Bill's a for Life CMAA Man - Club Managers Association ...
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Merry Christmas
Vol 107, No 232
Dec-Jan 2011
& Happy New Year
www.cmaa.asn.au
Bill’s a
CMAA Man
for Life The CMAA’s newest
7 Life Member,
➢ Broc
hure p2 Bill Clegg (middle)
with fellow Life
Members (from left)
Peter Strachan,
Les Evennett,
John Allan,
Barry Stevenson,
Greg Pickering and
Allan Peter at the
CMAA Sponsors
Appreciation Lunch
e
ack pag
➢ Inside b ➢ Big finish to 2011 In The Zones - p38-53
1
CLUB MANAGERS’
ASSOCIATION AUSTRALIA
Publisher CMAA OFFICE BEARERS
Editor: Peter Sharp 0412 381 733
CMAA FEDERAL EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATION
Contributors: President
Henri Lach, Katie Cincotta. WILLIAM CLEGG, ACCM
Advertising: Judy Rayner Randwick Labor Club
Bill Clegg ACCM
Advertising Bookings: Federal President Vice President
(02) 9332 2363 & 9360 6177 MICHAEL O'SULLIVAN, ACCM
Fax (02) 9361 5142 Milton Ulladulla Bowling Club
rayner@bigpond.net.au Federal Secretary
Printing and Design: ALLAN PETER, ACCM
Daily Press Group Executive Members Executive Officer
Phone: (02) 9316 9366 STEVE CONDREN Ralph Kober, B.Ed.
Correspondence: Southport Surf Lifesaving Club
Senior Industrial Relations Advocate
The Editor, c/- IAN TODD, ACCM
Peter Cooper
Kingsgrove RSL Club
Club Managers’ Association Australia Marketing and Sponsorship Manager
Level 2, 1 Showground Road Shannon Donato
Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127
FEDERAL COUNCILLORS Industry Professional
Locked Bag 4317 Michael O’Sullivan ACCM Development Manager
Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127 Division A – City/Eastern Suburbs
Federal Vice President Zone and Manly/Northern Suburbs Geoff Meston
Phone (02) 9746 4199
Zone Training Course Administrators
Fax (02) 9746 5199 Mario Machado, ACCM Brad Jones, CCM
Chief Executive Officer Estelle McDonald-Birch
Please address all business Hornsby RSL Club
correspondence to the Accounts Officer
Federal Secretary Division B - St George/Cronulla Priscilla San Luis
Sutherland Zone and Inner West Administration Officer
The Club Managers’ Association Australia is Zone Evonne Bosnich
registered as an industrial organisation of Ian Todd, ACCM
employees in the terms of the Fair Work General Manager Receptionist
Act 2009, and The Club Managers’ Kingsgrove RSL Club Carol Quirke
Association is a registered Trade Union in Events Administrator
the terms of the New South Wales Division C – Nepean Zone Tegan Cain
Michael Wiezel
Industrial Relations Act 1996. The CMAA is Qld Membership Liaison Officer
Allan Peter ACCM Secretary Manager
affiliated with the Australian Council of St Marys RSL Club Justin McGurgan
Trade Unions (ACTU). Federal Secretary
Life Members
Division D – Hunter Zone, Central
Harry Walker (decd.)
Registered Office Coast Zone and Great Lakes Zone
Norm Robinson (decd.)
Level 2, 1 Showground Road Stephen Byfield, ACCM
Arthur Justice (decd.)
Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127 Chief Executive Officer
Diggers @ The Entrance Len Ewart (decd.)
Phone (02) 9746 4199 Lou O’Neill (decd.)
Fax (02) 9746 5199 Division E – Far North Coast Zone, Peter Cameron (decd.)
Locked Bag 4317 North West State Zone, Mid State Bob Harbutt (decd.)
Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127 Zone and Mid North Coast Zone Keith Nolan (decd.)
Email - cmaa@cmaa.asn.au Phillip Mallon, ACCM Fred Chubb, CCM (decd.)
General Manager Alan McDougall, MBE (decd.)
Casino RSM Club John Milne (decd.)
Office Hours
Les Evennett
Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm Division F – Illawarra Shoalhaven George Elliot, CCM
Seven-day telephone answering service in Steve Condren Zone and Far South Coast Zone Peter Strachan, ACCM
operation. Federal Executive Member David Hiscox Hans Sarlemyn, ACCM
General Manager
Jim Henry, OAM, CCM
“Club Management in Australia” is published monthly Dapto Leagues Club
by the Club Managers’ Association Australia. All
Terry Condon, CCM
material is copyright and cannot be reproduced Division G – Gold Coast Zone, Brisbane Lew Cooper
without the explicit permission of the Publisher or Zone, Ipswich Darling Downs Zone, Barry Stevenson
Editor. Editorial contributions relating to the club Sunshine Coast Zone, and the Central Greg Pickering, ACCM
industry are welcome. Submitted copy should be typed John Allan, ACCM
and Northern Queensland Zone
and double spaced. We don’t accept any responsibility
for keeping and returning unsolicited material. Wayne Moffatt Allan Peter, ACCM
Photographs submitted must be captioned. Those sent General Manager Wayne Forrest, ACCM
without prior arrangement cannot be returned unless Pine Rivers Memorial Club Bill Clegg, ACCM
accompanied by a stamped, self addressed envelope.
Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily Division H – Victoria Zone, Riverina
those of the Club Managers’ Association Australia. Murray Zone and the ACT Zone
Although we do exercise the utmost caution, we don’t
accept responsibility for claims expressed in Grant Duffy, ACCM
advertisements appearing in our issues. Secretary Manager
Subscription rate is $60 a year. Ian Todd ACCM Numurkah Golf & Bowls Club
ISSN 0045-7205 Federal Executive Member
CMAA MEMBERS CONFIDENTIAL SUPPORT & COUNSELLING - 1300 464 262
CLUB MANAGERS’
CAREER DEVELOPMENT
CENTRE SPONSOR
CAREER DEVELOPMENT SPONSORS
4 Industry Update December 2011-January 2012 Magazine Contents
2012 World Conference PAGE ADVERTISER / Editorial
Cover 1 CMAA Sponsors Appreciation Lunch
on industry’s horizon Cover 2 INDEPENDENT GAMING
The World Conference on Club Management P1 CMAA Imprint & Administration
continues to grow in international P2 CMDA Career Development Sponsors
significance and has become a major event P3 CLUB PLUS SUPERANNUATION
in the diary of Australia’s club managers. P4 DECEMBER-JANUARY EDITION CONTENTS + INDUSTRY UPDATE
The CMAA, through CMDA National Bursary P5 AINSWORTH
Sponsor partner CCM Travel, is making the P6 PAYNTER DIXON HOSPITALITY + October Edition Pointers
85th annual World Conference a Study Tour P7 MEI
opportunity for Association members and P8 MERIDIAN CONSTRUCTION + President's Perspective
hospitality industry executives. P9 2011 ACE AWARDS
The 2012 Tour departs on Tuesday, February P 10 MITCHELL BRANDTMAN + The Executive Officer's Desk
21, returning on Thursday, March 1, with P 11 CMDA - CHARTERED SECRETARIES AUSTRALIA TRAINING
the World Conference in New Orleans from P 12 CHD PARTNERS + The Business End
February 24 to 28 and a Club Expo Tour of P 13 INDUSTRY ISSUES - Mandatory Pre-Commitment
Las Vegas opening the 10-day professional P 14 INDUSTRY ISSUES - '3 Strikes & Your'e Out' Legislation 1
development experience. The Las Vegas P 15 KI-EA APARTMENTS + INDUSTRY ISSUES - '3 Strikes & Your'e Out' 2
component includes an optional visit to M P 16 CMAA Sponsors Appreciation Lunch 1
Casino and Red Rock Casino with lunch for P 17 THOMSONS LAWYERS + CMAA Sponsors Appreciation Lunch 2
$60. P 18 CMAA Sponsors Appreciation Lunch 3
The 2012 P 19 RAYNER SALES & MARKETING + CMAA Sponsors Appreciation Lunch 4
Tour costs P 20 HARLEY RUSSELL DAY + NORTHERN EXPOSURE - 2011 In Review
$3,370* for P 21 NUFURN COMMERCIAL FURNITURE +
a Twin Share NORTHERN EXPOSURE - 2011 In Review
Package, P 22 SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - 2011 In Review
with a P 23 SOUTHERN EXPOSURE - 2011 In Review
Single Room P 24 CMAA 2012 DIARY & EVENTS CALENDAR 1
Package P 25 CMAA 2012 DIARY & EVENTS CALENDAR 2
priced at $4,320*. P 26 MARKET FORCES 1
The CMAA Tour travel package includes ... P 27 CMAA - 2012 CONFERENCE & EXPO BROCHURE 1
➢ return Economy Class air travel Sydney- P 28 CMAA - 2012 CONFERENCE & EXPO BROCHURE 2
LA-Sydney on Qantas; LA-Las Vegas on P 29 CMAA - 2012 CONFERENCE & EXPO BROCHURE 3
American Airlines and Las Vegas-New P 30 CMAA - 2012 CONFERENCE & EXPO BROCHURE 4
Orleans-LA on South West Airlines P 31 CMDA UPDATE 1 - 2012 Courses - Paul Lyons Workshop Series
➢ international taxes and fuel levies P 32 CMDA UPDATE 2 - 2012 Courses - Big Dave Staughton Workshop Series 1
P 33 CMDA UPDATE 3 - 2012 Courses - Big Dave Staughton Workshop Series 2
➢ 3 nights accommodation in a deluxe
P 34 CMDA - 2012 EDUCATION PROGRAM
room at Encore at Wynn in Las Vegas
P 35 CMAA NATIONAL BURSARY SPONSORS + CMDA UPDATE 4 - 2012 Courses
➢ 4 nights accommodation in a deluxe P 36 CMDA 2012 National Bursary Program 1
room at Marriott New Orleans (The CMAA P 37 CMDA 2012 National Bursary Program 2
85th World Conference and Club Expo is
P 38 CMDA - 2012 Qld TRAINING CALENDAR +
being held at this venue) ITZ - Gold Coast & Brisbane Combined Meeting, Workshop & Xmas Lunch
➢ state taxes P 39 CMAA - NORTHERN EXPOSURE: Queensland Update
➢ airport transfers in Las Vegas and New P 40 CMDA - QUEENSLAND DUTY MANAGER PROGRAM
Orleans P 41 ITZ - Brisbane Zone Xmas Lunch
➢ porterage at hotels P 42 ITZ - ACT Zone Meeting & Bowls Day
Not included in the package ... P 43 OTEN TAFE NSW + ITZ - City Eastern Suburbs Zone Meeting & Bowls Day
P 44 CMDA - CLUBS+ 2012 EVENTS DIARY
➢ travel insurance (strongly recommended)
P 45 ITZ - Victoria Zone Meeting & 2011 Awards Lunch
➢ registration fee for CMAA 85th World P 46 ITZ - Hunter Zone Workshop, Meeting & Xmas Lunch
Conference and Club Expo P 47 ITZ - Manly Northern Suburbs Zone Meeting & Xmas Lunch
➢ ESTA Electronic USA Visa for Australian P 48 CMDA - CLUBS+ MELBOURNE FOOD & WINE BURSARY TOUR
Passport Holders – US$14 P 49 ITZ - Inner West Zone AGM, Workshop & Xmas Lunch
➢ personal items (i.e. phone calls, laundry, P 50 ITZ - Illawarra Shoalhaven Zone AGM & Xmas Lunch
in-room charges) P 51 CMDA - SELF-PACED e-COURSES + ITZ - Sunshine Coast Zone Xmas Lunch
P 52 CMAA ZONE EDUCATION OFFICERS + BOARD OF MANAGEMENT STUDIES
For more information on this impressive
P 53 ITZ - Mid North Coast Zone Golf Day
tour, contact Catherine Mancuso or Janelle
Brown at CCM Travel P: 02 - 9439 5100 or P 54 NORTHERN EXPOSURE - Sunnybank Community & Sports Club 1
E: catherine@ccmtravel.com.au P 55 RAYNER SALES & MARKETING +
NORTHERN EXPOSURE - Sunnybank Community & Sports Club 2
janelle@ccmtravel.com.au
P 56 MARKET FORCES 2
*All costs shown are current and are subject to change
due to availability and cost increase until fully booked Cover 3 CMAA HOSPITALITY EXPO EXHIBITOR BONUS
and paid. Cover 4 SHUFFLE MASTER AUSTRALASIA
6 In Your December-January Edition
➢ Page 13 ➢ Pages 16 -19 ➢ Pages 36 & 37
The events in Federal Parliament last Christmas is a time of family The CMDA 2012 National Bursary
month show how “the numbers game” gatherings. And that “family” Program has been assessed and the
can swing dramatically on one man’s ingredient was a highlight of the winners have been notified. More than
decision. When Speaker HARRY annual CMAA Sponsors Appreciation $100,000 is offered annually for CMAA
JENKINS decided to return to the Lunch at Brighton Le Sands last members to advance and enhance
backbenches for Sunshine Coast MP month. More than 100 guests, their education and professional
PETER SLIPPER to resign from the including CMAA Life Members, Hall of development thanks to Club Industry
Coalition and replace Mr Jenkins, it Fame members, CMAA Federal company sponsors. With such
meant the Government gained an Executive and Federal Councillors important opportunities available to
extra vote, the Opposition lost a vote welcomed executives from companies club executives, the winners are
to challenge the Government and who support the CMAA through CMDA published on Page 36 with CMAA
Tasmanian MP ANDREW WILKIE can no Career Development and CMDA Industry Professional Development
longer bring down the Government by National Bursary sponsorships. Federal Manager GEOFF MESTON reviewing
withdrawing his support if JULIA President BILL CLEGG also presented the application and decision-making
GILLARD fails to carry the day on MAXGAMING NSW State Sales Manager processes on Page 37 …
mandatory pre-commitment … DON HAMMOND with a memento to
mark 10 years as a CMDA Career
Development Sponsor.
8 President’s Perspective with BILL CLEGG, ACCM
Innovative politicians turn back
the industry clock 30 years
It is now nearly 30 years since the Strategic Plan. I have previously outlined and detailed the
introduction of multiplier and multi-line processes that lead the transition. Of significant importance to
poker machines into clubs in NSW. The the Association is the relationships that have been developed
‘80s also saw the introduction of a over many years. It was through these relationships that the
maximum jackpot of $10,000; $1 and $2 denomination CMDA Career Development Centre was planned and delivered.
machines; a maximum bet of $10; and in-house linked systems As part of the new CMAA Executive Team, Marketing &
with a maximum jackpot of $100,000. Poker machines, Sponsorship Manager Shannon Donato’s role will include the
generally, have continued to develop within the above maximisation of exposure we can provide the CMDA sponsors
parameters. During the ‘80s, the poker machine manufacturing and supporters. It is the Federal Executive’s view that these
industry also led the world in technology. It’s easy to recall relationships are based on a mutual support basis and, with
that during a visit to Nevada and a gaming conference when the challenges ahead, it has never been more important that
questioning casino slot managers on why they hadn’t we, as an Association and as individual members, support those
introduced credit meters and the Australian-style “pokies”, companies and organisations that provide the educational
they were adamant that they would not be dictated to by opportunities that our managers not only enjoy but that are
manufacturers and, besides, their players didn’t have the time critical to their professional development.
- and some thought, the ability - to understand those types of
machines. The mandatory pre-commitment (MPC) issue now is On behalf of the Executive and Federal Council, I extend to
“morphing”, with other political parties introducing their own Ralph Kober and his CMAA Administration team our
gambling policies. An interesting aspect of this scenario that appreciation for the thoroughly professional way that the
was quickly jumped upon was the $1 maximum bet, proposed change within the Association has been accepted and the
by The Greens. The $1 maximum bet was first introduced with commitment that the administration team has shown in
the multi-line and multiplier 20¢ machines in 1982 and, with continuing to deliver world-class services and educational
an accumulated inflation rate of more than 115%, someone products to our members.
else would have to work out what the true value of a $1 bet in
1982 compared to what that would be in 2012. Yet, the people It was a humbling experience and very proud day when I
that could determine the future of this industry want to turn received the honour of CMAA Life Membership at the Federal
the clock back 30 years. Whatever happened to the political Executive and Federal Council Meeting last month. When I first
parties that had a vision for the future and not backward joined the Club Industry as a hopeful youngster, I had no idea
thinking? that my journey in clubs and with the CMAA would take me to
the country for 16 years and back to Sydney, to have the
honour of being elected Federal President and now join the
At this time of year, it’s always appropriate to consider the ranks of CMAA Life Members. The CMAA and this business we
past 12 months and look towards the year ahead. Clearly, it are in has given me so much more than I could ever repay and
was a year of significant change for the CMAA ... a year that I treasure this honour as one of the proudest moments of my
will determine the direction of our Association for the next life and my career. Thank you, all, for your support and your
decade - and beyond. And, of course, a most significant year friendship.
for the Club Industry, again finding itself defending the role we
play in communities around Australia. By mid-2012, I expect On behalf of the Executive, I extend to all members and
that we will have a clearer indication of the future. I am families our thoughts and best wishes for Christmas and the
confident that it will be a positive outcome. The challenge New Year.
that faced the CMAA Federal Executive with the transition of
our Executive Officer commenced some years ago with the ➢ BILL CLEGG, ACCM, is the CMAA Federal President, CMAA
development of a succession plan as part of the Association’s Life Member & General Manager at Randwick Labor ClubSEAT 8J ADMISSION
2 ROW/BOX
SECTION/AISLE
TO THE:
YOUR TICKET
S
A N C L U B E N T E R TAINMENT AWARD
STRALI
14TH ANNUAL AU Kingsford
The Juniors -
At
s d a y, M a r c h 21, 2012
Wedn e
14th Annual Australian
Club Entertainment Awards
At The Juniors - Kingsford
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Come and see the best entertainers in
Australia’s Club Industry
Acclaiming Excellence in Club Entertainment
Voting for the first round of
nominations for the 2012 ACE Awards
starts on November 12, 2011
www.aceawards.com.au
Proudly supporting
Australian Club
Entertainment
For information on Sponsorship Packages for the ACE Awards
please contact: Shannon Donato from the CMAA on
(W) 9746 4199 (M) 0434 185 414 (E) shannon@cmaa.asn.au or
Maria Pena from ClubsNSW on (W) 9268 3010 (E) mpena@clubsnsw.com.au10 The Executive Officer’s Desk with RALPH KOBER
Another big year of challenges for the
Club Industry and YOUR Association
Each year's end I or risk forcing it to an early and in next year's elections may bring its
find myself potentially disastrous election own peculiarities to the landscape of
surprised as to outcome. the club industry. We hope nothing
how quickly it Intense media attention has elevated happens out of the ordinary.
draws to a close. This one is no the issue of how to best deal with the 2012 will be an interesting year for
exception. What began as Terry responsible conduct of gambling to the industry and our managers and I
Condon's final year as the CMAA's heights never seen before. The hope that it augers well for both.
Executive Officer has finished with political landscape has again changed From an Association view it will
the start of my own journey as the with the recent return of the Speaker become more and more important
Association's new Executive Officer Harry Jenkins to the backbench. and necessary for our most senior
and it is one I look forward to members to be prominent and visible
Wilkie has subsequently threatened
immensely. at CMAA zone meetings and events.
the Government not ‘to burn’ him
2011 has been punctuated with over his demands for his reforms Our younger managers need to be
significant issues challenging the very otherwise he has made clear his assured that the Association's
way in which clubs operate, club intentions to pay the Government activities are worthwhile and
managers manage their business and back by not supporting its more important for them to engage in as
the community judges the way in nationally important reforms in other an integral part of their own career
which the industry handles in areas. The fight continues. and professional development. I ask
particular, responsible conduct of all CEOs, General Managers,
gambling and venue violence In NSW, the draft Three Strikes
Secretary Managers and the like to
incidents. legislation threatened by way of
encourage their junior managers and
unintended consequences, to
Nationally, the Wilkie gaming reforms senior supervisors to attend their
potentially put club managers who
demands the Government legislate zone's activities and to attend
had breaches served on them under
for the mandatory pre commitment themselves.
the Registered Clubs Act by the Police
of play of electronic gaming machines and which were subsequently Furthermore, our valued sponsors
dropped due to lack of evidence or expect and enjoy the opportunity of
other, in the unenviable position of meeting with CEOs et al at these
having those breaches permanently events and it is only through the
recorded against their club by way of contribution that our sponsors make
a strike endangering their own to the Association that it is able to
standing and employment prospects. provide the high quality and scope of
Thankfully intense lobbying by the services and products to our members
CMAA and other associations on the that it does. Your support in this is
government saw a rethink of this and appreciated.
an amendment made.
I had the pleasure recently at the
In Victoria, the impending change to CMAA Manly Northern Suburbs Zone
the manner in which clubs will meeting to
manage their own acknowledge the
gaming machines in RAY AGOSTINO
achievements of two
2012, has seen the well known managers.
matter become a Bruce Smith ACCM
political football formerly of Pittwater
between the various RSL has retired after 40
representative bodies, years as a club manager
the government and and 38 of those as a
other interested parties, CMAA member. Ray
all having a differing Agostino ACCM marked
view and self interest in his 30th year with
how and at what Asquith Leagues Club
commercial cost the and is enthusiastic about continuing
monitoring of gaming machines to lead his club for many more years
should be. to come. Well done to both!
In Queensland, the state has been
ravaged by natural disaster and In closing I extend a heartfelt wish to
thankfully the club industry has you and your families that you will all
experienced a less controversial year enjoy a well deserved Christmas
than its state counterparts however break and time with each other.
the potential change of government Families matter!11
12 The Business End with SHANNON DONATO
It’s Personal ... staying active and engaged the
key to a strong Association, industry and career
As the CMAA’s Certainly, a lot of pertinent Club and that’s why I encourage all
Marketing & Industry information from the Members to attend as many Zone
Sponsorship Association can be sourced from our events as possible.
Manager, one of website or CMA Magazine, but Zone With increasing demand on Members’
my key Meetings allow Members to be time, we understand that it is
responsibilities is to assist the involved and discuss relevant issues becoming increasingly difficult to
Association in keeping you, our with peers and CMAA representatives. attend all events, but we remind you
members, informed and engaged with Zone Meetings offer an opportunity to that Zone activities offer all Members
YOUR Association. contribute and be involved in the invaluable opportunities for
Obviously, CMA Magazine along with Association’s ongoing development and professional development, networking
our website - www.cmaa.asn.au - and activities, rather than just sit on the with peers and having your say in the
direct mail (electronic and hard copy) sideline as an observer. Club Industry and YOUR Association.
play a key role in communicating with With 2012 just around the corner, I’m That’s why we encourage all Members
our Members. working with CMAA Industry to remain active in attending Zone
Undoubtedly, there are also many Professional Development Manager Meetings, particularly our most senior
virtues of social media and digital Geoff Meston to develop a “Speakers managers/Members, despite time
communications, as they certainly Bureau” that will continue to provide constraints or the temptation to
offer a quick, cost-effective form of a vast range of informative and review and skim information on-line.
mass communication. enlightening presenters for Zone By having an engaged, informed and
However, for “personally” engaging Workshops, Summits and Conferences active Membership, we can ensure we
and communicating with individuals, in 2012. continue to have a strong Association,
“in person” remains the most These presentations will draw heavily and that our great industry continues
effective form of communication. from the “knowledge bank” of our to thrive.
I mention this is to remind all national sponsors who are the leaders
Members of the value of attending in their respective fields within the I want to take this opportunity to wish
CMAA Zone Meetings. Club Industry. all CMAA Members and our generous
They will be practical and purely CMDA Sponsor partners a Merry
educational in focus - in no way a Christmas and Happy New Year.
“sales pitch” or a “sell” - and ensure I hope the festive season proves to be
we continue to provide insightful and a time of prosperity for you and that
productive industry education to our we all enjoy a safe and happy Festive
members at Zone Workshops in 2012. Season with those near and dear to us.
These Zone Workshops presentations I look forward to catching up with you
and Meetings are obviously most at your Zone Christmas and Zone
effectively communicated in person events in 2012.
➢ SHANNON DONATO is the CMAA’s Sponsorship & Marketing Manager
M: 0434 185 414 W: 02 - 9746 4199 E: shannon@cmaa.asn.au
Zone Meetings offer an opportunity to contribute and be
involved in the Association’s ongoing development and
activities, rather than just sit on the sideline as an observer.The Mandatory Pre-Commitment Debate 13
Wilkie ‘wounded’ as Labor shores up power deal
It’s true that a week in politics is a long “Nothing has changed,” Mr Wilkie said. scant evidence that it can work.
time. However, the events in the “The Government is not so foolish to “The figure that a South Australian
Federal Parliament last month show just think that they could burn me because authority apparently plucked out of thin
how powerful one overnight decision they know they may well need me again air - that poker machines can be re-
can be - and how “the numbers game” for any number of reasons, including as engineered to allow for mandatory pre-
can swing dramatically on one man’s one of the key votes in the next two commitment at a cost of just $1,000 -
vote. years.” doesn’t stand up to scrutiny,” Mr
When Labor stalwart and House of Mr Wilkie claims the Prime Minister, on Richardson wrote. “Small clubs risk
Representatives Speaker Harry Jenkins the morning of Mr Jenkins’ being wiped out if their machines are
decided it was time for him to return to announcement, gave him an assurance more than five-to-seven years old. I’m
the backbenches and the Cabinet to she would honour the commitment to convinced those machines can’t be re-
have a role in the decision-making introduce a mandatory pre-commitment engineered. They will have to be
process of this nation, it caught more scheme. replaced at a cost of $20,000 to $25,000
than a few people off guard. Political commentator Graham each and half the poker machines in this
Sunshine Coast MP Peter Slipper, the Richardson perhaps best summed up the country are in this category.
Deputy Speaker, resigned from the Jenkins-Slipper-Wilkie scenario: “At the “I’m not sure if problem gambling can
Coalition to accept the Government’s end of the day, an inherently unstable be truly fixed or ameliorated,” Mr
invitation to replace Mr Jenkins. government got a little more stable.” Richardson added, “but I am sure that
This had been the biggest single threat half-baked solutions, no matter how
Mr Jenkins’ return to floor of the
to the Government’s survival, with Mr well motivated, will cause huge damage
Parliament gives the Government and
Wilkie having set a 2012 deadline of May to the clubs and fail to solve the core
extra vote, while Mr Slipper’s switch
8 for the MPC Bill to pass. problem they were designed to
means the Opposition has lost a vote to
challenge the Government, which means While it had been likely that NSW address.”
Tasmanian Independent MP Andrew independents Tony Windsor and Rob Beyond poker machines, the
Wilkie can no longer bring down the Oakeshott would have supported this Government now is harder to hold to
Government by withdrawing his support Bill because they feared an early ransom by any individual.
if Julia Gillard fails to carry the day on election much more than the wrath of Member for Northern Tablelands Richard
mandatory pre-commitment crusade. the clubs and hotels within their Torbay has urged Federal Independent
electorates, now they can resort to Mr Oakeshott and Mr Windsor to
Mr Wilkie conceded the events some sober reflection on this issue.
surrounding the change of Speaker has “scupper the ill-considered reforms”.
weakened his political leverage and the In Mr Oakeshott’s case, an election Mr Torbay warned the reforms would
potency of his poker machine reform meant certain slaughter. For Mr Windsor, “decimate the Club Industry in regional
agreement with the Gillard Labor it was probable defeat. areas”. “It's a fiasco, politically
Government. But Mr Wilkie claims the Mr Richardson wrote that a senior motivated and bad policy,” Mr Torbay
Government cannot afford to “burn” Minister had said: “It [mandatory pre- added. “The Government is considering
him and reaffirmed his intention to commitment] is bad policy and bad a system which is untested, would be
withdraw support for Labor if it failed politics. It doesn’t tick any box.” the death knell for many country clubs
to legislate mandatory betting limits on It seems the PM will continue with and is unlikely to achieve any of the
high-stakes poker machines by next May. mandatory pre-commitment, despite outcomes it is supposed to deliver.”
It’s hard to believe all of those ‘secret’ reports
When is a “secret report” not quite the secret they would like the “tell-all” figures, Clubs Queensland CEO Doug Flockhart
us to believe? Federal Community Services Minister Jenny refuted the Minister’s claim about the so-called “secret
Macklin claims a report prepared for a Club Industry strategy paper” as it was tagged in a news article in the
conference confirms that clubs and hotels will continue to October 9 edition of the The Sunday Mail newspaper in
thrive when the Government’s changes to poker machine Brisbane. “It is a shame that biased and misinformed reporting
venues are introduced. Ms Macklin told the Camden Haven has turned a guest speaker’s conference presentation into a
Courier newspaper the report shows that the “chicken little” slam on Queensland’s community clubs,” Mr Flockhart said.
revenue figures, cited by Clubs Australia, just don’t stack up. “There was nothing ‘secret’ about the presentations of guest
“Their own consultants are telling them clubs can manage speakers at the Clubs Queensland ‘Right Direction’ Conference
these changes to help problem gamblers,” the Minister added. in July. That’s why the information had been available on the
Ms Macklin claims the report, released by Clubs Queensland, Clubs Queensland website. News Limited journalist David
will reassure community members who may have been Murray has ignored crucial data within the quoted Club
concerned about the impact on clubs and community groups. Training Australia presentation that, in fact, confirms an
“This report clearly confirms that local clubs and pubs will expected decline in gaming income of between 33% and 44%.
remain profitable under the Government’s changes to tackle “This is consistent with the independently released Deutsche
pokie addiction,” she added. “Responsible gambling is a Bank report that predicted a 30% to 40% decline and the figure
legitimate source of revenue for clubs, and of course the that Independent MP Andrew Wilkie himself has been quoting.
Government wants to make sure that local clubs continue to “It is consensus across the industry and politics that there will
provide good value services to their members. “But this should be a negative impact on trading if mandatory pre-commitment
not be at the expense of people who are gambling away their is introduced as proposed and, in my view, it will achieve very
entire family budget.” Despite Ms Macklin’s conviction about little in assisting problem gamblers.”14 Industry Issues
NSW Govt passes revised ‘3 Strikes
The NSW Parliament has passed the during which additional incidents may
Government’s revised version of the lead to a second and third strike.
controversial “Three Strikes and Conditions may be imposed where
You’re Out” scheme. one strike has been incurred such
The Liquor Amendment (3 Strikes) Bill as ...
2011 (No.2) (“the Bill”) contains ➢ a requirement for a plan of
significant revisions following management or an incident
consultation with the Club Industry in register;
response to the original Bill, ➢ a prohibition on the use of glass
introduced in June 2011. and breakable plastic containers;
Offences ➢ engagement of dedicated staff to
Clubs should note strikes now are promote responsible service of
only incurred where there is a alcohol;
conviction for a prescribed serious ➢ a requirement that members of
NSW Gaming Minister GEORGE SOURIS the governing body of a registered
offence, including circumstances
where a penalty infringement notice club undertake training.
for such an offence is paid. involving maintenance of incident Sanctions accompanying a strike are
Prescribed serious offences cited in registers and distribution of free suspended while any appeal relating
the Bill include ... water. to the conviction is completed.
➢ permitting intoxication on licensed A new offence under the Liquor Act
included in the Bill requires licensees Second Strike
premises;
to comply with a notice restricting or The decision that a second strike
➢ permitting indecent violent or
prohibiting an activity that should be incurred is to be
quarrelsome conduct on licensed
encourages misuse or abuse of discretionary - in contrast to the
premises;
alcohol. original Bill.
➢ selling or supplying alcohol to an
intoxicated person or a minor; This new offence is based on an The following conditions or
existing ground for disciplinary action restrictions may be imposed on a
➢ allowing alcohol to be sold or
under the Act but will allow action to liquor license where two strikes are
supplied to a minor on licensed
premises; be taken quickly where irresponsible incurred ...
➢ permitting the use or sale of
conduct encourages misuse of ➢ additional security measures;
alcohol. ➢ drink restrictions targeting high-
substances that a licensee or
manager suspects are illicit drugs; Liability strength and rapid-consumption
➢ not complying with a direction drinks;
The defendant for these liquor-
issued by the Director General to a related offences is the licensee or ➢ “lock-outs” where patrons cannot
licensee or staff; approved manager as they carry the be admitted after a certain hour;
➢ selling or supplying alcohol outside responsibility for the management ➢ a requirement to cease serving
of authorised trading hours; practices of the venue. alcohol prior to venue closure;
➢ non-compliance with a Closure Where unauthorised action of staff ➢ a prohibition on the conduct of
Order issued under the Liquor Act result in an offence, a defence is types of entertainment;
to prevent or reduce a significant available for the licensee or approved ➢ restrictions on who may be
risk to the public interest where manager where appropriate. appointed as manager of the
there are serious breaches of the Defences will not apply for non- premises;
Act; alcohol-related offences as under the ➢ reductions to liquor trading hours
➢ a breach of key Liquor Licence existing law the licensee is not before 1am or after 11pm.
conditions applying to violent responsible for actions of staff in Decisions to impose conditions
venues listed in Schedule 4 of the circumstances where the offence is following a first, or second, strike
Liquor Act or conditions imposed not liquor-related. and decisions that a second strike
on a venue following the should be incurred rest with the
imposition of a strike. First Strike Director General. This is consistent
The offences in the Bill differ from The first strike will be the automatic with the original Bill.
the original proposal in that it limits outcome of a conviction for a serious
The Bill provides that reviews of a
breaches of licence conditions used offence.
second strike and conditions imposed
as triggers for strikes. A “strike” decision must await a by the Director General following a
Only significant conditions are conviction for the relevant offence, first, or second, strike are to be dealt
captured, including drink restrictions, however it will take effect on the with by the Casino, Liquor and
lock-outs, prohibition on use of glass date the incident underpinning the Gaming Control Authority (CLGCA),
containers, cease liquor sale prior to strike occurred. rather than the Administrative
closure and security measures, rather There will be a three-year window, Decisions Tribunal as was proposed in
than less-significant conditions from the date of the first strike, the original Bill.Industry Issues 15
You’re Out’ scheme
The Bill provides that decision-makers
be required to take into account the
range of matters the original Bill
required before a strike is incurred.
Where a Club Secretary or Manager The Administrative Decisions Tribunal
attempts to move from one premises will handle CLGCA decision reviews. These include venue size and
to another after incurring two strikes capacity, any change of manager or
When considering whether a strike licensee, the compliance and
in an attempt to avoid a third strike, should be incurred, the decision-
the fitness of that secretary or Schedule 4 history of the licensed
maker must consider the seriousness venue and any changes to business
manager to be an approved licensee of any harm that may have resulted
or manager can be reconsidered practices.
from the offence that triggered the
under existing provisions of the law. The Bill provides for guidance to be
strike. prescribed in the Regulation to assist
Third Strike The types of harm that may be the Director General and the CLGCA
The decision to award a third strike is relevant in these circumstances in considering how these matters will
discretionary and can result in include ... be taken into account when making a
disqualification of a Club Secretary - ➢ any harm associated with anti- decision.
as proposed in the original Bill. social or violent behaviour; Submissions from the licensee,
The Bill also allows for the dismissal ➢ health outcomes, such as injuries premises and business owners, the
of any of the club's Directors and/or and sickness; NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and
the appointment of an administrator Research and NSW Police also will
to the club. ➢ disturbance to the quiet and good
taken into account in any decision to
order of a neighbourhood; impose a strike.
These are serious outcomes for
registered clubs, however there is no ➢ minors obtaining or consuming The Bill provides that the “3 Strikes”
risk of loss of licence - as may occur alcohol; legislation will be reviewed after four
in other licensed venues. ➢ costs associated with regulatory years.
The CLGCA decides to award a third health and community The NSW Government said the Bill
strike. The CLGCA also will have the infrastructure responses; honours its election commitment to
option to consider whether other ➢ undermining public confidence in target alcohol-related violence and
action should be taken, rather than the liquor regulatory system anti-social behaviour and targets
the licensee incurring a third strike. through disregard for the law. rogue operators only.16 CMAA Sponsors Appreciation Lunch
Maxgaming honoured for decade of support
Christmas, traditionally, is a time
of family gatherings. And that
important “family” ingredient was
a highlight of the CMAA’s annual
Sponsors Appreciation Lunch,
presented at Brighton Le Sands in
Sydney last month. More than 100
guests, including CMAA Life
Members, CMAA Hall of Fame
members, the CMAA Federal
Executive, CMAA Federal
Councillors, CMDA Board of
Management Studies members and
CMAA Staff welcomed executives
and trade representatives from the
“family” of more than 50
companies who support the CMAA
through CMDA Career Development
and CMDA National Bursary
sponsorships. CMAA Executive CMAA Federal President Bill Clegg
Officer Ralph Kober paid tribute to presents Don Hammond from Maxgaming CMAA Executive Officer Ralph Kober
his predecessor, Terry Condon, in with a gift to mark 10 years of CMDA welcomes more than 100 guests to the
Career Development sponsorship with annual Sponsors Appreciation Lunch at
welcoming guests to the lunch at
the Association. Brighton Le Sands last month.
the Grand Roxy on Level 1 of the
Botany Bay Restaurant on
November 25. Ralph also had the
privilege of announcing to the
gathering that CMAA Federal
President Bill Clegg had been
unanimously endorsed as the
CMAA’s newest Life Member. During
the official part of the afternoon,
Bill also presented Maxgaming NSW
State Sales Manager Don Hammond
with a memento to mark 10 years
as a CMDA Career Development
Sponsor. Maxgaming, during that
time also has been a CMDA
National Bursary Sponsor. John
Newson, who retired from
Maxgaming in 2010 and initiated
the sponsorships with the CMDA,
was a guest at the lunch as a CMAA
Hall of Fame member. Bill and
Ralph both thanked the CMDA’s
sponsors for their loyalty and
generosity in making it possible for
the Association to provide the
range of Industrial Relations,
education and professional
development opportunities to more
than 2,500 CMAA members and club
managers around Australia. Ralph
also introduced to the audience
the CMAA’s new Marketing &
Sponsorship Manager Shannon
Donato, who is working closely
with existing and new sponsors at
all levels.
More pictures pages 18 & 19CMAA Sponsors Appreciation Lunch 17 Bill recalls inspiration for Life Member honour There is nothing like a special as Federal President,” Bill moment in your life to focus told fellow Federal Executive on the reasons and inspirations Members and Federal that delivered you on this Councillors in the meeting journey. So it was for CMAA room. “Opportunities and Federal President Bill Clegg, support are what makes the ACCM, when he was asked to CMAA such a wonderful leave the CMAA Federal Association and it has been a Executive Meeting that pleasure to serve on preceded the annual CMAA committees and this Sponsors Appreciation Lunch at Executive to ensure that Brighton last month. A few those opportunities are moments strolling, alone, offered to all managers in outside provides opportunity clubs around Australia ... I for many thoughts and am humbled and honoured by possibilities. When he was this decision.” CMAA invited back to the Meeting, executive Officer Ralph Kober Bill was informed that he had announced the Life been nominated – and CMAA Federal President Bill Clegg Membership to guests at the unanimously endorsed – as the CMAA’s addresses guests at the CMAA Sponsors Sponsor Appreciation Lunch and Bill newest Life Member. Apart from a Appreciation Lunch to acknowledge his was joined by six – Les Evennett, moment of relief, Bill immediately CMAA Life Membership. Barry Stevenson, Peter Strachan, John spoke of his early days in the Club Allan, Greg Pickering and current Industry, working at clubs that could education opportunities. Federal Secretary Allan Peter – of the not afford the time or cost for young “Remembering those early days Association’s 12 surviving Life trainee managers to attend training always made it easy for me to be members for a commemorative courses – let along make the trip from involved with the CMAA, first at Zone photograph at the lunch. Bill becomes “the bush” to Sydney for those level, then in a Federal role and, now, the CMAA’s 24th Life Member.
18 CMAA Sponsors Appreciation Lunch
CMAA Sponsors Appreciation Lunch 19
20 Northern Exposure
Queensland clubs
happy to farewell a
tumultuous 2011
By HENRI LACH
The year 2011, undoubtedly, will live forever in the annals
of Queensland’s Club Industry for compelling reasons.
January began with a series of natural disasters that taxed
clubs’ financial resources to the limit as they took a lead
role to help shattered communities and luckless mates
devastated by killer floods in the south-east and central CMAA Federal Councillor CMA Brisbane Zone President
areas - and by a savage cyclone in the far north in STEVE CONDREN ... “turbulent JOHN LIMBRICK ...
February. and uncertain times”. “a tough year”.
But, while the industry can look back with pride on its
role in restoring order and dignity to badly hit victims, This is particularly important in the area of surf clubs
2011 also was the year when “a monster” of terrible where lives are at stake.”
proportions began to fully bare its teeth. CMAA Brisbane Zone President John Limbrick, CEO of the
That monster is the Gillard-Wilkie deal on proposed prestigious Greenbank RSL Club, described 2011 as “a
mandatory pre-commitment legislation, spawned from an tough year”.
unholy union of a Prime Minister determined to cling to “Clubs are not bullet-proof,” he said. “We’re not
power and an anti-gambling zealot from Tasmania. dissimilar to retailers ... we sell goods and services.
The indomitable spirit of Club Industry leaders has not People’s disposable income has not been there and many
been crushed, however. clubs will admit that their income has not been up to
If they go down on this issue, they’ll go down fighting to expectation.”
the bitter end. John is philosophical on the issue of mandatory pre-
Meantime, uncertainty dogs the clubs, as it dogs many commitment. “I’m the eternal optimist and I hope that
other areas of endeavour. common sense prevails,” he added. “We all know that this
would do nothing to help problem gamblers.”
“We’re living in turbulent and uncertain times,” said
CMAA Federal Executive Member and Gold Coast Zone Clubs Queensland Chief Executive Officer Doug Flockhart
President Steve Condren, who heads the Southport Surf believes a hard task still faces clubs in opposing the
Lifesaving Club. legislation.
“The global financial situation … the carbon tax … these “This issue is an uphill battle but our industry will not
things are putting pressure on everyone. People aren’t stop fighting the fight,” Mr Flockhart said.
spending. We’ve got the “The bottom line is that even if mandatory pre-
added threat of commitment gets through [Federal] Parliament in the first
mandatory pre- occasion, we will keep fighting it through to the High
CLUB commitment. All of these Court and with the support of the Queensland Government
and Opposition. It will continue to be fought until this
things are putting pressure
AUDITORS on clubs. We are in a poor policy is shut down.”
state of doubt and, until
HARLEY that clears, we’ll just
South of the border, ClubsNSW also is energetically
continuing its campaign against Prime Minister Julia
RUSSELL & DAY have to deal with it the Gillard and Mr Wilkie.
CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS best way we can. At the The group’s Executive Director Josh Landis has asked a
We are a small firm specialising in
moment, we can’t make series of rhetorical questions that sum up the absurdity of
auditing small to medium-sized clubs. plans for the future.” the proposed legislation …
Our boutique firm has the following At the same time, Steve “Who could have imagined that an Independent MP who
advantages:
• Audit - Attendance at least quarterly Condren is adamant that came third in his electorate’s vote, with the second-
• Personalised service the battle against the lowest vote of any person ever elected to Federal
• Cost competitive proposed Gillard-Wilkie Parliament in Australian history, would have reform of
• Preparing necessary returns
• Preparation of year end Financial
legislation must not poker machines as his No.1 issue?
Statements & Annual Report to abate. “Clubs are always
Members
at the forefront of “How unlikely was it that this person would be elected
It is not difficult assistance to their into the first hung Parliament in decades, so that his vote
to change Auditors. communities,” he says. “If was needed no matter the cost to an iconic Australian
Contact: Garry Day we lose a big proportion industry like clubs?
Ph: (02) 9744 6922 of our gaming income, we “And who could have imagined this person would declare
Fax: (02) 9744 6747 will not be able to provide that unless his wishes were met, he would bring down the
PO BOX 284 the services we do now. Government by forcing an early election?”
ASHFIELD, NSW 2131Northern Exposure 21
Qld Govt on side with clubs
By HENRI LACH On the issue of legislation, the Minister
The Queensland Government has believes that amendments he recently
strongly reaffirmed its rejection of the introduced in Parliament to the
Gillard-Wilkie mandatory pre- Associations Incorporation Act 1981 as
commitment legislation proposal. part of the Civil Proceedings Bill 2011
will benefit the Club Industry.
In a statement exclusive to Club
Management In Australia (CMA) “These amendments allow
Magazine, the Minister responsible for incorporated associations to transition
Liquor and Gaming Regulation, Paul to being a company limited by
Lucas, said his Government would guarantee under the Commonwealth
rather see the expansion of a system Corporations Act 2001. The
of voluntary pre-commitment which he Associations Incorporation Act 1981
believes would not impact unduly on provides a simple and inexpensive
mechanism for small non-profit groups Queensland Gaming Minister PAUL LUCAS.
club’s income.
to incorporate,” Mr Lucas explained.
The Minister also paid tribute to the “However, when clubs grow in size and through Queensland trials of the
licensed clubs’ role during the State’s financial turnover, it may be more technology in 2005 and 2008. To date,
period of natural disasters at the appropriate for some of them to more than 45 venues in Queensland
beginning of 2011. change to incorporate as a company have voluntarily adopted the
“Clubs play a very important role in technology.”
limited by guarantee. These
Queensland communities as places amendments will now go through the His final comments will be appreciated
where people socialise and work,” Mr committee process before they given by Club Industry leaders and, no
Lucas said. “In fact, around 30,000 consideration by the full Parliament.” doubt, will fall on the deaf years of
people are employed directly by the gaming prohibitionists.
On the vital subject of mandatory pre-
Queensland clubs and as contractors to commitment, the Minister was positive “Queensland has a good track record
them. as to where he stood. “Proposed of reducing problem gambling with
“There is no doubt that many gaming machine reforms have been rates decreasing from 0.83% in 2001,
Queensland [club] communities were the subject of lively discussion to 0.37% in the 2008 to 2009 financial
heavily impacted by natural disasters between all Australian jurisdictions year,” Paul Lucas said.
last summer. However the industry is over recent months,” he added.
reporting that membership numbers “In May, I attended the third meeting
are being maintained. This is a of the Council of Australian
reflection of the key role clubs have Governments (COAG) Select Council on
played in community recovery as Gambling Reform which discussed the
people turn to them for support. proposed reforms at length. I made it
“I am confident the Club Industry will clear that the Queensland Government
continue to recover from these natural continues to support a voluntary
disasters and continue to play a very system of pre-commitment on gaming
important role in Queensland machines. The benefits of voluntary
communities.” pre-commitment have been proven
Macau still the city of dreams
Concerns about slowing growth and Inspection and Co-ordination Bureau
tightening credit conditions in China website. Accumulated gross revenue for
restricting earnings for casinos such as the first 10 months of the year is up
the James Packer-backed Melco Crown’s 45% compared with the same period last
City of Dreams in Macau, have been year. The October figures surpassed the
blown away by the city’s latest monthly all-time high monthly revenue of in
gaming numbers. Macau’s gambling August. Macau’s casino stocks fell about
revenue jumped 42% in October to a 40% in the two months to the start of
record monthly high, as wealthy October, on fears that a tightening
mainland Chinese continued to take a credit environment in China would
punt in the world’s biggest gaming restrict revenue growth for casinos.
haven. The news also offers some September gaming revenue rose 39%,
reassurance against talk of weaker but growth was the second slowest for
growth in China lately that has had the year after January. Ratings agency
some speculating it would mean less Fitch said it had seen “no evidence”
activity from high rollers. Gambling that the tighter credit conditions and
revenue rose to $3.36 billion in October, slowing Chinese economy would
according to Macau’s official Gaming pressure Macau’s casinos.22 Southern Exposure
2011 – a year of yet more
It’s been a year of waves all right - from rising riverbanks that set The good news is that the data
homes and businesses adrift in the January floods - to the stormy available from the new monitoring
regime is substantial and may enable
debate over poker machine reform. And the ground keeps shifting clubs to ditch the existing Gold Coin
as Victoria’s clubs prepare to take control of their gaming floors in information service that costs around
August, with a decision on mandatory pre-commitment still $1,000 a year.
hanging in the balance. CMA Magazine’s Victoria Correspondent AFL Invests In Pokies
KATIE CINCOTTA looks back on an action-packed and incident- With former Victorian Premier and
packed 2011 ... Hawthorn AFL Club President Jeff
Kennett declaring that half of all AFL
Flood Wipe-Out gave an answer. They told me to shut clubs are trading insolvent, it’s no
Natural disasters nation-wide saw my mouth,” a clearly incensed surprise to see many of them
thousands of homes and businesses Stephen Hodge underlines what he investing in gaming venues.
destroyed by some of the worst regards as inflated pricing on old
EGMs. Many of the top clubs have spent
floods in history. In Victoria, affected upwards of $1 million to purchase
clubs in central and northern parts of Future Gaming 10-year gaming entitlements,
state caused mass evacuations and Clubs wrestled with one of the including Carlton who will run 280
weeks of isolation as river banks biggest decisions they’ve ever faced machines, the Western Bulldogs who
broke and roads and rail lines were ... whether to run their gaming will operate 190 machines,
closed. operations independently, or Collingwood with 191 machines and
Noisy Pokies Debate outsource them to third-party Geelong with 181 machines.
It’s been a year of heated debate as operators such as TGS and PVS. In total, 1,882 poker machines will
the Club Industry fights against The RSL announced a state-wide deal fund AFL clubs from 2012, raising
mandatory pre-commitment with Tabcorp Gaming Solutions, with cause for concern with Andrew
legislation demanded by Tasmanian all but one of their 68 sub-branches Wilkie’s “licence to punt”, which
Independent MP Andrew Wilkie in signing up to the lease model could slash revenue by $53 million if
exchange for his crucial vote that arrangement that freed clubs from gaming drops by the 40% estimated
allowed Labor Leader Julia Gillard to having to buy their poker machines by the Club Industry.
become Australia’s first female Prime from the outgoing duopoly.
Victoria’s Plan For
Minister. With the majority of clubs choosing Voluntary Limits
Machine Money Grab to employ outside help for gaming
services from next year, it seems self- As a former self-employed barrister in
With Tatts and Tabcorp issuing buy- determination was only embraced by the fields of trade practices and
out prices for their poker machines, those managers with fortitude or commercial law, Gaming Minister
many clubs were left with hefty six- experience in gaming. Michael O’Brien is willing to go to the
figure bills to acquire their floor from High Court over the Federal
the dethroned pokies lords. New Monitor Goes Government’s plans to bring in
CMAA Victoria’s Education Officer To Newcomer mandatory pre-commitment. The
Stephen Hodge was appalled by the In September, Victoria’s Gaming Coalition doesn’t believe players
blatant grab for money over second- Minister Michael O’Brien declared should be forced to sign up for a pre-
hand machines and the price Intralot Gaming Services as the commitment card and has called on
discrepancies from club to club. winner of the new 15-year Monitoring public submissions for their discussion
Licence that most managers seem paper on voluntary limits on poker
“Those machines are completely
excited about. machines.
written off, so anything they made on
them would have been clear profit,” The fee structure compromises four Based on the preferred model as
Mr Hodge said. “Do you really have to components ... suggested by the Club Industry and
pay that much - $4,500, and more - ➢ core monitoring at $29 per month the public in submissions to the
for a machine that’s worth nothing? Department of Justice until
➢ single venue jackpot facilitation December 2, the Victorian
There were no negotiations on price. fee at $10 per month
It was a bit rude. Down the road, the Government wants to introduce its
➢ multiple venue jackpot facilitation voluntary pre-commitment
bloke paid $109,000 ... I paid
fee at $15 per month technology by 2015-2016.
$180,000. On a NSW market, my floor
would probably be worth $60,000 to ➢ the transition fee is yet to be “Unfortunately the uncertainty
$70,000 but they’re the ones that determined. created by the Gillard Government's
own it and have the licence so it’s up But there’s doubt that Intralot will be ill-considered political fix is causing
to them to say what they want. We ready in time, which may mean delays and putting Victoria's
asked how they calculated what transitional services from Tatts and implementation target dates at risk,”
machines were worth, but nobody Tabcorp during 2012. the Gaming Minister added.You can also read
