Media Man Network

Monday, February 7, 2011

Australian Gambling And Politics: Fun And Games, by Greg Tingle - 7th February 2011

G'day punters, journos, sports nuts, high rollers - casino whales, gambling millionaires and billionaires, media tycoons, politicians, insiders, outsiders, ... one and all. You know who you are. This is yet another instalment into the Australian gambling and political wars, with a dash of techno jargon... Media Man and Gambling911 probe the Australian political landscape and learn that the gambling involvement of Australian politics is astronomical, and is right up there will health care, military - defence and law enforcement...

Biometrics Via Pubs And Clubs Predicted To Have Have Failure Rate; Parliamentary Inquiry Dealing With Here Say, Facts, Lies, Guesses And Agendas...

At the Joint Select Committee on gambling reform chaired by Independent MP Andrew Wilkie last week, Ian Donald, technical director for smart card company Regis Controls said that the biometrics would be an economically unfeasible technology for clubs to implement in curbing problem gambling. He said that biometrics in passports have a 10 per cent failure rate and this would only be compounded in a pub, club or casino environment, where he predicted failure rates as high as 30 per cent. "About 12 per cent of the population do not have a fingerprint. They are too old or they have been engaged in manual work and it may have worn off. There is no wall on the end of their thumb. Biometrics are going to be a much more expensive solution," he told the committee. "This is mainly because, if you have to maintain 197,000 biometric readers ... it is going to be extraordinarily expensive. You are looking at something like five times the cost for biometrics." Donald said there would have to be many exceptions made to the system if biometrics were used. "What do you do if an 80-year-old pensioner wants to play her favourite Black Rhino machine and she has no fingerprint? Do you make an exception? How many exceptions do you make?" Donald said that biometrics would also be easily tampered with. Especially if a USB device is used, as has been floated as part of the review. "It is very easy to overcome biometrics if you are a problem gambler, particularly if it is a USB. All you need is a screwdriver or a penknife and you can destroy the biometric." Donald said USB thumb drives would be "overkill" to reduce problem gambling and advocated a smart card alternative. Donald said each smart card would cost $5 at most to produce and the system could be in place nationally by 2016, because roughly 50% of the industry already had approximately 50 % of poker machines with smart card systems attached. "I would do a pilot to see if this technology works in a club or pub. If you set a national standard by June next year for then I think by 2016, given the average life of a poker machine is about six years, you would find that 90 per cent were smart card enabled," he said. Donald was quick to point out that although Regis Controls was involved in smart card systems, the company would not be bidding for any tenders that eventuated from the review.

South Australian Indy Gambling Authority Not Completely Sold On Smartcard Tech; Shortcomings Obvious; No Magic Bullet; Problem Gamblers Need A Real Cure...

The Independent Gambling Authority (IGA) of South Australia has embraced smartcards to limit problem gambling, in a luke warm fashion, warning politicians last week the technology could have adverse effects on the industry, as well as not be a complete solution or "magic bullet". IGA presiding member, Alan Moss told a recent joint select committee on gambling reform - chaired by crossbench MP Andrew Wilkie that while the organisation’s support for the introduction of smartcard technology had not waned, there was concern around the technology being introduced too rapidly. "Our concern is not that there are problems in regulation per se, our concerns arise more from unintended consequences to the industry if the implementation of this type of smartcard technology is too rapid," Moss said. "We think that it is possible that, if the implementation is too rapid and it is too onerous to get the card, there will be a significant percentage of people who simply stop playing because it is too difficult." According to Moss, the implementation of the smartcard technologies should follow in the footsteps of the anti-smoking legislation which was introduced over a five-year period. "Although there was initially a significant drop in net gaming revenue from poker machines when that legislation was first introduced, over time the hotels have pretty much returned to pre-smoking legislation revenue in relation to their gaming venues." In September last year, the Prime Minister Julia Gillard made a commitment to the overhaul of poker machines with "pre-commitment technology" being applied to the gambling devices by 2014. The technology would require gamblers to log into poker machines via smartcards that will identify them to a network which systematically tracks their play over time. Players would be able to set limits on their play, and exclude themselves from playing at any time. At the time, Wilkie said the login technology would ensure individual settings for the whole system could be easily changed to suit each gambler and drive an overall improvement in their lives. Currently, Moss says South Australia has 900 people actively participating in the barring scheme where people can go to the authority and request to be barred from certain venues, however he notes, this figure is just "the tip of the iceberg". Despite this, Moss maintained the concept of introducing a "maximum bet limit" or "dollar bet limit" would not be beneficial to the industry. Contemplation of other identified technologies, such as biometrics, were also raised at hearings held across the country last week. In a Victorian hearing, Regis Controls technical director, Ian Donald, warned biometrics would be a poor solution, as failure rates could be as high as 20 to 30 per cent. "On one in four occasions that a player wants to log on to a machine, they cannot using a biometric," Donald said. "What happens in that situation?" According to Donald, these failures occur for a number of reasons, including the notion that approximately 12 per cent of the population do not have an identifiable fingerprint, due to old age or manual work. Biometrics would minimise but fail to eliminate card sharing, as some could still use another player's thumbprint. Donald also pointed to the expense involved in implementing and maintaining up to 197,000 biometric readers at poker machines across Australia. "It is totally uneconomic and clubs would close in that situation." The committee is yet to release a final report on its findings. Insiders tip more a new media and pr war on the horizon, as the battle for minds, dollars and votes continue.

Aristocrat Needs Additional Time; Not Playing Games?...

Australia's largest manufacturer of poker machines, Aristocrat Leisure, told a parliamentary inquiry yesterday that the best solution for its attempts to curb problem gambling would involve replacing the 200,000 or so machines installed nationwide. The government has proposed a mandatory pre-commitment agreement, under which punters will have to nominate - before they are allowed to gamble - how much they are prepared to lose.
Aristocrat, the name behind 60 per cent of the poker machines installed throughout Australia, said a ''machine-based'' solution, with restrictions encoded in each poker machine, would minimise infrastructure costs, particularly for smaller venues. In a submission to the inquiry, Aristocrat said that given the complexity and number of monitoring systems for poker machines in Australia, it does not believe a solution based on centralised monitoring across a network is ''achievable by 2014, much less the 2012 deadline contemplated in the Gillard-Wilkie agreement''. Trevor Croker, the head of Aristocrat's Australasian operations, told the inquiry yesterday the company's solution could be rolled out as part of a ''normal machine replacement cycle'' with a completion date of 2016. The committee's chairman, the independent MP Andrew Wilkie, said he could not help but feel there was an element of ''self-interest'' in Aristocrat's proposal ''that will be more costly and take longer to roll out''. He cited a Merrill Lynch report that said a machine-based solution would be in Aristocrat's commercial interests. Replying to the committee's questions, Aristocrat said that its machines had an average retail price of $25,000 but, in some cases, implementing the commitment scheme would only involve a software upgrade costing about $3000. Aristocrat did not offer an estimate of how much its proposal would cost. The company said it sells between 6000 and 7000 poker machines in Australia a year. Clubs Australia also appeared before the committee yesterday but with a far more combative approach towards the government's proposals. It said existing harm-minimisation plans are effective, and offered support only for a voluntary pre-commitment scheme. It also challenged estimates that mandatory pre-commitment could cost as little as $1.50 a day, compared with daily revenues each poker machine of up to $800. "The actual average daily revenue per machine in clubs in NSW is $130, before tax and other expenses," Clubs Australia said in its submission. It said that 250 smaller clubs record daily revenues of only $25 a machine, while the top 25 clubs in the state report daily average revenues of $250. Clubs Australia said the $1.50 a day figure quoted by committee member senator Nick Xenophon was based on a voluntary model in Queensland, not the mandatory, nationally networked version being pursued by the government. "Clubs Australia believes the Australian government has severely underestimated the size and cost of the technical undertaking required to link electronically 197,000 machines, in 5700 venues, with different manufacturers and models, currently operating on different state operating platforms and protocols, by 2014."

Aussie Aristocrat Battles To Stay Positive; Pushes Innovation Despite Troubled Industry...

Gambling juggernaut, Aristocrat, has shown of its latest tech, the Viridian Widescreen cabinet down under in Australia and to land of sheep, New Zealand. The new widescreen cabinet and new games portfolio will be on display at this year’s Club Manager’s Association (CMA) tradeshow (February 28th - March 2nd) and at the Hospitality and Gaming Australasia expo (Mar 16-17). Powered by the Gen7 platform, the Viridian WS provides players with 24% more graphics area, high resolution graphics and enhanced stereo sound. Yeah, hear better how much your winning or loosing! The cabinet will provide a flexible foundation for innovative new game concepts. Aristocrat managing director – Australia and New Zealand, Trevor Croker, said that the 2011 product portfolio is one of the best Aristocrat has put out to date. "Our experienced game designers and product managers have confirmed that this is undeniably the most exciting line-up Aristocrat has had in 10 years. Customers and operators will evidently see that this is a year for genuine forward thinking that delivers real results," Croker said. Along with the Viridian Widescreen cabinet, comes a game portfolio that includes the latest licenced product the Phantom and also Jackpot Catcher, modelled on one of Aristocrat’s most recognisable games... the legendary Indian Dreaming. In addition to these, Aristocrat has a number of exciting new games including Emperor Penguin, Chariot Champion, Don Quixote and Dragon Emperor. "We are excited about the gaming experience that this product portfolio will bring to gaming floors. Our Viridian WS cabinet, new product categories, a solid games library, and innovative product packages, will deliver the performance and diversity customers and operators have been looking for from Aristocrat," Croker said.

One Media Man Int Asia Pacific based media and gambling commentator was overheard to say "Aristocrat are doing some great stuff despite some legal and economic wows. With the game developments, great, but what about the likes of games featuring Ric Flair, Frank Sinatra, John Rambo, Kerry Packer and Underbelly. Punters are crying of for these. We suspect their may be legal complications, but where there is a will, their is a way... unless the likes of IGT and / or WMS have given the Aristocrat paperwork on what they can and can't do, which could be likely given the landscape of the gaming sector at the moment. Kudos to Aristocrat for not giving up, and maintaining the Aussie digger spirit."

PM Gillard To Meet States Over Gambling; May Try To Force Hand; States Bluff Or Hold Ace Or Joker?

Gillard will meet state and territory leaders on Valentines Day, but insiders say their will be no or little love shown. The MP joked heart-shaped bicies will be served and is optimistic "the spirit of Valentine's Day breaks out" This will be Gillard's first Council of Australian Governments summit since snatching the highest office in the land 8 months back. It's also the virginal meet for for Victoria's Ted Baillieu and Tasmania's Lara Giddings. NSW head Kristina Keneally, has the odds staked against her. Will problem gamblers get much of a look in? Some mention almost certainly. The Fed want, and possibly, need, the gambling dollars, as they look to wrestle it away from the states. Gillard made that well documented deal with Tasmanian "independent" (known to be bias when we quizzed punters at the track and local gaming venues) MP Andrew Wilkie. His vote was a key factor in Gillard's victory at the last election. Every pokie will be fitted with new "pre-commitment" technology to limit the amount people can lose, if you believe the spin. Gillard oked to have laws green lighted by May next year, so things would be up and running by 2014. That's the wish anyway. They also aim to enforce a $250 daily withdrawal limit on ATMs at pokie palaces and require warnings to be displayed on screens. On 23rd June 23 2010, the day before Gillard replaced Rudd as Prime Minister, a Productivity Commission report found that 600,000 Australians played the "one armed bandits" at least once a week. Casual gamblers make small bets but "high intensity" players can easily lose $1500 or more in one hour, so the story goes, but may question the figures. $20 billion was gambled away by Aussies between 2008 and 2009, with $12 billion spent feeding the slots. States get $4 billion a year in taxes they net in from gambling. 'Mr X' perhaps trying to get less haters went on record with "I'm not trying to stop gambling. I'm not trying to get rid of pokies". He admits he is trying to reduce harm by the bandits. Wilkie says he has "a genuinely open mind" on pokies. He went on record with "Some can afford to lose $1000 a day while some others can't afford to lose $10". The relevant Aussie minister Jenny Macklin, stated gambling is "a celebrated part of Australian culture" and 145,000 jobs in the hospitality and tourism industries depend on people who like a bet. Who is bluffing, who is a joker, and who holds the cards? Will will find out soon enough.

NRL Match Fixing Scandal: Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs - North Queensland Cowboys; More Investigations And Revelations On The Way...

As you might expect, the arrest of Ryan Tandy for his involvement in the fix is just scratching the surface of things. The club was briefed before Tandy was arrested and charged last week with giving false information to the NSW Crime Commission in its investigation over suspicious betting activity arising from a North Queensland Cowboys-Bulldogs match in Townsville on August 21. "This is not the end of what they're doing," a source said. "This is their way maybe to get closer to it and there's some bigger fish to fry." Tandy is at the centre of the investigation after a plunge was made on a Cowboys penalty goal being the first scoring play. The Canterbury prop gave away a cheap penalty in the opening minutes of the match right in front of his posts. Tandy's home was raided last week and his mobile phone was confiscated by Strike Force Suburb of the Casino and Racing Investigation Unit. The homes of Tandy's manager, Sam Ayoub, and the mother of league identity John Elias have also been raided. Tandy is facing up to five years in jail and has been stood down by the club from all activities pending his appearance at the Downing Centre court on March 3. "The investigations are ongoing and detectives are urging anyone who has been involved with, or who has information about, criminal activity regarding the betting allegations, to come forward and speak to police while they still have the opportunity," a police spokesman said. The Bulldogs refused to speculate on their talks with police after opening up training for the first time since Tandy was arrested, but were happy to present a united front over the decision to stand him down. Chief executive Todd Greenberg, coach Kevin Moore and captain Andrew Ryan all faced the media pack to justify the move, although they admitted to not speaking to Tandy since he was banished last week. "They're not pleasant decisions to make but we thought the decision we made was in the best interests of the club," Greenberg said. "The other players have been very supportive of the decision and they're confident they can start preparing for the 2011 season right now." The NRL also refused to comment on its discussions with police but chief executive David Gallop said the incident could prompt changes, including creating a post to police the area. The league is one of several sports working with former Australian Cricket and ICC chief Malcolm Speed on ways to combat illegal gambling. "We don't have a full-time employee dedicated to that but we've obviously been fortunate to pull in (NSW racing steward) Ray Murrihy, an absolute expert in the field," Gallop said. "We'll be reviewing our resources and, as I say, working with the other sports and the government to see what we need to do to make sure there's no suggestion of corruption around rugby league. "An in-house resource may well not have the expertise Ray Murrihy has, so there are different arguments around the issue but certainly where we need dedicated resources we won't hesitate putting them in place." The Bulldogs had a disappointing season last year but have recruited strongly. Trent Hodkinson, Kris Keating, Frank Pritchard and Aiden Tolman have joined for 2011. The club will play its first trial match of the season against Sydney Roosters at Leichhardt Oval on Saturday night and there will be plenty of interest in the squad that Moore names on Tuesday. "It was a tough one (to stand Tandy down) but we've got a competition to focus on and our preparations right through the off-season have been on the trial matches starting this weekend," Moore said. "It's a decision based on the best interests of everyone." Ryan admitted he felt sorry for his former teammate but the club had made the right decision and the players needed to move on. "Obviously it's disappointing but we've got games to play this coming Saturday. Our focus is to play footy this weekend and hopefully get the best 17 out on the field for game one," Ryan said. Gambling911 and Media Man are hopeful that the NRL once and all can eliminated any more match fixing scandals.

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

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Sunday, February 6, 2011

Media Man - Casino News Media - Global Gaming Directory - News Update

PartyCasino Wins Media Man 'Online Casino Of The Month' Award

Online gaming companies in for huge 2011

Online Gaming Heating Up in Australia

Real Life Underbelly NRL Style

Queensland Floods Cost Tabcorp Millions In Lost Revenue And More…

Joe Francis - Indicted Over Alleged $2M Gambling Debt

Gambling, Drugs, Cocaine; Punters With Problems Targeted By Crime Lords

Australia Zoo Viva Crocodile Las Vegas Back On

Crown Casino Demands Aussie Govt Lift Game For Asian High Rollers

Crown Aussie Million's Poker $250,000 - Greg Tingle Australia Report

NRL South Sydney Rabbitohs: Star City Casino Partnership!

The Shane Warne Show At Aussie Millions 2011

Australia Day 2011 Gambling Special

Crown Aussie Millions; James Packer Special

Running out of Internet Addresses: We Were Right

Tingle: 3D Movies And Slot Games Not Dead Yet

Tingle: Australian Underbelly History and the Anti Pokie Song

Aussie Celeb News; James Bond Casino Icon Connection

Real Life Underbelly in Sin City Sydney

Australian Gambling: Deals, Art, Politics And Vice

Australian Gambling On Pre-Commitment Pokies: Lovers vs. Haters

International Gaming Technology vs. Aristocrat Leisure Legal Battle Ensues

Australian Casino Tourism Smoking Hot Report

Gambling On Australia's Anti-Money Laundering Counter Terrorism Hit List

Tingle: Australian Gambling Regulation Won't Wipe Out Problem Gambling

Australia To Get Sports Stadiums Branded By Gambling and Gaming Companies

Australia Pokie and News Media Wars for January 14, 2011

Australia Remains In Top 10 For Gambling

Australian Pokies Saviour Or Villain; Lovers VS Haters

Crown Casino Refuse Jackpot Payment; ClubsNSW VS PokieAct

Lasseter’s Hotel Casino Getting Tough On Violent Drunks

Australian Kids Copy Parents Gambling Habits

Aussie Media Man Talks Domain Names: Gambling.com, Poker.com.au

Australian Casino, Sporting And Gambling Round Up – January 8

Brendan Fevola Released From Jail: Adelaide Clubs Get Tough On Gambling

Costigan Commission Going After Kerry Packer

Australian Land Based Casinos Rank Among The Best In The World?

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Saturday, February 5, 2011

Australian Media And Gambling Wars; Aussie Rich List, by Greg Tingle - 6th February 2011

Virgin Hotels 'at least two years away' - 1st February 2011

Sir Richard Branson has said that his much-anticipated new hotel brand Virgin Hotels is still two years away from launching.

According to reports in US media, he told the American Lodging and Investment Summit that finding sites for the new hotel chain wasn't proving easy, although he did confirm a few places where travelers will be able to enjoy Virgin's almost-legendary hospitality.

San Diego and Washington DC are likely candidates, and Branson also announced that one of the the first sites will be in New Mexico, overlooking the spaceport which will send his Virgin Galactic tourist flights into space.

He also told conference attendees that each hotel will be different, saying that putting a Virgin stamp on the hotels wasn't enough and that the goal was to be the "funnest" hotel for guests to go to.

Fans of the outlandish British billionaire who are disappointed by the wait can take solace in exciting new hotels from America's favorite businessman Donald Trump, scheduled for the not-too-distant future.

The luxury hotel brand is set to open its first properties outside of the US in the coming months - the Trump Ocean Club Panama and the Trump International Hotel & Tower Toronto are both expected in the spring.

The hotels, which will be added to the five-star portfolio of properties in New York, Las Vegas and Chicago, are built to the exacting standards of Donald and his daughter Ivanka and are both record breakers - the Panama property is the tallest and largest building in Latin America and the Toronto hotel the tallest residential building in Canada.

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Friday, February 4, 2011

Media Man Network Updated

Real Life Underbelly NRL Style, by Greg Tingle - 5th February 2011

G'day punters, journos, sports nuts, high rollers - casino whales, gambling millionaires and billionaires, media tycoons, politicians, insiders, outsiders, law enforcement agencies, legal eagles ... one and all. You know who you are. This is Real Life Underbelly - NRL style!... Media Man and Gambling911 go beneath the underbelly of Australia's National Rugby League, where the real news is...

Australian Police Swoop On NRL Bet Scandal; Blow By Blow Account...

It's goes like this...early Tuesday, coppers with search warrants, hone in simultaneously on the shacks of Doggies star play Ryan Tandy, player agent big wig Sam Ayoub and former NRL great John Elias. Tandy is in bed at eastern suburbs Bronte. Ayoub is getting ready to go to work in the Strathfield home he shares with former Roosters and now Parramatta Eels player Brad Murray. Elias, who recently penned a tale about his involvement in various crimes and time in the clink, lives with mum at Punchbowl in Sydney's south west. Police search for any breakthrough evidence in the NRL betting scandal from the highly suspicious Cowboys-Bulldogs game late last season. Officers raid the homes, confiscate mobile phones, search cars, seize computers... you get the idea.. Ayoub quizzed by the press over the past few days refuses comment, having denied any illegal activity. Yep, he's a cleanskin. "I don't know who is telling you things," Ayoub said. "I'm with people...I've got to go," he added, before hanging up. Ayoub is Tandy's manager, the player who gave away the controversial penalty which sparked the Racing NSW stewards inquiry that was later passed over to police. Ayoub, who shares a house with Murray, was captured on CCTV footage placing substantial wagers on the option of Cowboys scoring first points from a penalty goal. Ayoub has confirmed he placed a bet on a Cowboys penalty goal as the first score but says it's an option he often takes when gambling on NRL games. Elias said he was shocked when police knocked on his door, although he was aware of the rumours that he bet heavily on the game in question and the penalty goal option under investigation. "Is there now a law against having a bet?" Elias said. "I have done absolutely nothing wrong. People know I like to have a bet on the footy, but so do a lot of other fans." News Limited understands police showed Elias photos of a punter placing bets at the Rozelle and Haberfield TAB outlets and asked if it was him. He confirmed it in fact was. The raids follow over 4 months of investigations by coppers, involving interviews with dozens of NRL players, officials and managers. A massive amount of resources are being throw at the case. It's a secret what cops found in the search. The dees confirmed they seized relevant documentation and mobile phones, while one leak be prepared for more to come out at the Crime Commission this week." Ayoub, Murray and Tandy all appeared before the NSW Crime Commission within the last week before dees raided their homes. No findings of wrongdoing were made against them. Tandy was recalled and later charged for allegedly providing false evidence to a law enforcement agency during an investigation. At a presser later, Detective Superintendent Arthur Katsogiannis claimed the information Tandy provided to police was far more serious than "a white lie". "This is the type of lie that carries very serious ramifications," he alleged. He refused to comment on how many other players would be charged in relation to the investigation. "It's not a game - this is real life, and police will continue with their investigations in an endeavour to uncover the truth and ensure justice is done," Katsogiannis said. "Detectives will continue to use every available resource to uncover the truth and complete their investigation. "If anyone has been involved with, or has information about criminal activity regarding betting allegations, we urge them to come forward and assist police while they have the opportunity."

Players And Agents Part Of Real Life Underbelly?...

An underworld type has been seriously implicated in the NRL's latest scandal. Police investigating match-fixing claims executed search warrants at a Punchbowl home early on Tuesday morning. In the home lives mum Susan, John Elias, 3 times a jailbird and a self-confessed match fixer, race rigger and stand-over man, whose knows the who is who of the underworld. In the 80s and 90's Elias was a huge star. When not playing footy he would sometimes engage in robberies and other criminal behavior. He had very close ties to crime figure Danny Karam. Karam was murdered by gunshot in 1998 by his partner Michael "Doc" Kanaan. Elias's "Kings Cross family" is understood to be headed by friend John Ibrahim. "'John is now arguably the most influential man of his kind in Sydney, a Lebanese immigrant like myself but with infinitely more connections" wrote Elias in his autobiography Sin Bin, which hit the shelves in 2010. When in jail he got to build more connections with crims, as you would expect, even with murderer and drug trafficker Neddy Smith. Smith, was a key part of the puzzle that saw Elias put $1 million with illegal bookies on the infamous game between Wests and Elias's then-team Souths circa 1994. Smith gave Elias money to pay 4 Souths players $25,000 each to play poorly, while 4 Wests players were bucks to play their guts out! That was that the the games' outcome almost a lock. Elias placed $1 million with illegal bookies on Wests to win. The fix had some similarities to the alleged Cowboys-Bulldogs case of last year, where there was a plunge for the Cowboys to score first by way of a penalty goal. In both cases, it was the pre-game betting that set of the warning a fix might be up. Due to the 1994 plunge, the media speculated a fix was on.
The fix was called off at the last moment the story goes, but not all are totally convinced. "While there's no such thing as a certainty in gambling, there were ways to stack the odds in your favour," writes Elias in his book. While betting scams were one thing, his also loved putting the fix on the trots. "So where do I go from here?" pens Elias in his book. "Now that you know my life's story, I'm hoping you can be the judge.". The tainted anti hero is expect to get strong book sales and numerous media opportunities, but not all will be positive, however some will be balanced. He will be back in the news.

NRL In Bed With Gambling; A Safe Bet Or Not?...

Ryan Tandy's recent arrest is the closest anyone, player, agent or other, has come to being charged following an investigation into betting on the NRL. Despite criticism of the growing ties with the NRL and its clubs have with bookies via betting and sponsorship, it is those lines of communication that helped NSW chief racing steward Ray Murrihy decide that the matter should be handed over to the coppers, our friend - the Boys In Blue. The NRL insists that betting agencies associated with the game sign agreements that insist on co-operation. It was those integrity agreements that Murrihy, who was called in by the NRL as a consultant, was able to work out the level of betting activity on the first scoring option in last August's Cowboys-Bulldogs match at Dairy Farmers Stadium, and where the wagers were placed. He then decided there was enough solid evidence to warrant the involvement of the NSW Police Casino and Racing Unit, which then organised hearings before the New South Wales Crime Commission. Recent developments such as Penrith renaming their home ground to CentreBet Stadium, Manly entering a sponsorship agreement with CentreBet, and South Sydney wearing the Star City casino logo on the front of their jersey have lifted concerns about the growing involvement of gambling firms in the footy. Crown Casino is now confirmed as the Melbourne Storm's new major sponsor. Gambling on sport is big business, in Australia and around the globe, and punters will bet money on matches regardless of whether the NRL and clubs are officially involved or not. The game wants to profit, which is fair enough, as betting on sport, events and such is hear to stay, well entrenched in Australian culture. Let it be known to all...the police charges against the Doggies front-rower for giving false evidence. They are not directly related to the betting on the game as such, but often where there is smoke, there is fire. The probe has also revealed that Parramatta halfback Brad Murray placed a bet on the Cowboys-Bulldogs game, which is contrary to NRL rules and likely to lead to sanctions against Murray...although there is no suggestion he did anything illegal. Back in 1994, the game was subjected to similar rumours and allegations, involving players from the South Sydney Rabbitohs and Magpies that were never conclusively probed. Tainted ex footy NRL legend ... the anti hero - Elias surged up the best-sellers with his book in which goes on to tell how he had tried to fix a match, the last of the season. Elias, who was playing for The Bunnies at the time, claimed to have been offered $50,000 for himself and another $100,000 to buy off teammates to ensure Wests won. He explained in detail how he organised the sting, and then called it the evening before the game. Four Souths players including Sinclair, who passed away last year sued for defamation. There have been rumours and allegations of other betting rorts in between but no wrongdoing has ever been proved. Betting and the NRL is a curious mix, but is it a case of better the devil you know, than the one you don't? If the NRL teams do deals with the gaming and betting sector, one would think they can better keep a finger on the pulse of the situation, but would they be fooling themselves? Time will tell... maybe!

Don't change your dial punters. We will be back soon with more of the saga that is Real Life Underbelly NRL style.

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

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Thursday, February 3, 2011

Aussie Gambling News: Australia's Tabcorp Revenue Leaks From Flood, by Greg Tingle - 4th February 2011

G'day punters, journos, high rollers - casino whales, gambling millionaires and billionaires, entertainment news junkies, media tycoons, politicians, insiders, outsiders, ... one and all. You know who you are. Today we take a close look at how the Queensland floods put a hole in Tabcorp's revenue, Aussie sports betting reform, Packer's boat floating off Manly getting some heat and lots more. Media Man and Gambling911 play Water World with this wet wet wet news report...

Queensland Floods Cost Tabcorp Millions In Lost Revenue...

Gaming, betting and gabling firm Tabcorp Holdings Ltd advised the recent floods on the east coast of Australia in January have wiped $10 million from revenue. Tabcorp is still expecting to see revenue and earnings growth in the second half of 2010-11. Tabcorp posted a 2.9% lift in first half profit to $265.5 million, up from $257.9 million in the prior corresponding window. Tabcorp said its normalised net profit for the half year was $272 million, up 3% on the prior corresponding half. Normalised net profit takes into account variations in the "theoretical win rate" against high-rolling punters. It excludes costs associated with Tabcorp's plans to demerge its casinos division from its other operations to form 2 listed companies. Shares in Tabcorp were 22 cents higher, by 3.19%, at $7.12 (10.24am on Thursday). Tabcorp chief executive Elmer Funke Kupper advised that each of the company's 3 operating divisions was forecasting an lift in revenue and earnings performance in the second half of the financial year. "The recent floods put some uncertainty in the immediate outlook for consumer spending in Queensland. Nevertheless, we are expecting to see positive underlying growth in the second half of the year. This gives us confidence that we are on the right path with our investment programs", Funke Kupper went on record with. Tabcorp noted the recent Queensland floods had affected trading at its Treasury casino and hotel in Brisbane, with a large dive in visitors during the floods and immediately afterwards. Tabcorp's other casinos experienced a small impact and operated normally, with Jupiters Hotel and Casino on the Gold Coast and Star City in 'Sin City' Sydney continuing on with the momentum. Wet weather in Queensland, NSW and Victoria also affected Tabcorp's wagering business as the number of abandoned horse and dog races rose. Tabcorp estimated that the immediate revenue impact of the January floods and wet weather was about $10 million. Despite the floods, normalised group revenues grew 2.5% in January 2011, which Tabcorp said indicated good underlying growth. Tabcorp said that in the first half, all 3 business divisions achieved positive revenue and earnings growth, with the strongest growth recorded in casinos. Group expenses rose 4.6%, driven by costs associated with Tabcorp's massive upgrade and expansion of its casinos. The $960 million redevelopment of Star City in Sydney was said to be progressing to plan. In the first half, Tabcorp announced that it intended to invest $625 million in upgrading its Queensland casinos. Tabcorp said plans to separate its casinos business from its wagering, gaming and keno businesses into separate, listed companies were on track. The target date for the proposed demerger remained June 30, 2011. Tabcorp plans to have a "scheme booklet" available during April 2011, and to hold an extraordinary general meeting in the late part of May or early June to allow shareholders to vote on the demerger proposal. Tabcorp's revenue for the 6 months to December 31, 2010 was $2.26 billion, up 3.5% from $2.18 billion. Tabcorp declared an interim dividend of 24 cents per share, fully franked. Tabcorp looks poised for a solid to good 12 months. James Packer's Crown Limited has recently downplayed talk of a potential buy out of Tabcorp, but didn't completely rule it out either.

James Packer's Z Sydney Whale Size Yacht Gets's Shelly Beach Locals Talking...

Asia Pacific gambling and media tycoon James Packer had folks talking this week with his monster yacht, Z Sydney, anchored off Shelly Beach. While Packer’s luxury boat might seem large for Cabbage Tree Bay, it’s just one of many similar boats that have been seen on Pittwater, behind Sydney's Northern Beaches over summer. Broken Bay water police commander senior sergeant Chris Morgan said the larger boats were self-contained and rarely caused any problems. "Packer’s boat is big but there are plenty of other big ones," he said. Palm Beach water taxi driver Brad Fogarty said there were "plenty of big boats" between Christmas and New Year. "I think Ilonka was the biggest, but so was Northern Star, which had a chopper on the back and five or six tenders," he said. What a life a big time gambling and media business can bring hey.

Australia Just Weeks Away From Combating Illegal Sports Betting Corruption?...

The top brass of the down unders lucky 7 major sports could be only weeks away from approving a raft of measures designed to combat the stench of illegal gambling. Former Australian cricket chief Malcolm Speed is in the final stages of compiling a report into how the Coalition of Major Professional Participation Sports (COMPPS)...which represents rugby league, rugby union, AFL, netball, tennis, football and cricket...can combat corruption. We understand the codes have scrapped plans to form an integrity commission but are focused on convincing the federal government to bring in laws to cater specifically for illegal gambling on sport. The latest developments come as the NRL endures yet more negative headlines relating to suspicious betting activity on last year's round 24 game between the Bulldogs and North Queensland. Bulldogs forward Ryan Tandy was arrested and charged 2 days ago after allegedly providing false evidence to a law enforcement agency in relation to the matter. Tandy, at the centre of police probes into the game, has denied any wrongdoing. Police declined to comment on the prospect of further arrests in coming days, although they did confirm their investigation into the suspect game could be completed by the end of this month. Speed provided a draft document to a working group of the 7 major sports which was discussed at length via meetings over the past 2 days. He took note of their feedback and fully expects to finalise his recommendations within 2 weeks. "We have now reached a stage where a number of changes have been suggested," Speed said. "Most of the issues are resolved but there are a couple that have not quite been resolved. It will now go from that working party to the seven chief executives of the sports. There are some recommendations on some action the sports should take to make sure so far as possible they have covered all of the options in relation to gambling and corruption." While there were suggestions the sports would join forces to form an integrity commission designed to track and watch out for suspicious gambling activity, it is understood that concept has gone by the wayside. However, the sports are in agreement over the need for sports-specific legislation which would allow governments to take action against anyone involved in illegal activity. "It's important that each sport has its own processes to deal with anti-corruption," Speed said. "What's become apparent is there are some things we can do together that are cost-effective and more effective by doing them together. They're the sort of things we'll be recommending to the chief executives." The sports have already held talks with federal Sports Minister Mark Arbib to discuss the subject of jail sentences for athletes in relation to match fixing. The concept has already been adopted in Britain where athletes face jail sentences for corruption. We tip that some current and former players and players agents will do jail time, by the time the proposals become law.

A Media Man spokesperson said "On the surface the new proposal containing ways to combat corruption looks impress. Something needed to be done, and this looks to be it. Some laws will be more general, while some are sport specific. That approach will help catch out the bad apples. Many of our friends and associates are excited and positive about the forecast changes. Everyone should win... except for the bad guys who have been engaged in corruption. Here's to a much cleaner Australian sporting landscape in 2011".

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Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:

Take the time to research and learn games and sports 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.

Keep your head above water!

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

*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911

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

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Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Australian Gambling: States VS Federal Gvt With Mr X Factor, by Greg Tingle - 2nd February 2011

G'day punters, journos, high rollers - casino whales, gambling millionaires and billionaires, media tycoons, politicians, insiders, outsiders... one and all. You know who you are. Today we take a look at war between the Australian states and the federal government, as the battle for revue (and your minds) heats up. Its Govt VS Govt, man VS machine, and lovers VS haters once again. Media Man and Gambling911 probe the pro vs anti slot reform state of play...

Aussie Legal Eagles Tipped To Play Strong Role In Federal VS Government Pokie Revenue War...

The Labor government is surging forward like a bull at a gate, its pokies pre-commitment scheme, releasing legal advice affirming its "constitutional powers" to introduce national anti-gambling measures. The advice from the Australian Government Solicitor was commissioned as part of the deal struck between Julia Gillard and independent MP Andrew Wilkie on September 2 which delivered Labor minority government. Under the deal, Labor agreed to begin implementing pre-commitment technology by 2012, set a $250 limit on ATMs in poker machine venues and mandate pop-up display warnings on "one armed bandits". Families Minister Jenny Macklin and Assistant Treasurer Bill Shorten said the advice showed the commonwealth had a range of constitutional powers - including the corporations, telecommunications, banking, currency, taxation and territories powers - to meet its promise to Wilkie. But as the first hearing of a parliamentary inquiry into the proposed gambling reforms got under way in Adelaide, Macklin struck a conciliatory note, saying the government's preference was to work with states and territories to tackle the problem.

MP Andrew Wilkie: States Must Accept Poker Machine Reform...

Poker machine operators and state governments must accept tougher controls on gaming machines to tackle problem gambling, independent MP Andrew Wilkie stated. Wilkie took legal advice that the federal government had the power to force through reforms on poker machine gambling, including technology to have all gamblers set betting limits. He advised state governments should now come on board and embrace the proposed reforms while pubs and clubs should co-operate or "get out of the way". "My message to the states now is that the writing is on the wall, that the commonwealth government has the power to intervene and it's clearly in the interests of the states that they now co-operate to bring about these very important reforms," he told reporters in Adelaide. "It is abundantly clear that the overwhelming majority of Australians favour reform of problem gambling and reform of poker machine legislation in particular." The federal government wants a national scheme agreed to by May, which could feature a smart card or USB system that stores gamblers' fingerprints. Street surveys and meetings held in clubs about poker machine reform at at odds with Wilkie's claim that Aussies want reform, or want to be told what to spend or what to do. Daily withdrawal limits on ATMs near pokies and electronic warning signs are also part of the curious deal Labor struck with Wilkie to gain his backing after the 2010 federal election. Some insiders are saying that the deal "was no way to conduct politics or write policy". Community Services Minister Jenny Macklin said the priority was to broker a national agreement to address the "serious problem in Australia". "It (problem gambling) ruins lives, it can ruin family lives," she told reporters in Canberra. Measures being considered were included in a Productivity Commission inquiry, which found that gambling adversely affected up to 500,000 Aussie each year. Setting "one armed bandit" limits at $1, considerably down from $10 and 6-hour shutdown periods on gaming machines from 2am in hotels and clubs were also recommended. The reform proposal is tipped to force gamblers to find ways around the system, with talk of getting fake fingerprint kits, swapping cards within their social network, and doing more gambling over the internet.
A parliamentary joint select committee on gambling reform began hearings in Adelaide this past Tuesday to advise the government on the implementation of a pre-commitment scheme which could use technology to allow gamblers to set daily, weekly or longer betting limits. South Australia's gambling authority told the committee it backed the pre-commitment technology but said it must be national and mandatory to be successful. "Anything less than mandatory simply will not work," SA Independent Gambling Authority boss Allan Moss said. Many clubs and media commentators say the system will not work no matter that they try, as gamblers will always find ways to get what they want, legally or illigally, such is the nature of the beast. Independent Senator Nick Xenophon, who also sits on the committee and was first elected to the South Australian parliament on a no pokies ticket, described the operation of gaming machines as a "greedy and desperate industry" that would do all it could to stymie reform. Wilkie said elements within club and hotel groups had peddled "downright lies" about the impacts of poker machine reform. "It's about time they realised a decision has been made to implement a mandatory, pre-commitment system," he said. "As far I'm concerned it's well beyond time for the industry to either start co-operating with us and be honest with their patrons or just get out of the way and let the government and myself get on with the job." The committee hearings will move to Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney later this week The war between the poker haters and lovers is set to intensify, with gamblers looking for ways to beat the system - the new Big Brother.

Aussie Gamblers Look To Beat Big Brother Pokie Limits...

Aussie slot machine players may be able to dodge a proposed new requirement that they set a limit on how much they want to gamble as the Gillard government considers giving them the option of setting no limit on their bets! The option threatens to undermine the purpose of the crucial gambling reform deal Labor made with independent MP Andrew Wilkie to gain his support in the hung parliament. Families Minister Jenny Macklin told Rupert Murdoch's News Limited that while it would be mandatory for every gambler to set a limit before they gambled, the Productivity Commission had proposed that "no limit" could be one of the options gamblers could choose. "That is an issue that is still being discussed by the ministerial expert group and by the parliamentary committee; it hasn't been finalised," she said. Clubs Australia, which opposes mandatory limits on gambling, says other ways gamblers could dodge the practical effect of the new rules would be to set absurdly high limits such as $1 million. "What about if someone sets a nil limit or someone sets a limit of $1 million -- these are questions that haven't been answered," Clubs Australia executive director Anthony Ball said. "This isn't what Mr Wilkie has in mind; he has in mind a binding daily limit of, let's say, $100 or $200. This is where it's going," he said. The Productivity Commission suggests clubs should set a series of default limits on playing time or spending that gamblers could choose to vary with their personal limit if they chose. "A flexible system would allow the gambler to choose their own limits on any one of these options, but include the option of 'no limit' as one of their choices," the commission says in its report into gambling. "As setting no limits on spending involves genuine risks to a gambler, there should be periodic checking that this remains their preference." The government has pledged to introduce a mandatory precommitment system to poker machine players by 2014. It has given the states until May 31 to agree to introduce laws to this effect but it received legal advice this week that says it can use its own powers to override the states if they refuse to do this. Many state governments rely heavily on poker machine revenue and The Australian reported yesterday at least four states are reluctant to adopt the a mandatory precommitment system. Wilkie, who is taking part in a parliamentary committee that is examining a precommitment scheme, has refused to comment on the option of "no limit" or absurdly high limits. Readers, would you set your betting limit to one million or no limit? The war of words and actions between the pro vs anti machine groups wages on.

Pokie Palaces Like Second Home: Feels Good Says Lonely Women...

It's been widely reported that socially isolated women are becoming problem gamblers because they see pokies venues as a "home away from home", a federal Parliamentary inquiry has been told. Former problem gambler Gabriela Byrne said today that many women were lured by venues that were specially designed to make people feel good. "The place itself is attractive to go to and then they fall into the gambling trap," she said. Ms Byrne, who lost $40,000 gambling during a five-month period in the 1990s, appeared before Parliament's joint select committee on gambling reform in a Melbourne hearing yesterday.
Committee chairman Andrew Wilkie, a Tasmanian independent MP, has a deal with the Gillard Government for the introduction of a scheme requiring gamblers to set a limit on how much they are prepared to lose before they start playing. Ms Byrne said she would have saved a lot of money and caused fewer problems for her family if such a scheme had existed when she was gambling. "All I wanted to do was feed the beast," she said. Federal Minister for Families Jenny Macklin confirmed today that the Government had legal advice clearing the way for it to introduce laws to cut problem gambling on poker machines. Australian clubs (and casinos) have many clear warnings re gamblers to set limits or "know your limits", but some people still get into trouble.

The Australian Federal Government Tells States To Act Urgently On Slots Reform...

The federal government has received legal advice that it has extensive powers to force clubs into poker machine reform, but Families Minister Jenny Macklin has urged reluctant state governments to act first. Victoria and NSW oppose a mandatory scheme of "pre-commitment" technology to curb problem gambling that the Gillard government has promised to install on all poker machines nationally by 2014. Under a deal with Tasmanian independent MP Andrew Wilkie, the federal government has until May to get the states to agree to use their powers, otherwise it must push through using Commonwealth legislation.
Advice from the Australian government solicitor shows the federal government can use taxation law to impose a high tax upon clubs that can only be exempted if they comply with new restrictions. It could also apply the Corporations Act to make most gaming venues and poker machine manufacturers reform or face stiff penalties. It could use banking law to limit ATM withdrawals to $250 at pokie venues; ban the manufacture, interstate sale or importation of machines that lack the new technology; and use the Telecommunications Act to require pokies to download warning systems. But a combination of regulations may be needed. "My objective is to continue to work to get an agreement with the states and territories," Ms Macklin said. "As far as the new Victorian government is concerned, the Liberal Party has on many occasions said that they understand that problem gambling is a serious issue in Australia and that we need to be doing more."

Victorian Government VS State Government (Credit: ABC News)

TONY EASTLEY: Victoria says it will push ahead with its own plans for voluntary gambling limits on poker machines in defiance of the Federal Government.

The Commonwealth has pledged to introduce compulsory pre-commitment technology on pokies to limit the amount of money problem gamblers can lose.

The Prime Minister made the promise last year to secure the support of independent MP Andrew Wilkie in forming a minority government.

To back its case the Commonwealth has released legal advice affirming its right to legislate if the states refuse.

Victoria's described the advice as a dog's breakfast of constitutional provisions.

The state's Gaming Minister Michael O'Brien has spoken to Sabra Lane.

MICHAEL O'BRIEN: The regulation of gambling is and always has been a matter for the states.

And we think the problem gambling is too serious an issue to be the subject of legal threats by the Federal Government using, frankly, a dog's breakfast of constitutional provisions.

SABRA LANE: Do you have your own legal advice?

MICHAEL O'BRIEN: We're taking advice at the moment, but certainly whatever the legalities of the matter the clear fact is that this is a matter that is best left to the states.

The Victorian Coalition went to the election in November last year with a clear plan for tackling problem gambling that includes requiring pre-commitment on all machines that would be available for use by customers.

We're not going to be distracted from implementing our plan by the Gillard Government's posturing which is borne of its own political needs rather than the best policy outcomes.

SABRA LANE: Federal Independent Andrew Wilkie has stipulated that these things need to be done for his continued support of the Gillard Government, and the Government is showing every indication of trying to stick to what he's demanded.

You're saying that you're not going to play ball?

MICHAEL O'BRIEN: We're interested in the best policy outcome. That's not driven by the Gillard Government's political need to keep one Tasmanian Independent MP on side.

We've got a clear thought out plan to deal with problem gambling that includes pre-commitment. But we want to implement that without getting distracted by a federal bunfight which is all for the benefit of Mr Wilkie and Mrs Gillard rather than the actual needs of problem gamblers.

SABRA LANE: On the pre-commitment technology, you disagree that it should be compulsory for all problem gamblers?

MICHAEL O'BRIEN: Victoria believes that pre-commitment should be available on every single gaming machine in the state, and we want to see that implemented as soon as possible really.

But we do believe that the choice to use the technology should be with the individual player. It shouldn't be a case of a big brother government forcing players to provide personal details to get some sort of ID card to be able to play a gaming machine.

We think that's intrusive and, more to the point, it won't help problem gamblers because all the research shows that that sort of activity doesn't affect problem gamblers.

Pre-commitment works best when people want to modify their behaviour. That means a voluntary system will work where a compulsory system just won't.

SABRA LANE: If the Commonwealth does take over the control of gaming machines how much does your state stand to lose? At the moment a fair amount of your gaming revenue does come from poker machines.

MICHAEL O'BRIEN: Look I'd be delighted if there weren't any problem gamblers contributing a single dollar to Victorian revenue. As Gaming Minister I want to see a gaming system in Victoria which is there for recreation and entertainment but is not the subject of the heartache and misery that problem gambling does lead to.

So no-one's more committed than I am and the Government in Victoria to tackling problem gambling.

SABRA LANE: Under Andrew Wilkie's stipulations the states have to agree to this new pre-commitment technology by the end of May. It sounds like you won't be signing up to that.

Have you actually had any talks with the Commonwealth about this yet?

MICHAEL O'BRIEN: No, I understand that various officials between Commonwealth and the states have been in discussions ahead of a select COAG (Council of Australian Governments) meeting to take place at the end of February. But certainly I haven't had any phone calls from Mr Shorten or Ms Macklin on this issue.

But I'll be very happy to explain to them why Victoria's plan to tackle problem gambling is far better than anything the Commonwealth is able to come up with.

SABRA LANE: And you won't be signing up to anything the Federal Government offers?

MICHAEL O'BRIEN: We've got a clear plan. We were elected by the Victorian people to implement that plan. What the Commonwealth is proposing will do nothing for problem gambling. It's really borne of their own political necessity rather than good policy outcomes.

So there's no reason why Victoria should have to change our clearly thought-out plan to bend to the Commonwealth's interests on this one.

TONY EASTLEY: The Victorian Gaming Minister Michael O'Brien speaking to Sabra Lane.

Ex Slots Junkie Backs Gambling Smartcard...

A former poker machine addict has told a Federal Parliamentary inquiry that a card to limit gambling losses could achieve long-term success in easing the problem. The inquiry is in Adelaide for the first of four public hearings across Australia. It is considering how a pre-commitment gambling scheme could work to make people set limits on their losses before they gamble. Sue Pinkerton said she was addicted to the pokies for six years. She said a card to limit losses would be a partial solution to problem gambling. "While people are still exposed, allowed unlimited exposure and convenient access ... some individuals are still unfortunately going to develop an addiction to them," she said. The head of the parliamentary inquiry, MP Andrew Wilkie, has welcomed indications the Federal Government might legislate to reduce problem gambling involving poker machines. The Government has received legal advice which indicates it has the power to override the states and territories to achieve gambling reform. Mr Wilkie says rather than delay the inevitable, the states should sign on now for a scheme in which people set limits on their losses before they gamble. "It's clearly in the interests of the states that they now co-operate willingly with the Federal Government to bring about these very important reforms and in particular the implementation of a mandatory pre-commitment scheme on all poker machines in the country by 2014," he said. South Australian Independent Senator Nick Xenophon said the states alone could not be trusted to ease gambling addiction and its effects. "You can't trust state governments when it comes to poker machines because they're hooked on the $4 billion a year they take in taxes, that's why the Commonwealth intervention is the best way to tackle this problem once and for all," he said.

Australian Gambling Revenue: Federal VS States War; Gillard And Wilkie Deal Gets Heat...

The battle between the Commonwealth and Australian states over pokies continues machines. In return for support on the floor of Parliament, Prime Minister, Julia Gillard, promised the Tassie MP Andrew Wilkie that by close of business today she would have legal advice on whether the Commonwealth could go it alone in imposing change. At stake are reforms to combat problem gambling...and billions of dollars of state revenue. Gillard has undertaken to change how the machines work. She plans to implement a commitment scheme. Gamblers set a limit on how much they are prepared to lose...require machines to display dynamic warnings and impose a limit of $250 on ATM withdrawals in poker machine venues. Gamblers have already found ways to combat the system, speaking and dealing with their other pokie mates, as well as some hitting internet gambling websites more often, so they are not so restricted, with some getting further disillusioned with clubs and the Australian government in general, blaming the gabling haters and one or two radical and agenda driven ministers, senators and the like. Gillard's issue is that poker machines, and the tax they generate, are guarded ferociously by the states. The Commonwealth has traditionally kept out of this area and the states want it to stay that way. Funny that. It is not only issue gamblers who may have 'one armed bandit' addiction. State treasuries suffer the same affliction. On average, the states raise 10% of their revenue from gambling. In NSW, gambling taxes generate $1.6 billion, or about $300 per adult head... 70% of it from pokies. The Wilkie "agreement" (deal), which has been questioned by legal eagles and potentially being illegal, requires Gillard first to ask the states to carry out the reforms themselves. If they have not agreed to do so by May 31, the government must impose the changes. The legal advice due today will provide an initial answer about whether this is possible. The constitution does not give the federal Parliament power over gambling but Parliament could impose conditions on how trading corporations operate poker machines. It's important to remember that the constitution on that in the event of a conflict between federal and state law, the federal law prevails. The Commonwealth has significant powers in this area but this is not so extensive as to cover every hotel and club with a machine. Federal power falls short for venues not operating as a corporation or across a state border. This may persuade some clubs and hotels to ditch their corporate status to escape federal regulation. This could get ugly and complicated. Gillard will want to avoid this by securing state co-operation. She may do so through a "compensation package" (another bribe or sorts) to the states but this seems off the radar due to the Commonwealth's stressed financial position. Another option would be for the Commonwealth to reduce its grants to a state by the same amount the state receives in pokie revenue, unless the state agrees to implement the reforms. The Commonwealth has had success with this art of war maneuver previously. The idea has also been discussed as a way of basically forcing the states to eliminate mining royalties in favour of a federal resource super profits tax. Australian and state clubs say the the pokie war could overshadow the mining tax war that was the talk of the business world for the better half of 2010. The Commonwealth might achieve its reforms but it's wait and see. The states rely on gambling revenue in a big way. The underlying financial positions of the states, with the possible exception of Western Australia (which gambling king James Packer is very keen on) are desperate. They generate less than 70% of the revenue they need for their annual budget, including for essential services. Without handouts from the Commonwealth, their finances would collapse. The states have been in stress since World War II when the Commonwealth snatched control over income tax. In 1997 the High Court decision in Ngo Ngo Ha deprived them of lucrative taxes on alcohol, tobacco and petrol worth a massive $5 billion a year. With hardly any areas left in which to raise revenue, the states have turned to sin tax type areas - gambling, beer and cigarettes. Could pot one day become legal, so it can be taxed?. Poker machine reform has put the Commonwealth and states on a collision course for war. The Gillard government is not quite sure what to so with "our friend" Wilkie because its somewhat depends on his continuing support, but the word is many other MP's think Gillard might be better of without him, and he is known to be a very bias rep, not speaking for the people for the main, but just pushing his own agenda, with significant ties to the bible bashers and numerous anti gambling folks, which means his is not acting in a balanced fashion, pandering to the wishes of small by vocal groups. So, the Commonwealth will likely win over the states, but it might take than a lot of time, money and embarrassment to do it. "Problem gambling" will likely always exist. People will be people. Governments want their share of the jackpot. Folks, that's just the way it is. Blame the government, Federal and / or state, and if you want a beer, cigy or care to try your luck on the slots, fruits and pokies, do it, but always have fun and set limits. See you at the bar!

Popular Mainstream Brands Involved With Gambling And Gaming In Australia (Summary But Not Full List By Any Stretch)...

NRL, AFL, Marvel Entertainment, Hasbro, Sony, Google, Frank Sinatra Enterprises, Virgin Games, World Wrestling Entertainment (poker and more) 20th Century Fox, Activision Publishing, Paramount Pictures, Trifecta Entertainment and Media, Edgar Rice Burroughs, StudioCanal, NFL, DreamWorks Pictures, RKO Radio Pictures, Universal Pictures, Fox Sports, Ten Network, Nine Entertainment Co, and Media Man.

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Yasi already battering North Queensland - 2nd February 2011

The people of north Queensland are now on their own as they wait for the arrival of Tropical Cyclone Yasi, now due about midnight (AEST).

Emergency services have warned that no one should be moving about in any of the regions in Yasi's path, saying they were not prepared to risk the lives of their personnel during the height of the cyclone.

People should now be bunkered down in their own homes or with family or friends in safer zones, or among the thousands who have moved into one of the 20 evacuation centres across the region.

Winds of 290km/h are predicted for the Category 5 cyclone which is expected to hit the coast just south of Innisfail.

Innisfail Mayor Bill Shannon told AAP he had already seen the roof torn from a building near the council chambers where 500 people are sheltering.

Cassowary Coast councillor Ross Sorbello, a Tully resident, said trees had been torn down in nearby El Arish and Cardwell.

"We're just hoping and praying we can all get through the night," he said.

"The winds are probably getting up to 100 kilometres an hour which is worrying when we are this far out (from the eye)."

However, he said he was more concerned about the potential loss of life than damage to property.

"We can rebuild the houses, the important thing is staying alive, I don't want to see people die."

Cr Shannon said the council had used the experience of Cyclone Larry, which virtually destroyed the town in 2006, to prepare for Yasi's arrival.

"We're confident that we've done all we could, we've evacuated 8,000 people in the space of a few hours."

Innisfail correspondent Duncan Paterson said winds had picked up to a noisy 100km/h, lights were flickering, and the roof of the Canegrowers' building in the centre of Innisfail was beginning to lift.

Mr Paterson is one of 70 people sheltering in the Rising Sun building in the centre of Innisfail while about 500 more are sheltered in the town hall, showgrounds buildings, backpacker hostels, and a purpose built cyclone-rated hall at the local TAFE college.

"A chemist shop on the corner here had a huge glass panel. It's blown off and there's shattered glass underneath it.

Meanwhile Cairns City Council Mayor Val Schier was hoping for some good news with the damage to Cairns from Cyclone Yasi and the subsequent flooding not expected to be as bad as feared by authorities.

Ms Schier said that it was further south than originally thought, making authorities in Cairns reassess the impact slightly.

"It may be the case that there is less damage than earlier expected," Ms Schier told AAP.

"We'll still be getting very destructive winds, we're still very close to the centre."

Just south of Cairns, Mayor Percy Neal says the seaside Aboriginal community at Yarrabah is ready for Cyclone Yasi.

Mr Neal told AAP that 100 houses along the shoreline have been evacuated, with residents going to friends, family and two evacuation centres in the community of 3500 to 4000 people.

The mayor of Palm Island, Alf Lacey, rejected claims his people had been forgotten and said residents were bunkered down in homes and four evacuation centres waiting for Cyclone Yasi to strike.

Mr Lacey said while he agreed with former mayor Rob Blackley that the community needed a new, cyclone-rated town hall to use as a central evacuation centre, the mixed messages coming from the island were unnecessary.

"We've been planning for these events for many years," Mr Lacey, who is also chairman of the Local Disaster Management Group, said.

"We planned before Cyclone Anthony (which crossed into north Queensland on January 30) when it was predicted.

"Palm certainly is in safe hands and everything is in order," Mr Lacey told AAP.

The Queensland government has assured residents in regions impacted by Yasi that while they may be alone at the height of the cyclone, help will be available as soon as possible after.

Eight Queensland government community recovery teams of more than 130 people are on standby to move into the areas affected by Yasi.

The teams will be ready to move in as soon as police and Emergency Management Queensland give them the go ahead when the areas have been declared safe.

Community Services Minister Karen Struthers said the recovery teams would work alongside the Red Cross, Lifeline and St Vincent de Paul to support the communities affected by the disaster. (Credit: AAP)

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