PartyCasino News: New Instant Play PartyCasino Jackpot Time? The Big One Is Over $2,500,000!

PartyCasino News: New Instant Play PartyCasino.com Jackpot Time? The Big One Is Over $2,500,000!

Gibraltar – 22nd September 2010 – PartyCasino.com, the world’s largest online casino, is pleased to announce that it has launched its new instant casino! In addition, ‘The Big One’ at PartyCasino.com, the largest progressive seeded jackpot in the online gaming industry, is now over $2,500,000, while the Gold Mega Jackpot currently exceeds $1,300,000! In total PartyCasino.com’s jackpots total over $4,000,000!

A PartyCasino.com spokesman said: "The new instant casino is now live. Play direct from the website in 14 languages with the improved user interface. Everything else remains the same - continue to enjoy a huge range of casino games, jackpots and promotions! The Big One was last hit on the 29th May this year and we have seen frantic activity in recent days – it seems customers think someone is going to hit it very soon now the $2,500,000 landmark has been crossed. The Gold Mega Jackpot also looks ripe to payout and hasn’t been hit since the 1st June.”

The Big One is structured as a five tiered pool. The highest tier - Colossal Cash - seeds at $1.5 million, the biggest online jackpot seed in the industry and currently stands at over $2.1 million. Customers can play for ‘The Big One’ through traditional slot Melon Madness. PartyCasino.com has also recently introduced another way of hitting ‘The Big One’ in the form of Snow Business. This slot is a five-reel, 30 line jackpot slot game with a Free Spins feature. When three or more scattered iceberg symbols appear anywhere in view, the feature screen is displayed where the player is required to catch a random number of fish, each of which reveals a random number of free spins or a random free spins multiplier.

For more information see: PartyCasino.com

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Thor, Hulk, Spider-Man and Fantastic Four: Don't just watch the movies; Play the games at PartyCasino; New players get up to $500 sign up bonus

Thor, Hulk, Spider-Man and Fantastic Four: Don't just watch the movies; Play the games at PartyCasino; New players get up to $500 sign up bonus

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Australian Casino, Gambling And Political News, by Greg Tingle - 24th September 2010

Another big news week for the Australian casino, gambling and political sector news. It's almost all that same thing these days isn't it, with politics playing a role in many aspects of business. Then of course the internet is connected up to all of these also, so little wonder it makes for interesting fun and games, as just as a little reminder - no one owns the internet and its a global medium, and a favorite of news media companies (and punters) these days, hence the News Limited, Fairfax Media and Google push of games of skill and games of chance. Readers familiar with PartyGaming may recall their CEO Jim Ryan going on record a few years ago about media getting into gaming and gambling, and as usual 'Our Jimbo' was right on the money. Casino and media tycoon watchers, don't be surprised if you spot James Packer, David Gyngell and a host of Network Nine, Seven, Ten and newspaper big shots at Bondi Beach this Saturday morning, possibly surrounded by casino babes, bodypainted goddess babes or both!. Media Man and Gambling911 voyage down under, doing the coast to coast from 'Sin City' Sydney, Bondi Beach, Melbourne, Brisbane - Bris Vegas, Perth... you name it. Tasmania tigers, Kiwis, dolphins and super whales, we've got it all for the loyal and vast audience...

Crown Casino Numbers Up; But Baby And Pram In (But Not For Long)...

Readers will recall the Gambling911 - Media Man news item showing a baby playing poker at the WWE poker room. Well, recently one "lucky" baby got wheeled in to Crown Casino, but didn't get to play! Where's the justice punters? .... just kidding. The baby and pram story is spreading like wildfire, and makes for a good media and hotel yarn you must admit. This matter was just one of the law breaches for which our friends and Crown Casino got fined for over the past year. It was only a $2500 fine, nothing to seriously impact the record $1.32 billion backers punters lost to the gaming giant. Punters might like to cut down expenses and play a bit more online next time, with the rising cost of car parking in Melbourne, and then there's always the risk of an incident - scuffle at a casino, but thankfully Crown have boosted security a great deal over the years, keep to improve safety and image, and give more reasons to spend a dollar (or million) at the 'World Of Entertainment', as the tag like once said. The Crown coffers are up than $100 million on the previous year, so certainly management and staff might like to but some more big boys toys.

Baby Into Crown Via Pram But Doesn't Gamble - Cries...

Baby-and-pram matters are a classic. Not quite up there with Crown Casino Shaft Man or Ferrari Thief Man, but getting there Pink Panther fans. The baby and pram fine was one of 9 incidents for which the casino was disciplined over for breaking the Casino Control Act, but Crown was fined a modest $50,000 for indiscretions... you know, slipping up. The Victorian Commission for Gambling Regulation annual report shows Crown's security failed when "a minor in a pram gained entry into the casino".
Crown casino said the woman who entered the gaming area was immediately ejected and did not play machines or tables during the brief visit. Gaming Minister Tony Robinson advised international visitors had contributed much of Crown's increase in takings in the past year, and heavy speculation a number of casino "whales" and "super whales" tried their luck, some possibly connected with Tiger Woods and Tom Cruise (Mission: Impossible and Top Gun fame). The Victorian Government netted in almost $1.7 billion in gaming taxes and other fees in the year to June, just slightly down on last year. The commission received $984 million in gaming taxes and $380 million from Tattersall's Lotteries. Crown paid out $151 million in taxes and licence fees, while racing taxes and licences boosted the state's bottom line by a cool $137 million. All up, punters lost $5.14 billion from all forms of gaming. Gambling critic aka "hater" and World Vision chief Tim Costello said the losses translated into bankruptcies and home losses for families. Inter-Church Gambling Taskforce chairman Mark Zirnsak said the figures showed Crown's "rolled gold" tax treatment. "They get half of what suburban pokie venues earn but they only pay one-sixth the amount of tax," Mr Zirnsak said. "If we have legalised gambling, at the very least we want to be seeing more money flowing back into services for the community and not into the pockets of the already overly wealthy gambling industry."

Legal Eagles Talk Aussie Government VS Clubs; Government Tipped To Loose Fight; Punters Rejoice...

Law experts have tipped that independent MP Andrew 'Wild and Witty' (MM tag) Wilkie's demand for federal government action on pokies is doomed to fail. They predict gaming companies and state governments would manoeuvre to protect their revenue. Wilkie described poker machine reform as a potential "show stopper" for either major party seeking his support in a hung parliament, saying he had made it clear in a meeting with caretaker prime minister Julia 'Jungle Girl' (MM tag) Gillard that "inaction is not an option". The Tassie independent and South Australian independent senator Nick 'Mr X' (MM tag) Xenophon have united as a tag team to push for changes to federal legislation which would limit poker machines to a $1 bet limit or a maximum loss of $120 an hour. Wilkie said amendments to the Corporations Act or telecommunications law would enable the changes, but University of NSW law professor George 'Why Is It So' (MM tag) Williams said loopholes would still exist. "The way the states would get around it is by licensing non-corporate bodies to operate poker machines," he said. "Then you don't have the commonwealth power any more. It could lead to a bit of a jurisdictional tug-of-war between the commonwealth and the states if the states were determined to fight." The Australian Hotels Association declined to comment, while state governments refused to say if they would support federal moves to tighten poker machine restrictions. NSW has already outlined opposition to a $1 bet limit, saying it would have "a significant impact" on the viability of NSW clubs and hotels, given the current highest bet limit is $10. A spokesman for the Victorian government said: "We are not commenting on conversations that may or may not have taken place between the Prime Minister and Andrew Wilkie." Mr Wilkie said stories of lives "destroyed by the virtually unregulated rise of poker machines" had brought him to tears. "Hence I have told the Prime Minister that a really good place to start would be to introduce a $1 bet limit on all poker machines in the country," he said. "I would hope that the federal government would be able to steer the states in the right direction and there wouldn't be a need for the federal government to legislate. "I'm advised that there is a range of commonwealth legislation which is relevant which could be used to force change if the states don't agree." Senator Xenophon said a lack of political will was responsible for holding back poker machine reform, suggesting the federal government took a "carrot and stick" approach to wean the states off poker machine revenue. "If there was a package of reforms where the commonwealth said 'We will make sure you're not out of pocket' in terms of loss of revenue, that would be another way of looking at it," he said. "There could be an assurance the states will not be out of pocket, but I think you'll find if states have $3 billion or $4bn less from poker machines, that money will invariably be spent in other areas of the economy where you'll have a greater multiplier effect on jobs and spending on retail where GST will be collected. The sooner the states wean themselves off pokies tax, the better off all of us will be." Senator Xenophon said 'Wild And Witty' Wilkie's potential power in the hung parliament would have "acutely focused" the minds of Gillard and Opposition Leader Tony 'The Bruiser' Abbott on the need for poker machine reform. Stay tuned as the lovers vs haters war continues.

Man Of God Tells Christan Follows To Sell Woolworths Shares; Pokies King Connection...

We learn that among synod highlights, the Bishop of Bendigo, Andrew Curnow, urged Christians to sell Woolworths shares, saying they were not an ethical investment because the company was one of the country's biggest poker machine operators. Through its 75% stake in Australian Leisure and Hospitality, Woolworths runs more than 12,000 pokies. Bishop Curnow said the Victorian Premier, John Brumby, was "a bit dismissive" of gambling concerns and predicted the issue might be a "sleeper" for the state election. Wollongong minister, Sandy 'Greener' (MM tag) Grant, said every state except Western Australia was addicted to a regressive form of tax on gambling profits. He said the harm arising from problem gambling included suicide, depression, bankruptcy and criminality.

Casinos in Australia - Industry Risk Rating Report - New Market Analysis Released...

A handy list and report into casinos down under is available. It's the replacement for the July 2009 edition of Casinos in Australia Industry Risk Ratings Report. Industry Risk Ratings Synopsis This Industry Risk Ratings report evaluates the inherent risks associated with the Casinos in Australia industry. Industry Risk is assumed to be ´the difficulty, or otherwise, of the business operating environment´. The report is available from Companies And Markets.

Australian Land Based Casino And Gaming Brands Don't Get High Marks On Branding Report...

Aussies are punishing brands that commit "major transgressions", with Vegemite and Toyota slipping down the latest list of top Aussie brands. Tech brands, lead by Google and Microsoft, dominate our daily lives, followed by Nokia, Sony and Apple, according to a study of 2000 Australians conducted last month by Brand Asset Consulting, which is part of the global Y&R Brands advertising group. Trailing at the bottom of the list were casinos Star City and Jupiters, magazines FHM and InStyle, Nutrient Water and Smart Water, Tiger Airlines, social media brands MySpace and LinkedIn and betting site Betfair. Some of the biggest improvers included phone brand HTC, Colgate Total and wholegrain snack brand Grainwaves. Apple has 5 brands in the study, all of which ranked 90% or higher in the study, including the iPad, after just 13 weeks in market. The study follows a global list of top brands released by brand consultancy Interbrand last week. Coca-Cola topped that list, followed by IBM, Microsoft, Google and GE.

Aussie Millions Coming Back To Crown Casino, Melbourne, Australia In January 2011...

Yep card shark and newbies, young and old, Australia's richest poker championships is coming up again in a few short months. Stay tuned to Gambling911 and Media Man for the finer details, like deals, and even fights, gossip from the tables and hotel rooms, and more. Oh, yep... PartyPoker's Tyron Krost and Stewart Scott are both expected to turn up, with Tony G a possibly also. Aussie celebs Shane Warne and Jeff Fenech are as close to 100% of attending as you can get. No word on Pam Anderson or Daniel 'She's a Hunt' Negreanu or Lover Not! Annie Duke as yet. Mike Tyson appears to be no longer campaigning to come down under to play or even watch poker, as his spiritual path continues. Crown Casino is understood to have security at max levels at the famed poker tourney this year with all the heat that exists between certainly players.

Australian Clubs VS Australian Government On Pokie Reform - And Update...

Clubs Australia executive director Anthony Ball said the undertaking to implement a mandatory pre-commitment system for all poker machines across Australia as well as to limit ATM cash withdrawals to just $250 a day were completely untested. He said the measures would close rural clubs, cost jobs, inconvenience recreational gamblers and club users, and do nothing to alleviate problem gambling. "She's done this without consultation and without any evidence to support it as an effective harm minimisation measure," Ball said. "Julia Gillard wrote to Clubs Australia and committed herself to consultation in developing gambling policy. "That commitment has been broken. We won't just take that sitting down." The NSW Government alone reaped more than $1 billion from pokies taxes in the past financial year. Mandatory "pre-commitment" technology, largely untested, will put computers in charge of 160,000 problem gamblers, placing self-imposed limits on the amount they can put through machines.
But most poker machine users could still bet to maximum limits. Gillard said it was not a total solution to problem gambling "but it's a good way forward". The politic pokie war continues. Same time, same channel again next week punters.

What sort of other Aussie news would you like to see? Tell us in the forum.

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Australian 'Gumleaf Mafia', Media Man and Gambling911 crew hear of a few casino babes and bodypainted babes heading to Bondi Beach for this Saturday. Think a James Packer - David Gyngell tie in. If either can't make it, fear not, there will be one of two other media men on hand to look after the goddesses. Oh, Sydney bodypainting artist Eva Rinaldi will also be present, and Eva's creations have actually appeared at the Australian Gaming Expo before, so top of the class to Eva, who is getting closer to Media Man all the time. Media Man 'Online Casino Of The Month: PartyCasino.com Shane Warne rumoured to ramp up bricks and mortar casino interests further with Packer with a branded Warnie poker room, and more online ventures too. Before you ask, more rumblings about a Kerry Packer and 'Mr Sin' Abe Safron slot game, but its its just talk or actually going to happen, time will tell. PartyGaming, Virgin Games, Slots3 and NextGen Gaming are favorites to develop titles such as those, and Marvel Entertainment leaks say more themed Marvel games may arrive in the coming months, in sync with Marvel Hollywood movie releases like Thor, The Avengers, Captain America, and whatever else legend Stan Lee and friends dream up for us. Hollywood hunk Sly Stallone is also said to be keen to see a 'The Expendables' online slot game and adaption for land based casinos get unleashed sooner rather than later, and his mate Hulk Hogan is also looking to ramp up casino and gambling interests, which should help cover his medical expenses. Check out the casino reviews at Media Man. Oh, friendly reminder punters... bet with your head, not over it, and have fun. As Stan Lee says, Excelsior!

*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911

*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis.

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Local body paint artist turning dreams into reality, by Greg Tingle – 15th September 2010

Local body paint artist turning dreams into reality

Body painting and human statues are back in vogue according to world-renowned body painter, educator and social and community entrepreneur, Eva Rinaldi.

Rinaldi from Abbotsford, is taking on the world by storm, sharing her knowledge and passion for all.

Like many dynamic Australian business people she was quick to notice the pending arrival to our shores of Oprah Winfrey, and has bold, yet achievable plans to body paint Oprah and / or some of her audience and celebrity guests.

Australia’s undisputed body painting goddess is riding a wave of positive momentum at the moment, fresh off a highly regarded photo shoot project with acclaimed photographer Roberto Duran. The impressive results of the local shoot ‘La Catrina’ will be available for public exhibition at the Pine Arts Australian Gallery from the 24th – 30th October.

The expo feature will include some of the areas most diverse cultural and Mexican entities, including models Elkatrina, Analise Greco, 4 (Strathfield), Lui Cantali, 5 (Five Dock), Victoria Gordetts, Arianna Starr and Phoenix (Sydney).

Gordetts said, "Getting body painted feels like a second skin and a light massage. It feels good”.

They will be all in good company with Rinaldi recently having also completed collaborations with Katy Perry, Lady Gaga and Shannon Noll.

Rinaldi said "It’s a really exciting time for all of us at the moment. We do a lot community work and nurturing young talent. Now, with a number of celebrated business entrepreneurs coming to Australia, we all think it’s a wonderful chance to get everything to the next level and help out worthy causes. My ‘wish list’, which is actually more of a ‘to do’ list includes Oprah, Richard ‘Virgin’ Branson, Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley and Ace Frehley (KISS), Blondie, Cher, John Trovolta and Russell Crowe. We have come up with a way for the celebrities to champion their favorites causes, so money raised will be put to good use. We think Oprah will see merit in this, and I’m certain a number of the range of celebrities will agree to be painted. A couple of them are friends, so I think they will be happy to do this for sure. We just hope Oprah will join the party."

Some may be a little skeptical of Rinaldi’s grand plans, however, based upon her almost decade of arts meets corporate work experience, the scales appear to be tipped in her favor. Just a couple of Human Statue BodyArts’ bigger campaigns include World Vision, Tourism Australia, Sydney Body Art Bike Ride, and famous Sydney Opera Bar!

Rinaldi and her world class team believe in making a positive difference when possible, and they’ve been able to do plenty of this over the years. Now with the likes of Oprah, Branson and Blondie about to grace our shores once again, the timing couldn’t be better.

To help create further buzz, awareness, and all important local employment opportunities, Rinaldi is now searching for an Oprah look-a-like to compliment the campaign. The model must be open to having African fruit, themes and Sydney icons painted on their body. In addition, there’s some golden opportunities for children (3 – 5) who appear to be from African descent.

It’s easy to see why Rinaldi and her team are so excited about Oprah and other celebrated entrepreneurs coming to Australia, and we think that there’s a good chance more of her dreams will indeed become reality.

For more information on Rinaldi’s amazing creations be certain to have a look at her website http://www.humanstatuebodyart.com.au and Facebook http://www.facebook.com/eva.rinaldi2

Potential models, please e-mail bodyartist@bigpond.com with recent head shot.

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WPT Legends of Poker Attracts 462 Players - Aug 22nd, 2010

WPT Legends of Poker Attracts 462 Players

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After its buy-in was slashed from $10,000 to $5,000, the 2010 installment of the World Poker Tour (WPT) Legends of Poker attracted 462 players. Last year, a total of 279 entered, meaning that the field grew by 66%. However, the total prize pool of the marquee WPT event dipped from $2.63 million to $2.15 million, a fall of 18%.

The top 45 poker players will finish in the money, with the top spot scheduled to pay out $750,000. Last year, poker rapper Prahlad Friedman banked a little over $1 million after besting World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event November Niner Kevin Schaffel heads-up. Todd Terry, Toto Leonidas, Sam “KingKobeMVP” Stein, and Mike Krescanko also made the final table in 2009.

Nearly 300 players – including 16 former WPT champs – took to the felts on Saturday for the second of two starting days in the Legends of Poker, which emanates from the Bicycle Casino in Los Angeles. The day began with WPT officials honoring Kathy Liebert, who was playing in her 100th WPT tournament. According to the WPT’s website, Liebert is the female record-holder for most final tables made with six, most cashes logged with 15, and most money won with $1.75 million. However, she lacks a WPT title.

Despite the fanfare, Liebert was eliminated late in the day, as was Lock Poker’s Matt “All In At 420” Stout. The internet player dropped his stack with A-J of diamonds against Shawn Buchanan’s pocket sevens to hit the rails. UB.com pro Phil Hellmuth, meanwhile, took a three-hour dinner break on Saturday and returned to chat it up with fans rather than play cards. He finished the day with a stack of 66,850, or 167 big blinds, good for the 50th largest tally in the room entering Day 2.

PokerStars pro Daniel Negreanu lodged a particularly memorable Day 1B. Negreanu dropped to 10,000 in chips after running into a royal flush and eventually hit the rails after his A-J fell to 8-2. On the latter hand, the flop came A-2-3, giving his opponent bottom pair, but another deuce on the turn and an eight on the river didn’t help matters.

Joe Sebok and stepfather Barry Greenstein have both made waves in the WPT Legends of Poker, entering Day 2 in 17th and 19th places, respectively. Also vaulting up the leaderboard on Saturday was Allen Cunningham, who tripled up to 90,000 after cracking pocket aces and pocket kings by flopping a boat. Cunningham candidly Tweeted following the monster pot, “Holy Macintosh, I just flopped a full house vs AA and KK to triple from 30K to 90K.”

Here are the top 10 players in the WPT Legends of Poker entering Day 2 on Sunday:

1. Manuel Reyes – 205,350
2. Vinny Vinh – 180,000
3. Raymond Dolan – 165,500
4. Justin Young – 138,950
5. Max Casal – 138,500
6. Micah Raskin – 135,000
7. Philip Stark – 132,575
8. Ari Goott – 129,000
9. Ken Michelman – 125,200
10. C. Zadfar – 125,000

Other players remaining in the top 50, including their chip counts, include:

17. Joe Sebok – 108,650
19. Barry Greenstein – 100,675
32. Jonathan “FatalError” Aguiar – 78,125
33. Soi Nguyen – 77,250
36. Allen Cunningham – 76,500
37. Tom “Kingsofcards” Marchese – 76,350
39. Marco “CrazyMarco” Johnson – 75,225
45. Jeff Madsen – 70,800
47. J.J. Liu – 70,700
50. Phil Hellmuth – 66,850

Day 2 kicks off at 1:00pm PT on Sunday from The Bike, with 241 players remaining in the hunt for the WPT title. The Legends of Poker will crown a winner on Wednesday. (Credit: Poker News Daily)

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Casino News Media: IGT's Double Diamond(R) Slots Named Favorite Reel Slot

IGT's Double Diamond(R) Slots Named Favorite Reel Slot

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LAS VEGAS, Sept 16, 2010

International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT), a global leader in creating the major slot games players love and casino network systems that improve the player experience, received first place in the "Favorite Reel Game" category for its Double Diamond(R) slots in Casino Player magazine's "Best of Gaming" awards for 2010. In addition, three more IGT games took top honors in the same category.

The Double Diamond(R) theme was introduced in 1989 by IGT. With its introduction, IGT brought the concept of themed gaming machines to life. And since its first placement on the casino floor, Double Diamond slots have continued to be a favorite among players.

"IGT has a long and proud history of developing the very best slot themes and Double Diamond(R) is a prime example of this," said Ron Rivera, IGT senior vice president of North America sales. "It is truly an honor that one of our games, that is over twenty years old, is still a player favorite."

Double Diamond(R) reel slots remains popular for many reasons including its fun and classic game play. The Double Diamond(R) symbol matches any other symbol on the payline and doubles any corresponding award. Two Double Diamond(R) symbols on the payline earns four times the standard award amount. And if three Double Diamond(R) symbols land on the payline, the player wins the top award. According to Casino Player, Double Diamond(R) is "a game that contributed a lot to the general popularity of the slot floor when it was introduced in the late 1980s, and has remained a player favorite ever since."

The popularity of Double Diamond(R) also extends to IGT's MegaJackpots(R) line where it is a common base game on a number of favorites including Wheel of Fortune(R). And, the latest addition to the Double Diamond(R) family is Double Diamond(R) Reel MultiPLAY, which features 3D graphics and gives players a chance to play their favorite game up to four times at once on one machine.

In addition to Double Diamond(R), three more IGT games were named in the Favorite Reel Slot category: Wheel of Fortune(R); Red, White & Blue(R); and Triple Diamond(R).

Wheel of Fortune(R) offers players a chance to win big and is a constant favorite. With over $2.5 billion in jackpots hit on Wheel of Fortune(R) games, it continues to be on the top of players' lists year after year.

Red, White & Blue(R) slots was also introduced in 1989 as one of the first themed slot games and benefits from the same longevity and following as Double Diamond(R). This classic spinning reel game comes in a number of varieties and denominations to fit any player's needs.

And finally, Triple Diamond(R) rounds out the IGT reel slots winners. Another classic game, Triple Diamond(R) offers players an entertaining gaming experience with classic symbols and slot play.

The 2010 'Best of Gaming' awards were conducted by Casino Player magazine. This is the 15th annual survey done by Casino Player to its readers on their favorite aspects of gaming. Along with casino games, the survey included polls on reader's favorite casinos, hotels, and amenities.

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International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT) is a leader in the design, development and manufacture of gaming machines and systems products worldwide.

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Murdoch’s betting play is about to fall apart - July 2023

As Lachlan Murdoch would know, his family’s fondness for gambling is popularly attributed to his great-grandfather Rupert Greene, who was so unsuccessful at it that his friends secured him a job as race starter at Flemington racecourse for 31 years, a job which barred him from betting on horses.

Lachlan’s own form as a punter is still undetermined.

Next month he and his father Rupert face a make-or-break decision on Fox Bet, Lachlan’s attempt to break into the lucrative online betting industry.

A year ago, News Corp was pouring money into Betr, its joint start-up with gaming entrepreneur Matthew Tripp. The key to this transaction was the plan heavily pushed by Lachlan to merge News Corp and Fox Corp, with Betr becoming the Australian version of Fox Bet. Betr would be the first example of Fox/News synergy.

Nationwide News began with a modest $2.9 million outlay, but a flurry of capital raisings up to late December pushed its total investment to $65 million.

In January, however, Lachlan had to throw in the towel on the Fox-News merger idea, which meant the whole international Fox Bet plan was toast, and overnight News Corp’s risk appetite for Betr disappeared.

As this paper reported in February, News reported a $US33 million equity loss from affiliates in the December half year, most of it from the investment in Betr. That $US33 million figure is after tax, of course. That makes the pre-tax loss in Aussie dollars around $70 million, with a further $US10 million loss from equity affiliates in the March quarter. News Corp has well and truly lost its shirt on the gee-gees.

Of course losing money doesn’t mean that betting platforms aren’t worth anything. Fox emerged from last November’s mediation tussle with UK giant Flutter Entertainment with confirmation that it has a valid 10-year option to buy 18.6 per cent of Flutter’s FanDuel, which claims to have half the US online betting market. FanDuel is yet to break even, but the sliding option deal currently values it at $US22 billion.

But it was Fox Bet that was to be Lachlan’s big play. While he was keen to use Fox Sports coverage as a springboard to build a sports betting platform, he didn’t want Fox to run it. Instead, in 2018 he did a deal with The Stars Group (TSG) to run Fox Bet as a joint venture.

Months later Flutter bought TSG and inherited control of Fox Bet. Fox claims Flutter starved Fox Bet of funds, favouring FanDuel instead – a claim which the Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services decision in November rejected.

Critics say Fox Bet’s technology is clunky. It is rolled out in just four states and has less than 1 per cent of the US market.

So, it’s decision time. In August, Flutter can walk away from the Fox Bet joint venture, which means either Fox steps up with its own funding and organisation to run it, or Fox Bet gets canned.

It’s a tough decision, given all the personal capital the Murdoch scion has invested in the idea of building a betting empire. That’s all about to fall apart, unless he doubles down. Suppose he has to ask himself: Do I feel lucky?

(AFR)

Sportsbet splashed more than $64m on gambling ads in 18 months - July 2023

Sportsbet, the country’s largest online bookmaker, has spent $64 million on television ads during live sport and racing events in the past 18 months, more than triple the amount spent by rivals Tabcorp and Ladbrokes.

Confidential spending data, compiled by researchers at Nielsen and obtained by The Australian Financial Review, shows the extent of spending by bookmakers at a time when the federal government is considering whether to place a ban on gambling advertising on television

The proposal from a parliamentary inquiry has worried the major broadcasters, with bookmakers already scaling back their spending. There are fears a complete ban will choke off tens of millions of dollars that flow into the coffers of broadcasters and sporting organisations.

The data shows Tabcorp has spent only $5 million since the government’s online gambling inquiry commenced in mid-October. Other major competitors also reduced the amount they spent on the Nine Network, Seven Network and Network Ten as the inquiry dragged into the new year.

The inquiry, chaired by Labor MP Peta Murphy, recommended two weeks ago that the government completely ban gambling advertising on television, radio and social media platforms.

Wagering companies that would be worrying about the impact of that change are Sportsbet, which has spent $64.4 million, and the Entain-owned Ladbrokes and Neds brands, which spent a combined $37.6 million on advertising on television networks between January last year and May.

Outside of social media platforms, television is the most commonly used platform to advertise or promote a brand. The impact of the ban would not only affect the market share of the biggest spenders, but the amount of advertising revenue television networks receive.

Gambling ads are typically used by a wagering company for two reasons: to raise brand awareness or to promote inducements around a particular sporting event or racing carnival.

Up in lights

Nielsen’s data does not account for in-house stadium advertisements or sponsorship on jerseys, which would also be banned under a government recommendation. It also does not count advertising on subscription television provider Foxtel and its streaming service Kayo Sports.

But it paints a picture for just how intertwined sports betting and key racing and sports events are. Most of Sportsbet’s ads run in the AFL and NRL seasons as the wagering company is the official partner for both codes. Data from March to September – when both competitions run – show more than $32 million was spent in that six-month period alone.

Ladbrokes, which has spent $20.2 million in 17 months, skews its spend to the AFL and NRL finals. From September to November 2022, during the spring racing carnival, Sportsbet spent $16.8 million – more than the total amount spent by Tabcorp over an 18-month period.

That is largely due to Tabcorp dramatically scaling back the amount it spends with broadcasters. Tabcorp has spent just $5.5 million on television advertising since October, despite the Melbourne Cup Carnival running in November. That means it spent $10.8 million from January to September.

It was not the only one to reduce spend in that time – all other wagering companies spent millions less during the inquiry period than in the months before.

Tabcorp’s dramatic drop in spend coincides with comments made by the company’s chief executive, Adam Rytenskild, at the inquiry. At the time, Mr Rytenskild said the company would voluntarily stop all advertising on free-to-air television during the day by 2024.

BetR, the News Corp-backed wagering group that began advertising when it launched in October, has so far spent almost $15 million.

The smallest spender is BlueBet, which contributed just $3.3 million to the $155.4 million spent in the period. PointsBet, which recently sold its operations in the United States to Jay Z-backed Fanatics, spent $12.6 million in the same period.

The government is meeting with broadcaster and wagering companies to expedite a process that will crack down on issues associated with the wagering sector.

The sweeping gambling ad ban – worth more than $300 million last year – was one of 31 recommendations made by Ms Murphy’s parliamentary inquiry. Other recommendations include the appointment of a minister dedicated to reducing online gambling harm, the creation of a national regulator and changes to behavioural algorithms in gambling apps.

For their part, television executives and most wagering companies are opposed to a blanket ban, though some concede a reduction is feasible. Tabcorp is unconcerned, but the ban would not include ads for physical shop premises or ads that appear during horse or greyhound racing (Tabcorp currently holds exclusive wagering licences in NSW and Victoria).

Sportsbet chief executive Barni Evans said last month that while his company supported several recommendations made by the inquiry, prohibition on advertising was a step too far.

“We believe an approach that significantly reduces the number of ads rather than complete bans would respond to community concerns, while still supporting sport and media,” Mr Evans said.

(AFR)

Gambling ad ban would hurt footy and media: Sportsbet - May 2023

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s budget reply assault on gambling advertising during sports broadcasts has sparked anger among TV executives, who say they could lose hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue.

Mr Dutton has proposed banning gambling advertising for an hour before and after sporting matches because “footy time is family time”.

“The bombardment of betting ads takes the joy out of televised sports,” he said. “Worse, they are changing the culture of our country in a bad way and normalising gambling at a young age.”

The proposal would potentially have the most severe repercussions for the broadcasters of the AFL and NRL, including Seven Network, Nine Entertainment and pay-TV operator Foxtel. The media companies declined to comment publicly. Nine is the publisher of this masthead.

London-listed Sportsbet, part of London-listed Flutter Entertainment, has about half of Australia’s online bookmaker market and its advertising is omnipresent during sports broadcasts.

A Sportsbet spokesman supported “balanced” reform, warning against moves that would restrict the amount of money going into media companies and sporting bodies.

“Thursday’s announcement, which focuses solely on sport broadcasts, risks leading to significant impacts on sport and media funding,” the spokesman said.

“We encourage all political parties to work constructively in consultation with affected sectors on proportionate solutions that achieve this balance while reducing harm.”

Little warning

The surprise announcement comes at a tricky time for the online gambling industry, sports bodies and big media organisations. There has been growing support among MPs and voters for a crackdown on online bookmakers, particularly curbing the sheer volume of advertising that is plastered across TV, radio and social media.

Some executives at the companies were given a heads-up by the Coalition’s communications spokesman, David Coleman, before the announcement, according to a person familiar with the matter. “There was no notice, just a heads-up,” the source said.

Privately, TV executives say changes would put at risk up to $200 million of revenue from the gambling companies. Figures from Standard Media Index, which measures advertising agency spend, show TV networks made $180 million from the $300 million spent on gambling ads last year.

The figures are material for companies such as Seven, Nine and Foxtel, which have signed long-term broadcast contracts with the AFL and NRL worth billions. Those companies sign annual packages with the likes of Sportsbet, Ladbrokes and ASX-listed Tabcorp to place marketing around the games.

Under existing laws, gambling ads are banned from five minutes before a live sport starts until 8.30pm. After 8.30pm, the ads can also appear during breaks.

One gambling industry veteran said the amount of money flowing into media and the football codes would be “substantially less” if Mr Dutton’s idea were to become reality.

Other executives were more sanguine about the announcement, describing Mr Dutton’s speech as headline-grabbing rather than a serious policy proposal, coming weeks before the government’s inquiry into online gambling is due to report.

“It’s a simple way to get ahead of Labor on the topic,” one TV executive said, adding that blocking TV ads would shift promotion onto YouTube and social media apps.

The federal government’s parliamentary inquiry into online gambling has become the main venue for the likes of Sportsbet, media and sporting bodies to be consulted on the coming crackdown.

Last month, AFL chief executive Gil McLachlan appeared at the inquiry along with NRL chief executive Andrew Abdo. They suggested the inquiry should look at banning so-called inducement ads, such as cash-back and free-cash offers, particularly on social media.

The inquiry has already led to the government committing to new laws that will ban people from using credit cards through online bookmakers.

(AFR)

Wallabies turn in shocker to open Eddie Jones era - 9th July 2023

The Wallabies have turned in a horror first Test under coach Eddie Jones, falling 43-12 to South Africa to continue their 60-year drought in Pretoria.

The Australians arrived at Loftus Versfeld, where they have never tasted victory, looking to usher in a winning era under Jones in his second stint as Wallabies coach.

But their plans of opening the Rugby Championship with a victory on Saturday were left in tatters with few Wallabies boosting their World Cup stocks.

“We were outplayed everywhere, beaten in every department,” Jones conceded.

“Really disappointing but no excuses. We got a realistic appraisal of where we are as a team.”

Co-captain James Slipper described it as a “tough start”, the veteran prop lamenting his team’s discipline, incurring 11 penalties and two penalty tries, which resulted in hooker Dave Porecki and winger Suliasi Vunivalu being handed yellow cards.

“Discipline, playing at the right end of the field ... it’s a tough start, but we’ve got a long year ahead of us so we’ll keep working hard,” Slipper said.

They started with a bang, as star winger Marika Koroibete barrelled across the line in the seventh minute before the home side piled on 41 unanswered points.

Debutant five-eighth Carter Gordon scored in the final minute, putting his hand up to replace Quade Cooper in the No.10 jersey next week against Argentina.

But the Australians’ defence was in disarray throughout, making more than double the number of tackles compared to the Boks, who won the collisions to control possession and territory.

The Wallabies also looked clueless in attack, with Cooper failing to put his stamp on the game and their opponents under any pressure.

They repeatedly played into South Africa’s hands by kicking away possession while handling errors cruelled many an attacking raid.

They only managed to spend 0.47 seconds in the opposition 22 in three visits compared to the home side’s 15.

Lightning winger Kurt-Lee Arendse bagged a hat-trick for South Africa, exposing Vunivalu who had a shocker in his first Test start.

Arendse scored twice in the opening 40 minutes as his team surged to a 17-5 halftime lead and added a third in the 50th minute.

Reece Hodge’s radar was off target, with the inside centre missing all three first-half attempts including a late 66m effort which fell short and he was replaced by Samu Kerevi early in the second stanza.

A number of Springboks stars missed the match to head to New Zealand to prepare for the All Blacks, but they showed their depth across the park.

Jones rang the changes but his replacements were unable to make an impact on the world champions, who were cheered on by more than 50,000 in the stands.

“There is a game next week (against Argentina in Sydney) and we will be better. It is a bad day at the office and we have to front up and play better than that,” said Jones.

(AAP)

Volkanovski trumps Rodriguez to retain UFC featherweight crown - 9th July 2023

Las Vegas: Alexander Volkanovski reasserted himself as the featherweight champion with a technical knockout over Yair Rodriguez four minutes into the third round at UFC 290.

Rodriguez was the interim champion after Volkanovski temporarily moved up to lightweight, but the Australian left little doubt who the better fighter in running his record to 26-2 in what was scheduled as a five-round bout.

Former US President Donald Trump, who is running for the Republican nomination in 2024, was among those in attendance. He entered the venue shortly before the main card began, walking next to UFC president Dana White and drawing roars from the T-Mobile Arena crowd. Trump shook hands with Las Vegas Raiders NFL star Maxx Crosby, a major UFC fan who sat behind him. Jamal Murray of the NBA champion Denver Nuggets also had a floor seat.

Volkanovski, a heavy favourite, took Rodriguez (16-4) to the mat near the two-minute mark of the first round and kept him there to dictate the pace. That became a theme as the second round played out much the same way, with Volkanovski, 34, also delivering several shots to Rodriguez’s face.

Rodriguez, who is from Mexico, then took the fight to Volkanovski in the third round, preventing the ground and pound with a series of kicks to put him on the defensive. But with a minute left, Volkanovski slammed Rodriguez, 30, to the mat and pounded him with rights and lefts before referee Herb Dean stepped in.

This was Volkanovski’s first fight since a loss by unanimous decision to lightweight champion lightweight Islam Makhachev on February 11.

That ended Volkanovski’s 22-fight winning streak, and after the brief elevation to lightweight, he dropped back down to featherweight for this fight.

Before moving up, Volkanovski had won five titles fights to make a strong argument as the best featherweight of all time. He also has been in the conversation for top current pound-for-pound fighter, and Volkanovski is second in the UFC’s official rankings to Jon Jones.

The Volkanovski-Rodriguez match highlighted the International Fight Week card that included a second championship bout.

Brazil’s Alexandre Pantoja captured the flyweight belt by beating champion Brandon Moreno of Mexico, winning by split decision.

Judges Derek Cleary and Junichiro Kamijo gave the Pantoja the victory at 48-47 in the five-round fight, but Ben Cartlidge saw the bout quite differently with a 49-46 score in favour of Moreno.

Pantoja (26-5) collapsed to the mat after the decision was announced. He has beaten Moreno (21-7-2) in all three meetings.

“I worked so hard,” Pantoja said. “I left everything I had.”

(AP)

‘Green light’: UFC boss grants Aussie ‘freak’ special privilege - 10th July 2023

Alexander Volkanovski has been given a rare “green light” by UFC boss Dana White in a gesture that befits his greatness.

LAS VEGAS — UFC president Dana White says Australia’s Alexander Volkanovski will be given a ‘green light’ to pick whichever fight he wants after beating Yair Rodriguez with an elbow injury so bad it requires immediate surgery.

If defeating one of the UFC’s most dangerous strikers within three rounds at UFC 290 wasn’t impressive enough – or dumping and finishing him on the ground — Volkanovski revealed afterwards it had all been done with a serious arm injury that had seen him “struggle” throughout camp.

His team revealed to Fox Sports Australia that the fighter has a chipped bone in his left elbow so bad he cannot fully straighten the arm.

It also caused nerve complications during the build up.

Yet while the UFC featherweight champ will now undergo surgery, he suggested he would not rule out still chasing that hyped rematch against lightweight king Islam Makhachev in October.

So dominant was Volkanovski in his fifth UFC featherweight title defence, White indicated afterwards ‘The Great’ could now decide himself what comes next.

“Volk looked incredible,” the UFC boss said. “He’s an absolute freak.

“He’s at one of those places in his career now where whatever he wants to do, what are we gunna say?

“He’s proven himself a million times. So whatever he wants to do we go with it, yeah.”

Asked about how quickly he would recover from the injury, the Aussie reminded that he broke his hand when beating Max Holloway on the same International Fight Week show a year ago.

Despite the setback, Volkanovski was still back and ready to go on standby for the annual Abu Dhabi card that October.

“I didn’t mean to scare everyone,” the champ grinned when asked about his surgery revelation.

“It’s not a big deal.

“I’ll be back ASAP.

“It will be a quick and I’ll be back training.

“I broke my hand at International Fight Week last year and you saw me in Abu Dhabi ready to fight (on standby) Islam Makhachev or Charles Oliveira.

“That was a broken bone.

“So I’ll be right.

“You don’t need to stress about that. I’ll be active again, don’t worry about. I have a couple of little things to fix up then I will be kicking ass again.”

Asked later in his press conference again about October Volk said “I’m not ruling it out”.

Speaking with Fox Sports Australia in fight week, Volk suggested a win over Rodriguez would see him chase a rematch with Makhachev.

If that wasn’t possible, he then wanted to challenge for the ‘BMF’ title – which is set to be contested by lightweight stars Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje at UFC 291.

But now that White says he can pick?

“We all know I want that lightweight belt,” he said. “I want that Islam fight, want that rematch.

“Not only for me to get that belt, get that win back, but it’s a massive fight for the UFC as well.

“It’s a fight everyone wants to see. It was a close fight, a cracking fight. We showed out. He lived up to the hype, I lived up to the hype and the fight lived up to the hype.”

White agreed, praising not only Volkanovski but an entire team that includes UFC middleweight champ Israel Adesanya and fellow Kiwi Dan Hooker, who upset Jalin Turner this same night with broken wrist.

“Look at Israel Adesanya, he’s ready to fight anybody, anywhere, anytime,” White said.

“Volkanovski is willing to fight anybody, too.

“When you look at Volk, the size, the reach, he doesn’t care. He gets in there and handles his business.

“Hooker also breaks his wrist in the second round (tonight). I didn’t even know. That whole team is bad ass.”

(FOX Sports)

Australian Gambling Entrepreneur Daniel Tzvetkoff Bailed From Jail, by Greg Tingle - 14th September 2010

The Australian gambling, gaming and casino sector remains on red alert with the release from jail of Aussie gambling and technology sector tycoon, Daniel 'Transactions' (Media Man tag) Tzvetkoff. Media Man and Gambling911 continue to keep you informed with the news you need to know...

The once ultra successful Australian gambling and tech tycoon Daniel Tzvetkoff has been released on bail from a New York remand centre in a deal those close are calling "secret".

The whiz kid wunderkind Gold Coast entrepreneur was freed post closed hearing before a federal magistrate.

Rupert Murdoch's News Limited papers learned he entered a plea deal to a serious criminal charge back on on 23rd August. Time flies when your having fun - not.

The ugly details do not appear on official public records, which could very well suggest he is co-operating with prosecutors who are enjoying their "crackdown" on "illegal online gambling".

Specialist legal eagles have been busy in and around the sector for a number of years with clients including names such as PartyGaming, Virgin Games, PokerStars, World Poker Tour, Harrah's Entertainment, Station Casinos, Full Tilt Poker, 888 and even Media Man.

The now bankrupt Tzvetkoff, who once amassed a $82 million or so fortune, had been charged with money laundering, conspiracy to launder, fraud and conspiracy to defraud. No readers, no murder or manslaughter chargers. We're just checking if your still awake and with us on this.

The numerous charges relate to more than half a billion dollars worth of "transactions" he processed from allegedly illegal online gaming sites in the US. The rumour mill says those sites include PokerStars and Full Tilt Poker, with some suggestion Bodog may be linked into the Pandora's box. On the other hand, world's leading igaming company, PartyGaming, came to terms with the United States Department of Justice in a multi million dollar deal, and is currently looking to re enter the lucrative U.S market.

The 27-year-old was known to be quite the showoff - look at me type, with fancy and loud cars, boats, waterfront mansion at Surfers' Paradise, an interest in motorsport and all sorts of other big boys toys.

His fiancee had a child in Australia, which Daniel was not able to watch mature, due to his incarceration.

Tzvetkoff was arrested in down town Las Vegas back in April, thanks to a tip off from pissed off folks owned big money, and later denied bail by a New York federal judge who thought he had hidden lots of moolah to finance an escape from the US once free. Sort of like 'Catch Me If You Can', but in real life.

The US Bureau of Prisons advised he was no longer locked up and probation officials confirmed he had been bailed leading up to his trial, which is scheduled for June next year. The trail will be must watch material for anyone who has an interest in the igaming, gambling or larger technology sector.

"He was released on bail on that date (August 23)," said a spokesman, though the US Department of Justice would not confirm the development.

Tzvetkoff's bail terms are likely to involve GPS monitoring and house arrest, restrictions his lawyers suggested in his prior bail application. He likely has an unwanted anklet - chain around his ankle, and if not there, wrist or neck.

The once wunderkind who used to fly by private jet... understood without alerting US Customs officials as required by law...is also extremely likely to have forfeited his passport.

The US Attorney's Office is cracking down on some online gaming firms in the US, but appears to be picking its targets strategically.

In other legal news, Canadian Douglas 'Rip Off' (MM tag) Rennick, of Vancouver, is to be sentenced this month for assisting illegal gaming operations by moving $US350 million ($375 million) into the US from gambling hub Cyprus.

UK's BetonSports chief David Carruthers was arrested as he tried to leave the US for Costa Rica in 2006. Yep, his winning streak came to an abrupt halt. He was locked up for 33 months after pleading guilty to conspiracy to violate anti-racketeering laws.

At the time of publication Tzvetkoff's lawyer had not return calls.

Tzvetkoff's apprenticeship in the tech sector included processing large amounts of money via transactions that were riding off the back of the lucrative porn industry.

Media Man and Gambling911 have thought up a new theme song for 'Our Daniels' upcoming media appearances' - JAILBREAK, by legendary Aussie rockers AD/CD. After further discussion a back up track was selected - JOHNNY B. GOOD. Punters, a friendly reminder - If betting, bet with your head, not over it, keep it legal, and 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. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming.

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Australian Gambling And Casino News, by Greg Tingle - 14th September 2010

The Australian gambling and gaming sector has never been hotter. Today we're got casino tycoon James Packer and friends news, political fodder pertaining to the Aussie gambling sector, a death following a visit to a casino party in the Asia Pacific, industry trends in land based venues and the online gaming sector and more. Media Man and Gambling911 continue to deliver the hard hitting news in an uncensored, unfiltered, caffeine free way... just the way you like it...

Gambling King James Packer And Media King Lachlan Murdoch Celebrate Together...

James Packer and Lachlan Murdoch, both ultra successful - business, gorgeous wives, fantastic lifestyles, you name it, shared a birthday celebration together on the 8th of September Media Man has learned. The tycoons Packer, 43, Murdoch, 39, joined with their better halves Erica and Sarah in 'Sin City' Sydney - the Surry Hills Restaurant and Bar The Winery, to be exact. The couples grabbed a quick bit, then birthday cake of course, and water, maybe on a heath kick...and swapped pressies. Packer gave Murdoch a little something from Cartier... we know, as a little red bag was seen entering and exiting the premises. The new week sees both gents contemplating what action to take regarding that messy One.Tel JV situation from the past. There's Jodee Rich, facing a Wednesday deadline to decide whether to serve a damages claim he has filed against Murdoch, Packer, News Ltd and Consolidated Media Holdings. Should the claim be served, it will most likely join the $244 million damages claim lodged in August by One.Tel's special purpose liquidator Paul Weston. More on this developing situation in the coming days, but it will take a lot to spoil Packer's fun and success at the moment, with his Australian and international ventures going from strength to strength. Can't wait to Aussie Millions at Crown Casino this January.

PartyGaming VS Virgin Games VS MicroGaming Powered Online Casino Wars Continue...

PartyGaming's brands including their mega popular PartyCasino and PartyPoker continue to maintain most popular online gaming website status in Australia for casino and poker. Richard Branson's Virgin Games is looking to move forward in the Australia Pacific, and is understood to also be in touch with Australian authorities. Microgaming powered Captain Cooks has lost a bit of steam, with newer challenger Roxy Casino now offering Aussies The Lord Of The Rings - Fellowship of the Ring slot. Party's Sinatra, Cleopatra, The Godfather, Mission: Impossible, Monopoly, Wheel of Fortune, Rambo, The Terminator, King Kong and Heist are some of the most popular online slots of all for the Aussies, with their sign up bonus of $500 all told being very attractive to most punters. Many of Party's online slot games are in fact very good versions of the land based casino equivalents. In fact, IGT has its own online arm, WagerWorks, which often supplies games to both PartyCasino and Virgin Casino. Tomb Raider and Tomb Raider: Secret of the Sword is still widely regarded as the most popular Microgaming powered game, but again, PartyGaming rules for branded slots in Australia. The play for free or play for money option has also proved to be a winning formula, as are the multi currency options, and the set betting limits option. All these brands have impressive security in place, and have been established for almost 30 years between them. Aussie's have been begging for a 'Kerry Packer', 'Underbelly' and 'Andre The Giant' slot game, but it still hasn't happened, but Christmas is coming. PKR is the most popular place still for 3D poker games and now also offer sport betting, taking a little chuck out of the likes of Betfair and Centrebet. PartyGaming is listed on the London Stock Exchange and is considered the world's most successful online gambling company, and that was even before the bwin deal being announced. Movie and TV show themes remain very appealing to players, with the games being an extension of the greater entertainment industry. PartyCasino won last months Media Man 'Online Casino Of The Month' Award, with Virgin in 2nd and Captain Cooks grabbing 3rd. Congrats PartyGaming, and all others for their spirited competition.

Aussie Casino King James Packer And Friends Party In Melbourne...

'The King' was making the most of his return to down under, Melbourne last week, having cruised in from his high seas voyage of discovery. He joined mates, grabbing a feed at Crown Casino with Network Nine connection buddies David Gyngell, Eddie McGuire, Jeffrey Browne, Shane Warne. Media Man has named the foursome as some of the key players in what has been come to be known around town as the 'Aussie Gumleaf Mafia'. JP was also spotted at Hemmesphere with sister Gretel, who we understand was celebrating a birthday. Yep, another party, so let's celebrate. More good fodder for the press.

Australian Clubs Might Follow Norwegian Pokie System Despite Problems; Punters Tipped To Bet More Via Online Pokies In Show Of Defiance...

A few years ago, way up north, Norwegian authorities reckon thet saw a rise in "problem gambling" (whatever exactly that is) in the pokie player mix, so they ripped out all the 15,000 one armed bandits from every pokie palace in the nation. Some punters went underground playing at illegal dens, others hit the internet pokies, some both. This scenario might just be on the cards for Australia. You know, see no evil, hear no evil! Out of sight, and out of mind. We all know banning things doesn't work. What happens when a book or music video, movie... whatever gets banned? They become more popular of course. Anyway, on with the tale and fast forward a year later, in 2008, and Norway reintroduced electronic gambling but with a piss weak system that some Australian thought police...the ones know know what is best for you, and are trying to protect you from yourself! Under a written agreement between PM Julia Gillard and the new Tasmanian independent MP Andrew 'Witty and Wild' (MM tag) Wilkie), the federal government has pledged to introduce a national "pre-commitment system" for Australia's 198,000 poker machines by 2012. The pitch is that this will "force" players to set spending limits in advance, and looks likely to shut them out for a period, once they reach their maximum. Of course in reality it will force gambling underground, be it to Kings Cross, Surry Hills, Bondi Beach, the internet or wherever. Banning trying to stop people doing X has never worked. Just look at the recent sackings of MP's from the Australian government - and they were looking at porn and gambling websites. Then there was a ABC TV presenter who collected kiddie porn - he still did it. Gambling regulation is the responsibility of the state governments, which new in billions of dollars, or about 10% of their annual revenue from gambling tax... pokies being the best, the federal government is now seeking legal advice on how it can enforce a pre-commitment system if the states refuse, which is quite likely. The Wilkie "deal" was struck on September 2 and clubs and others in the industry have been determined to point out its injustice and futility. Note, the Aussie Labor government has also been to known to break "deals" - go back on their word, so it will be interesting to see how it all plays out. The Aussie Productivity Commission recommended the pre-commitment system after stating that about 41% (in dispute by all clubs) of the $11.9 billion Aussies spend on pokies each year came from "problem gamblers". It also questioned the community benefits that clubs claim to offer. The commission also dismissed concerns about job losses. Many clubs now believe the commission report was rigged and bias, and had an agenda in place from day dot, and was a way to push the bias of a couple of Australian anti gambling campaigners, despite data being corrupted. Andrew Wilkie is the MP now making the most noise, and he's quickly making a number of enemies in the pub and hospitality industry, and even a few underworld figures have their eyes and minds on Wilkie it is understood. A price is not know, but club whispers indicate its substantial. Wilkie is understood to have had to boost his security at work and home in fear of "what if" type scenarios. Wilkie and friend, the South Australian anti-pokies independent Senator Nick 'Mr X' (MM tag) Xenophon, say the intention and sentiment of the "deal" is for a mandatory system. Gaming firms, pubs and hotel associations give a lot of money to Labor, and lobbying against a mandatory system is tipped to be massive. When the deal was announced, shares in pokie manufacturer Aristocrat dropped. Tabcorp and Tatts Group were only slightly affected, since the share market knows that neither of the firms own pokies after 2012, under licensing changes down south in Victoria. It is understood Tabcorp plans to manage some gaming rooms for a fee for some venues, but its real future is in casinos and wagering. Tatts could stand to win from a pre-commitment system. Through its Maxgaming arm, it runs monitoring for pokies in Queensland, NSW and the Northern Territory and is considered a most likely contender to win the same licence in Victoria. Maxgaming, which delivered a cool $42.6 million in earnings last year, already offers a pre-commitment system. One of the country's biggest poker machine operators, Woolworths, runs just over 12,000 machines through its 75% stake in ALH Group. It is running a trial of a voluntary pre-commitment system in a Queensland venues. ALH spokesman David Curry declined to say what effect this system has had on revenue or how many players have taken it up. "It's relatively early days. We do support voluntary pre-commitment and by voluntary, I mean opt-in." He argues mandatory pre-commitment would deter the group of friends having a few drinks on a Friday night who decide to play a few dollars on the pokies, and says they make up a significant portion of punters. "The productivity commission said that between 0.5 and 1 per cent of Australians are problem gamblers. So that leaves an awful number of recreational gamblers," Curry says. That figure is quoted often by those opposed to a mandatory system, who say it will punish the vast majority of recreational players, thus unfairly punishing venues. The commish found that there were between 80,000 and 160,000 Aussie adults suffering significant problems from gambling, or 0.5 to 1% of all adults. 230,000 to 350,000 adults experience "moderate risks" that may make them vulnerable to "problem gambling". Problem gamblers contribute up to 60% of total gaming machine spending, says the commission, but clubs and many industry expects say the report went out to inflate the numbers in order to try to push their own personal beliefs. Some of the crusaders said a punter could loose about $50,000 - $70,000 per hour playing a pokie, which is scientifically - mathematically impossible. A study by Scandinavian research group SINTEF found no change in the proportion of people with gambling problems in Norway in 2008, compared with 2007, even though all slot machines were removed from the market. The problem apparently shifted - online! A large proportion of problem gamblers "reported that internet gambling was their most important form of gambling," the researchers found. Aussies are spending about $850 million a year on overseas gambling websites according to insiders and leakers. Only time will tell for sure as to what will work, and what won't, but clubs are hear to stay, as is the internet, including games of skill, games of chance, and everything else, and we all know that having a punt is one of strongest attributes of Australian culture. Australians are also some of the world's highest users of the internet for work or play, so expect a lot more to be written about this political hot fodder. Gambling911 and Media Man will be proving frequent news updates, and also the odd game review on their world famous website portals, which happen to cover about a dozen different news and entertainment sectors, gaming and gambling just being one main group, albeit just about the most popular. Funny that! Work hard and play harder - its the Australian way maties.

Australians Gambling With Dangerous Websites?...

Australians tend to believe that all websites and website portals carry an equal security risk, be it gambling, sex - adult, news, mobile games and ringtones, entertainment or other content. It's a subject some news media and new media companies try to sidestep at times... just how safe or dangerous is the internet, and how do gambling and adult websites fit into the landscape. The majority of the loyal readership would be aware that both Media Man and Gambling911 are well established media website portals that cover news, sports, gaming, gambling, entertainment and more. We've learned that approximately 13% see gambling websites as most dangerous. A recent survey of computer users has found that 1 in 3 believe that all websites pose a security threat! Quizzed 'Where do you suspect is the greatest danger of malware infection on the internet', 34% said that when it comes to security, all websites are equally dangerous. Websites that offer illegal software were deemed to be dangerous to 27%, 22% believed that visitors to adult sites are exposed to dangers, while 13% saw online gambling sites as the most treacherous. Only 4% per cent believed that big website portals (like Media Man, Google, Yahoo, NineMSN, Wikipedia) are particularly vulnerable due to their massive popularity. Sorin Mustaca, data security expert at Avira, who kindly conducted the said survey, said "On one hand, it's encouraging to see that over 33% of our user base has learned that security threats can come from any website, but it's also a statement on our society at large when 1 out of every 3 people can't trust any of the websites they visit." Carl Leonard, senior threat research manager at Websense, believes that the results underline the fact that consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the risks when browsing the internet. He said "While 34% is a positive increase in awareness, it clearly shows that two-thirds of users still lack awareness of online security threats. Businesses are also suffering from the same problem and many do not adequately protect themselves online. "Threats can come from anywhere: cyber criminals are known to target Web 2.0 websites, the most popular 100 websites, legitimate business websites and brand new sites; and they specifically look for places to host zero-day attacks. Today's sophisticated threats are increasingly blended attacks which hit all these channels and if a business has not got the right protection it can be hugely damaging." Christopher Boyd, senior threat researcher at GFI Labs, said "Personally I'd be more worried by browser games and social networking applications than pornographic websites - adult entertainment websites realised a long time ago that they won't maximise their profits while peddling infections and malicious code hijacks. In contrast, so many applications are untested and unverified by the platforms they operate on that spam, malicious links and compromised profiles are increasingly the order of the day. Warez sites can be lethal, as the code you're downloading could contain absolutely anything." Matthew Bruun, security expert at VeriSign, said "It's great to see that consumers are thinking about their online security, but as long as users are prudent and cautious when they are operating online there is no need to distrust every website. In order to get the best from the web, consumers need to know what to look for so that they can make the best judgement on whether or not to give a site their custom. Always look for visible security cues such as trust marks, or the green address bar, to guarantee that the website is authentic and online transactions are being secured. "It's these security factors, and not the type of website, that indicate to consumers which sites are safe to deal with. Conversely, if a site looks poorly built, has a strange URL address and contains lots of spelling or typographical errors, the user is right to be nervous."

A Media Man spokesperson said "For reasons stated in this report we are very mindful of who and what we associated ourselves with. As a world leading internet portal we need to be. We have every confidence in our friends at internet giants, Google, Gambling911, PartyGaming, Wikipedia, Virgin Games, Virgin, Playtech and Microgaming. Based on our decade in media publishing we have found Google to be a much safer company and website portal than Yahoo! and the Microsoft suite, but that's based off our own experience and the feedback we have been sent in. For gaming and gambling PartyGaming and Virgin are our current Top picks, and we offer detailed reviews on them to help boost consumer confidence. We also like poker brands World Poker Tour, World Series of Poker and Aussie Millions. WPT and WSOP sometimes get shown on Foxtel and other sports and entertainment TV shows. Tech news sites such as CNet and ZDNet are also excellent sources to get tech and web reviews. Ourselves and Gambling911 have developed quite in a niche in gaming, gambling and sports betting, and only deal with the best and most trusted company brands. We recommend that website visitors minimize risks when possible and dealing with big firms with positive reviews is a great way to do this".

Australian Man Dead After Asia Pacific Casino Party...

The surviving family of an Australian citizen found hanged in his Solomon Islands villa are now demanding that Aussie authorities fully investigate the death, which local police say was a suicide. Joanne Meiners believes the death last month of her former loving husband Wolfgang, who came to Sydney in 1961 after fleeing the then Iron Curtain nation of East Germany, was actually made to look like he took his own life. As time goes by, other people are starting to side with her belief. Mr Meiners, 69, who operated a successful fishing charter business in Honiara after relocating to the Solomon Islands 20 years ago, was found dead in his apartment on 26th August by a person identified as a former lover, who telephoned police. Speaking from her Gold Coast home, Mrs Meiners said a copy of the autopsy sent to her by friends living in Honiara revealed Mr Meiners had suffered a blow to the right eye, what appear to be defensive type wounds to his wrists, some bruising to his legs and injuries to his genitalia. "We have been told that the night prior, Wolfgang attended a party at the Pacific Casino Hotel held to celebrate the election of a new prime minister in the Solomon Islands," Mrs Meiners said. "Two of his friends walked him back to his hotel later that night and stated that he was paralytic but was OK when they left him there. Other people who were at the party said he appeared happy at the function and he had no injuries on his arms." She said her former husband was a "larger-than-life character" who made headlines five years ago when he and his fishing boat crew survived 18 days at sea after their vessel broke down. Mrs Meiners said her husband had had many affairs with other women, and was too vain to take his own life. "It is incredibly suspicious. There was no toxicology done in the post mortem. The autopsy report on the cause of death said 'probably hanging'. It doesn't explain how he came to suffer the injuries to his crotch and the massive blood loss." She rightly wants a complete review of the autopsy and said Australian Federal Police (AFP) officers based in the Solomon Islands should investigate the case as a matter of urgency.

Media Man Profiles

Australia

Australian Casinos

Asia Pacific

Wrap Up...

Readers... er, punters, what's your view on casino parties? Have you ever had a dangerous experience or very "close call" at a land based or online casino? What's your favorite slot game? Tell us in the forum.

Media Man Profiles

Australia

Australian Casinos

Casino Reviews

Wrap Up...

Readers... have you visited any dangerous websites or websites lately? What's more dangerous... gambling websites, porn websites or Australian government 'Big Brother' websites, or are they equal? Tell us in the forum.

When visiting a website or website portal be on the look out for any suspicious pop ups, adverts or any other elements that look like trouble. If betting, bet with your head, not over it, and 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. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming.

Website Network

Media Man International

Media Man

Media Man Australia

Media Man Asia

Media Man Canada

Media Man Games

Media Man Brand

Media Man Network

Casino News Media

Poker News Media

Global Gaming Directory

Australians Gambling With Dangerous Websites?, by Greg Tingle - 13th September 2010

Australians tend to believe that all websites and website portals carry an equal security risk, be it gambling, sex - adult, news, mobile games and ringtones, entertainment or other content. Media Man and Gambling911 play Superman and Clark Kent with this special report... just the way you like it...

It's a subject some news media and new media companies try to sidestep at times... just how safe or dangerous is the internet, and how do gambling and adult websites fit into the landscape.

The majority of the loyal readership would be aware that both Media Man and Gambling911 are well established media website portals that cover news, sports, gaming, gambling, entertainment and more.

We've learned that approximately 13% see gambling websites as most dangerous.

A recent survey of computer users has found that 1 in 3 believe that all websites pose a security threat!

Quizzed 'Where do you suspect is the greatest danger of malware infection on the internet', 34% said that when it comes to security, all websites are equally dangerous.

Websites that offer illegal software were deemed to be dangerous to 27%, 22% believed that visitors to adult sites are exposed to dangers, while 13% saw online gambling sites as the most treacherous. Only 4% per cent believed that big website portals (like Media Man, Google, Yahoo, NineMSN, Wikipedia) are particularly vulnerable due to their massive popularity.

Sorin Mustaca, data security expert at Avira, who kindly conducted the said survey, said "On one hand, it's encouraging to see that over 33% of our user base has learned that security threats can come from any website, but it's also a statement on our society at large when 1 out of every 3 people can't trust any of the websites they visit."

Carl Leonard, senior threat research manager at Websense, believes that the results underline the fact that consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the risks when browsing the internet.

He said "While 34% is a positive increase in awareness, it clearly shows that two-thirds of users still lack awareness of online security threats. Businesses are also suffering from the same problem and many do not adequately protect themselves online.

"Threats can come from anywhere: cyber criminals are known to target Web 2.0 websites, the most popular 100 websites, legitimate business websites and brand new sites; and they specifically look for places to host zero-day attacks. Today's sophisticated threats are increasingly blended attacks which hit all these channels and if a business has not got the right protection it can be hugely damaging."

Christopher Boyd, senior threat researcher at GFI Labs, said "Personally I'd be more worried by browser games and social networking applications than pornographic websites - adult entertainment websites realised a long time ago that they won't maximise their profits while peddling infections and malicious code hijacks. In contrast, so many applications are untested and unverified by the platforms they operate on that spam, malicious links and compromised profiles are increasingly the order of the day. Warez sites can be lethal, as the code you're downloading could contain absolutely anything."

Matthew Bruun, security expert at VeriSign, said "It's great to see that consumers are thinking about their online security, but as long as users are prudent and cautious when they are operating online there is no need to distrust every website. In order to get the best from the web, consumers need to know what to look for so that they can make the best judgement on whether or not to give a site their custom. Always look for visible security cues such as trust marks, or the green address bar, to guarantee that the website is authentic and online transactions are being secured.

"It's these security factors, and not the type of website, that indicate to consumers which sites are safe to deal with. Conversely, if a site looks poorly built, has a strange URL address and contains lots of spelling or typographical errors, the user is right to be nervous."

A Media Man spokesperson said "For reasons stated in this report we are very mindful of who and what we associated ourselves with. As a world leading internet portal we need to be. We have every confidence in our friends at internet giants, Google, Gambling911, PartyGaming, Wikipedia, Virgin Games, Virgin, Playtech and Microgaming. Based on our decade in media publishing we have found Google to be a much safer company and website portal than Yahoo! and the Microsoft suite, but that's based off our own experience and the feedback we have been sent in. For gaming and gambling PartyGaming and Virgin are our current top picks, and we offer detailed reviews on them to help boost consumer confidence. Tech news sites such as CNet and ZDNet are also excellent sources to get tech and web reviews. Ourselves and Gambling911 have developed quite in a niche in gaming, gambling and sports betting, and only deal with the best and most trusted company brands. We recommend that website visitors minimize risks when possible and dealing with big firms with positive reviews is a great way to do this".

Media Man Profiles

Australia

Australian Casinos

Casino Reviews

Wrap Up...

Readers... have you visited any dangerous websites or websites lately? What's more dangerous... gambling websites, porn websites or Australian government 'Big Brother' websites, or are they equal? Tell us in the forum.

When visiting a website or website portal be on the look out for any suspicious pop ups, adverts or any other elements that look like trouble. If betting, bet with your head, not over it, and 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. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming.

Website Network

Media Man International

Media Man

Media Man Australia

Media Man Asia

Media Man Canada

Media Man Games

Media Man Brand

Media Man Network

Casino News Media

Poker News Media

Global Gaming Directory