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You can never have enough Pokies in Australia!

2017-06-14 09:29:00

The final decision will be made by the Victorian Commission for Gaming and Liquor Regulation.

Fighting for the Cause


RSL sub-branch president Ash Power will present his case to the commission during a two-day hearing starting on Monday in Melbourne, aiming to convince members the extra pokies would not lead to gambling problems in Wangaratta.

In productive conversations with councillors as far back as before 2013, the revenue from extra pokies was always a vital part of the plan to move the sub-branch from its small base on Victory Parade into the Sydney Hotel.

“I was a bit surprised by the decision. The plan hasn’t changed … We strongly believe in what we’re doing.” He said.
The RSL sub-branch had offered to increase its community contributions to $25,000 per year and get behind any gambling support services.

Consequences


Lieutenant General Power said without extra pokies revenue, the RSL may have to sell the Sydney Hotel and go back to its old building, which was too small for a growing membership base.

“Up until a couple of years ago, we were struggling financially,” he said.
“We’re going to build a real community asset … (but without the extra revenue) I think we’d end up where the club was a few years ago.”
The VCGLR is expected to make its final decision soon.