3/27/2011

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

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

Merger Between bwin and PartyGaming Planned to Complete on 31 March 2011

Online gaming companies in for huge 2011

Online Gaming Heating Up in Australia

Admitted Addict Brendan Fevola Still Gambling: Caught Playing Horses, Slots

Gambling Business: James Packer Won’t Pursue Vegas Again

Aussie One Armed Bandits The New Big Brother

Tasmanian 'Devil Independent' Wilkie Hates Club Pokies Ad Campaign

Self-Proclaimed “Gambling Addict” and Bad Boy Brendan Fevola Punted From Crown Casino

Japan Tsunami And Quake Effect On Gaming In Australia

Gambling911.com’s Media Man Greg Tingle Targeted By Crim

Australian Casinos: A Look at What’s Happening Down Under in Gambling

Aussie MP Seeks iGaming Crackdown: Australia In Top 10 Gambling Nations

Packer 50 Percent Owned Betfair Signs Australian Super Rugby

Following Gambling Scandal: NRL And AFL Boys, Codes Under Spotlight

NRL Match Fixers Face 10 Years Jail; Pokies Law Could Kill Clubs

James Packer Aussie Media And Gambling King Quits Ten For Good Of Team

Cruise Ships Gamble On Western Australia

Tingle: Australia Gambling With Legal Eagles And Politics

Tingle: Australia And New Zealand Gaming Stocks; Beancounter Special

Sin City Sydney: Darling Habour Gets Star City Rub

Aussie Pokie Reforms To Cost Australian Clubs 100M Plus

Sin City Sydney: Kings Cross Gambling On Real Life Underbelly

Aussie Hotels Want Pokie Limit Trial...

Higher Power At Work In Gambling; Godsend To Bendigo, Victoria...

Pokies Limits Likely to Cost Australian Hotels Up To $4B

PartyGaming, PartyCasino, Bwin Do Deal With Las Vegas Land Based Casinos

Australian Sports Want And Need National Gaming - Gambling Regulations

Aussie James Packer Riding Wave Of Success

Australian Gambling and Politics: Cat And Mouse Games

Australian Gambling And Politics: Fun And Games

Real Life Underbelly NRL Style

Queensland Floods Cost Tabcorp Millions In Lost Revenue And More…

Gambling With Australian Federal Police; Legal Eagles Ready

Australian And Asia Pacific Gambling Tycoon News: February 1, 2011

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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3/25/2011

PartyCasino News: The Offer You Can't Refuse and Wager the Billionth Dollar

PartyGaming is on a financial and innovation role, impressing players, the stock market, partners such as Bwin, and media associates including yours truly - Media Man.

The Offer You Can't Refuse

Rise to power with our big-money leader boards and guaranteed prizes
Starts: 00:00 ET, 16th March
Ends: 23:59 ET, 28th March

Prove yourself at your favourite casino and we'll reward you with prizes worth a fortune.

The Offer You Can't Refuse promotion will make playing any of our great slots and jackpot slots - including our new The Godfather Part I slot - even more thrilling as we are putting up $5,500 every day for 13 days in daily leader board races as well as giving away guaranteed cash bonuses just for collecting points.

Big business leader boards

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Each daily leader board in The Offer You Can't Refuse promotion is worth $5,500.

Pay your respects to The Godfather Part I slot

The Godfather, one of the classic films of all time is now proudly recreated as one of our stunning slots featuring all the excitement of this epic movie.

Spin the reels of The Godfather Part I to start your life of crime. Make sure to look out for The Don's wild symbol, the generous expanding wilds that will boost your winnings and the five bonus games packed with free spins. Join the family in The Godfather Part I slot and spin this masterpiece of a slot today.


Wager the Billionth Dollar

Get ready to break a record!

PartyCasino.com’s legendary Fire Drake slot is about to set the online casino industry alight with a scorching world-first. The game is poised to pass $1 billion wagered – a monster milestone that we’re marking with Wager the Billionth $.

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Wager the Billionth dollar on the Fire Drake slot and you’ll:

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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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3/24/2011

PartyGaming News: Court Sanctions Merger with bwin - 23rd March 2011

Court Sanctions Merger with bwin Interactive Entertainment AG (“bwin”)

PartyGaming is pleased to announce that the Supreme Court of Gibraltar has today issued a court order sanctioning the merger of the Company and bwin (the “Merger”). This court order comes into full effect on 31 March 2011 (the “Effective Date”).
Today’s development follows the announcement by bwin on 15 March 2011 that the Merger had formally been entered into the companies’ registry in Vienna, Austria by the Vienna Commercial Court.

Following the above developments, the approval of the Merger by PartyGaming and bwin shareholders on 28 January 2011 and the approval of the Merger by various national anti-trust and gaming regulatory authorities, there are no further conditions precedent remaining to be satisfied as part of the Merger process save for the matters set out below which will be effected on completion.

Completion of the Merger is now expected to take place on the Effective Date, when the Company’s name will change to ‘bwin.party digital entertainment plc’. The Company’s ordinary shares of 0.015 pence each (“Shares”) are expected to be de-listed and then re-admitted to the premium segment of the official list and commence dealing on the London Stock Exchange’s main market at 8.00 a.m. (London time) on the Effective Date. New Shares are expected to be issued to the bwin shareholders on the Effective Date, when CREST accounts are also expected to be credited with dematerialised depositary interests in respect of the Company’s Shares.

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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PartyCasino.com

PartyPoker.com

World Poker Tour Casino

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3/18/2011

Australian Casino Canberra Close To Getting Pokies At Last, by Greg Tingle - 18th March 2011

G'day punters, casino and gambling millionaires and billionaires, legal eagles, government officials...one and all. Australia's capital, Canberra, may be getting slots in its casino sooner rather than latter, tipped to win its 16 year battle for the 'bandits'. We also learn that the offline gambling world continues to ramp up its business dealings with the online gaming sector. We've also got the connection between NRL clubs and pokies, and lots more.. Media Man and Gambling911 take you on another voyage of discovery down under to Australia...

Casino Canberra In Nations Capital Tipped To Get Pokies; Punters Rejoice After 18 Years...

Punters in Canberra may not have to wait much longer before they can play the likes of Cleopatra, Black Rhino, Where's The Gold, Gone Fishing, Top Gun, Monopoly, Outback Jack and the rest of their pokie friends, some of which are found via online portals like Media Man International and Casino News Media.

Casino Canberra have been fighting for pokies for 16-years to operate the 'one armed bandits' out of its Glebe Park gambling den. ACT Labor Party insiders have leaked that former treasurer Ted Quinlan will recommend in his considerable review of the region's revenue base that the casino be allowed to operate machines in the venue. The casino has been lobbying to have pokies since 1995, when it says the opening of 'Sin City' Sydney's Star City Casino whacked them in the guts. Last year it raised the stakes by offering the ACT Government a whopping $10 million one-off payment simply to be allowed to operate the machines. To date the Government has not budged and refused flat out to permit any departure from Canberra's "not-for-profit" business model of distribution of machines. The ACT Labor Party snatched in excess of $600,000 in revenue from its Labor Club pokies operation last year, according to returns from the ACT Electoral Commission. Gaming Minister Andrew Barr has refused to discuss the matter as we go to print. Mr Quinlan has been commissioned to conduct a "root-and-branch review" of the entire ACT tax system, including gambling revenues, and it's understood he told party colleagues that he was preparing to recommend that the casino be granted its long time wish for 200 machines. It's believed that Quinlan noted that the Productivity Commission observed last year, "the prohibition on Canberra casino's operation of gaming machines is difficult to justify". Quinlan refused to confirm or deny the reports as we approach print. "I won't enter into the discussion". Casino Canberra marketing manager Peter Cursley said a recommendation from the Quinlan Review for pokies at the casino would be acknowledging the weight of evidence. "There's been a number of government-commissioned reports," he said. "All those reports have all either suggested that there should be machines in the casino or stated that there would be no harm done by machines in the casino." The casino has long argued pokies would contribute 30% in gross gaming revenue tax, delivering an annual revenue stream of about $4 million to the ACT Government. Canberra punters have been patiently waiting over a decade to play classic slots like Cleopatra, Monopoly and Wheel Of Fortune in their home state of Canberra and insiders are tipping the casino may just grant them their wish within the next few months. Time will tell if it would be a true win - win - win, but Casino Canberra would surly win. Canberra based players continue to play online poker machines in the meantime or travel to Melbourne's Crown or Sydney's Star City...of course in search of the elusive jackpots.

NRL Clubs Look To Make Up For Shotfall; Result Of Proposed Pokie Law Changes...

The National Rugby League clubs in 'Sin City' Sydney have a list of requests (getting closer to demands we hear) to offset the effect on their takings, should the Aussie government implement proposals like 'smart cards' onto 'one armed bandits' (slots aka pokies). The licensed clubs which are behind the footy clubs estimate the dip in revenue and cost of implementing the changes in attempt to reduce problem gambling will force them to cease many community support initiatives, like nurturing up and coming junior players, helping out aged care, schools and the like. It's the flow on effect. Should the federal government keep at these gaming reforms, clubs reckon a couple of things will assist them on the bean counter side of things...

The election of a Coalition government in NSW

A billion-dollar broadcasting deal for rugby league

A High Court decision upholding a turnover tax on wagering

The NSW state election will be on March 26 and Labor is set to go down for the count in spectacular fashion. The Coalition (Liberals and Nationals) have inked a memorandum of understanding with Sydney's whale size licensed clubs giving them tax relief on pokies, snatching St George Leagues Club (The Dragons) $800,000. Clubs with larger gambling revenue (Penrith Panthers and Canterbury Bulldogs), will also get more of the action. St George's annual contribution to football is $3 million: $2.7 million is put aside to the NRL team and $300,000 to the club's junior representative teams. Media deals can also be a big part of the financial future of clubs. The clubs are seeking a billion-dollar TV rights deal. This would effectively raise the NRL's revenue from broadcasting by a massive 50%, and would be expected to double the NRL's annual grant to its 16 clubs, currently at $3.5 million. We will have to wait until the conclusion of the end of next season to see what happens with the TV contract. Free-to-air rights holder, Network Nine, has committed to pay more for the content, while Network Ten and Channel Seven have advised they are in the running to make bids to attempt to snatch the TV rights offerings. Tax is always a big thing for business. A 1.5 per cent turnover tax on wagering, is tipped to increase NRL revenue by as much as $20 mill. Sweet money if you can get it. This would facilitate the NRL to grab higher product fees, further increase annual club grants and thus reduce clubs' dependence on 'one armed bandits'. The news is not all good for the clubs. Friday's High Court decision granting Northern Territory corporate bookmakers and Betfair leave to appeal against a Federal Court decision upholding the turnover tax may play on the minds of the Sydney NRL club powers that be. It does't mean the High Court will reverse the Federal Court decision that gives legitimacy to product fees being based on the existing gross profit model, however NRL clubs would have preferred the High Court did not grant leave to appeal. The federal government's agenda to address problem gambling is set out in a memorandum to the presidents of licensed clubs on March 3 we understand. The Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Jenny Macklin, favours a pre-commitment scheme where "We use technology to give people a tool, at the beginning of a gambling session, to think about how much they want to spend, set limits and stick to them. Under the model recommended by the Productivity Commission, players can set the limit as high or low as they like and players could choose no limit at all if they prefer." In a letter to the minister on March 9, the general manager of St George Leagues Club, Danny Robinson, set out his board's concerns. "This club cannot afford to spend the estimated costs of $6 million on the required technology to implement such a system. The expected reduction in revenue for this club would be $14 million per year which, together with the costs associated with the implementation of mandatory pre-commitment, would cause this club to close. Closure of this famous club would result in the loss of jobs for hundreds of workers and the loss of facilities enjoyed by over 30,000 members. The club's current contribution of over $4 million per year for sport and sporting facilities would be lost to the community … The club's annual contribution of $300,000 to local hospitals and children with special needs would also be lost." Robinson stages the flow on effects would occur without guarantee a pokie pre-commitment system would work. The system hasn't worked well in other countries with many experts, private and government saying the system is a failure, and a waste of time and money. Gamblers will continue to gamble, especially problem gamblers, with lots of loop holes - fake ID, makes cards, club hopping, removing fingerprints and all manner of other cleaver tactics, in attempt to outsmart 'Big Brother'.

Australia's Aristocrat Rumoured Signed Deal With Online Gaming's Game Account; Other Online Casinos Also Look For New Games...

The whale size casino games provider Aristocrat which supplies some of the hottest casino games to land based casinos around the world has inked a deal with the online gambling company Game Account to provide gaming content to their impressive portfolio of games. GameAccount network who are licensed by Alderney Gambling Control Commission has stated that this deal will be an endeavor to bring Aristocrat's vast library of gaming content to regulated online gaming websites. The initial focus of this new partnership will be based on the European market because the company is based in London and will eventually spread to other regulated markets. Online gamblers are hanging out for high quality content with better gaming experiences and as the online gaming industry grows and matures they plan on providing exactly that, stated Gillian Findlay, the General Manager for Aristocrat. Aristocrat’s games have been hits for many years across the globe and now the goal is to bring these highly recommended games to the online world. In order to make this happen teaming with Game Account which has a robust platform to host their games is a good start and with their relationships with trusted online operators and with the players that frequent their gaming sites this partnership is tipped for success. This new partnership will see a broad selection of Aristocrat games including their best, such as 50 lions and Dolphin Treasure as well as some new and exciting games being developed. Dermot Smurfit the managing Director for Game Account Network said "We are delighted to enable Aristocrat to bring its market leading slots to the online gaming market in Europe.” PartyGaming's PartyCasino.com and Virgin Enterprises Virgin Casino have also been adding new games to the portfolio of late, with NextGen Gaming tipped to add more in the coming months. Party's in house team 'The Games Studio' continues to work on more Hollywood themes and some website portals are also developing their own games, with some work been outsources. Could it be that Gambling911 or Media Man might soon have it's own themed slot games? IGT also continues to release new games via its online arm, WagerWorks. The land based sector of the gambling world continues to get into bed with its online counterpart. Stay tuned.

Adelaide Casino Switches Off Outdoor Pokies...

The Adelaide Casino has turned off poker machines which are installed in its outdoor smoking area, due to some people power pressure. The gaming section was opened last week and has 20 outside poker machines enabling people to gamble while smoking. Some MPs expressed concerns that casino operator SkyCity was trying to exploit a loophole in South Australia's smoking laws, pointing out pubs could not install outdoor pokies. SA Premier Mike Rann said the move was not a good look for the Adelaide Casino. "What they've done looks to most people like trying to get round the rules," he said. "Now if it's legal and there's a loophole then we should look at closing that loophole. "I would like to see the casino do the right thing and I think at the moment what they've done is the wrong thing." SA Gambling Minister Bernard Finnigan has asked gambling control authorities to prepare a report for him. "I've asked the Liquor and Gambling Commissioner for a full report on the matter as to what the current regulations are," he said. "We're certainly committed to making sure that we have smoke-free gambling areas in the casino and elsewhere." Independent Senator Nick Xenophon said SkyCity Casino was exploiting a loophole in legislation by putting machines outside. "We know from the research there's a clear link between gambling and smoking, particularly with poker machines," he said. "Now it can continue, people playing, because they don't go out to get a cigarette break. "It clearly is a breach of the spirit of the legislation. It's a loophole and the Government needs to act now." Independent MLC John Darley also said he would demand the Government act. In a statement, casino general manager David Christian said authorities were notified last December the casino would be putting machines in the area, which was licenced for gambling decades ago.

Former Legal Eagles Ordered To Pay $637k For Trust Breach...

An ex Melbourne lawyer who stole from clients to pay for a gambling addiction, has been ordered to pay $637,000 to the Legal Services Board for breach of trust. Gabriel Werden lost his right to practice law and was sentenced to almost six years in prison in 2006. He was convicted of a string of theft charges and obtaining financial advantage by deception, after admitting he stole $1.1 million from nine clients. Werden claimed he was being threatened by loan sharks, who were helping to pay for his gambling addiction at Crown Casino. The Victorian Supreme Court this morning ordered Werden to pay the Legal Services Board $637,000 for breach of trust.

CEO Magazine Rejects James Packer Interview Rumour...

Bean Media Group, publishers of the influential and highly-regarded business publication, The CEO Magazine, have today refused to confirm reports that The CEO Magazine will be conducting an exclusive interview with Australian businessman, James Packer. The CEO Magazine is Australia's leading business magazine focused directly at high-level executives in Australian companies. The CEO Magazine is a bi-monthly title that provides its readers with a wealth of articles discussing business strategy, expert opinion, analysis, corporate case studies, emerging trends, leadership, growth opportunities and challenges facing our country's leading business leaders. The CEO Magazine explores how Australian businesses can improve the way they manage their operations, staff, technology and supply chains with a view to creating a more profitable and successful business. Whilst The CEO Magazine is extremely meticulous in selection for interviews within the title, rumours of a one-on-one interview with James Packer have surfaced this week. "Due to the high profile nature of The CEO Magazine, it is impossible for us to confirm who will be included in upcoming magazines until publication date. Content is kept strictly between the publisher and any leading senior executive that have been chosen for selection," said a spokesperson for publisher, Bean Media Group. The next issue of The CEO Magazine is due out next month. About The CEO Magazine, Australia's leading business title specifically for high-level and senior executives. The publisher of The CEO Magazine is Bean Media Group, a multi-award-winning media company based in Sydney, Australia.

Media Man Looks To Get Own Branded Slot And Classic Games...

In a scoop word leaked that Media Man International has put feelers out for its own branded slot and classics casino games. The rumour mill leaked that they had seen a couple of other websites develop their own games over the years, and they basically feel its time to do the same thing, as a natural part of their business development. They have just started making enquiries to the likes of NextGen Gaming, PartyGaming, Virgin and IGT. Gambling911 is understood to have the exclusive on this one, so yet another reason to not change your dial, unless you want to hop on over to Media Man Int in case any more leaks in the story open up. Media Man often breaks news on its blog network before the site, so that's the tip punters.

Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Tell us in the forum.

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

*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911

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

Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...

Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...

PartyCasino.com (Many of the world's best slot games. Aussies and Kiwi's welcome).

Captain Cooks Casino

Betfair (sports betting only)

PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)

PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)

Profiles

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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.

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

*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911

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

*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited and Network Ten

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3/16/2011

Global Gaming Directory - Media Man - Casino News Media: 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

Japan Tsunami And Quake Effect On Gaming In Australia

Gambling911.com’s Media Man Greg Tingle Targeted By Crim

Australian Casinos: A Look at What’s Happening Down Under in Gambling

Aussie MP Seeks iGaming Crackdown: Australia In Top 10 Gambling Nations

Packer 50 Percent Owned Betfair Signs Australian Super Rugby

Following Gambling Scandal: NRL And AFL Boys, Codes Under Spotlight

NRL Match Fixers Face 10 Years Jail; Pokies Law Could Kill Clubs

James Packer Aussie Media And Gambling King Quits Ten For Good Of Team

Cruise Ships Gamble On Western Australia

Tingle: Australia Gambling With Legal Eagles And Politics

Tingle: Australia And New Zealand Gaming Stocks; Beancounter Special

Sin City Sydney: Darling Habour Gets Star City Rub

Aussie Pokie Reforms To Cost Australian Clubs 100M Plus

Sin City Sydney: Kings Cross Gambling On Real Life Underbelly

Aussie Hotels Want Pokie Limit Trial...

Higher Power At Work In Gambling; Godsend To Bendigo, Victoria...

Pokies Limits Likely to Cost Australian Hotels Up To $4B

PartyGaming, PartyCasino, Bwin Do Deal With Las Vegas Land Based Casinos

Australian Sports Want And Need National Gaming - Gambling Regulations

Aussie James Packer Riding Wave Of Success

Australian Gambling and Politics: Cat And Mouse Games

Australian Gambling And Politics: Fun And Games

Real Life Underbelly NRL Style

Queensland Floods Cost Tabcorp Millions In Lost Revenue And More…

Gambling With Australian Federal Police; Legal Eagles Ready

Australian And Asia Pacific Gambling Tycoon News: February 1, 2011

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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3/09/2011

Australian Land Based Casino Entertainment, by Greg Tingle - 8th March 2011

G'day punters, gamers, casino and gambling millionaires and billionaires, legal eagles, politicians...one and all. Today we explore the fantastic array of entertainment available at Australian land based casinos. The offerings have never been better, as the Crown Casino VS Star City war continues, with all and sundry looking to secure some of the hottest talent and acts on the planet, all in an attempt to deliver a total entertainment experience, which could make you feel better about trying your luck in the casino! Media Man and Gambling911 travel across the great nation of Australia to fill you in on the greatest entertainment in casinos from the land down under. It's Thunder Down Under...

Australia is home to some of the world's great casinos, hotels and resorts.

While the land down under has over a dozen land based casinos, there's only three that both rate highly and grab the majority of headlines on a global stage. Enter James Packer's Crown Casino in Melbourne, Tabcorp's Star City in 'Sin City' Sydney, and Jupiters Hotel & Casino on the Gold Coast aka Surfers' Paradise.

Media Man and Gambling911 take our eye in the sky look at the landscape of the Aussie land based casino sector and bring you up to speed with what's news down under...

Readers will be aware that there's a "casino war" in the land of kangaroos, koalas and goannas at the moment. You would have to be Blind Freddy not to know about the ultra competitive showdown (and hunt for whales and dolphins) between Packer's Crown Casino down south in Melbourne and Tabcorp's Star City in 'Sin City' Sydney.

Crown Casino and Star City are following the global trend, largely driven forward from Las Vegas and Macau, of offering a total entertainment experience... not just gambling... you know, slots, poker, table games and the like. Whales aka high-rollers, have also demanded the changing face of the sector. Don't get us wrong, the gambling aspect remains vital to the business model and to the punters, but for a variety of reasons Australian casino kings have employed a more holistic models. The reasons include being more government friendly, legal eagle elements and complimenting the larger casino, entertainment and lifestyle.

Some of the ramped up services and offerings as part of the industry development include but are not limited to:

Entertainment complex upgrades (including securing more world class acts, more often, to attract the crowds and keep all clients and business partners happy)

Hotel suite refurbishments

Private gambling room upgrades for high rolling VIP's

Sports bar upgrades

Enhanced security - technology and more staff

Gulf Stream Jets aka Lear Jets for international high rollers in a hurry and who demand and casino afford the best

Aussie Casino News Bytes

Crown Casino: The Logie Awards will be held at Crown Casino, Melbourne on May 1.
Last year Bert Newtown hosted the Logies with 1000 guests in attendance. Broadcast on Network Nine Australia. Newton did a fine job as host. One journalist / columnist was fired for what many saw as inappropriate Twitter - ing, including the editor of The Age newspaper. Upgraded website. Management in regular contact with sister casinos, City of Dreams Macau and Altira Macau. 100s more staff to be employed, some of which under the GenerationOne employment initiative, dedicated to helping get Indigenous Australians back into the workforce.

Crown is the place to see the biggest names in local and international entertainment. Well known artists such as Suzi Quatro, Human Nature and Village People have performed to sold out crowds. Our newest venue, The Palms at Crown, will continue to play host to the big names in a casual yet stylish setting. Whilst the Palladium at Crown, a lavishly decorated ballroom, with state of the art lighting and sound system has attracted many international headline artists including the likes of Elton John, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Jerry Lewis, Tom Jones, Andrea Bocelli and Dionne Warwick.

Elvis to the Max
Elvis to the Max has successfully toured Australia for over a decade, always to sell out crowds. Max goes beyond impersonation. His re-creation of The King's looks, moves, vocal style, impressions and humour is so accurate, its awe inspiring.
DATE & SHOWTIME:
Friday 11 March, 2011

BJ Thomas
During the four decades BJ Thomas has been performing, he has sold more than 70 million records, earned 2 platinum records, 11 gold records, won 5 Grammy awards, 2 Dove awards for Gospel recordings and 15 Top 40 pop hits. Come and see him perform his hits songs such as Hooked on a Feeling, Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head, Eyes of a New York Woman, Rock and Roll Lullaby, I Just Can't Help Believing and (Hey Won't You Play) Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song.
DATE & SHOW TIME:
Saturday 12 March, 2011

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


Star City: Has expanded with close to $900,000 budget. Now has at least 1 Lear Jet for high rolling VIPs, which helps it better with Crown Casino. Upgraded website.

DOCTOR ZHIVAGO
From 11 February 2011
In this explosive new musical romance based on Boris Pasternak's 20th century Russian masterpiece, Doctor Yurii Zhivago is a man divided against himself: on the one hand a dedicated husband, father and healer; on the other a poet, dreamer and sensualist.
Reflecting his struggle, the musical swirls around him in a panoramic portrait of a nation in upheaval and tells a story at once epic and personal, funny and breathtaking, impetuously romantic and bitingly political. The action sweeps breathlessly from the final glory days of Czarist Russia through the chaos and upheaval of the Russian Revolution into an unprecedented tyranny under a heartless new political regime. Through all these volcanic upheavals three passionate men, the ardent young Doctor Zhivago, the fiery political radical Pasha Antipov and the cunning bourgeois magistrate Viktor Komarovsky compete for the love of one woman, the alluring and enigmatic Lara......as if they are fighting for the soul of Russia itself. With its lush, unforgettable melodies, suspenseful story and the internationally renowned Anthony Warlow in the title role, the premiere of Doctor Zhivago introduces the world to a new musical in grand tradition.

SUITE SYNERGY
6 - 9 April 2011
Internationally acclaimed choreographer Graeme Murphy joins forces with celebrated composer/percussionist Michael Askill in Suite Synergy - a groundbreaking new production of enormous energy and emotion. Created by Mod Dance Company, arguable Australia's most exciting new contemporary dance company, this new production is sensual, dynamic and grounded in raw emotion. Four drummers. Eighteen dancers. Unlimited imagination. Suite Synergy is a dynamic fusion where powerful percussion consumes the dancers' every movement. A high energy, high impact production, Suite Synergy gives Graeme Murphy's artistic genius a bigger, bolder stage to truly captivate and entertain. Under the masterful direction of choreographer Graeme Murphy, composer Michael Askill, artistic director Brett Morgan and associate artistic director Teagan Lowe, Suite Synergy's creative alchemy is sure to carve out a new place for contemporary dance in Australian history.

THE MUSIC OF ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER
25 - 29 May 2011
Celebrate the magic of the music! A new theatrical event featuring Andrew Lloyd Webber’s most timeless songs performed by the current stars of Australian musical theatre is coming to the Lyric Theatre on 25 May for 8 shows only. He’s been described as the master of musical theatre, the maestro of musicals, and a theatrical force to be reckoned with. His musicals have been seen by hundreds of millions around the world, translated into dozens of languages and won every major entertainment award. Now – Australia is set to fall in love once more with THE MUSIC OF ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER in a stunning new theatrical event that will tour Australia in 2011. After more than 40 years, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s music continues to have the extraordinary ability to touch an audience, lifting them to new heights of exhilaration and emotion after just a few bars of music. Through state-of–the-art technology, audiences will be swept from the avenues of Broadway to the magnificence of Eva Peron’s Argentina and the speedways of Starlight Express, in a dazzling journey through the many settings of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s greatest works. All the ‘big’ moments from Evita, The Phantom of the Opera, Cats, Jesus Christ Superstar, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Sunset Boulevard, Woman in White to the current Love Never Dies will be there. Don't miss this spectacular show! Tickets on sale now.


Jupiters Gold Coast: Upgraded their poker room to the tune of a few hundred thousand dollars. Jupiters is nearby to the beaches where major surfing competitions take place annually. Dreamworld (Hollywood On The Gold Coast) is only a short drive away from the casino. Upgraded website.

JUPITERS THEATRE
Everything about Jupiters is spectacular, especially the acclaimed stage shows and concerts. With a theatre seating over 1,000 people showing unforgettable productions all year round featuring lively music scores, energetic choreography and vibrant costuming - there's never a bad seat in the house!

GENESIS
Genesis The Magic Spectacular now showing live in Jupiters Theatre.

WEIRD AL YANKOVIC LIVE IN CONCERT
The undisputed kinig of pop parody, Weird Al Yankovic, will be at Jupiters for one night only on March 14, 2011.

GERRY AND THE PACEMAKERS
Gerry and The Pacemakers, accompanied by the Allstars, are set to perform one night only this March 16, 2011.

MOVIE MONDAYS
Every Monday at Jupiters Gold Coast is Movie Mondays


Burswood Entertainment Complex: Upgraded security. A bush tucker bag of world class acts booked.

Burswood is known to put on fantastic community fundraisers. American pro wrestling legend Hulk Hogan drew a massive crowd at Burswood a few years ago with his match and for his charity work with the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Virgin's Richard Branson also did some impressive fundraising on site last year, with folks the world over keen to meet and speak to the entrepreneur. Branson's Virgin Games remains keen to expand the gaming globally, and seems the face to face meetings with the media and political savvy Aussie Casino king, James Packer, won't go astray.

Kylie

The showgirl rises from the sea! Kylie, the Goddess of Love is bringing her spectacular Aphrodite-Les Folies Tour 2011 to our shores this June! The production alone is valued at over US$25 million and features over a million moving parts, including 30 high impact jets, rain curtains and fountains. Also featuring a special "splashzone" within the stage itself, fans can get up close and personal and be amongst the action in an amazing 4D experience. Set to become a landmark moment in concert touring, this is one tour no music fan should miss! With special guests Gypsy & the Cat.

Rihanna

See global megastar, Rihanna at Burswood Dome on Saturday, 12 March.

Usher

Make way for R&B superstar Usher at Burswood Dome on Tuesday, 15 March. Tickets on sale now!

Telethon Mega Bingo

Perth's biggest bingo event returns to Burswood Dome on Saturday, 2 April. Tickets on sale now!

Good Charlotte

Please note this concert event is moving to Challenge Stadium.

Disturbed

For all you heavy metal fans, don’t miss Disturbed at Burswood Dome on Wednesday, 20 April. Tickets on sale now!

Maroon 5

Please note this event has been cancelled. Ticket holders read on to find out how to obtain your refund.

Chris Brown

Yeah, yeah, yeah! Put your hands up for Chris Brown at Burswood Dome on Tuesday, 3 May.

Justin Bieber

Catch ‘Bieber-Fever’ at Burswood Dome on Saturday, 7 May. Tickets on sale now!

Dalai Lama's Journey

Join the Dalai Lama for a rare insight into happiness, life and living at Burswood Dome on Sunday, 19 June.


Casino Canberra: Blast From The Past: Are you a baby boomer? Then don't dare miss Baby Boomers Blast from the Past, the ultimate live entertainment experience.

Galaxy Nightclub - Canberra's hottest nightclub opens from 9pm every Saturday with the beats of the 70's and the best of the 80's. Come and hear the soundtrack of our lives. Galaxy has a NO GLASS policy!

VOU
The United Australia Fiji Community Association Inc proudly present VOU. Through the medium of live music and dance, Vou (meaning new in Fijian), is the blending of old and new, traditional and contemporary. Vou is an explosive and vibrant Pacific experience that brings Fiji and their rich island paradise in ancient stories, including their traditions and culture to you. Don't miss this awesome opportunity to witness a cultural event like no other. Tickets available by booking only. Call the Casino Canberra Guest Services desk on 6257 7074 today.

Thursday Night Poker
Every Thursday night, commencing at 7.45pm, you can try your poker skills out playing Hold-em Poker in Casino Canberra's poker pit. Buy-in is just $85. For more details go to out Tournaments Page

Your Private Gaming Table
If you want to try your hand at Blackjack, or become an ace poker player, you can do it all in your own private gaming pit at the Casino. At Casino Canberra's Fun Nights, you'll play on real tables, from as little as $1 a bet, enjoy a drink or two, plus gourmet nibbles and take a spin around your own private nightclub. It's exclusive, it's private, it's like nothing else that's out there. Call 62577074 and ask for our Functions Department who will organize an event for you.

Coming up in 2011

Chinese New Year

'Year of the Rabbit'

Don't miss out on your chance to win with our 'The Lucky Rabbit' promotion. Enjoy our table games to gain entries into this awesome promotion. Commencing on Friday 25 January 2011 you can start to get your entry tickets into eight draws for a chance to win up to $2,700 instantly. Eight draws, eight chances for you to walk away with over two and a half GRAND!


The Reef Hotel Casino:

Premium Entertainment Cairns
Live Bands, Shows, Dancing, Sports, Morning Melodies, Movies, Music, Promotions, Gaming, Events & Wildlife Dome...IT'S ALL HERE UNDER ONE ROOF!!!
The Reef Hotel Casino is the "Must See - Must Visit" venue to experience in Cairns & Tropical North Queensland. Featuring free live music, Vertigo is one of the most happenin' cocktail lounges in Cairns. This is nightlife at it's best, with live bands, dance shows, big name touring acts, special events & promotions. From Salsa nights to tribute shows & local talent, Vertigo Bar & Lounge is the number 1 meeting place in Cairns. The Casino Sportz Arena is home to great promotions, big screen sport, free movies & Mornings in the Arena - a morning melodies extravaganza!
Calendar & special events are regularly celebrated in all venues, where street performers, dancers & roving entertainers come out to play, turning a simple visit into an experience! Boasting a nightclub & ticketed shows in Velvet Underground, The Reef Hotel Casino complex plays host to a wide variety of entertainers &
will satiate anyone's desire to be entertained. Be assured that there is always something on at the Casino. So drop in for some fun, food & entertainment.


Lasseters Hotel Casino:

Money In The Box - Thurday 10th March
WIN your share in $1000! Simply be active on a Slot Machine or Table between 5.30pm - 7.30pm and you could win! If your number is draw, choose a box and WIN between $25 to $500 cash!

Slots Tournament - 15th March
Your chance to win a share in $750! Slots Tournament every Tuesday from 4.30pm, only $10 entry per heat.

Lasseters Hotel Casino has a dining destination waiting to satisfy your taste buds!
You can find contemporary delights for brunch, lunch, dinner and drinks at the Juicy Rump, fine dining Asian-fusion cuisine at Sukra, great value buffets at Samphire or casual café-style cuisine at Casbah.

The Juicy Rump
The pulse of Alice Springs entertainment! Live music on the Juicy Deck, great value meals including brunch, lunch, dinner and juicy drinks. Open from 9am weekends and 10am weekdays.

Australian Casino Directory List

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


Australian - Yankee Connection...

Australia's Aristocrat Technologies Let's Loose Tarzan Lord Of The Jungle Slot In California; PartyCasino Online Players Play Tarzan Online...

Aristocrat Technologies’ Tarzan Lord of the Jungle slot game made its world premiere debut Thursday at Thunder Valley Casino Resort in California. "Our guests have asked for more games and we’re making it happen by offering our guests the chance to be the first to play Aristocrat Technologies’ new video slot game." said C.J. Graham, general manager of Thunder Valley Resort. "Lord of the Jungle" brings the myth and fantasy of the famous tale to life with dazzling graphics, stereo sound, seven high-hit frequency bonus features and a four-level progressive with a giant top jackpot of $250,000! It is a 30 line, 20 credit ante bet game with a 50-credit minimum bet and a 150-credit maximum bet. The big screen style action stretches top to bottom on Aristocrat’s VERVEhd monitor, which showcases high def (1920x1080) graphics, 3D panoramic digital audio and player-adjustable sound. The action extends right to players’ fingertips. "Tarzan" has four progressive jackpots that include Mini, starting at $10; Minor, starting at $30; Major, starting at $500; and Grand, starting at $250,000. Tarzan Lord of the Jungle’s exciting bonus features include: Tarzan, Stampede, Kerchak Free Games, Monkey, and Progressive Wheel. Online casino fans can play 'Tarzan' at PartyGaming's PartyCasino as well as a wide range of other Hollywood branded slot games. You Jane, me Tarzan. Want to play with my rope? Just kidding maties.

Australian Rock Legend Rick Springfield To Play FireLake Grand Casino, Oklahoma - 26th March

Aussie music legend Rick Springfield will playing at FireLake Grand Casino on Saturday, March 26th. He's got 17 Top 40 hits, sold out concert tours across the globe and more. Rick Springfield has had a full life. Growing up as the son of arm dad, his family shifted many times to bases in Australia and Great Britain. He discovered that piano at age 9, then the guitar at 13, the voice followed, as did the success. Springfield's music career kicked off when he dropped out of school and joined the Rock House as a singer and guitarist. After a name change to MPD, Ltd, the band toured Vietnam entertaining the troops. When he returned to Australia, he formed a band and later joined Zoot which became a popular Australian band. After Zoot folded, Rick started a solo career and recorded 'Speak to the Sky' which went to #1 in Australia. He moved to the USA and got things to the next level. Springfield signed with Capitol Records and got some TV time, including with American Bandstand. The teen girls loved him, but the dollars didn't always follow the love. TV's General Hospital soap gave him some financial stability where he played Dr. Noah Drake. It was around this time Springfield recorded "Jessie's Girl" and it got to #1 spot on the Billboard. If you have a chance to enjoy Rick's gift at the casino, we recommend you take it. Entertainment industry commentators say Rick is truly one of the greats. Rick got his fair share of luck over the years, so might you, if you get to FireLake on the 26th.

Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money

Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.

Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Will Australia ever get to #1 position for gambling? Tell us in the forum.

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

*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911

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

Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...

Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...

PartyCasino.com (Many of the world's best slot games. Aussies and Kiwi's welcome).

Captain Cooks Casino

Betfair (sports betting only)

PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)

PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)

Profiles

Australian Casinos

World Casino Directory

Global Gaming Directory

Casino Travel

Casinos

Australia

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

Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money

Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.

Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Are Australian casinos the best in the world for entertainment, slots or something else? 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 Canada

Media Man Games

Media Man Brand

Media Man Network

Casino News Media

Poker News Media

Australian Casino News

Casino News Australia

Global Gaming Directory

3/07/2011

Aussie MP Seeks iGaming Crackdown; Australia In Top 10 Gambling Nations, by Greg Tingle - 7th March 2011

G'day punters, gamers, legal eagles, law enforcement officials, politicians...one and all. Today a couple more members of Australian Parliament are seeking a crackdown on igaming aka online gambling in Australia. In the meantime, Australia maintains its top 10 status as a gambling nation, thought to be currently about lucky #7 on the list. Media Man and Gambling911 with this crackdown report...

The so called "Independent" MP Andrew Wilkie is ramping up his eagle eye on online gambling, telling numerous Australian press here is strong evidence it is a significant problem and only likely to worsen. Wilkie will request the parliamentary committee to reform the "Wild West" industry, according to the report, after Australians dropped around $1 billion in online gambling last year. While betting on sports and horse racing is legal in Australia, several other online gaming websites and web portals exist, despite some being illegal. People who play the online games are not breaking the law, according to Fairfax Media, a situation Wilkie desires to reverse. "We need to get in here and nip it in the bud, and avoid getting into the situation we have with poker machines, where it's so big and entrenched," Wilkie said. Fairfax Media and competitor, News Limited, already carry a number of wagering options on their website network, mixing in news, pr, sports betting and games (play for free or play for money), a formula other media companies such as Media Man have also followed with significant success.

A Media Man spokesperson said "Offering a wide array of promotions, brands, content, even games, is a popular formula for many Australian media companies in the current landscape. Fairfax Media, News Limited, as well as our Australian and international arm, also offer a range of games, some of which can be played for free or for money. News Limited, Fairfax, nor ourselves, are casinos or sports betting agencies, but we can offer the reader access via b2b agreements. Many legal eagles in Australia believe that Australian laws pertaining to the internet, b2b, affiliates, content sharing and the like are not up to speed with the rest of the world. We believe that the Liberal Party is better equipped to embrace b2b commerce better than the Australian Labour party, but it would be great to see us proved wrong. News Limited, Fairfax Media and Media Man cover over a dozen different business sectors, and gaming, igaming and sports betting are just a couple of them. Betting enjoys a cross over with sport, and gaming also enjoys a cross over with movies themes, be it Marvel Entertainment or Paramount Pictures branded games. Poker is also popular, with big brands such as PartyGaming offering satellites on a yearly basis to the world famous Aussie Millions conducted at James Packer's Crown Casino. iGaming is a big part of the future of b2b commerce this year, and will continue to be. Legal eagles will be busy as the battle for hearts and minds continues, and that's no bluff".


Australia Remains In World's Top 10 Gambling Nations In 2011...

The dinkim Aussies are known for lots of things on the world stage... great beaches, women, beers, great boobs, wildlife, champion athletes, and now, gambling nuts. Yep, some of the world's most passionate punters still call Australia home.

Would you believe there's 1 one armed bandit for 110 people down under. That puts Aussie Land squarely in the top 10 gambling havens, right up there with Monaco (famous for James Bond casino antics) and Macau (hello our friends at James Packer's City of Dreams).

The Aussies have the 8th highest total number of gambling machines, with roughly 187,000 in pubs and clubs aka "pokie palaces", industry stats tell a story of.

Anti-gambling activists aka "gambling haters" and "casino haters" are strongly encouraging the Gillard - ALP Government to adopt a "stop, revive, survive" style approach...similar to the safe driving campaign, in order to assist poker machine reform and introduce a mandatory cut-off period to help people break their habits... if they have a habit, if you follow our lead.

"The player logs in with his or her personal code and the machine stops after, for example, two hours' playing," researcher Charlotte Fabiansson said in research provided to the Government by the Social Justice and Social Change Research Group at the University of Western Sydney.

"The player can choose to take a 15 or 30 minutes, break or take out eventual winnings and leave the machine."

Under Dr Fabiansson's prop, the pokie used by the players would be untouched during their "revive" breaks.

The player should not be able switch to a new machine without the revive break," she said.

Numbers coming from the manufactures of gaming machines show Australia ranks 7th on an worldwide list of pokies per head with one machine for every 110 people.

First place goes to "lucky winner" Monaco, which has one machine for every 16 people. Japan and the Netherlands Antilles were also in the top 10. Countries giving Australia a run for its money include New Zealand and Britain, who rates closer to one machine for every 300 people.

Don't ask us if sheep also play in New Zealand... we don't want to know, but an insider joked "some Kiwi poker machine players are a bit like sheep, even if they don't have wool and have 2 legs instead of 4". The smart ass was having a sledge, and was not at all serious.

Australia is currently 7th we understand for the total number of gaming machines with approx 187,000, but insiders say we are quickly rose to lucky 7th position in bragging rights.

Britain has roughly 217,000 machines but, but has triple the population, has far fewer per capita.

Both the current and former Australian Prime Ministers Julia Gillard and Kevin Rudd, are not big fans of poker machines, with Rudd appearing to have the most hate towards the one armed bandits.

Gillard have recently felt the wrath of the powerful Australian clubs and pubs associations like Clubs Australia and ClubsNSW. Gillards's ALP is up against strong competition from the Aussie states and territories, and the mighty gaming industry.

Last year the Australian Productivity Commission proposed cutting cash payments down to $250 from the present $2000 limit, banning ATM's from all venues and increasing the present shutdown limit for poker machines from 6 hours per day in yet another attempt to fix "problem gambling".

Some of Australia's major banks and financial institutions have also jumped on board the campaign against many of the proposed changes.

They in fact wrote to the Federal Government a few times to state that a plan to limit withdrawal amounts and move ATMs further away from gaming areas would not work.

Anti-pokies campaigner and so called independent Senator Nick Xenophon called on the Federal Government to bypass the states and take action on its own.

"It shouldn't be underestimated what a powerful vested interest the pokie machine industry is from clubs to casinos to manufacturers. Of course they are squealing," he said.

Senator Xenophon said the Federal Government should use its taxation powers to make pokie machines unprofitable.

"It's a question of political will. I believe Kevin Rudd was genuine when he said he hated the pokies and the damage they did to families. But how will those strong words translate into action? He has talked the talk and now he has to walk the walk," Senator Xenophon said. Mr X was talking of Rudd, and he's been just as vocal this year calling on Julia Gillard to step up. Xenophon always has something to say, which is good, as it helps fill up news reports on the touchy subject of gambling.

Mr X has also recently brought more attention to online gambling, which has taken off in a big way down under, with slots and sports betting leading the charge. Media Man data shows that Hollywood and entertainment themed games from the likes of Marvel Entertainment, Paramount Pictures and FremantleMedia are some of the most popular. Even companies behind the the image of Frank Sinatra, Rambo (StudioCanal) and Tarzan (Edgar Rice Burroughs) have jumped on the gambling bandwagon, with more tipped to follow.

Recently James Packer associated media company, Ten Network Holdings, let it be known they see a place for more gambling programming, and leaks say to expect to see a gambling show or channel. Packer recently stepped down from the Ten board, but gaming and igaming remains on their agenda. Insiders say it will be much bigger than 'The Poker Star' which was fronted by former Australian poker world champion (WSOP) Joe Hachem, who these days is one of the faces of Crown Casino, the other being mate, Shane Warnie, never short of a headline or spinning yarn. Network Ten has also recently launched Channel 'Eleven' and insiders say the channel is just begging for gambling shows, adding to the promos currently being seen. Warnie and Hachem also get regular features in the Australian newspapers about their passion for poker and gambling, and both are keen to please their mate and associate, James Packer, the king of Australian gambling, who is now once again a major force in the Australian media landscape. The UK's Virgin king, Richard Branson, has also been watching the Australian gambling and gaming space closely, and has met with 'Our James' at least one time. Branson is understood to not want to do anything in Australia until "grey areas" are cleared up, while Warne's and Hachem's brands appear full speed ahead, as are PartyGaming including its World Poker Tour, PartyPoker and branded games, with more overseas firms wanting to make more of a mark down under including Paddy Power, William Hill Online, PKR and Playtech. PartyGaming's World Poker Tour continues to be broadcast into Australia via Foxtel - Fox Sports and Fox8 we understand, with Foxtel interested to broadcast more poker and casino themed content down under, pushed along by online promotions and b2b agreements, ready for the next range of interactive television developments, (which will have to be signed off by Senator Stephen Conroy and friends, we suspect). The ACMA is also closely monitoring the situation.

A Media Man spokesperson said "Many of the UK and Gibraltar based igaming and gaming companies see Australia and Tasmania are maybe just the next Gibraltar and Alderney, two regions known to be gambling friendly." They went on to clarify "Well, maybe if or when the Australian Liberal Party win the next election. I'm tipping its when, not if".

Media Man conducted a recent street research on the subject of gambling and the results showed that most Australian adults of legal age up do enjoy a punt. Only 1 person in a batch of 10 found gambling "evil", with everyone else saying it was a personal choice. 60% of those who took the survey likened the Australian government's war on pub pokies as to their battle with the Australian mining companies (which many feel left the Australian government with egg on its face).

Stay tuned daily for more on the Australian pokie, gambling and casino wars.

Gillard, Packer, Murdoch (both of you sirs), Branson, Ryan, Trump, Gyngell and Turnbull - you're throw of the dice!

Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money

Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.

Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Will Australian ever get to #1 position for gambling? Tell us in the forum.

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

*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911

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

*the writer owns shares in Crown Limited, Ten Network Holdings and Virgin.


Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...

Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...

PartyCasino.com

Captain Cooks Casino

Betfair (sports betting only)

PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)

PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)

Profiles

Australian Casinos

World Casino Directory

Global Gaming Directory

Casino Travel

Casinos

Australia

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

Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money

Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.

Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Tell us in the forum.

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

*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911

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

*the writer is a fan of Sydney Roosters And South Sydney Rabbitohs

Website Network

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