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Friday, February 18, 2011
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Australian Media And Gambling Wars; Aussie Rich List, by Greg Tingle - 6th February 2011
G'day punters, journos, sports nuts, high rollers - casino whales, gambling millionaires and billionaires, media tycoons, politicians, insiders, outsiders, ... one and all. You know who you are. This is yet another instalment into the Australian media wars, with a dash of the Aussie rich list (a few gaming gambling types there) for good measure... Media Man and Gambling911 prob the Australian media business, and do the math on whose loaded up to the hilt down under...
James Packer and Lachlan Murdoch Rumoured To Be Worried With Network Ten News Progress...
After only two weeks on air, the Ten Network’s news evolution has reportedly come under scrutiny from new stakeholders James Packer and Lachlan Murdoch, thanks to a poor ratings performance. On Thursday night 6pm with George Negus attracted its lowest audience to date with only 398,000 viewers. The state based Ten Evening News at 6:30pm performed even worse, attracting only 362,000 viewers. The direction and performance of the George Negus fronted news vehicle is said to be of particular concern to new stakeholders Packer and Murdoch, the press reports. The pair reportedly told Ten Network executives they're worried that the international content of the bulletin is a turn-off for viewers. "Basically (an) email sent to Ten bosses said the predominance of overseas stories was unwise and indulgent and not calculated to build ratings," a well-placed source told Confidential. However, another Ten executive dismissed the report as "utter bollocks", going on to reaffirm the network’s long term commitment to the two-and-a-half hour news and current affairs block. "This is not a two-week plan or three-month one - you can't do what we've done and expect instant results - this is a long haul," a spokeswoman said. Rivals from other network’s have also expressed their thoughts on the $20 million a year investment in news, with one source pointing towards the timeslot winning lead-in 6pm with George Negus receives. "Aren't they conveniently overlooking the substantial lead-in it's provided every night by Ten's 5:00pm news which has always rated respectably for yonks?", said the source. On Thursday, David Gyngell, chief executive of the Nine Entertainment Company, described the performance as worse than he had expected.
Nine Network Presents Weekend 5pm New Slot...
The Nine Network will launched a new national 5:00pm weekend news bulletin Saturday, taking advantage of the Ten Network's recent departure from the timeslot. Nine's director of news and current affairs, Mark Calvert, told The Spy Report that the bulletin will be a permanent addition to the network's Saturday and Sunday schedule once the cricket season concludes tomorrow. Calvert unexpectedly announced the move via his Twitter account. "Missing having news at 5:00pm? Feeling abandoned by Channel Ten News at weekends? See Nine News first at five with Wendy Kingston," he posted. "Incredible flood rescue pix Nine News at 5:00pm. Yep, 5:00pm. You know...when Channel Ten News used to be on at weekends. Nine News at 5:00pm and 6:00pm. "Working harder than ever - Peter Stefanovic, Tracy Vo, Lizzie Pearl to get ready for Nine News first at 5:00pm then more at 6:00pm." Ten abandoned its national 5:00pm bulletin on weekends as part of its $20 million early evening revamp it unveiled two weeks ago. Since then, it has instead opted for a 6:00pm state-based service rivalling those on Nine and Seven. At this stage, it's unknown whether the half-hour bulletin will broadcast into Sydney and Brisbane when Nine's Sunday Afternoon Football returns on March 13. Nine's Afternoon News Hour will also continue to air weekdays from 4:30pm.
Australia's Richest Person Gina Rinehart Adds Value To Channel Ten Sports...
'Our Gina' loves sport, at least as far as it being a strong part of the line up on Network Nine. Fellow shareholders James Packer and Lachlan Murdoch also like sport, especially the cricket (sports betting connection), but Rinehart is more of an all rounder when it comes to the sports media side of the business. Our friends and Fairfax Media have secured a strong leak aka deep throat delivering the following: "She's tough, opinionated, sometimes difficult but never frightened". Rinehart is understood to be very happy with her 10% per cent stake in the network, and intends on getting her money's worth (and continuing to exercise her clout). Packer and Murdoch recently told Ten executives that while they like sport, they believe the network more than they should be, particularly for AFL broadcasting rights. The late great media and gambling tycoon, Kerry Packer, put aside an AFL $780 million deal over five years, not long before his passing away, but Packer Jr may want to talk it about a bit more. The AFL is set to receive the $1 billion at its next contract commencing at 2012. Ten wants to renegotiate its deal with Channel Seven over AFL coverage. David White, the sports director of Ten, has advised analysts that returns from AFL over the past season were not good. It is anticipated Ten will go after an improved ratio with Seven of their share of future fees, or demand an allocation of higher-rating match ups. Under the existing 7 - 10 agreement both networks must bid together, however if Ten is unable to improve its payment or game quality ratios, the deal might collapse. "Ten now has two directors (Packer and Murdoch) who would support the move to walk," a leak said. Rinehart may lobby to retain the agreement in support of Kerry Stokes, the owner of Seven. The word is her main reason for investing a dab of her $4.75 billion wealth for 10% of Ten is political influence. He took note of the success of the advertising campaign against the mining tax and sees the powerful control of the media on the political landscape, and those who work in it. Packer snatched his 17.9% take in Ten ($128 million) to boost his political clout, and then went on to selling half to Murdoch. JP likes the gambling and sport connection, as do many NRL and AFL clubs ala Rabbitohs - Star City and his own Crown Casino - Melbourne Storm baby. Packer gets on well at this stage of the game with Australian Communications Minister, Stephen Conroy, and they are understood to enjoy a spot of golf from time to time. Packer and Murdoch famously had a bite with him at Crown Casino months ago. This past Thursday Conroy announced amendments to sport's anti-siphoning list, allowing free-to-air networks to show live sport on their digital channels! This falls into line with the ministers strategy to move Australia quickly away from analog TV. Ten has the only sports-dedicated digital channel (One) at this time. Should Packer and Murdoch be successful in convincing the Network Ten board that One is too costly and must be closed up, or switch programming, it would automatically undermine Conroy's plan to use sport to boost along the uptake of digital TV. It would also quite possibly piss off the big wigs at the NRL and AFL. AFL games shown live on a free-to-air network's principal channel in Melbourne could be shown live on its digital channel in New South Wales and Queensland, rather than suffer piss weak ratings, as Ten suffered in Sydney and Brisbane, especially on Saturday evenings. At the moment Queensland AFL fans who want Seven's coverage of Friday nights must subscribe to pay TV operator Foxtel, part-owned by companies associated with Packer and Murdoch. Shutting up shot on One would be a strategic step with a major goal being to protect this money machine, but a leaker revealed Packer would be hesitant to make too much noise or agro that might stir up regulators, with Crown Limited going so well. Best not have the government tests applied to the ownership of a casino licence if you follow. Packer is also keen to ramp up online gambling, expanding on his 50% owned Betfair. He's also aware of overseas gaming giants like PartyGaming eyeing off the Asia Pacific region, and its well known PartyGaming have the smarts to ink big government deals, as well as land based casino and b2b deals. Party also have the Hollywood branded deals performing well, so Party could be an opportunity or a threat to Packer, depending upon which way the wind is blowing, and what Australian politicians decide will be law in the online space, with the Liberal Party calling for full regulation, something PartyGaming, Media Man and we understand, Betfair, are all keen to see happen. In will also get rid of any bad eggs in the iGaming space down under. Back to the traditional news media, if Ten walks from its AFL deal with Channel Seven, it would therefore leave a 7 - Foxtel consortium as the only bidder worth their salt. Sen. Conroy "decoupled" the existing anti-siphoning arrangement where free-to-air on-sold the bottom 4 games a week to pay TV, permitting Foxtel to bid directly. Gyngell's Network Nine reserving its art of war strategy for NRL rights which expire in 2012, it is unlikely the Australian Football League will be able to hold a auction for the rights. So, no challenger to Seven for the top 4 games and Nil to Foxtel for the other 4, the AFL may not get their $1 billion bucks with JP and Murdoch Jr paying less for rights, helping make sure of continuing solid profit margins in Foxtel and Fox Sports. 'Our Gina' out in the Wild Wild West - West Australia, looks to be a key player in all of this, and not just because she's loaded and is now down under's richest woman. Yep, politics, power and money all take a seat in the box beside professional sports being broadcast on Australian TV. Don't even start us on Aussie TV being broadcast on the internet. That's all sports, but stay turned in the coming days and weeks for more on the art of war that is Australian news media.
Australian Rich List
1 Georgina Rinehart, 56, $9b (mining)
2 Andrew Forrest, 49, $6.9b (mining)
3 James Packer, 43, $4.4b (gambling, media and new media)
4 Frank Lowy, 80, $4.3b (property)
5 Harry Triguboff, 77, $3.4b (property)
6 John Gandel, 76, $3.3b
7 Anthony Pratt, 50, $2.7b
8 Kerr Neilson, 61, $2.4b
9 David Hains, 80, $2b
10 Kerry Stokes, 70, $1.9b
11 Lindsay Fox, 73, $US1.7b
12 Angela Bennett & Michael Wright, 66, $1.55b
13 Leslie Alan Wilson, 69, $1.5b
14 Paul Ramsay, 75, $1.45b
15 Michael Hintze, 57, $1.4b
16 Chris Wallin, 58, $1.3b
17 Gerald Harvey, 71, $1.2b
18 Solomon Lew, 65, $1.15b
19 Leonard Buckeridge, 75, $1.1b
20 Stanley Perron, 88, $1.05b
Source: Forbes
Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...
Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...
PartyCasino.com
Captain Cooks Casino
Betfair (sports betting only)
PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)
PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)
Profiles
Australian Casinos
World Casino Directory
Global Gaming Directory
Casino Travel
Casinos
Australia
Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:
Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered
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James Packer and Lachlan Murdoch Rumoured To Be Worried With Network Ten News Progress...
After only two weeks on air, the Ten Network’s news evolution has reportedly come under scrutiny from new stakeholders James Packer and Lachlan Murdoch, thanks to a poor ratings performance. On Thursday night 6pm with George Negus attracted its lowest audience to date with only 398,000 viewers. The state based Ten Evening News at 6:30pm performed even worse, attracting only 362,000 viewers. The direction and performance of the George Negus fronted news vehicle is said to be of particular concern to new stakeholders Packer and Murdoch, the press reports. The pair reportedly told Ten Network executives they're worried that the international content of the bulletin is a turn-off for viewers. "Basically (an) email sent to Ten bosses said the predominance of overseas stories was unwise and indulgent and not calculated to build ratings," a well-placed source told Confidential. However, another Ten executive dismissed the report as "utter bollocks", going on to reaffirm the network’s long term commitment to the two-and-a-half hour news and current affairs block. "This is not a two-week plan or three-month one - you can't do what we've done and expect instant results - this is a long haul," a spokeswoman said. Rivals from other network’s have also expressed their thoughts on the $20 million a year investment in news, with one source pointing towards the timeslot winning lead-in 6pm with George Negus receives. "Aren't they conveniently overlooking the substantial lead-in it's provided every night by Ten's 5:00pm news which has always rated respectably for yonks?", said the source. On Thursday, David Gyngell, chief executive of the Nine Entertainment Company, described the performance as worse than he had expected.
Nine Network Presents Weekend 5pm New Slot...
The Nine Network will launched a new national 5:00pm weekend news bulletin Saturday, taking advantage of the Ten Network's recent departure from the timeslot. Nine's director of news and current affairs, Mark Calvert, told The Spy Report that the bulletin will be a permanent addition to the network's Saturday and Sunday schedule once the cricket season concludes tomorrow. Calvert unexpectedly announced the move via his Twitter account. "Missing having news at 5:00pm? Feeling abandoned by Channel Ten News at weekends? See Nine News first at five with Wendy Kingston," he posted. "Incredible flood rescue pix Nine News at 5:00pm. Yep, 5:00pm. You know...when Channel Ten News used to be on at weekends. Nine News at 5:00pm and 6:00pm. "Working harder than ever - Peter Stefanovic, Tracy Vo, Lizzie Pearl to get ready for Nine News first at 5:00pm then more at 6:00pm." Ten abandoned its national 5:00pm bulletin on weekends as part of its $20 million early evening revamp it unveiled two weeks ago. Since then, it has instead opted for a 6:00pm state-based service rivalling those on Nine and Seven. At this stage, it's unknown whether the half-hour bulletin will broadcast into Sydney and Brisbane when Nine's Sunday Afternoon Football returns on March 13. Nine's Afternoon News Hour will also continue to air weekdays from 4:30pm.
Australia's Richest Person Gina Rinehart Adds Value To Channel Ten Sports...
'Our Gina' loves sport, at least as far as it being a strong part of the line up on Network Nine. Fellow shareholders James Packer and Lachlan Murdoch also like sport, especially the cricket (sports betting connection), but Rinehart is more of an all rounder when it comes to the sports media side of the business. Our friends and Fairfax Media have secured a strong leak aka deep throat delivering the following: "She's tough, opinionated, sometimes difficult but never frightened". Rinehart is understood to be very happy with her 10% per cent stake in the network, and intends on getting her money's worth (and continuing to exercise her clout). Packer and Murdoch recently told Ten executives that while they like sport, they believe the network more than they should be, particularly for AFL broadcasting rights. The late great media and gambling tycoon, Kerry Packer, put aside an AFL $780 million deal over five years, not long before his passing away, but Packer Jr may want to talk it about a bit more. The AFL is set to receive the $1 billion at its next contract commencing at 2012. Ten wants to renegotiate its deal with Channel Seven over AFL coverage. David White, the sports director of Ten, has advised analysts that returns from AFL over the past season were not good. It is anticipated Ten will go after an improved ratio with Seven of their share of future fees, or demand an allocation of higher-rating match ups. Under the existing 7 - 10 agreement both networks must bid together, however if Ten is unable to improve its payment or game quality ratios, the deal might collapse. "Ten now has two directors (Packer and Murdoch) who would support the move to walk," a leak said. Rinehart may lobby to retain the agreement in support of Kerry Stokes, the owner of Seven. The word is her main reason for investing a dab of her $4.75 billion wealth for 10% of Ten is political influence. He took note of the success of the advertising campaign against the mining tax and sees the powerful control of the media on the political landscape, and those who work in it. Packer snatched his 17.9% take in Ten ($128 million) to boost his political clout, and then went on to selling half to Murdoch. JP likes the gambling and sport connection, as do many NRL and AFL clubs ala Rabbitohs - Star City and his own Crown Casino - Melbourne Storm baby. Packer gets on well at this stage of the game with Australian Communications Minister, Stephen Conroy, and they are understood to enjoy a spot of golf from time to time. Packer and Murdoch famously had a bite with him at Crown Casino months ago. This past Thursday Conroy announced amendments to sport's anti-siphoning list, allowing free-to-air networks to show live sport on their digital channels! This falls into line with the ministers strategy to move Australia quickly away from analog TV. Ten has the only sports-dedicated digital channel (One) at this time. Should Packer and Murdoch be successful in convincing the Network Ten board that One is too costly and must be closed up, or switch programming, it would automatically undermine Conroy's plan to use sport to boost along the uptake of digital TV. It would also quite possibly piss off the big wigs at the NRL and AFL. AFL games shown live on a free-to-air network's principal channel in Melbourne could be shown live on its digital channel in New South Wales and Queensland, rather than suffer piss weak ratings, as Ten suffered in Sydney and Brisbane, especially on Saturday evenings. At the moment Queensland AFL fans who want Seven's coverage of Friday nights must subscribe to pay TV operator Foxtel, part-owned by companies associated with Packer and Murdoch. Shutting up shot on One would be a strategic step with a major goal being to protect this money machine, but a leaker revealed Packer would be hesitant to make too much noise or agro that might stir up regulators, with Crown Limited going so well. Best not have the government tests applied to the ownership of a casino licence if you follow. Packer is also keen to ramp up online gambling, expanding on his 50% owned Betfair. He's also aware of overseas gaming giants like PartyGaming eyeing off the Asia Pacific region, and its well known PartyGaming have the smarts to ink big government deals, as well as land based casino and b2b deals. Party also have the Hollywood branded deals performing well, so Party could be an opportunity or a threat to Packer, depending upon which way the wind is blowing, and what Australian politicians decide will be law in the online space, with the Liberal Party calling for full regulation, something PartyGaming, Media Man and we understand, Betfair, are all keen to see happen. In will also get rid of any bad eggs in the iGaming space down under. Back to the traditional news media, if Ten walks from its AFL deal with Channel Seven, it would therefore leave a 7 - Foxtel consortium as the only bidder worth their salt. Sen. Conroy "decoupled" the existing anti-siphoning arrangement where free-to-air on-sold the bottom 4 games a week to pay TV, permitting Foxtel to bid directly. Gyngell's Network Nine reserving its art of war strategy for NRL rights which expire in 2012, it is unlikely the Australian Football League will be able to hold a auction for the rights. So, no challenger to Seven for the top 4 games and Nil to Foxtel for the other 4, the AFL may not get their $1 billion bucks with JP and Murdoch Jr paying less for rights, helping make sure of continuing solid profit margins in Foxtel and Fox Sports. 'Our Gina' out in the Wild Wild West - West Australia, looks to be a key player in all of this, and not just because she's loaded and is now down under's richest woman. Yep, politics, power and money all take a seat in the box beside professional sports being broadcast on Australian TV. Don't even start us on Aussie TV being broadcast on the internet. That's all sports, but stay turned in the coming days and weeks for more on the art of war that is Australian news media.
Australian Rich List
1 Georgina Rinehart, 56, $9b (mining)
2 Andrew Forrest, 49, $6.9b (mining)
3 James Packer, 43, $4.4b (gambling, media and new media)
4 Frank Lowy, 80, $4.3b (property)
5 Harry Triguboff, 77, $3.4b (property)
6 John Gandel, 76, $3.3b
7 Anthony Pratt, 50, $2.7b
8 Kerr Neilson, 61, $2.4b
9 David Hains, 80, $2b
10 Kerry Stokes, 70, $1.9b
11 Lindsay Fox, 73, $US1.7b
12 Angela Bennett & Michael Wright, 66, $1.55b
13 Leslie Alan Wilson, 69, $1.5b
14 Paul Ramsay, 75, $1.45b
15 Michael Hintze, 57, $1.4b
16 Chris Wallin, 58, $1.3b
17 Gerald Harvey, 71, $1.2b
18 Solomon Lew, 65, $1.15b
19 Leonard Buckeridge, 75, $1.1b
20 Stanley Perron, 88, $1.05b
Source: Forbes
Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...
Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...
PartyCasino.com
Captain Cooks Casino
Betfair (sports betting only)
PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)
PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)
Profiles
Australian Casinos
World Casino Directory
Global Gaming Directory
Casino Travel
Casinos
Australia
Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:
Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Media Man Canada
Media Man Games
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Casino News Media
Poker News Media
Global Gaming Directory
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Real Life Underbelly NRL Style, by Greg Tingle - 5th February 2011
G'day punters, journos, sports nuts, high rollers - casino whales, gambling millionaires and billionaires, media tycoons, politicians, insiders, outsiders, law enforcement agencies, legal eagles ... one and all. You know who you are. This is Real Life Underbelly - NRL style!... Media Man and Gambling911 go beneath the underbelly of Australia's National Rugby League, where the real news is...
Australian Police Swoop On NRL Bet Scandal; Blow By Blow Account...
It's goes like this...early Tuesday, coppers with search warrants, hone in simultaneously on the shacks of Doggies star play Ryan Tandy, player agent big wig Sam Ayoub and former NRL great John Elias. Tandy is in bed at eastern suburbs Bronte. Ayoub is getting ready to go to work in the Strathfield home he shares with former Roosters and now Parramatta Eels player Brad Murray. Elias, who recently penned a tale about his involvement in various crimes and time in the clink, lives with mum at Punchbowl in Sydney's south west. Police search for any breakthrough evidence in the NRL betting scandal from the highly suspicious Cowboys-Bulldogs game late last season. Officers raid the homes, confiscate mobile phones, search cars, seize computers... you get the idea.. Ayoub quizzed by the press over the past few days refuses comment, having denied any illegal activity. Yep, he's a cleanskin. "I don't know who is telling you things," Ayoub said. "I'm with people...I've got to go," he added, before hanging up. Ayoub is Tandy's manager, the player who gave away the controversial penalty which sparked the Racing NSW stewards inquiry that was later passed over to police. Ayoub, who shares a house with Murray, was captured on CCTV footage placing substantial wagers on the option of Cowboys scoring first points from a penalty goal. Ayoub has confirmed he placed a bet on a Cowboys penalty goal as the first score but says it's an option he often takes when gambling on NRL games. Elias said he was shocked when police knocked on his door, although he was aware of the rumours that he bet heavily on the game in question and the penalty goal option under investigation. "Is there now a law against having a bet?" Elias said. "I have done absolutely nothing wrong. People know I like to have a bet on the footy, but so do a lot of other fans." News Limited understands police showed Elias photos of a punter placing bets at the Rozelle and Haberfield TAB outlets and asked if it was him. He confirmed it in fact was. The raids follow over 4 months of investigations by coppers, involving interviews with dozens of NRL players, officials and managers. A massive amount of resources are being throw at the case. It's a secret what cops found in the search. The dees confirmed they seized relevant documentation and mobile phones, while one leak be prepared for more to come out at the Crime Commission this week." Ayoub, Murray and Tandy all appeared before the NSW Crime Commission within the last week before dees raided their homes. No findings of wrongdoing were made against them. Tandy was recalled and later charged for allegedly providing false evidence to a law enforcement agency during an investigation. At a presser later, Detective Superintendent Arthur Katsogiannis claimed the information Tandy provided to police was far more serious than "a white lie". "This is the type of lie that carries very serious ramifications," he alleged. He refused to comment on how many other players would be charged in relation to the investigation. "It's not a game - this is real life, and police will continue with their investigations in an endeavour to uncover the truth and ensure justice is done," Katsogiannis said. "Detectives will continue to use every available resource to uncover the truth and complete their investigation. "If anyone has been involved with, or has information about criminal activity regarding betting allegations, we urge them to come forward and assist police while they have the opportunity."
Players And Agents Part Of Real Life Underbelly?...
An underworld type has been seriously implicated in the NRL's latest scandal. Police investigating match-fixing claims executed search warrants at a Punchbowl home early on Tuesday morning. In the home lives mum Susan, John Elias, 3 times a jailbird and a self-confessed match fixer, race rigger and stand-over man, whose knows the who is who of the underworld. In the 80s and 90's Elias was a huge star. When not playing footy he would sometimes engage in robberies and other criminal behavior. He had very close ties to crime figure Danny Karam. Karam was murdered by gunshot in 1998 by his partner Michael "Doc" Kanaan. Elias's "Kings Cross family" is understood to be headed by friend John Ibrahim. "'John is now arguably the most influential man of his kind in Sydney, a Lebanese immigrant like myself but with infinitely more connections" wrote Elias in his autobiography Sin Bin, which hit the shelves in 2010. When in jail he got to build more connections with crims, as you would expect, even with murderer and drug trafficker Neddy Smith. Smith, was a key part of the puzzle that saw Elias put $1 million with illegal bookies on the infamous game between Wests and Elias's then-team Souths circa 1994. Smith gave Elias money to pay 4 Souths players $25,000 each to play poorly, while 4 Wests players were bucks to play their guts out! That was that the the games' outcome almost a lock. Elias placed $1 million with illegal bookies on Wests to win. The fix had some similarities to the alleged Cowboys-Bulldogs case of last year, where there was a plunge for the Cowboys to score first by way of a penalty goal. In both cases, it was the pre-game betting that set of the warning a fix might be up. Due to the 1994 plunge, the media speculated a fix was on.
The fix was called off at the last moment the story goes, but not all are totally convinced. "While there's no such thing as a certainty in gambling, there were ways to stack the odds in your favour," writes Elias in his book. While betting scams were one thing, his also loved putting the fix on the trots. "So where do I go from here?" pens Elias in his book. "Now that you know my life's story, I'm hoping you can be the judge.". The tainted anti hero is expect to get strong book sales and numerous media opportunities, but not all will be positive, however some will be balanced. He will be back in the news.
NRL In Bed With Gambling; A Safe Bet Or Not?...
Ryan Tandy's recent arrest is the closest anyone, player, agent or other, has come to being charged following an investigation into betting on the NRL. Despite criticism of the growing ties with the NRL and its clubs have with bookies via betting and sponsorship, it is those lines of communication that helped NSW chief racing steward Ray Murrihy decide that the matter should be handed over to the coppers, our friend - the Boys In Blue. The NRL insists that betting agencies associated with the game sign agreements that insist on co-operation. It was those integrity agreements that Murrihy, who was called in by the NRL as a consultant, was able to work out the level of betting activity on the first scoring option in last August's Cowboys-Bulldogs match at Dairy Farmers Stadium, and where the wagers were placed. He then decided there was enough solid evidence to warrant the involvement of the NSW Police Casino and Racing Unit, which then organised hearings before the New South Wales Crime Commission. Recent developments such as Penrith renaming their home ground to CentreBet Stadium, Manly entering a sponsorship agreement with CentreBet, and South Sydney wearing the Star City casino logo on the front of their jersey have lifted concerns about the growing involvement of gambling firms in the footy. Crown Casino is now confirmed as the Melbourne Storm's new major sponsor. Gambling on sport is big business, in Australia and around the globe, and punters will bet money on matches regardless of whether the NRL and clubs are officially involved or not. The game wants to profit, which is fair enough, as betting on sport, events and such is hear to stay, well entrenched in Australian culture. Let it be known to all...the police charges against the Doggies front-rower for giving false evidence. They are not directly related to the betting on the game as such, but often where there is smoke, there is fire. The probe has also revealed that Parramatta halfback Brad Murray placed a bet on the Cowboys-Bulldogs game, which is contrary to NRL rules and likely to lead to sanctions against Murray...although there is no suggestion he did anything illegal. Back in 1994, the game was subjected to similar rumours and allegations, involving players from the South Sydney Rabbitohs and Magpies that were never conclusively probed. Tainted ex footy NRL legend ... the anti hero - Elias surged up the best-sellers with his book in which goes on to tell how he had tried to fix a match, the last of the season. Elias, who was playing for The Bunnies at the time, claimed to have been offered $50,000 for himself and another $100,000 to buy off teammates to ensure Wests won. He explained in detail how he organised the sting, and then called it the evening before the game. Four Souths players including Sinclair, who passed away last year sued for defamation. There have been rumours and allegations of other betting rorts in between but no wrongdoing has ever been proved. Betting and the NRL is a curious mix, but is it a case of better the devil you know, than the one you don't? If the NRL teams do deals with the gaming and betting sector, one would think they can better keep a finger on the pulse of the situation, but would they be fooling themselves? Time will tell... maybe!
Don't change your dial punters. We will be back soon with more of the saga that is Real Life Underbelly NRL style.
Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...
Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...
PartyCasino.com
Captain Cooks Casino
Betfair (sports betting only)
PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)
PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)
Profiles
Australian Casinos
World Casino Directory
Global Gaming Directory
Casino Travel
Casinos
Australia
Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:
Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered
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
Australian Police Swoop On NRL Bet Scandal; Blow By Blow Account...
It's goes like this...early Tuesday, coppers with search warrants, hone in simultaneously on the shacks of Doggies star play Ryan Tandy, player agent big wig Sam Ayoub and former NRL great John Elias. Tandy is in bed at eastern suburbs Bronte. Ayoub is getting ready to go to work in the Strathfield home he shares with former Roosters and now Parramatta Eels player Brad Murray. Elias, who recently penned a tale about his involvement in various crimes and time in the clink, lives with mum at Punchbowl in Sydney's south west. Police search for any breakthrough evidence in the NRL betting scandal from the highly suspicious Cowboys-Bulldogs game late last season. Officers raid the homes, confiscate mobile phones, search cars, seize computers... you get the idea.. Ayoub quizzed by the press over the past few days refuses comment, having denied any illegal activity. Yep, he's a cleanskin. "I don't know who is telling you things," Ayoub said. "I'm with people...I've got to go," he added, before hanging up. Ayoub is Tandy's manager, the player who gave away the controversial penalty which sparked the Racing NSW stewards inquiry that was later passed over to police. Ayoub, who shares a house with Murray, was captured on CCTV footage placing substantial wagers on the option of Cowboys scoring first points from a penalty goal. Ayoub has confirmed he placed a bet on a Cowboys penalty goal as the first score but says it's an option he often takes when gambling on NRL games. Elias said he was shocked when police knocked on his door, although he was aware of the rumours that he bet heavily on the game in question and the penalty goal option under investigation. "Is there now a law against having a bet?" Elias said. "I have done absolutely nothing wrong. People know I like to have a bet on the footy, but so do a lot of other fans." News Limited understands police showed Elias photos of a punter placing bets at the Rozelle and Haberfield TAB outlets and asked if it was him. He confirmed it in fact was. The raids follow over 4 months of investigations by coppers, involving interviews with dozens of NRL players, officials and managers. A massive amount of resources are being throw at the case. It's a secret what cops found in the search. The dees confirmed they seized relevant documentation and mobile phones, while one leak be prepared for more to come out at the Crime Commission this week." Ayoub, Murray and Tandy all appeared before the NSW Crime Commission within the last week before dees raided their homes. No findings of wrongdoing were made against them. Tandy was recalled and later charged for allegedly providing false evidence to a law enforcement agency during an investigation. At a presser later, Detective Superintendent Arthur Katsogiannis claimed the information Tandy provided to police was far more serious than "a white lie". "This is the type of lie that carries very serious ramifications," he alleged. He refused to comment on how many other players would be charged in relation to the investigation. "It's not a game - this is real life, and police will continue with their investigations in an endeavour to uncover the truth and ensure justice is done," Katsogiannis said. "Detectives will continue to use every available resource to uncover the truth and complete their investigation. "If anyone has been involved with, or has information about criminal activity regarding betting allegations, we urge them to come forward and assist police while they have the opportunity."
Players And Agents Part Of Real Life Underbelly?...
An underworld type has been seriously implicated in the NRL's latest scandal. Police investigating match-fixing claims executed search warrants at a Punchbowl home early on Tuesday morning. In the home lives mum Susan, John Elias, 3 times a jailbird and a self-confessed match fixer, race rigger and stand-over man, whose knows the who is who of the underworld. In the 80s and 90's Elias was a huge star. When not playing footy he would sometimes engage in robberies and other criminal behavior. He had very close ties to crime figure Danny Karam. Karam was murdered by gunshot in 1998 by his partner Michael "Doc" Kanaan. Elias's "Kings Cross family" is understood to be headed by friend John Ibrahim. "'John is now arguably the most influential man of his kind in Sydney, a Lebanese immigrant like myself but with infinitely more connections" wrote Elias in his autobiography Sin Bin, which hit the shelves in 2010. When in jail he got to build more connections with crims, as you would expect, even with murderer and drug trafficker Neddy Smith. Smith, was a key part of the puzzle that saw Elias put $1 million with illegal bookies on the infamous game between Wests and Elias's then-team Souths circa 1994. Smith gave Elias money to pay 4 Souths players $25,000 each to play poorly, while 4 Wests players were bucks to play their guts out! That was that the the games' outcome almost a lock. Elias placed $1 million with illegal bookies on Wests to win. The fix had some similarities to the alleged Cowboys-Bulldogs case of last year, where there was a plunge for the Cowboys to score first by way of a penalty goal. In both cases, it was the pre-game betting that set of the warning a fix might be up. Due to the 1994 plunge, the media speculated a fix was on.
The fix was called off at the last moment the story goes, but not all are totally convinced. "While there's no such thing as a certainty in gambling, there were ways to stack the odds in your favour," writes Elias in his book. While betting scams were one thing, his also loved putting the fix on the trots. "So where do I go from here?" pens Elias in his book. "Now that you know my life's story, I'm hoping you can be the judge.". The tainted anti hero is expect to get strong book sales and numerous media opportunities, but not all will be positive, however some will be balanced. He will be back in the news.
NRL In Bed With Gambling; A Safe Bet Or Not?...
Ryan Tandy's recent arrest is the closest anyone, player, agent or other, has come to being charged following an investigation into betting on the NRL. Despite criticism of the growing ties with the NRL and its clubs have with bookies via betting and sponsorship, it is those lines of communication that helped NSW chief racing steward Ray Murrihy decide that the matter should be handed over to the coppers, our friend - the Boys In Blue. The NRL insists that betting agencies associated with the game sign agreements that insist on co-operation. It was those integrity agreements that Murrihy, who was called in by the NRL as a consultant, was able to work out the level of betting activity on the first scoring option in last August's Cowboys-Bulldogs match at Dairy Farmers Stadium, and where the wagers were placed. He then decided there was enough solid evidence to warrant the involvement of the NSW Police Casino and Racing Unit, which then organised hearings before the New South Wales Crime Commission. Recent developments such as Penrith renaming their home ground to CentreBet Stadium, Manly entering a sponsorship agreement with CentreBet, and South Sydney wearing the Star City casino logo on the front of their jersey have lifted concerns about the growing involvement of gambling firms in the footy. Crown Casino is now confirmed as the Melbourne Storm's new major sponsor. Gambling on sport is big business, in Australia and around the globe, and punters will bet money on matches regardless of whether the NRL and clubs are officially involved or not. The game wants to profit, which is fair enough, as betting on sport, events and such is hear to stay, well entrenched in Australian culture. Let it be known to all...the police charges against the Doggies front-rower for giving false evidence. They are not directly related to the betting on the game as such, but often where there is smoke, there is fire. The probe has also revealed that Parramatta halfback Brad Murray placed a bet on the Cowboys-Bulldogs game, which is contrary to NRL rules and likely to lead to sanctions against Murray...although there is no suggestion he did anything illegal. Back in 1994, the game was subjected to similar rumours and allegations, involving players from the South Sydney Rabbitohs and Magpies that were never conclusively probed. Tainted ex footy NRL legend ... the anti hero - Elias surged up the best-sellers with his book in which goes on to tell how he had tried to fix a match, the last of the season. Elias, who was playing for The Bunnies at the time, claimed to have been offered $50,000 for himself and another $100,000 to buy off teammates to ensure Wests won. He explained in detail how he organised the sting, and then called it the evening before the game. Four Souths players including Sinclair, who passed away last year sued for defamation. There have been rumours and allegations of other betting rorts in between but no wrongdoing has ever been proved. Betting and the NRL is a curious mix, but is it a case of better the devil you know, than the one you don't? If the NRL teams do deals with the gaming and betting sector, one would think they can better keep a finger on the pulse of the situation, but would they be fooling themselves? Time will tell... maybe!
Don't change your dial punters. We will be back soon with more of the saga that is Real Life Underbelly NRL style.
Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...
Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...
PartyCasino.com
Captain Cooks Casino
Betfair (sports betting only)
PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)
PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)
Profiles
Australian Casinos
World Casino Directory
Global Gaming Directory
Casino Travel
Casinos
Australia
Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:
Take the time to research and learn games before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Tell us in the forum.
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered
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
Friday, February 4, 2011
Aussie Gambling News: Australia's Tabcorp Revenue Leaks From Flood, by Greg Tingle - 4th February 2011
G'day punters, journos, high rollers - casino whales, gambling millionaires and billionaires, entertainment news junkies, media tycoons, politicians, insiders, outsiders, ... one and all. You know who you are. Today we take a close look at how the Queensland floods put a hole in Tabcorp's revenue, Aussie sports betting reform, Packer's boat floating off Manly getting some heat and lots more. Media Man and Gambling911 play Water World with this wet wet wet news report...
Queensland Floods Cost Tabcorp Millions In Lost Revenue...
Gaming, betting and gabling firm Tabcorp Holdings Ltd advised the recent floods on the east coast of Australia in January have wiped $10 million from revenue. Tabcorp is still expecting to see revenue and earnings growth in the second half of 2010-11. Tabcorp posted a 2.9% lift in first half profit to $265.5 million, up from $257.9 million in the prior corresponding window. Tabcorp said its normalised net profit for the half year was $272 million, up 3% on the prior corresponding half. Normalised net profit takes into account variations in the "theoretical win rate" against high-rolling punters. It excludes costs associated with Tabcorp's plans to demerge its casinos division from its other operations to form 2 listed companies. Shares in Tabcorp were 22 cents higher, by 3.19%, at $7.12 (10.24am on Thursday). Tabcorp chief executive Elmer Funke Kupper advised that each of the company's 3 operating divisions was forecasting an lift in revenue and earnings performance in the second half of the financial year. "The recent floods put some uncertainty in the immediate outlook for consumer spending in Queensland. Nevertheless, we are expecting to see positive underlying growth in the second half of the year. This gives us confidence that we are on the right path with our investment programs", Funke Kupper went on record with. Tabcorp noted the recent Queensland floods had affected trading at its Treasury casino and hotel in Brisbane, with a large dive in visitors during the floods and immediately afterwards. Tabcorp's other casinos experienced a small impact and operated normally, with Jupiters Hotel and Casino on the Gold Coast and Star City in 'Sin City' Sydney continuing on with the momentum. Wet weather in Queensland, NSW and Victoria also affected Tabcorp's wagering business as the number of abandoned horse and dog races rose. Tabcorp estimated that the immediate revenue impact of the January floods and wet weather was about $10 million. Despite the floods, normalised group revenues grew 2.5% in January 2011, which Tabcorp said indicated good underlying growth. Tabcorp said that in the first half, all 3 business divisions achieved positive revenue and earnings growth, with the strongest growth recorded in casinos. Group expenses rose 4.6%, driven by costs associated with Tabcorp's massive upgrade and expansion of its casinos. The $960 million redevelopment of Star City in Sydney was said to be progressing to plan. In the first half, Tabcorp announced that it intended to invest $625 million in upgrading its Queensland casinos. Tabcorp said plans to separate its casinos business from its wagering, gaming and keno businesses into separate, listed companies were on track. The target date for the proposed demerger remained June 30, 2011. Tabcorp plans to have a "scheme booklet" available during April 2011, and to hold an extraordinary general meeting in the late part of May or early June to allow shareholders to vote on the demerger proposal. Tabcorp's revenue for the 6 months to December 31, 2010 was $2.26 billion, up 3.5% from $2.18 billion. Tabcorp declared an interim dividend of 24 cents per share, fully franked. Tabcorp looks poised for a solid to good 12 months. James Packer's Crown Limited has recently downplayed talk of a potential buy out of Tabcorp, but didn't completely rule it out either.
James Packer's Z Sydney Whale Size Yacht Gets's Shelly Beach Locals Talking...
Asia Pacific gambling and media tycoon James Packer had folks talking this week with his monster yacht, Z Sydney, anchored off Shelly Beach. While Packer’s luxury boat might seem large for Cabbage Tree Bay, it’s just one of many similar boats that have been seen on Pittwater, behind Sydney's Northern Beaches over summer. Broken Bay water police commander senior sergeant Chris Morgan said the larger boats were self-contained and rarely caused any problems. "Packer’s boat is big but there are plenty of other big ones," he said. Palm Beach water taxi driver Brad Fogarty said there were "plenty of big boats" between Christmas and New Year. "I think Ilonka was the biggest, but so was Northern Star, which had a chopper on the back and five or six tenders," he said. What a life a big time gambling and media business can bring hey.
Australia Just Weeks Away From Combating Illegal Sports Betting Corruption?...
The top brass of the down unders lucky 7 major sports could be only weeks away from approving a raft of measures designed to combat the stench of illegal gambling. Former Australian cricket chief Malcolm Speed is in the final stages of compiling a report into how the Coalition of Major Professional Participation Sports (COMPPS)...which represents rugby league, rugby union, AFL, netball, tennis, football and cricket...can combat corruption. We understand the codes have scrapped plans to form an integrity commission but are focused on convincing the federal government to bring in laws to cater specifically for illegal gambling on sport. The latest developments come as the NRL endures yet more negative headlines relating to suspicious betting activity on last year's round 24 game between the Bulldogs and North Queensland. Bulldogs forward Ryan Tandy was arrested and charged 2 days ago after allegedly providing false evidence to a law enforcement agency in relation to the matter. Tandy, at the centre of police probes into the game, has denied any wrongdoing. Police declined to comment on the prospect of further arrests in coming days, although they did confirm their investigation into the suspect game could be completed by the end of this month. Speed provided a draft document to a working group of the 7 major sports which was discussed at length via meetings over the past 2 days. He took note of their feedback and fully expects to finalise his recommendations within 2 weeks. "We have now reached a stage where a number of changes have been suggested," Speed said. "Most of the issues are resolved but there are a couple that have not quite been resolved. It will now go from that working party to the seven chief executives of the sports. There are some recommendations on some action the sports should take to make sure so far as possible they have covered all of the options in relation to gambling and corruption." While there were suggestions the sports would join forces to form an integrity commission designed to track and watch out for suspicious gambling activity, it is understood that concept has gone by the wayside. However, the sports are in agreement over the need for sports-specific legislation which would allow governments to take action against anyone involved in illegal activity. "It's important that each sport has its own processes to deal with anti-corruption," Speed said. "What's become apparent is there are some things we can do together that are cost-effective and more effective by doing them together. They're the sort of things we'll be recommending to the chief executives." The sports have already held talks with federal Sports Minister Mark Arbib to discuss the subject of jail sentences for athletes in relation to match fixing. The concept has already been adopted in Britain where athletes face jail sentences for corruption. We tip that some current and former players and players agents will do jail time, by the time the proposals become law.
A Media Man spokesperson said "On the surface the new proposal containing ways to combat corruption looks impress. Something needed to be done, and this looks to be it. Some laws will be more general, while some are sport specific. That approach will help catch out the bad apples. Many of our friends and associates are excited and positive about the forecast changes. Everyone should win... except for the bad guys who have been engaged in corruption. Here's to a much cleaner Australian sporting landscape in 2011".
Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...
Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...
PartyCasino.com
Captain Cooks Casino
Betfair (sports betting only)
PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)
PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)
Profiles
Australian Casinos
World Casino Directory
Global Gaming Directory
Casino Travel
Casinos
Australia
Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:
Take the time to research and learn games and sports before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Tell us in the forum.
Keep your head above water!
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered
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
Queensland Floods Cost Tabcorp Millions In Lost Revenue...
Gaming, betting and gabling firm Tabcorp Holdings Ltd advised the recent floods on the east coast of Australia in January have wiped $10 million from revenue. Tabcorp is still expecting to see revenue and earnings growth in the second half of 2010-11. Tabcorp posted a 2.9% lift in first half profit to $265.5 million, up from $257.9 million in the prior corresponding window. Tabcorp said its normalised net profit for the half year was $272 million, up 3% on the prior corresponding half. Normalised net profit takes into account variations in the "theoretical win rate" against high-rolling punters. It excludes costs associated with Tabcorp's plans to demerge its casinos division from its other operations to form 2 listed companies. Shares in Tabcorp were 22 cents higher, by 3.19%, at $7.12 (10.24am on Thursday). Tabcorp chief executive Elmer Funke Kupper advised that each of the company's 3 operating divisions was forecasting an lift in revenue and earnings performance in the second half of the financial year. "The recent floods put some uncertainty in the immediate outlook for consumer spending in Queensland. Nevertheless, we are expecting to see positive underlying growth in the second half of the year. This gives us confidence that we are on the right path with our investment programs", Funke Kupper went on record with. Tabcorp noted the recent Queensland floods had affected trading at its Treasury casino and hotel in Brisbane, with a large dive in visitors during the floods and immediately afterwards. Tabcorp's other casinos experienced a small impact and operated normally, with Jupiters Hotel and Casino on the Gold Coast and Star City in 'Sin City' Sydney continuing on with the momentum. Wet weather in Queensland, NSW and Victoria also affected Tabcorp's wagering business as the number of abandoned horse and dog races rose. Tabcorp estimated that the immediate revenue impact of the January floods and wet weather was about $10 million. Despite the floods, normalised group revenues grew 2.5% in January 2011, which Tabcorp said indicated good underlying growth. Tabcorp said that in the first half, all 3 business divisions achieved positive revenue and earnings growth, with the strongest growth recorded in casinos. Group expenses rose 4.6%, driven by costs associated with Tabcorp's massive upgrade and expansion of its casinos. The $960 million redevelopment of Star City in Sydney was said to be progressing to plan. In the first half, Tabcorp announced that it intended to invest $625 million in upgrading its Queensland casinos. Tabcorp said plans to separate its casinos business from its wagering, gaming and keno businesses into separate, listed companies were on track. The target date for the proposed demerger remained June 30, 2011. Tabcorp plans to have a "scheme booklet" available during April 2011, and to hold an extraordinary general meeting in the late part of May or early June to allow shareholders to vote on the demerger proposal. Tabcorp's revenue for the 6 months to December 31, 2010 was $2.26 billion, up 3.5% from $2.18 billion. Tabcorp declared an interim dividend of 24 cents per share, fully franked. Tabcorp looks poised for a solid to good 12 months. James Packer's Crown Limited has recently downplayed talk of a potential buy out of Tabcorp, but didn't completely rule it out either.
James Packer's Z Sydney Whale Size Yacht Gets's Shelly Beach Locals Talking...
Asia Pacific gambling and media tycoon James Packer had folks talking this week with his monster yacht, Z Sydney, anchored off Shelly Beach. While Packer’s luxury boat might seem large for Cabbage Tree Bay, it’s just one of many similar boats that have been seen on Pittwater, behind Sydney's Northern Beaches over summer. Broken Bay water police commander senior sergeant Chris Morgan said the larger boats were self-contained and rarely caused any problems. "Packer’s boat is big but there are plenty of other big ones," he said. Palm Beach water taxi driver Brad Fogarty said there were "plenty of big boats" between Christmas and New Year. "I think Ilonka was the biggest, but so was Northern Star, which had a chopper on the back and five or six tenders," he said. What a life a big time gambling and media business can bring hey.
Australia Just Weeks Away From Combating Illegal Sports Betting Corruption?...
The top brass of the down unders lucky 7 major sports could be only weeks away from approving a raft of measures designed to combat the stench of illegal gambling. Former Australian cricket chief Malcolm Speed is in the final stages of compiling a report into how the Coalition of Major Professional Participation Sports (COMPPS)...which represents rugby league, rugby union, AFL, netball, tennis, football and cricket...can combat corruption. We understand the codes have scrapped plans to form an integrity commission but are focused on convincing the federal government to bring in laws to cater specifically for illegal gambling on sport. The latest developments come as the NRL endures yet more negative headlines relating to suspicious betting activity on last year's round 24 game between the Bulldogs and North Queensland. Bulldogs forward Ryan Tandy was arrested and charged 2 days ago after allegedly providing false evidence to a law enforcement agency in relation to the matter. Tandy, at the centre of police probes into the game, has denied any wrongdoing. Police declined to comment on the prospect of further arrests in coming days, although they did confirm their investigation into the suspect game could be completed by the end of this month. Speed provided a draft document to a working group of the 7 major sports which was discussed at length via meetings over the past 2 days. He took note of their feedback and fully expects to finalise his recommendations within 2 weeks. "We have now reached a stage where a number of changes have been suggested," Speed said. "Most of the issues are resolved but there are a couple that have not quite been resolved. It will now go from that working party to the seven chief executives of the sports. There are some recommendations on some action the sports should take to make sure so far as possible they have covered all of the options in relation to gambling and corruption." While there were suggestions the sports would join forces to form an integrity commission designed to track and watch out for suspicious gambling activity, it is understood that concept has gone by the wayside. However, the sports are in agreement over the need for sports-specific legislation which would allow governments to take action against anyone involved in illegal activity. "It's important that each sport has its own processes to deal with anti-corruption," Speed said. "What's become apparent is there are some things we can do together that are cost-effective and more effective by doing them together. They're the sort of things we'll be recommending to the chief executives." The sports have already held talks with federal Sports Minister Mark Arbib to discuss the subject of jail sentences for athletes in relation to match fixing. The concept has already been adopted in Britain where athletes face jail sentences for corruption. We tip that some current and former players and players agents will do jail time, by the time the proposals become law.
A Media Man spokesperson said "On the surface the new proposal containing ways to combat corruption looks impress. Something needed to be done, and this looks to be it. Some laws will be more general, while some are sport specific. That approach will help catch out the bad apples. Many of our friends and associates are excited and positive about the forecast changes. Everyone should win... except for the bad guys who have been engaged in corruption. Here's to a much cleaner Australian sporting landscape in 2011".
Online Casinos, Online Poker and Sports Betting...
Ok readers, we hear you... you also want to know some of the best places to play online (that accept Aussies) if your in or around the Asia Pacific - Australia (including Tassie) and New Zealand, so here it is...
PartyCasino.com
Captain Cooks Casino
Betfair (sports betting only)
PKR.com (poker, slots including Marvel slot games and sports betting)
PartyPoker.com (online poker at one of the world's most respected poker rooms and gaming brands)
Profiles
Australian Casinos
World Casino Directory
Global Gaming Directory
Casino Travel
Casinos
Australia
Media Man and Gambling911 remind our readers to keep the following in mind:
Take the time to research and learn games and sports before placing down money
Media Man, Casino News Media and Gambling911 are website portals. Not casinos as such, however are recognised as world leading websites that cover the sector and act as central points to games, news, reviews and more.
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? Tell us in the forum.
Keep your head above water!
If you have a bet, please bet with your head, not over it, and for God's sake, have fun.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a dozen sectors covered
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
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