements to defeat individual countries' health laws.
"It's yet another sign of the degree to which the industry will go to to defeat and delay any measure that will actually work (to cut smoking rates)" he said.
The World Trade Organisation's Uruguay Round had established the right of countries "to put health considerations above international trade considerations".
Patricia Ranald, of the Australian Fair Trade and Investment Network, which advises on human rights, and the environment, said Australia would receive little export benefit from the treaty because the free trade agreement was already in place.
"What we want to say to our government is that we should negotiate about trade issues but not about social policies," Dr Ranald said.
Craig Emerson, the Minister for Trade, would not commit on excluding investor-state provisions from the trade pact, saying he was not prepared to make policy on the run.
But he said Philip Morris would be "whistling in the wind" if it tried to undermine national anti-tobacco laws.
The tobacco industry ie: smoking, has long been linked to other industries such as gambling (where punters often chase land based pokies where smoking is allowed), the sex and fetish industry, fashion (models smoke instead of eat correctly, not to put on weight) and motorsport (especially F1), but exposure of tobacco products on cars has been massively reduced - more than halved, over the past 5 years, with energy drinks like Red Bull picking up some of the slack.
Aussie Millions Update...
Crown Casino - Event 4: $1,100 No Limit Hold'em Shootout! The famous poker tournament is already 5 days in punters. An Aussie and a South African gent have got their gold rings.
The shootout format is the talk of the poker world, at least as far as Aussie Millions goes. To progress through to the next stage, a player must best all punters at their poker table in a shootout fashion. This is the virgin time a shootout tournament has been run at the Aussie Millions The jet setter pros have been arriving at James Packers' Crown Casino and world class poker room.
Names who appear to be lock ins include Annette '16' Obrestad, James Akenhead, Scott Montgomery and Jonathan Karamalikis.
A 4th Aussie Millions gold ring is up for grabs, and more likely than not, within the next 48 hours we can report on who snatches it.
Aussie Test Side Visit To Crown Casino Just Not Cricket; Or Not?...
Ex crick test stars have defended Michael Clarke and Phil Hughes after visiting Crown Casino leading up to the ill fated match against the Pommies. Cricket Australia boss James Sutherland ridiculed the decision by vice-captain Clarke and Hughes to attend a 7.30am breakfast function at Crown Casino during the Boxing Day Test as "a supreme error of judgment". Immediate past Australian Cricketers' Association president Darren "Boof" Lehmann argued with Sutherland's media bashing advising it was "off the mark". "It was for charity and charities need as much as support as they can. I don't have a problem with it," said Lehmann. "Who is going to tell the charity that they are going to miss out on $20,000 or $30,000? I was disappointed with the criticism. It is wrong. As you have seen in Queensland over the past few weeks, there's more important things than a game of cricket." Dual World Cup winning batsman Lehmann advised attending a breakfast function had no impact on the pair's below-par batting in the crushing fourth Test defeat to England at the MCG. "I have done those breakfasts before Test matches. You literally walk in and sometimes only speak for 10 minutes and then you walk out. It is a big hoo-ha that doesn't affect the players but does make a big difference to the charity." Clarke and Hughes are also being called to account re an alleged drinking session at Melbourne's World Bar the evening before Australia was bashed by an innings and 157 runs. Ex Australian batsman Greg Blewett said players should be permitted to have a couple of beverages at night but it was safer to do it at the team hotel. "I am sure because they are losing people will pick on whatever they see as inappropriate behaviour," said Blewett. "I personally haven't got a problem with it, having a couple of beers after play, as long as they were not out to all hours. I guess that is why, even after a Test has finished, a lot of the guys now prefer to stay indoors at the ground or hotel and have a few beers as they don't know what will be happening with photos that end up on social networking sites."
Cricketers Drinking On Eve Before Ashes Defeat: Good Or Bad, Or No Difference?...
A second witness has come to light, leaping out of the shadows, claiming he witnessed Aussie cricketers Michael Clarke and Phil Hughes drinking at a Melbourne bar well into the night on the eve of their brutal Ashes series defeat at the MCG. A photo has surfaced of the cricketers posing with fans at The World Restaurant and Bar in Southbank, reportedly taken 12 hours before the Australian team took to the field on the 4th and final day of the Boxing Day Test. The outcome was England retaining the Ashes on Australian soil for the 1st time in 24 years.
National Leisure & Gaming Manager Appoints CEO - Director...
National Leisure & Gaming Ltd appointed Daniel Brady as chief executive officer (CEO) and a director on January 17, 2011. Brady has acted as the company’s general manager since the resignation of CEO and managing director Andrew Jolliffe in June 2010. He will receive a fixed remuneration of $272,500 per annum including superannuation and a bonus of $100,000 subject to performance conditions. He currently holds no shares in the company.
National Leisure & Gaming - snapshot
Price at 4:20 pm: 0.70c
Price change from previous trading day: 16.7%
Cairns' Reef Hotel Casino Host Benefit For QLD Flood...
The famous Reef Hotel Casino has announced welcome details of its Bring on The Sun Australia Day benefit to raise much-needed funds for Queensland's devastated flood victims. All money raised at the event on January 26 will go to the Premier’s Flood Relief Appeal, with the casino already pledging a generous $15,000 to boost up donations. The gambling den joins the many local businesses continuing to open their spirit and purses to raise funds for fellow Queenslanders in their time of need.
Entry is free to the event which will feature the city’s best female entertainers from 2pm until late, giveaways and fundraising activities including the humble Aussie sausage sizzle. Entertainment manager Bruce Stewart advised casino staff were looking forward to doing their part to help flood victims. "We actually have some staff donating their time to come in on Australia Day, including some of the management. There will be a roster of raffle sellers and sausage sizzle sellers, which is a really nice gesture from the staff. A lot of the entertainers are coming on board to donate their time and talent to raise funds." Cazalys Cairns is also encouraging businesses and residents to support their Cairns Gives Back: Flood Relief Appeal.
Marketing manager Maddy Ellis said the Red Cross had requested cash instead of food, clothing or linen. "So Cazalys is putting together a mega raffle that will run until Australia Day to raise money for the appeal," she said. "Prizes have been generously donated by local business." Tickets are $5 each or 10 for $45 and can be purchased from Cazalys reception, over the phone on 4054 1464 or online at the website. Ms Ellis said local businesses which wanted to donate prizes should contact the club.
Mareeba business Coffee Works will donate $1 from every purchase to flood victims.
"This isn’t pity money … it’s about new beginnings and putting out a helping hand to get people back on their feet," owner Annie Webber said. "I was in Brisbane for the 74 floods and I remember what it was like." Media Man and Gambling911 commend the great spirit of Australians who are chipping in to make a positive difference. A Media Man spokesperson said "In times of dire need Aussies are known for getting together to help out their fellow Aussies and mates. It reminds us of the Anzac spirit You put your life on the line and your own needs on the back burner to help our your mates in need. Media, mums and dads, construction companies, casinos, emergency services... folks from all walks of life are coming together to help each other see the devastation through. Aussies have see the light at the end of the the tunnel and are making significant progress to getting things back to normal".
Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...
Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...
PartyCasino.com
Captain Cooks Casino
Betfair (sports betting only)
PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)
PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)
Profiles
Australian Casinos
World Casino Directory
Global Gaming Directory
Casino Travel
Casinos
Australia
Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:
Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Media Man Canada
Media Man Games
Media Man Brand
Media Man Network
Casino News Media
Poker News Media
Global Gaming Directory
Monday, January 17, 2011
Gambling On Australia's Anti-Money Laundering Counter Terrorism Hit List, by Greg Tingle - 17th January 2011
G'day punters, journos, high rollers - casino whales, entertainment news junkies, politicians, insiders, outsiders, legal eagles... one and all. Today we cover the serious subject of money laundering and what's news on that front down under in Australia. Not to anyone's surprise gambling is one of the sub sectors on the radar of Australia's anti-money laundering watchdog, and its bigger than a bit of funny money being put down the slots of pub pokies to collect a "winners payout". We've also got gambling lifestyle news, a Crown Casino - Aussie Millions update and much more.. Media Man and Gambling911 play private detective down under with this special report...
The Australian government is getting more heat as it plans to levy banks and businesses that report suspicious financial transactions. Approximately 17,000 businesses registered with the Government's anti-money laundering regulator, the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC), will be charged an annual levy ranging from $240 to $1000 to register and file transaction reports from this coming July. They will also pay per-report fees based on reporting volumes and the value of the transactions reported. The new levy will give AUSTRAC extra funds to target serious and organised crime, revenue evasion and financial fraud and save the Federal Government roughly $90 million over 3 years.
Anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing laws introduced some 4 years back require banks, foreign exchange dealers, financial services firms and gambling companies...sometimes referred to as "reporting entities"...to submit yearly compliance reports to AUSTRAC.
Companies have been obliged to verify the identity of every customer before conducting business with them, and report anomalies in behaviour that may suggest involvement in money laundering or terrorism financing. Businesses have invested millions in training staff and adopting the "know your customer" rules. For example, they may want to verify address, date of birth, see current bank account documentation and more. They have also implemented systems for reporting "suspicious activity" and "designated services", such as opening an account, taking out a loan, overseas funds transfers over $10,000 and placing a wager or receiving winnings worth $10,000 or more. AUSTRAC has the authority to issue fines of up to $11 million on companies and up to $2.2 million on individuals for non-compliance. The regulator's latest annual report reveals it received an average of 82,900 reports each business day last financial year, up 9% on the previous year. In 2008-09 it took enforcement action against five separate businesses to secure their compliance with legislation designed to crack down on money laundering and counter-terrorism financing. These included a hotel group providing gambling services, businesses offering overseas money transfer services and a bank. Home Affairs Minister Brendan O'Connor said the proposed AUSTRAC Supervisory Levy would fund the financial intelligence unit's tracking of money flows from organised crime, drug importation, people smuggling and the black market weapons trade. "This intelligence has a broad public benefit, and is funded from our taxes," he said. "Law enforcement agencies use this intelligence to protect businesses and keep the public safe." Institute of Chartered Accountants executive general manager Lee White said members already incurred significant costs in supporting AUSTRAC's regulatory aims, and it was unreasonable to ask them to bear more. "Our members provide legitimate services to clients who overwhelmingly are law-abiding individuals and businesses. If these legitimate services are exploited by criminals, it is these wrong-doers who create the need for regulation and who should contribute to the costs through the confiscated proceeds of their crimes."
Crown Casino Assists Queensland Flood Clean Up With Aussie Millions Poker Tourney Assist...
Australia last week suffered the worst floods in 100 years, perhaps ever, and the clean up continues, with other states such as Victoria now also reporting flooding. Thus far approximately 20 people have been reported as dead, with many more injured. James Packer owned Crown Casino is doing their bit to chip in we are pleased to report. Collection tins for the appeal have been placed at dozens on sports at Crown. The funds raised via collection tins will be donated directly to the Queensland Premier's Disaster Relief Appeal fund via our friends at the Salvation Army. Whatever is collected from all the collection tins around the complex, Crown Casino will match dollar for dollar. Players and visitors, please give generously.
Aussie Millions: Martin Drewe Wins First Round...
The 2011 Aussie Millions got on the way with the $1,100 Opening Event to kick off Down Unders' biggest poker tourney series. 1,000 or so entries have equalled a 1 million dollar plus prize pool. After 3 openers, only 143 players made it into Day 2 with Martin Drewe, Jon Overbeek and Tolly Sakellariou leading the pack.
Crown Casino Continues To Get Great Entertainment Boost...
Fusion at Crown Casino, Melbourne gig guide
Filed under: Dance Party, Nightclubs, hip hop / rap music, pop music, contemporary music — site admin @ 2:54 pm
Event Name: SOUNDS OF FUSION
Don’t miss Phil Ross bringing an electric style and big house sounds to the dance floor. Whether its belting out fist pumping anthems to a massive crowd or bringing the house vibe to a room full of rockstars, you can count on him getting the job done.
Resident Acts: DJ’s Phil Ross, Dean T, DJ Atomik and Johnny M.
Genre: Room 1: Commercial House, Room 2: RnB
Date: Friday 20 January
Time: 9.30pm – 4am
Cost: $10 Guest List / $15 on the door
Venue: FUSION Level 3 | Crown
Tickets: Guest List: 9292 5750 or fusion@crownmelbourne.com.au
Event Name: REPLAY
Act: Jody McLeod
Effortlessly gliding between dirty underground cuts and commercially-friendly crowd-pleasers, it’s no surprise that Mcleod’s skills have made her a wanted woman. Head down to Fusion to hear her set that will be a club killing-triumph.
Resident Acts: DJ’s Tate Strauss, Dean T, Johnny M & DJ Nova.
Genre: Room 1: Commercial House, Room 2: RnB
Date: Saturday 21 January
Time: 9.30pm – 4am
Cost: $15 Guest List before 11pm
Venue: FUSION Level 3 | Crown
Tickets: Guest List: 9292 5750 or fusion@crownmelbourne.com.au
Marvel Slots Maintain Popularity With Australians; More Brands Get Marvel In Fight For Asia Pacific Domination...
Stan Lee's Marvel Comics - Entertainment branded slots have been a big hit since going live into a number of the world's online casinos over a year ago. PartyGaming's PartyCasino, a favorite with Aussies has hinted that Marvel slot games played a bit part of their success in Australia. Virgin got the slots, but Aussies can't play at Virgin. Perhaps smartly both PKR Casino and Winner Casino has picked up on this fact and is now offering the Marvel slot games to the Asia Pacific region, with Australia's adopting them like a duck to water.
A Media Man spokesperson said "Australians just love the Marvel Comics and Marvel Entertainment brands. You just have to look at the popularity of the Marvel blockbuster movies that hit the movie theatres a few times a year. When the Marvel games hit the internet we noticed a spike in numbers, and its been strong ever since. The Winner and PKR brands have smartly worked out that adding Marvel slots to their portfolio should be very good for business. The games can be played for free and played for money, a concept that Australians have found very appealing. As Stan Lee says, Excelsior!"
Melbourne, Victoria: Gambling Thought Required Says Counsellor...
A Ringwood gambling counsellor is encouraging the Victorian Government to "rethink" its anti-gambling advertising campaign. The call comes as new research by the Australian National University shows Maroondah’s problem gamblers lost an average of $2902 each last year. Gamblers Help Eastern manager Bernie Durkin said the Government’s “Think what you’re really gambling with” campaigns had initially increased public awareness about the dangers of gambling, but their effect had "worn off". Durkin said the initial campaign, in 2002, led to a 50% increase in people connecting to counselling services, but that had dropped to just 9% in recent years. "Between 10 and 20% of the population are directly impacted by their own or others’ gambling but only a fraction of this total seek assistance," Durkin. "We know that there are still a lot of people out there who need help." Government spokesman Michael Sinclair said the Government’s campaigns were spread across TV, print, radio and outdoor advertising as well as gaming venues, the Yellow Pages and in partnership with Radio Sport 927. State Opposition gaming spokesman Michael O’Brien accused the Government of slashing funding for anti-gambling advertising by 35%. O’Brien advised a Public Accounts and Estimates Committee report showed campaign spending fell from $4.75 million in 2005/06 to $3.09 million in 2006/07. But Sinclair said those figures were wrong and that spending on problem gambling awareness programs went from $3.1 million to $3.9 million over that period.
Cairns: Taipans Shoot Moneyball To Flood Relief Appeal; Centerbet Leads Action...
Shooters line up beyond the 3-point arc and hit a long-range shot, it gives their offence a massive lift. The Taipans VS Melbourne Tigers which took place at the convention centre raised considerable money for the Premier’s Flood Relief Appeal. The Taipans’ corporate sponsors will donate a combined total of $1900 for every three-pointer the team makes against the Tigers. With the Taipans averaging between 6 and 7 long bombs a match, the club is hoping to raise in excess of $10,000 to help flood relief efforts throughout the state.
Real Life Underbelly In Sin City Sydney; Lingerie Babe Hides Overseas Following Shooting...
A well known lingerie babe has gone MIA, believed overseas, after claims her close relationship with Sam Ibrahim allegedly led to his attempted murder just last week.
The former bikie boss, shot once in each thigh, may have been attacked over fears he was getting too close to someone else's girlfriend. Ex girlfriend trouble has sparked many murders and attempted murders over the years, which goes well behind 'real life Underbelly'. The word is also out that those fears are unfounded, so readers and the public at large are making their own minds up. Senior police confirmed last night they were examining the possibility the woman's jealous boyfriend was behind the shooting outside the Ibrahim family home in Merrylands on Thursday. It is understood the man, who cannot be identified, had earlier become enraged because she was getting "too close" to another man associated with a bikie club. A source, who asked not to be named, said the bloke has been shot at last year in a way not unlike the Ibrahim hit. Elder brother to nightclub boss John Ibrahim broke his silence at Sydney's Westmead Hospital, saying rumours of a "bikie gang war" were simply untrue. "This is not club related, it has nothing to do with any other club - it's a personal matter," Sam said. "It starts and finishes with that." His lawyer Brett Galloway said Ibrahim, a life member of the Nomads who has "retired" from motorcycle gangs, wanted everyone to know "he has no problem with any other club, or anybody in them". "There's no war, there's no gang tension, it's a personal issue," Galloway said. The men's magazine lingerie babe - model is believed to have hoped on a plane out of the country. A police leak advised the personal nature of the attack was one of the strongest lines of inquiry being chased up on.
Hobart, Tasmania: Gambler David Walsh's Museum Of Old And New Art Gets Attention...
Next week MONA, the $80 million private museum of Hobart-born David Walsh, will open to the public, some two years late. Walsh is a millionaire, a professional gambler and entrepreneur. Walsh was happy to go on the record with a few candid quotes on his collection... "We don't know what 'good' is. We're never going to know what 'good' is because there is no such thing as 'good'. There's taste and there's style and there's charisma and pizzazz and charm and chutzpah. We've got a million words for describing the same thing and nobody really knows what it is." He welcomes feedback on the collection. "Let's bring the disputation and uncertainty back into the gallery. It's an un-museum, that's why it's underground, I guess." Walsh is lapping up the publicity, and its provided him with a more artistic outlet away from the gambling and business endeavors. We will be keeping an eye on this chap who commentators are just starting to call Tasmania's answer to Britain's Damian Aspinall (casino owner and zoo lifestyle lover - owner) who at one time was dating hot Aussie model Elle Macpherson. If you can get down to Tassie, do your best to check out the exhibit. You will be found to go animal. If you can't make it, maybe check out PartyGaming's 'Goanna Gold' and other nature themed slots, and also spare a thought for Captain Cooks Casino and other nature - gaming themed entities. Experts predict that the Walsh exhibit will bring in some solid dollars to Tasmania, with it understood to appeal to cashed up arty types.
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? 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
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Media Man
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The Australian government is getting more heat as it plans to levy banks and businesses that report suspicious financial transactions. Approximately 17,000 businesses registered with the Government's anti-money laundering regulator, the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC), will be charged an annual levy ranging from $240 to $1000 to register and file transaction reports from this coming July. They will also pay per-report fees based on reporting volumes and the value of the transactions reported. The new levy will give AUSTRAC extra funds to target serious and organised crime, revenue evasion and financial fraud and save the Federal Government roughly $90 million over 3 years.
Anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing laws introduced some 4 years back require banks, foreign exchange dealers, financial services firms and gambling companies...sometimes referred to as "reporting entities"...to submit yearly compliance reports to AUSTRAC.
Companies have been obliged to verify the identity of every customer before conducting business with them, and report anomalies in behaviour that may suggest involvement in money laundering or terrorism financing. Businesses have invested millions in training staff and adopting the "know your customer" rules. For example, they may want to verify address, date of birth, see current bank account documentation and more. They have also implemented systems for reporting "suspicious activity" and "designated services", such as opening an account, taking out a loan, overseas funds transfers over $10,000 and placing a wager or receiving winnings worth $10,000 or more. AUSTRAC has the authority to issue fines of up to $11 million on companies and up to $2.2 million on individuals for non-compliance. The regulator's latest annual report reveals it received an average of 82,900 reports each business day last financial year, up 9% on the previous year. In 2008-09 it took enforcement action against five separate businesses to secure their compliance with legislation designed to crack down on money laundering and counter-terrorism financing. These included a hotel group providing gambling services, businesses offering overseas money transfer services and a bank. Home Affairs Minister Brendan O'Connor said the proposed AUSTRAC Supervisory Levy would fund the financial intelligence unit's tracking of money flows from organised crime, drug importation, people smuggling and the black market weapons trade. "This intelligence has a broad public benefit, and is funded from our taxes," he said. "Law enforcement agencies use this intelligence to protect businesses and keep the public safe." Institute of Chartered Accountants executive general manager Lee White said members already incurred significant costs in supporting AUSTRAC's regulatory aims, and it was unreasonable to ask them to bear more. "Our members provide legitimate services to clients who overwhelmingly are law-abiding individuals and businesses. If these legitimate services are exploited by criminals, it is these wrong-doers who create the need for regulation and who should contribute to the costs through the confiscated proceeds of their crimes."
Crown Casino Assists Queensland Flood Clean Up With Aussie Millions Poker Tourney Assist...
Australia last week suffered the worst floods in 100 years, perhaps ever, and the clean up continues, with other states such as Victoria now also reporting flooding. Thus far approximately 20 people have been reported as dead, with many more injured. James Packer owned Crown Casino is doing their bit to chip in we are pleased to report. Collection tins for the appeal have been placed at dozens on sports at Crown. The funds raised via collection tins will be donated directly to the Queensland Premier's Disaster Relief Appeal fund via our friends at the Salvation Army. Whatever is collected from all the collection tins around the complex, Crown Casino will match dollar for dollar. Players and visitors, please give generously.
Aussie Millions: Martin Drewe Wins First Round...
The 2011 Aussie Millions got on the way with the $1,100 Opening Event to kick off Down Unders' biggest poker tourney series. 1,000 or so entries have equalled a 1 million dollar plus prize pool. After 3 openers, only 143 players made it into Day 2 with Martin Drewe, Jon Overbeek and Tolly Sakellariou leading the pack.
Crown Casino Continues To Get Great Entertainment Boost...
Fusion at Crown Casino, Melbourne gig guide
Filed under: Dance Party, Nightclubs, hip hop / rap music, pop music, contemporary music — site admin @ 2:54 pm
Event Name: SOUNDS OF FUSION
Don’t miss Phil Ross bringing an electric style and big house sounds to the dance floor. Whether its belting out fist pumping anthems to a massive crowd or bringing the house vibe to a room full of rockstars, you can count on him getting the job done.
Resident Acts: DJ’s Phil Ross, Dean T, DJ Atomik and Johnny M.
Genre: Room 1: Commercial House, Room 2: RnB
Date: Friday 20 January
Time: 9.30pm – 4am
Cost: $10 Guest List / $15 on the door
Venue: FUSION Level 3 | Crown
Tickets: Guest List: 9292 5750 or fusion@crownmelbourne.com.au
Event Name: REPLAY
Act: Jody McLeod
Effortlessly gliding between dirty underground cuts and commercially-friendly crowd-pleasers, it’s no surprise that Mcleod’s skills have made her a wanted woman. Head down to Fusion to hear her set that will be a club killing-triumph.
Resident Acts: DJ’s Tate Strauss, Dean T, Johnny M & DJ Nova.
Genre: Room 1: Commercial House, Room 2: RnB
Date: Saturday 21 January
Time: 9.30pm – 4am
Cost: $15 Guest List before 11pm
Venue: FUSION Level 3 | Crown
Tickets: Guest List: 9292 5750 or fusion@crownmelbourne.com.au
Marvel Slots Maintain Popularity With Australians; More Brands Get Marvel In Fight For Asia Pacific Domination...
Stan Lee's Marvel Comics - Entertainment branded slots have been a big hit since going live into a number of the world's online casinos over a year ago. PartyGaming's PartyCasino, a favorite with Aussies has hinted that Marvel slot games played a bit part of their success in Australia. Virgin got the slots, but Aussies can't play at Virgin. Perhaps smartly both PKR Casino and Winner Casino has picked up on this fact and is now offering the Marvel slot games to the Asia Pacific region, with Australia's adopting them like a duck to water.
A Media Man spokesperson said "Australians just love the Marvel Comics and Marvel Entertainment brands. You just have to look at the popularity of the Marvel blockbuster movies that hit the movie theatres a few times a year. When the Marvel games hit the internet we noticed a spike in numbers, and its been strong ever since. The Winner and PKR brands have smartly worked out that adding Marvel slots to their portfolio should be very good for business. The games can be played for free and played for money, a concept that Australians have found very appealing. As Stan Lee says, Excelsior!"
Melbourne, Victoria: Gambling Thought Required Says Counsellor...
A Ringwood gambling counsellor is encouraging the Victorian Government to "rethink" its anti-gambling advertising campaign. The call comes as new research by the Australian National University shows Maroondah’s problem gamblers lost an average of $2902 each last year. Gamblers Help Eastern manager Bernie Durkin said the Government’s “Think what you’re really gambling with” campaigns had initially increased public awareness about the dangers of gambling, but their effect had "worn off". Durkin said the initial campaign, in 2002, led to a 50% increase in people connecting to counselling services, but that had dropped to just 9% in recent years. "Between 10 and 20% of the population are directly impacted by their own or others’ gambling but only a fraction of this total seek assistance," Durkin. "We know that there are still a lot of people out there who need help." Government spokesman Michael Sinclair said the Government’s campaigns were spread across TV, print, radio and outdoor advertising as well as gaming venues, the Yellow Pages and in partnership with Radio Sport 927. State Opposition gaming spokesman Michael O’Brien accused the Government of slashing funding for anti-gambling advertising by 35%. O’Brien advised a Public Accounts and Estimates Committee report showed campaign spending fell from $4.75 million in 2005/06 to $3.09 million in 2006/07. But Sinclair said those figures were wrong and that spending on problem gambling awareness programs went from $3.1 million to $3.9 million over that period.
Cairns: Taipans Shoot Moneyball To Flood Relief Appeal; Centerbet Leads Action...
Shooters line up beyond the 3-point arc and hit a long-range shot, it gives their offence a massive lift. The Taipans VS Melbourne Tigers which took place at the convention centre raised considerable money for the Premier’s Flood Relief Appeal. The Taipans’ corporate sponsors will donate a combined total of $1900 for every three-pointer the team makes against the Tigers. With the Taipans averaging between 6 and 7 long bombs a match, the club is hoping to raise in excess of $10,000 to help flood relief efforts throughout the state.
Real Life Underbelly In Sin City Sydney; Lingerie Babe Hides Overseas Following Shooting...
A well known lingerie babe has gone MIA, believed overseas, after claims her close relationship with Sam Ibrahim allegedly led to his attempted murder just last week.
The former bikie boss, shot once in each thigh, may have been attacked over fears he was getting too close to someone else's girlfriend. Ex girlfriend trouble has sparked many murders and attempted murders over the years, which goes well behind 'real life Underbelly'. The word is also out that those fears are unfounded, so readers and the public at large are making their own minds up. Senior police confirmed last night they were examining the possibility the woman's jealous boyfriend was behind the shooting outside the Ibrahim family home in Merrylands on Thursday. It is understood the man, who cannot be identified, had earlier become enraged because she was getting "too close" to another man associated with a bikie club. A source, who asked not to be named, said the bloke has been shot at last year in a way not unlike the Ibrahim hit. Elder brother to nightclub boss John Ibrahim broke his silence at Sydney's Westmead Hospital, saying rumours of a "bikie gang war" were simply untrue. "This is not club related, it has nothing to do with any other club - it's a personal matter," Sam said. "It starts and finishes with that." His lawyer Brett Galloway said Ibrahim, a life member of the Nomads who has "retired" from motorcycle gangs, wanted everyone to know "he has no problem with any other club, or anybody in them". "There's no war, there's no gang tension, it's a personal issue," Galloway said. The men's magazine lingerie babe - model is believed to have hoped on a plane out of the country. A police leak advised the personal nature of the attack was one of the strongest lines of inquiry being chased up on.
Hobart, Tasmania: Gambler David Walsh's Museum Of Old And New Art Gets Attention...
Next week MONA, the $80 million private museum of Hobart-born David Walsh, will open to the public, some two years late. Walsh is a millionaire, a professional gambler and entrepreneur. Walsh was happy to go on the record with a few candid quotes on his collection... "We don't know what 'good' is. We're never going to know what 'good' is because there is no such thing as 'good'. There's taste and there's style and there's charisma and pizzazz and charm and chutzpah. We've got a million words for describing the same thing and nobody really knows what it is." He welcomes feedback on the collection. "Let's bring the disputation and uncertainty back into the gallery. It's an un-museum, that's why it's underground, I guess." Walsh is lapping up the publicity, and its provided him with a more artistic outlet away from the gambling and business endeavors. We will be keeping an eye on this chap who commentators are just starting to call Tasmania's answer to Britain's Damian Aspinall (casino owner and zoo lifestyle lover - owner) who at one time was dating hot Aussie model Elle Macpherson. If you can get down to Tassie, do your best to check out the exhibit. You will be found to go animal. If you can't make it, maybe check out PartyGaming's 'Goanna Gold' and other nature themed slots, and also spare a thought for Captain Cooks Casino and other nature - gaming themed entities. Experts predict that the Walsh exhibit will bring in some solid dollars to Tasmania, with it understood to appeal to cashed up arty types.
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? 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
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Casino News Media: Virgin Casino Offers High Rollers an Industry Leading Sign-Up Bonus
LONDON, January 14, 2011 - Virgin Casino part of the online gaming company - Virgin Games is now offering fantastic new sign-up offers designed uniquely for High Rollers as well as bonus offers for regular players.
Virgin Casino is offering High Rollers one of the best sign-up bonuses in the industry. There are three offers available: GBP350 for a GBP500 deposit, GBP600 for a GBP1,000 deposit, and GBP1,200 for a GBP3,000 deposit. Details of the High Roll sign-up bonuses can be found at VirginCasino.com
For regular players Virgin Casino is offering a 100% sign-up bonus up to GBP100. For details of the promotional offer go to VirginCasino.com
Oliver Wilson, Casino Acquisition Manager at Virgin Games, commented: "For bigger players looking for a better deal than the standard GBP100 sign-up bonus, our High Roller offer is seriously generous and one of the best deals to be had in the industry. We're offering up to GBP1,200 - a great gift for the New Year!"
Founded in 2004, Virgin Games has over 1,000,000 players and over 250 games on its site. Through the introduction of a custom built Virgin Games platform in 2008, Virgin Games seeks to provide its players with the widest possible choice of casino games. A growing selection of games can be found at Virgin Games from a number of producers including Microgaming, WagerWorks, Cryptologic, Freemantle and Ash Gaming.
Notes to editors:
About Virgin Games:
Virgin Games launched in June 2004 and has quickly established itself as one of the leading gaming websites in the UK. Virgin Games comprises three distinct offerings:
- Virgin Casino, offers content from a range of games suppliers including WagerWorks, Microgaming, Cryptologic, Freemantle and Ash Gaming, bringing consumers classic casino games like Blackjack and Roulette, as well as great feature slots like Monopoly, Rubik's, X-Factor and the highly popular MegaJackpots progressive games.
- Virgin Poker, part of the Boss Media network, offers a huge array of games and content for beginners through to experienced pros - as well as the most generous loyalty scheme in the industry - Virgin Bingo, part of the Virtue Fusion network, offers cash prizes worth thousands of pounds in the progressive jackpots, as well as Virgin prize bingo and a range of unique Virgin Games bingo games.
*Sorry, no U.S, Canadian, Australian or New Zealand players. See World Casino Directory
Profiles
Virgin Casino
Virgin Games
Virgin Enterprises Limited
Richard Branson
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Casino
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Virgin Casino is offering High Rollers one of the best sign-up bonuses in the industry. There are three offers available: GBP350 for a GBP500 deposit, GBP600 for a GBP1,000 deposit, and GBP1,200 for a GBP3,000 deposit. Details of the High Roll sign-up bonuses can be found at VirginCasino.com
For regular players Virgin Casino is offering a 100% sign-up bonus up to GBP100. For details of the promotional offer go to VirginCasino.com
Oliver Wilson, Casino Acquisition Manager at Virgin Games, commented: "For bigger players looking for a better deal than the standard GBP100 sign-up bonus, our High Roller offer is seriously generous and one of the best deals to be had in the industry. We're offering up to GBP1,200 - a great gift for the New Year!"
Founded in 2004, Virgin Games has over 1,000,000 players and over 250 games on its site. Through the introduction of a custom built Virgin Games platform in 2008, Virgin Games seeks to provide its players with the widest possible choice of casino games. A growing selection of games can be found at Virgin Games from a number of producers including Microgaming, WagerWorks, Cryptologic, Freemantle and Ash Gaming.
Notes to editors:
About Virgin Games:
Virgin Games launched in June 2004 and has quickly established itself as one of the leading gaming websites in the UK. Virgin Games comprises three distinct offerings:
- Virgin Casino, offers content from a range of games suppliers including WagerWorks, Microgaming, Cryptologic, Freemantle and Ash Gaming, bringing consumers classic casino games like Blackjack and Roulette, as well as great feature slots like Monopoly, Rubik's, X-Factor and the highly popular MegaJackpots progressive games.
- Virgin Poker, part of the Boss Media network, offers a huge array of games and content for beginners through to experienced pros - as well as the most generous loyalty scheme in the industry - Virgin Bingo, part of the Virtue Fusion network, offers cash prizes worth thousands of pounds in the progressive jackpots, as well as Virgin prize bingo and a range of unique Virgin Games bingo games.
*Sorry, no U.S, Canadian, Australian or New Zealand players. See World Casino Directory
Profiles
Virgin Casino
Virgin Games
Virgin Enterprises Limited
Richard Branson
Games
Slots
Casino
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Casino News Media
Global Gaming Directory
Media Man Network
Casino News Media: Iron-Man and friends join PKRCasino - 14th January 2011
Your favourite Marvel comic book superheroes have come to life at PKRCasino.com Step inside and play our 'Marvel-ous' big name new slots which include Iron-Man, The Incredible Hulk, Blade, Daredevil, Elektra and The Fantastic Four right now. Let's play!
Getting your favourite games on PKRCasino is fast, easy and free. Just click on the download button and you'll be playing in no time. Grab our hot 100% launch bonus worth up to $200 when you make your first deposit and you'll get free cash just for playing!
Click on the download button to get PKRCasino.com Once the download is complete, just click on the PKRCasino icon, choose your game and start playing just for fun or for real money. And remember, our friendly Customer Support Team is on hand 24/7 to help.
PKRCasino is part of PKR Limited, a leading online gaming operator which also brought PKR, the world's leading online poker room, to the market.
PKRCasino is licensed and regulated by The Alderney Gambling Control Commission (AGCC). The AGCC is one of only two jurisdictions to be included on the UK government's 'white list' of approved sites. PKRCasino is committed to fairness and integrity.
News
PKR Poker Sponsors Mixed Martial Arts Promoter BAMMA
The past couple of weeks has seen numerous sponsorship deals happening with several high-profile online poker websites, however the latest sponsorship deal doesn’t involve any professional players. European 3D poker site PKR.com have announced that they are teaming up with BAMMA (The British Association of Mixed Martial Arts) to be their new sponsor for the 2011 season.
BAMMA is the promoter for UK Martial Arts and has been putting on live events as well as televised events in the UK since 27th of June 2009. If you are familiar with Martial Arts you may recognise some of the high-profile fights who fight for BAMMA such as Alex ‘Reidernator’ Reid, Tom ‘Kong’ Watson, and Bob ‘The Beast’ Sapp.
Online the subject of the sponsorship deal, Erika Schwartz Poole who is the PKR.com marketing manager had this to say:
"It is with great pleasure that we announce our official partnership with BAMMA. Mixed Martial Arts is becoming hugely popular and we are very much looking forward to working with them throughout the coming year."
Meanwhile Liam Fisher who is the Vice President of Business Development for BAMMA had this to say:
"2011 is a very exciting year for MMA in the UK and to partner with such an innovative and high profile company such as PKR is a true testament as to how much this business has to offer its partners."
Poker players at PKR.com will be hoping the sponsorship deal will mean prizes rewarding seats to BAMMA events which would be something different for players who want a fun night out. Also, if you don’t currently have an account at PKR.com you will be delighted to hear that all new players will receive a 100% up to $800 bonus.
PKR: Let's Play - world leaders in online poker, online casino and sports betting. The future is now!
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PKR.com
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Getting your favourite games on PKRCasino is fast, easy and free. Just click on the download button and you'll be playing in no time. Grab our hot 100% launch bonus worth up to $200 when you make your first deposit and you'll get free cash just for playing!
Click on the download button to get PKRCasino.com Once the download is complete, just click on the PKRCasino icon, choose your game and start playing just for fun or for real money. And remember, our friendly Customer Support Team is on hand 24/7 to help.
PKRCasino is part of PKR Limited, a leading online gaming operator which also brought PKR, the world's leading online poker room, to the market.
PKRCasino is licensed and regulated by The Alderney Gambling Control Commission (AGCC). The AGCC is one of only two jurisdictions to be included on the UK government's 'white list' of approved sites. PKRCasino is committed to fairness and integrity.
News
PKR Poker Sponsors Mixed Martial Arts Promoter BAMMA
The past couple of weeks has seen numerous sponsorship deals happening with several high-profile online poker websites, however the latest sponsorship deal doesn’t involve any professional players. European 3D poker site PKR.com have announced that they are teaming up with BAMMA (The British Association of Mixed Martial Arts) to be their new sponsor for the 2011 season.
BAMMA is the promoter for UK Martial Arts and has been putting on live events as well as televised events in the UK since 27th of June 2009. If you are familiar with Martial Arts you may recognise some of the high-profile fights who fight for BAMMA such as Alex ‘Reidernator’ Reid, Tom ‘Kong’ Watson, and Bob ‘The Beast’ Sapp.
Online the subject of the sponsorship deal, Erika Schwartz Poole who is the PKR.com marketing manager had this to say:
"It is with great pleasure that we announce our official partnership with BAMMA. Mixed Martial Arts is becoming hugely popular and we are very much looking forward to working with them throughout the coming year."
Meanwhile Liam Fisher who is the Vice President of Business Development for BAMMA had this to say:
"2011 is a very exciting year for MMA in the UK and to partner with such an innovative and high profile company such as PKR is a true testament as to how much this business has to offer its partners."
Poker players at PKR.com will be hoping the sponsorship deal will mean prizes rewarding seats to BAMMA events which would be something different for players who want a fun night out. Also, if you don’t currently have an account at PKR.com you will be delighted to hear that all new players will receive a 100% up to $800 bonus.
PKR: Let's Play - world leaders in online poker, online casino and sports betting. The future is now!
Websites
PKRCasino.com
PKR.com
Profiles
PKR.com
PKR Casino
PKR Poker
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
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Media Man Asia
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