Australian Sports Entertainment

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

FIFA World Cup: Aussie Casino Jack Lobby, by Greg Tingle - 30th June 2010

Sporting and political insiders, movers n shakers, have we got a story for you. Think Casino Jack or Casino Jacks (and the United States of Money and The Australians Of Money). Following the Aussie NRL and AFL scandals, FIFA Aussiegate gives them a run for their money. Media Man and Gambling911 follow the money trail, with some assistance from Google News, Fairfax Media and sniffer dogs Bluey and Timmy...

A dynamite due of European lobbyists engaged to assist bringing the World Cup to Australia are in line to receive up to $11.37 million in consultancy fees, bonuses and the like. The sum is roughly 25% of the taxpayer-funded bid, our friends at Fairfax Media have put in the public domain. They point to "secret Football Federation Australia files".

News Limited, publisher of the Daily Telegraph, is understood to be also digging for more information, just as Fairfax and News Limited battled it out on the NRL and AFL sports scandals.

The now (not so secret) files included a spreadsheet that hints the federal government was not advised specifics about how taxpayers' money was to be fed to the lobbyists and grants aka "hand outs" and "hand ups" to overseas football bodies headed by FIFA officials.

A probe into Australia's World Cup bid can also lift the lid on how the FFA:

Purchased Paspaley pearl necklaces for the wives of many of the 24 FIFA executive committee members who in December will decide which countries will host the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. Pearl cufflinks were also given. Total value of the gifts $50,000 approx.

Offered an all-expenses paid junket to the South American FIFA executive committee member Rafael Salguero and his wife to Australia this year.

Paid for a Caribbean football team linked to the FIFA vice-president Jack Warner to journey to Cyprus last year.

A FFA document contains 2 budget balance sheets outlining how the $45.6 million World Cup bid government grant is to be used.

1 balance sheet is for the FFA only and is headed "Bid budget management reporting". The other is for the government and is less detailed and titled "Bid budget government reporting".

The spreadsheets from mid-2009 could possible suggest the FFA decided not to disclose to the government specific details of the payment structure, remuneration breakdown etc for its 2 consultants, Mr Peter Hargitay and Mr Fedor Radmann.

FFA advised its accounting practices were exemplary and independently audited.

"The FFA is completely transparent in its dealings with government and has provided all information regarding the bidding process requested by government," advised the FFA chief executive, Ben Buckley, who also declined invitation to reveal publicly what sirs Hargitay and Mr Radmann were being paid.

We have learned confidential documents show the sporting - political entrepreneurs of sorts, who have been engaged to direct Australia's lobbying of FIFA officialdom - are in line to make $11.37 million if Australia wins the right to host the 2022 World Cup! Not a bad earner. This may at least partly explain that Australia this month withdrew its bid for the 2018 cup.

Punters, you wonder why the government has little money for everyday folks, community projects and the like. "Their eyes may be off the community ball, and focused on another ball and field of green", a Media Man investigator was overheard whispering.

Mr Hargitay is being remunerated with $1.35 million by the FFA and has a "success fee" of $2.54 million. Mr Radmann's hard yakka for the Aussie bid, which the FFA has attempted to keep under wraps, will earn him up to $3.49 mil via a German based consulting firm. He is also entitled to a success fee of $3.99 million.

Forming part of a separate contract - agreement, the FFA is paying Mr Radmann's biz partner Andreas Abold an additional $3 mil for World Cup "bid book production and bid advice". It is unknown at this stage if Abold will also receive some of Mr Radmann's moolah fees.

Fairfax Media reports that the mid-2009 spreadsheet also suggests the government was not advised details about plans to give $6.5 million in taxpayer funds to football bodies in Africa, Asia and Oceania. The document states the FFA's bid strategy will give large grants to "international football development".

The government was advised by the FFA that $11.37 million was going to "consultants/agencies". But the FFA prepared a more detailed spreadsheet for its own executives, specifically outlining how this sum would be split up into fees and bonuses for Hargitay and Radmann's international "advocacy" campaign.

Buckley stated "Consistent with standard management practice, FFA maintains a more comprehensive breakdown of expenditure and forecasts for day-to-day internal management purposes and accountability."

The necklaces and cufflinks were gifted at a dinner get together in 2008 for FIFA officials at the beautiful home of the FFA chairman, Frank Lowy (after Australia had announced its World Cup intentions but before formal bidding had begun).

Buckley advised "It is a widely accepted, common practice, among governments, many business and sporting organisations to provide symbolic gifts, to visiting international delegations."

FIFA allows "occasional gifts" of "symbolic or incidental value". Media Man and the sniffer dogs are curious to learn on what the financial cap is on the "incidental value".

Network Nine's 60 Minutes has now learned more on the FIFA scandal, and is interested to run what would be a follow up story on FIFA, following their couple of previous more good news features on FIFA, the cup, including some players. Digital sports broadcaster OneHD also has interest, while Fox Sports - Premier Media Group, is understood to be not quite as keen. Follow the media relationships ala 'Casino Jack' and who knows who, and you smart ones will join the dots and figure it out... or at least enough to get the 'Casino Jack' references.

It is understood the FFA funded the Trinidad and Tobago under-20 team's travel to Cyprus at the request of Hargitay, who is linked to the Caribbean football chief and FIFA vice-president Jack Warner.

In a number of FFA documents Hargitay refers to his strong ties to "Jack" (not 'Casino Jack'). Warner has been frequently been accused of using FIFA status to enrich himself and his family. After a probe in 2006 FIFA demanded sir lunchalot#2 to repay $US1 mil his family got via the improper sale of World Cup tickets.

Last Red October Warner returned a $435 luxury handbag. It was understood to be one of 24 given to the partners of FIFA executive committee members...from the English bid team, after news media reports in Britain.

FFA documents show it to be evident Radmann and Hargitay are managing the international "strategy" on behalf of the Australian "bid team". They enjoy ties to some of football's most powerful - influential men, including Warner, the former German player Franz Beckenbauer and the FIFA president, Sepp Blatter.

Radmann and Hargitay have interesting history to their names. Radmann, who has worked as an aide to Beckenbauer, has been implicated in:

A scheme circa 2000 to allegedly offer financial inducements to key FIFA executive committee officials to get them to back Germany's bid to host the 2006 World Cup.

Conflict of interest scandals in 2003 that forced him to stand down from Germany's cup organising committee.

It is understood Australian bid officials attempted to minimise any publicity about Radmann's involvement in the said bid.

Hargitay's past includes being acquitted twice for cocaine trafficking in the 90s and his alleged link to a securities fraud in Hungary, according to US court documents circa 97.

Hargitay also has spoken about daily meetings in South Africa with the Asian Football Confederation boss, Mohammad bin Hamman.

Documents detail out Hargitay's role arranging meetings between overseas football officials and Mr Lowy and Australian politicians. Former prime minister Kevin Rudd 007 er Kev 07 met Mr Warner in his Trinidad and Tobago home in November.

A spokeswoman for the Department of Health and Ageing, the agency that provided the World Cup grant, said yesterday that the FFA briefed it regularly on its spending.

Quizzed about differing bid balance sheets, the spokeswoman advised "The detailed internal accounting systems of the FFA are a matter for them."

She said the department was aware of the backgrounds of Hargitay and Radmann. It also had no evidence of any breaches of the public service guidelines that cover the FFA's consultants.

All FFA bid team employees and lobbyists must comply with Australia's Public Service code of conduct and act in an honest and ethical manner. The spokeswoman advised "The FFA has assured the department taskforce that this provision is being adhered to. If evidence contrary to this was provided it would be thoroughly investigated as would any alleged breach of the funding agreement."

Wrap Up...

Readers, what next? What do you know that isn't revelled yet? Tell us in the world famous Gambling911 forums? Hello FIFA, you're welcome also. Media Man and Gambling911 is half expecting threats and hate mail...just another day at the office.

*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911

*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a bakers dozen of sectors they cover.

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Tuesday, June 29, 2010

PartyGaming News: French online poker and sports betting licences awarded

PartyGaming News: French online poker and sports betting licences awarded

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28 June 2010

PartyGaming, the world’s leading listed online gaming company, announces that it has been awarded licences by ARJEL, the French Gaming regulator, to operate online poker and sports betting websites for residents in France. The Group can offer sports betting immediately and will offer poker on http://www.partypoker.fr when the market is opened, which is expected to be later this month.

As previously announced, the Group has signed three exclusive B2B deals this year to form a significant French poker network with PMU, the country’s largest pari-mutuel horse racing company, AB Groupe, a leading TV broadcaster, and Aviation Club de France, one of France’s most prestigious card rooms and private members clubs. This network will now benefit from pooled poker player liquidity that will be provided by PartyPoker.fr

About PartyGaming:

PartyGaming Plc is the world’s leading listed online gaming company. The Group is a constituent of the FTSE 250 share index with its shares listed on The London Stock Exchange under the ticker: PRTY. In the year to 31 December 2009, PartyGaming’s Continuing operations generated revenue of $446.2m and Clean EBITDA of $135.0m. PartyGaming’s principal brands are
PartyPoker.com, one of the world’s largest online poker rooms, PartyCasino.com, the world’s largest online casino, PartyBingo.com, PartyGammon.com, PartyBets.com, InterTrader.com, FoxyBingo.com, GetMinted.com, GameBookers.com and WorldPokerTour.com. None of the Group’s sites accept real money customers located in the US. PartyGaming is regulated and licensed by the Government of Gibraltar and by the Alderney Gambling Control Commission and it is also certified as a responsible gaming operator by GamCare, the leading UK authority on the provision of advice, practical help, support and counselling in addressing the social impact of gambling. PartyGaming’s shares are also a constituent member of the FTSE4Good Index Series, which enables investors to identify companies that meet globally recognised corporate responsibility standards. For more information, please visit PartyGaming

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Monday, June 28, 2010

Asia Pacific Sports, Entertainment And Gaming Roundup, by Greg Tingle - 28th June 2010

Punting, sporting and entertainment news junkies, and hard core gamblers, what a week, and what a month its been. The Australian - Asia Pacific connection remains in the thick of the sporting action, even though the Socceroos and New Zealanders are out of the FIFA World Cup. Enjoy the sumo slamming, car rolling, internet filter free report, as Media Man and Gambling911 scour the globe, so you don't have to...

FIFA World Cup Attacks: Aussies Recovering Well But City On Alert For More...

South Africa continues to get mixed reports on its security, especially regarding the safety of tourists. The bush tucker bag of Australian fans who were attacked and robbed in their hotel room are recovering well, but South Africa's reputation regarding safety continues to fall, amid crimes often containing "inside job" elements. Media Man can confirm that the crime problems are far bigger than just the atrocious track record of the now infamous Hamilton Parks Country Lodge in Hazyview, located north-east of Johannesburg.


Aussie Mark Webber Close Call At Valencia...

Aussie Formula One title contender Mark Webber had a lucky escape on Sunday after suffering a massive crash at the popular European Grand Prix. The 33-year-old's Red Bull flipped over on lap 10 of the 57-lapper race after hitting the back of Finnish Heikki Kovalainen. Webber appeared to walk away from the wreck of his car unhurt and was taken away in the medical car as a precaution. The Aussie, who has now slipped to 4th in the overall world standings behind British McLaren duo Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button, and his teammate Sebastian Vettel, had started from the front row on the grid behind teammate Vettel. Webber had a terrible start slipping down to 9th then pitted to be near the rear when he crashed out. Vettel won the race in fromt of Hamilton and Button. Hamilton now leads overall standings with 127 points, ahead of world champion Button on 121.
Vettel's 2nd win of the year lifted him to 3rd on 115 points with Webber fourth on 103. Vettel was wrapt to have secured pole position, as it mean the Red Bull team had pole in every race except Canada where Hamilton had been successful. Vettel set a time of one minute 37.587 seconds towards the end of the qualifying session, quick enough to fend off last ditch efforts from Hamilton and Button, and Ferrari drivers Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa. Vettel, 22, was relieved to be starting at the front again after a number of disappointments in Turkey and Canada, but admitted that he was surprised as many had predicted the Valencia track would suit the McLaren and Ferrari cars. "The last couple of races we didn't have a good run on Saturday, so it is good," said Vettel after qualifying. "These circuits, Canada and here in Valencia, usually wouldn't be our strongest so it's good to put the car on pole and our pace looks good. It was a tight qualifying session in the end. In the first run I had a huge moment in the first sector and I knew I had to put everything in the second run, and it worked. I am happy for today. It was a very tough one here, especially as we reintroduced the F-duct and a lot of other things of the car, and some mechanics had just one-hour sleep." Hamilton started behind the Red Bull duo but capitalised by Webber's crash.

Sumo Scandal Claims Oriental Top Brass Scalp...

Japan's sumo association has announced it will go ahead with a tournament next month despite allegations of wrestlers and coaches betting tens of thousands of dollars on baseball in a widening scandal that has tarnished the image of the ancient sport.

The Japan Sumo Association decided in an emergency meeting Monday to hold the tournament, but kept the option of suspending more than a dozen wrestlers - or about one-third of the top division - along with another dozen coaches, according to media reports.

One arrest has already been made in the betting scandal and police are considering more criminal action pending the outcome of an investigation into the accusations, which first appeared in the weekly press and allegedly involve gangster middlemen.

Stablemaster Otake, who allegedly held the deepest involvement with the baseball gambling scheme submitted a letter of resignation to the association. Police have arrested a former wrestler, Mitsutomo Furuichi, 38, who is accused of demanding hush money from Kotomitsuki to cover up the second-ranking champion's alleged involvement in illegal sports gambling. Public opinion has rapidly turned against the sumo establishment as the gambling scandal widened, with sumo officials perceived to have done little to investigate and publicise the problem. The scandal could torpedo next month's grand tournament, which national broadcaster NHK is threatening to abandon. Big-name sponsors have already turned their backs on the tournament. For the first time since World War II, the sumo association has postponed the announcement of a ranking list ahead of the 15-day July tournament because so many wrestlers face expulsion from the event. Stablemaster Otake is expected to resign, possibly any second, after Gambling911 turns up the heat.


Japan: Saipan Casinos Don't Lure Tourist Nor Turn On Casino Whales...

SAIPAN, Northern Mariana Islands — Legalizing casino gambling in Saipan wouldn't necessarily draw more tourists, according to a Japan-based tourism official for the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Michael Merner, the Marianas Visitors Authority managing director for Japan, said tourists travel to Saipan for its natural beauty, and glitzy casinos wouldn't fit in. "It's important that Saipan not follow the road of Guam or Hawaii with overcommercialized development," said Merner, of Marketing Garden Ltd. Saipan should "keep its position as a natural paradise, and that doesn't fit the casino image," he said.
The Northern Mariana Islands already have casino gaming in Tinian, and Merner said there's no need to expand it to Saipan. In an informal survey of 10 major Japanese travel agents, Merner said the "overwhelming answer" was that Saipan shouldn't create a casino. The U.S. commonwealth "has a great reputation for its natural beauty. Not so much for the quality of the infrastructure. Not so much about the restaurants. Nature is really its selling point," he said. A measure before the commonwealth's legislature would legalize casinos in Saipan and allow them to operate in hotels with at least 250 rooms. Investors would have to pay a $100,000 nonrefundable casino application fee, and additional licensing fees could reach $200,000. Even though most gambling is illegal in Japan, travel agents believe adding gambling to Saipan's attractions wouldn't entice Japanese visitors, Merner said.


Hong Kong Police Crack Football Gambling Ring...

Hong Kong based coppers advised they have smashed a record breaking 170 million Hong Kong dollar (22 million US dollar) gambling ring that took illegal bets on World Cup football games and horse racing. Authorities arrested four men linked to Hong Kong's notorious triad gangs and seized betting records in the latest in a series of raids that have netted at least three dozen suspects since the tournament kicked off this month. "This is a record for a single raid," a police spokeswoman told wire services. Betting records worth about 32 million US dollars have been seized. Police said they have not finished breaking down the value of wagers put on football versus horse racing in the latest raid. In a joint operation earlier this month, mainland Chinese police arrested at 45 odd people and confiscated 44 million Hong Kong dollars' worth of betting slips in nearby Shenzhen. Punters in Hong Kong, a football and horse racing-mad former British colony, can bet legally on a variety of sports events including the World Cup through the Hong Kong Jockey Club. About 35 billion Hong Kong dollars in legal bets were placed on football matches in 2009, according to Jockey Club figures. Illegal bookmakers are said to offer considerable superior odds, and easier credit terms. Failure to repay can bring horrific punishment!


Malaysia Drops New Gambling Plan Amid protests...

KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak advised his government had dropped a proposal to legalise sports betting amid protests by groups who fear it will create more social ills. The uproar over sports betting erupted after Ascot Sports, a company controlled by influential tycoon Vincent Tan, said in May it had been granted a licence to offer odds for the hugely popular English Premier League season. The government denied such a licence had been issued and said that it was still reviewing its decision as Muslim groups, opposition leaders and even members of the ruling government coalition opposed the new licence. "I hereby wish to announce that the government has decided that the licence will not be issued," Najib told state media late Friday. "Although there were groups who supported as well those who did not support or opposed the decision, it was clear to the government that a majority of the people did not agree that the licence be issued to Ascot Sports," he added. Opposition political parties said Thursday they were planning a mass street protest next month against the proposal. "We have too many social problems - drug addiction, free sex and baby dumping," Kamarulzaman Mohamad, youth secretary of the conservative Pan-Malaysia Islamic Party (PAS). "Sports betting will add to our problems as most youths watch football. They will be influenced to borrow money," he added. Party officials have not yet to decided whether the demonstration will be cancelled following Najib's announcement. Malaysia bans its majority Muslims from gambling but allows betting at a casino operated by Genting Group, on the national lottery and on horse-racing. Berjaya, the property-to-gaming group which has a 70 percent state in Ascot Sports, has said the illegal sports betting market in Malaysia was worth as much as 20 billion ringgit (six billion US dollars) a year.


Crown Limited King James Packer Delighted With Photon Group Deal...

Photon's capital raising will be close to $200 million, which could almost double its market capitalisation of $191 million, advised insiders including the in the know News Limited blood hounds. Photon stock was suspended on June 4 at $1.02 a share and the coming capital raising will be at a substantial discount, with the rights issue price less than 50 cents a share. UBS and Macquarie are handling the equity raising which has already won the backing of major shareholders Reg Grundy, James Packer and others. Mr Packer continues his roll of good fortune and is once again ramping up media and new media interests. Media Man continues to become more investor ready, looking to plug into the Packer - Gyngell - Bondi Beach "machine". Gyngell has recently joined the Crown Limited board of directors to mixed media reports, but some close to the action say Packer and Gyng have a "few tricks up their sleeve". The point to the entertainment and lifestyle sector (not just gambling). In a business where trust is important the Packer - Gyng team is an excellent piece of risk management, in a (media) business known for backstabbing and jealously.


Poker News: GSN Airs 2010 Aussie Millions: United States TV Coverage; Aussie TV Misses Out...

American friends, GSN is your station to watch 1 hour specials of the world famous Aussie Millions Poker Championship. Tune in at 9pm Eastern on Saturday night. Aussie Tony G, sponsored by PartyPoker, even gets a Guernsey, even though the show has strong Full Tilt Poker tie ins.

Australian Politics: PM Julie Gillard Puts Kevin Rudd On The Backbench But 'Minster Of Censorship' Stephen Conroy Retains Communications Portfolio!...

Sen Stephen Conroy has somehow survived a cabinet reshuffle from newly crowned Prime Minister Julia Gillard, retaining his role as the Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy. Maybe Steve's being listening to Aussie casino king, James Packer! Gillard revealed details of her new ministry at a lunchtime press conference (28th June) noting that "limited changes". If you were Kevin Rudd it wasn't very "limited". Gillard claims "maximum stability in the team" has been achieved. Trade Minister Simon Crean was to take over Gillard's role as Minister for Education, Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations and Minister for Social Inclusion. Crean's Trade portfolio has been merged with Foreign Affairs and will now come under the responsibility of incumbent Foreign Affairs Minister Stephen Smith. Finance Minister Lindsay Tanner, who last week announced his intention to resign from politics, was asked to continue in his role for the remainder of Labor's term in Government. Gillard advised she had no intention to make any further changes to her ministry until after the re-election, should the Labor Government survive..."The premium I have put in making these ministerial changes is on stability. There will be no further appointments to cabinet; there will be no new ministerial appointments; there will be no new parlimentary secretary appointments. The team is the team. Our focus is on election day. We take nothing for granted. If the government is re-elected, then following the re-election, I will shape the team at that point." A role had not been created for deposed Prime Minister Kevin Rudd in the current Gillard ministry. However, she said he would be offered a senior minister position should the Labor Government be re-elected. "I have, in recent days, had conversations with Kevin Rudd about his future," Gillard advised press. "It's his intention to seek re-election as the member of Griffith; consequently, I have told him I would be absolutely delighted to see him serve as a senior cabinet minister in the team if the Government is re-elected." Conroy has exuded confidence in the lead-up to the reshuffle, boasting to SBS Television he had been watching the World Cup rather than jostling for position. Good to hear Steve, we love our sports also.


Aussie Pokie Palace Robbery And Attacks Continues; Another Armed Robbery!...

3 bandits carrying weapons including a machete ordered pokie players onto the floor of a gaming venue in Melbourne's north before stealing a large quantity of cash. Armed crime taskforce detectives said the masked thieves entered the gaming area of pokies venue in Sunset Boulevard, Jacana, near Broadmeadows, just after 10pm carrying a gun and a machete. Patrons and staff inside the club were told to lay on the floor while the robbers grabbed large amount of cash and left on foot. Police advised no shots were fired and no staff members or patrons were pysically injured in the attack, but some were shaken up. A police helicopter and the dog squad was called in to search the area surrounding the club but failed to locate the robbers. Anyone with information can call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or go to crimestoppers.com.au.


UFC: Brock Lesnar VS Shane Carwin - Aussie Love Lesnar But Expect Carwin To Win...

Australian UFC fans have take to the sport in a big way. Earlier this year UFC enjoyed a sell out at the Acer Arena. Tickets were gone in approximaley 1 hour. Media Man has conduced a street survey on Lesnar VS Carwin, and Aussie punters are picking Carwin to win, even though Australian fans are big "marks" for Brock. Carwin's winning streak... the positive momentiam, and being able to match up muscle and abily with Lesnar see Shane a mild favorite at time of publication. Match date: 3rd July.


NRL State Of Origin:

Frantic NSW selectors have named 3 debutant front-rowers in the side to play Queensland in State of Origin III on July 7. Manly co-captain Jason King, Cronulla's Kade Snowden and Parramatta's Tim Mannah, who was named on the bench, will join Penrith winger Michael Gordon in playing their first Origin game in the ANZ Stadium dead rubber. Gordon will be joined by Panthers team-mate Michael Jennings, whose top performances at club level have earned him a guesney.

NSW Team for Origin 3

Jarryd Hayne, Brett Morris, Michael Jennings, Beau Scott, Michael Gordon, Trent Barrett (c), Mitchell Pearce, Jason King, Michael Ennis, Kade Snowden, Luke Lewis, Paul Gallen, Greg Bird. Interchange: Kurt Gidley, Tom Learoyd- Lahrs, Tim Mannah, Anthony Watmough. *Queensland remains heavy favorites


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Wrap Up...

Readers and punters. If your in South Africa for the cup, please take care and exercise extreme caution. All of the attacks in the field are only going to boost the popularity of online sports betting and online casinos, many of which are showcased on the world famous Media Man and Gambling911 website portals. Punters, as always, know the odds and have fun.

*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911

*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a bakers dozen of sectors they cover.

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Sunday, June 27, 2010

Australian Fans Assaulted And Robbed At World Cup, by Greg Tingle - 27th June 2010

South Africa is not regarded as a safe place, with or without the FIFA World Cup. Unfortunately a bush tucker bag of Australia fans experienced the very real danger just hours ago, assaulted and robbed at gunpoint. Media Man and. Media Man and Gambling911 kick off into the field of danger in South Africa...

A bush tucker swag of Aussie soccer fans in South Africa, including an off-duty fed, were robbed, tied up and assaulted at gunpoint soon after after enjoying watching the Socceroos take up Serbia.

It's understood four mad Australian fans and a London based duo returned to their digs after watching the match at approximately midnight on Thursday, when they were assaulted by four armed men, clues pointing to local knowledge and an "inside job".

The Aussies were attacked as the lodge manager was showing them to their rooms at the now infamous Hamilton Parks Country Lodge in Hazyview, an isolated area north-east of Johannesburg. The lodge has dozens of crime incidents to its name, and South African police have not been following up fully or appropriately, according to dozens of media reports. Media Man and Gambling911 is helping ensure that the word gets out on the track record of guests being robbed and worse at 'Hamilton Parks' (mark it down in your Stay Away From List'!)

Wires is reporting that the mum of the lodge manager, Nola Molich, said the gun wielding bandits had hidden around the corner as her 'sonny jim' proceeded to welcome the Australian tourists into their quarters.

"The guys came up to him with a gun and said, 'Right, get back in.' He went in and they locked the door behind him and asked for all their goodies."

The South African police probing the crime, Captain Jacky Mbuyane, advised the victims' hands were bound behind their backs with shoestrings, while the crims stole mobile phones, laptops, passports, money, and pride (what may be left), of their controversial and crime ridden nation.

He also advised the female was sexually assaulted, and got medical treatment, but she was not raped. "Emotionally, she was hurt. She was upset.".

Mrs Molich advised the incident was "very traumatic", but the well-dressed thieves were "as my son said, the best kind of people to be robbed by. They did not even tie them up tightly, and they were not interested in hurting anybody."

The swag of Aussies freed themselves soon after the attack and called the coppers. Australian consular personnel from the Australian High Commission, based in Pretoria, assisted the victims get medical attention and gave them emergency travel documents, a Department of Foreign Affairs spokesman said.

The Australian fans said they intended to stay on to try to end the sports tour on a high note. Media Man applauds their positive attitude and guts.

Ambush Marketing "Attack" Mild Compared To Australian Fans Assaulted...

World Cup Ambush Marketing Beer Babes Charges Dropped


Yankees, sorry to hear about your 2-1 loss with Ghana in last nights match. At least it wasn't a whitewash, and the American team says they had gone further than they has expected.

South Africa Casino Guide With Public Thank You To Jimmy Wales At Wikipedia

Eastern Cape
Boardwalk Casino, Summerstrand in Port Elizabeth, part of Sun International South Africa

Wild Coast Sun at Port Edward, part of Sun International South Africa

Free State
WindMill Casino in Bloemfontein, part of Sun International
Thaba'Nchu Casino in Thaba'Nchu, part of Sun International

Gauteng
Carnival City Casino in Brakpan, part of Sun International
Emperor's Palace Casino and Resort
Monte Casino in Johannesburg
Morula Sun Casino near Pretoria, part of Sun International
Gold Reef City Casino in Johannesburg
Emerald Casino on the Vaal River
Silver Star Casino in Johannesburg

Kwazulu-Natal
Sibaya Entertainment Kingdom in Durban near Umhloti, part of Sun International
Wild Coast Sun near Margate South Coast Durban North Beach Casino Century Casino in New Castle

Limpopo
Meropa Casino in Polokwane, part of Sun International

Northern Cape
Flamingo Casino in Kimberley, part of Sun International

North West Province
Carousel Casino, part of Sun International
Sun City, part of Sun International

Western Cape
Grandwest Casino in Goodwood, Cape Town, part of Sun International
The Golden Valley in Worcester, part of Sun International

Credit: Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org

Media Man South Africa profile


Wrap Up

We wish fans and the soccer team, all the best in their upcoming FIFA games. Fans, players, press and others in South Africa... for God's sake take care on the mean streets and in your hotel rooms. DTA - Don't Trust Anyone! Punters, as always, know the odds and have fun.

*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911

*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a bakers dozen of sectors they cover.

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Friday, June 25, 2010

PartyCasino News: No Vuvuzela Horns As Safari Soccer Comes To PartyCasino

PartyCasino News: No Vuvuzela Horns As Safari Soccer Comes To PartyCasino

Gibraltar – 17th June 2010 - With football fever sweeping the savannah, PartyCasino.com, the world’s largest online casino, has introduced a new game - Safari Soccer! Team up with Africa’s most iconic animals as they kick-off a wild and rewarding match where you can win up to $500,000 on a single line. To celebrate the new game, PartyCasino.com has also introduced two leaderboards where over $150,000 is up for grabs.
A PartyCasino.com spokesman said: “Featuring raging rhinos, sleek springboks and ferocious lions across five-reels and 30-paylines, we’re sure you’ll find Safari Soccer a real winner. Over $150,000 is available through two leaderboards – one for regular players and one for Palladium Lounge VIP members. Fight for your lion’s share today!”
“We were going to introduce the sounds of the vuvuzela horn at a late stage but decided the sound would already be way too familiar to customers. You could call it a last minute technical change!”
Safari Soccer is a slot very much in the mold of the classic Melon Madness and features a free-spin bonus game triggered by the zebra referee symbol. A customer has to pick one of the referees in view to discover the number of free spins and a valuable multiplier.
The leaderboard races are underway and run until 23.59ET on the 27th June. Palladium Lounge VIPs compete for more than $95,000. First prize is $15,000 and pays 150 places. The regular race features a top prize of $5,000 and pays 500 places. To encourage top-class performances PartyCasino.com will be rewarding double points to customers who play Safari Soccer. Please note that the extra points awarded will not count towards the Safari Soccer Cup leaderboards.

For more information see: PartyCasino.com

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Aussie Pokies Clubs Say Govt Recommendations Cost $4 Billion!, by Greg Tingle - 25th June 2010

Australian pokies clubs and hotels say that the new Australian Productivity Commission Reports recommendations would cost them $4 billion dollars to implement. Media Man and Gambling911 take the probe to the one armed bandits...with this free of charge report...

With new Australian Prime Minister Julie Gillard sworn into office yesterday, many campaigners, lobby groups and the like are attempting to strike while the iron is hot.

Media Man understands that new PM came into office on the same day that the Australian Productivity Report on gambling was released into the public domain. Coincidence or not? In the U.S its not that uncommon for various controversial and high stakes bills to be sworn in just before public holidays et al, and some folks call these happenings "Midnight Bills", a term coined to mate the cloak and dagger - art of war type practice.

The Aussie clubs lobby powers that be state upgrading pokies to meet Productivity Commission recommendations could cost up to $4 billion back! Yep, you read right. We reckon you could buy a few clubs, even casinos, for that sort of money.

The timing of last months pokies auction is curious also. The purchaser may have thought they got a bargain, but maybe not, if those pokies become useless or too expensive to bother upgrading.

Mr Jeremy Bath, Exec Director of Clubs Australia advised some smaller outlets with one armed bandits that could be say a decade old may not be able to afford to purchase new pokies that go for about $25,000 a pop.

"Manufacturers haven't been building them so they could be upgraded," he tells.

The Productivity Commission this past Wednesday made some 48 recommendations to tackle "problem gambling", including a $1 a bet limit on pokies, restricting to $20 the amount of cash a player could insert into a machine and a "pre-commitment" system allowing pokie lovers to set their own voluntary spending limits.

Ball advised technology that was very expensive to install and implement would not in fact end "problem gambling".

"The best strategy for problem gamblers will always be to ensure the counselling and education they need is readily available so they don't gamble at all," he said.

The GM of the Australian Hotels Association South Australian branch, Ian Horne, advised some of the commission's recommendations were "pretty confronting" and disputed by the industry because of the lack of evidence backing the claims.

"They basically say a lot of their recommendations are a leap of faith," he said.

"We don't want a leap of faith, we think we deserve something a bit more concrete."

The federal government has taken up just one of the commission's recommendations, which would allow gamblers to voluntarily set limits on the amount they intend to spend in a single gambling session.

Media Man believes that some of the report recommendations have merit, such as the setting limits point.

A Media Man spokesperson said "People enjoy playing the pokies and its no secret that a small percentage run into problems, just like some drivers have car accidents, some sports persons get injured, some people shoplift, some look for fights at clubs, and you get the idea. The problem remains, we are dealing with people here, not robots. Studies have shown that gambling addiction can be found in the genes - the human makeup - DNA. Machines are not the problem, just as guns are not the problem - people are... some people are just not suited to playing the pokies. If you make them illegal they will only go underground. Education and counselling are key parts of whats needed. For those people who think they may have a problem, stay away from pokies, or just don't even start. Of course, in the online environment some pokies can be played for free. In theory its simple, don't put in money if you have a problem, or think you might. Again, we're dealing with humans, not robots, so there's likely to always be some kind of problem behavior, as there is in just about every aspect of society".

The New South Wales Minister for Gaming and Racing, Kevin Greene, said he looked forward to working with the new COAG council, but appeared to signal problems.

"NSW will continue to play a leadership role in national discussions but we will not agree to any approach that diminishes the strict responsible gambling initiatives already in place in our state," Mr Greene said.

The clubs industry, which derives about 60% of its revenue from gambling, and poker machine manufacturers welcomed the government's response to the report.

While responsibility for gambling regulation lies with the states, the commission said that the federal government could use its corporations powers to regulate gambling machines if necessary.

Independent Senator Nick Xenophon, who ran for Parliament on a no pokies platform, was far from impressed with the Government's response.

"The Federal Government's response on this report is nothing short of a disgrace," he said.

"We don't need more talk, we don't need more reports and reviews, we actually need action on this and the fact is the Productivity Commission - by recommending $1 bets - is a way forward to actually deal with this issue."

Some of Australia's most popular pokies include Cleopatra, Queen Of The Nile, Black Rhino, 50 Lions, Where's The Gold, Penguin Pays and Show Me The Money. Online pokies that enjoy strong popularity, many by PartyGaming in third party agreements with outfits like IGT - WagerWorks, Hasbro and Marvel, include Cleopatra, Sinatra, Monopoly, Thor, Rambo, The Incredible Hulk, Tomb Raider, Hitman and Mission: Impossible. That reminds us, Tomb Raider movie goddess, Angelina Jolie, is also strongly rumoured to be considering the lead in a Hollywood remake of Cleopatra. Her Brad Pitt has also been talked about for Mark Anthony. The movie remake would also be a platform to relaunch the famous 'Cleo' game titles. Richard Branson's Virgin Games and new Virgin Gaming is also understood to be getting Tomb Raider before year end. Only in Hollywood... and the igaming sector. Know the odds, and keep it fun.

*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911

*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. Gaming is just one of a bakers dozen of sectors they cover.

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Wrestling Legend Ric Flair Gambles On Tennessee Lottery, by Greg Tingle - 25th June 2010

An ever increasing amount of celebrities, athletes and all matter of entities are entering the gaming and gambling arena, having learned of its resistance of the world's economic recession. Wrestling legend Ric Flair, featured in wrestling video games, has been enjoying his role of front man for Caroline lotteries and has now further expand to good old Tennessee. Media Man and Gambling911 with this body slamming report...

Ric Flair aka "The Nature Boy" continues to enjoy one crazy in his life and reads like a Hollywood script. From small time wrestling events to WrestleMania, world tours, star of videogames, and in the last few years, the spokesperson for both South Carolina and North Carolina Lotteries. Flair still wrestles out of love of the business that made him a star.

We note the wrestling with TNA Wrestling keeps him on TV, Flair and the fans enjoy the contribution, and at the same time is keeps exposure high, thus staying appealing to companies, brands (and gaming firms), looking to engage his services.

World spread to Tennessee of Flair's gift in getting the word out on Lottery ticket sales, and hence a deal was stuck, complete with another Flair YouTube hit.

The Tennessee Lottery sees Flair and his signature "Woooooo" promote the Mega Millions scratchie - instant win.

Flair also appears in 30-second TV promo and radio spots entitled "Jack Up Your Jackpots." He's shown in the gym giving a wrestling chop to a bloke and encouraging him to turn small jackpots into huge ones by playing Tennessee Mega Millions of course!

The powers that be in the business world love working with Flair and he sports praise from promoters and corporate giants the world over.

"He's an absolute delight to work with and everybody knows him," advised Rebecca Hargrove, Prez and CEO of the Tennessee Lottery. "He's a good representation of good people.

"Everything we do is geared to sell more tickets, and this ad has garnered a lot of attention."

The spots run for 3 but lottery officials have the rights to run it for a year. It's yet another YouTube viral hit for Flair, enjoying over 2,000 views in a week.

"It's gotten the response we hoped," Hargrove said.

Flair has done previous promotion work for lotteries including in North Carolina, but this promo might be his champion result.

"I thought this was a perfect fit for him" Hargrove stressed.

Flair's website proclaims him "the most decorated world champion in history." In the Tennessee spot, he screams his famous "Wooooo" four times.

"People of all ages want his autograph," Hargrove said.

Taking the chop for the lottery promo was a shirtless Michael Bradley, a local actor. The promo production is understood to have cost $110,000 to produce, but the promoter is certain they will get the money back, and sell a lot more tickets. Of course, there's going to be lucky winners also. Some small, and some bigger. Everyone's aiming for Mega Millions, not to be confused with Mega Jackpots, as found as land based casinos and Richard Branson's Virgin Casino.

Mega Millions is a multi-state lottery in which players pick five lucky numbers and then another number. It only costs $1 to play.

Knockers say its a "Tax on the dumb", but a Media Man spokesperson enthusiastically says, "If you can afford a dollar and think your lucky, even better a wrestling fan, it a no brainer. Do it to support Flair and test your luck, and you might even get jacked".

The Tennessee lottery, authorized in a statewide referendum in 2002, has raised more than $1.6 billion for education programs since it commenced in January 2004. Players have won close to $3.6 billion in prizes. Lottery tickets are available at more than 4,700 retail locations.

Flair is arguably the second most famous pro wrestler of all time, Hulk Hogan likely being #1. Hogan is also featured in wrestling video games and has his Hulk A Mania Experience slot game found in casinos. Flair and Hogan are on friendly terms and have done good business together (despite wrestling storylines saying they hate each other). Other wrestlers such as Jimmy Snuka, Roddy Piper, Outback Jack and Kevin Nash, once known as Vinnie Vegas, are all following the Flair and Hogan success in gaming, and some are keen to get their own deal. PartyGaming and North Sydney (Australia) based NextGen Gaming are rumoured to be working on an Andre The Giant online slot game and Media Man witnessed hard copy promos for the game last year, so something big is in the works. PartyGaming currently offers the 'Sumo' slot game. Sumo recently made headlines for wrestlers having links to mafia and doing illegal betting on matches. We expect Flair will remain in the thick of the (legal and totally above board) action.

Readers, please bet responsibly and have fun

YouTube

Ric Flair profile

Andre The Giant profile

Hulk Hogan profile

*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911

*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They also publish Australian Sports Entertainment and

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Thursday, June 24, 2010

Ambush Marketing Dutch Beer Babes Charges Dropped; Aussie Marketers Rejoice, by Greg Tingle - 24th June 2010

Readers, punters, soccer nuts, media and marketing guns. Thought you had heard the last of ambush marketing aka "parasite marketing"? Think again..
Media Man and Gambling911 are pleased to report that the buxom beer babes who ambushed FIFA are essentially off the hook. This rather welcome news has further inspired a number of Aussie media, marketing and sporting identities who are starting to plan something huge down under in Australia, home of meat pies, kangaroos, Holden Cars (and NRL, AFL, Crown Casino, Star City and Bondi Beach... hint hint). Got the message? Lots of potential targets to throw ya boomerang at. Enjoy ambushing marketing 101, online, offline and everything in between...

Charges were delightfully dropped against the daily double Dutch buxom beer babes (with brains too) who had faced prosecution for allegedly taking part in an ambush marketing stunt at a World Cup soccer match. Oh My God, the crime.

They were among a bevvy of more than 30 Dutch goddess babes who attended last week's Netherlands-Denmark match at the Soccer City Stadium wearing orange mini dresses paid for by Bavaria Beer. The double trouble pair (no, not that pair of knockers er knockouts) were in danger of getting charged under an act that covers ambush marketing aka "parasite marketing", when a firm benefits from an event without paying for advertising! Sounds good hey.

FIFA, whose sponsors have exclusive rights to in-stadium marketing etc, advised some 48 hours ago it had reached a settlement with Bavaria Beer which saw all parties agreed to drop any claims and also not to make any further public comments about the case, but that of course doesn't stop the almost Wikileaks like Gambling911 and Media Man running a follow up (or 3)!

FIFA advised Bavaria now agrees to fully respect FIFA's marketing policies through the year 2022.

A press Statement by the Double Dutch beer babes, Barbara "Buxom" Castelein and Mirte "Melons" Nieuwpoort, read, "We are happy to go home and that the situation has been resolved."

Bavaria remunerated the women to come to South Africa and arranged for them to go to the Netherlands' opening match against Denmark on June 15. Insiders and smart asses reckon Bavaria "won" the encounter, with many admires googling the beer babes "nether regions", only to catch a bit more hot legs action... but they haven't stopped looking, based on stats coming to hand, pun intended.

FIFA officials noted the relatively small "Bavaria" tag on the side of the dresses, which they saw as infringing the rights of official sponsors, partners and the like, some of whom invested multi millions to advertise exclusively at World Cup venues. The dresses are understood to have been available to the public (and potential ambushers) at service stations in downtown Holland, passed "free" with a pack of their now mega famous beer.

Ambush marketing has caused complications in the past for the Bavaria outfit. Circa 2006 - World Cup in Germany, the brewery provided fans orange lederhosen which pissed off FIFA powers that be.

"Buxom" Castelein and "Melons" Nieuwpoort advised FIFA officials and police probed (no not that type of probe you dirty minded loyal readers) them for several hours after the super and successful stunt last week, until legal eagles engaged by the brewery became involved.

As Gambling911 covered last week, a number of Australian marketing and media entrepreneurs are watching this space closely are exploring ideas and potential events to ambush. Australian ambushing marketing king, Kym Illman from Messages On Hold, is keeping his cards pretty well guarded at present, but has made what one may call "strategic leaks" to some media and new media companies, thus already benefiting from some Barvaria - FIFA stunt rub off. Fairfax Media, Markson Sparks!, Harry M. Miller Group, Smart Company, Network Nine, Channel Seven, Crown Casino and Shane Warne are just a few entities that are understood to be watching out for an Aussie ambush marketing stunt follow up. It's also worth noting that long time James Packer friend, Network Nine CEO, David Gyngell has just joined the Crown Limited board of directors. Did we mention Shane Warne is also friendly with Kym Illman and James Packer... ah, what a small world. One that can help put great campaigns together we might suggest.

A Media Man spokesperson said, "We know Aussie marketing king Kym Illman has been watching this space with keen interest. Kym doesn't like to come off as second best, so when he does his next stunt down under, don't be too surprised if it has an impact comparable to the Barvaria buxom beer babes effort at the World Cup. We think the stunt or stunts are likely to happen at either Moore Park, Acer Arena, ANZ Stadium, Bondi Beach or near the Opera House or Harbour Bridge. Possibly a combination. 'Sin City' Sydney is about to become more sinful, thanks to the 'evil genius' Illman, with some help from some friends".

Read more about ambush marketing...coming soon to a casino near you, with 'Money Girl' if your very lucky.


*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 bakers dozen of sectors they cover. *Media Man is currently ramping up its ambush marketing arm, both online and offline! The company motto is "Putting Your Name Out There!"

*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited.

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Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Australian Casino And Gambling News: Huge Week, by Greg Tingle - 23rd June 2010

Readers, punters, media and gambling tycoons, and everyone else... yet another huge gambling, gaming and sports betting week. Of course, most of the world still has World Cup fever, and sports betting records are tipped to be broken on that front. Down under in Australia the long awaited Productivity Commission reports has finally made its way into the public domain, and its mainstream news to say the least. Media Man and Gambling911 round up the blood hounds and sniffer dogs with your latest fix on news, with just a dash of PR and ambush marketing on the side for good measure...

Crown Casino News - James Packer Gets Nine Network Australia CEO David Gyngell On The Board...

Yep, long time friend and associate of 'Our James' has shaken things up with an updated Crown Limited board of directors.

Nine Network CEO David Gyngell has been appointed as a director of Crown, as has Sydney University professor of medicine John Horvath.

Mr Packer advised that professor Horvath will chair a new formed arm...a committee of the board and we like the sound of it...the Responsible Gaming Committee. They will oversee and enhance the company’s responsible gaming programs and performance.

The two new directors certainly bring with them significant and diverse experience to the Crown board. Some knockers in the Aussie media are questioning the move, as they almost always try to find negative stories to run on Crown and the gaming and gambling sector.

Mr Packer has long enjoyed an interest (and investment) in both media and the health sector. Media Man understands that Packer's interest in the health sector may have been sparked by his late fathers involvement, which saw Kerry having his life saved several times. Kerry has encountered a number of heart attacks in his later years. The machine that is understood to help kick start the heart was later named the 'Packer Wacker', in tribute and respect to Kerry. Packer Jr and fellow entrepreneur, Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest (GenerationOne visionary), also share considerable experience in witnessing the ups and downs of health relating to Australia's indigenous community. Packer Jr did some work on a family cattle station or two in his youth and hence got a close up look at health and well being issues. This is understood to be just one of the motivating factors in seeing Packer hook up with GenerationOne, as well as commit to employing 100s, with the view to 1000s, of suitable and trained up indigenous casinos in his Crown Limited empire.

Gyngell is also health savvy, and is quite the keen surfer, sometimes spotted at Bondi Beach, where Packer also has a pad. Gyngell has not taken to Packer's love of polo, but give him time... he's a nature lover. Gyngell was a driving force is seeing Network Nine get more positive and feel good lifestyle programs and the like on his network. Network Nine is also a long time supporter of beyondblue, as far as offering fair and balanced coverage of well being, mental health and such.

Last year James Packer was a guest of honour at Victor Chang Cardiac Research fundraiser, and is understood to have been extremly generous of heart, spirit and pocketbook.

Back to the situation at hand, Crown Limited announced that Westfield’s David Lowy has resigned from the board of Crown.

For the 2009 financial year, Crown booked a $1.197 billion loss. Readers will be aware that Crown is travelling along nicely this year, with multiply upgrades, new Lear jets, happy casino whales, dolphins, fish and tuna, and positive dealings continue with the creme of the sports, gaming and entertainment world... folks like Richard Branson, Tiger Woods, Tom Cruise, and a good mix of state and federal politicians. Almost 'Casino Jack' like (but done in a legal, ethical and above board way), for a corporate if you understand. Crown's current share price is $8.030.

Australian Casinos May Get Ambush Marketing In Casino War...

Motivated by the massive exposure that the hot and sexy soccer babes aka buxom and leggy beer babes, Bavaria Beer style generated at the World Cup, Crown and Star City powers that be have been reading up on ambush marketing, impossible to miss on the internet in recent days. Of course Perth based Kym Illman and his Messages On Hold are front of mind. Sharne Warne enjoys friendships, if not business relationships, with both Illman and Packer.

Soccer has Bavaria Beer and orange coloured dresses, and could Crown or Star have Warnie and or Messages On Hold. Warne enjoys getting down to Crown several times a year, with with Gyngell now on the Crown board, expect a ramp up in media savvy activity.

Crown Casino Push On To Bankrupt Former Whale Client Gone Bad...

Crown Casino still plans to bankrupt ex casino high-roller Harry Kakavas, who failed to score victory in court last year. Kakavas, a self-proclaimed pathological gambler, was due to be issued with a bankruptcy notice late last month, after an application by Crown to the Federal Magistrates Court.


Aussie Productivity Commission: Treat Gambling Like Drinking!...

Feeling thirsty punters? Drink up, or then again, take it easy. As coverage on Gambling911 recently, the Australian Productivity Commission report into gambling reckons gambling needs to be treated somewhat like drinking alcohol. The commission found there was strong evidence that gambling had adverse health, emotional and financial impacts on many more people than those categorised as problem gamblers.


Proposal For Pokies Limits: Size Of Wagers Included...

Aussies would be able to wager only up to $1 at a time on pokies under proposals outlined in the Productivity Commission’s final report on gambling. Under the initiative, gamblers would also no longer be able to stuff $50 notes into poker machines, in order to limit losses.

Clubs and casinos did get some decent news however. The Community Services Minister Jenny Macklin said the government Did Not agree with the commission’s recommendation to "liberalise" online gaming.

The commish advised if pokies are played at "high intensity", punters can lose $1500 per hour. Of course, you can win big dollars too, if your very lucky.

"The amount of cash that players can feed into machines at any one time should be limited to $20". The current limit is up to $10,000. Spin to win, or don't. It your call grown ups. People need to take responsibily for their own thoughts and actions. Do you trust 'Big Brother' and the 'Thought Police'? Ponder than for a moment, and then think about all the crazy fines and government red tape you have every had to put up with.

Muldura Casino Proposal Continues To Move Forward Despite Detractors...

The smart money is still on Victoria town Mildura to get its' Jewel.

We ask questions of those in the know... Does the opening of a new casino necessarily mean that rates of gambling in a community increase? Professor Alan Jackson, the Director of the Problem Gambling and Treatment Centre at Melbourne University, says there is an "initial surge of participation" and problem gambling levels, but over a period of time those levels drop back as communities adapt to the higher level of opportunity available. He adds a casino is good for tourism initially but over time most places find that the bulk of business comes from the local community. There are interesting measures used in places such as Singapore to mitigate gambling harm that Australians might not find "palatable", but Jackson believes that maximising tourism and limiting harm is also possible in Australia. However, the community is right to be cautious.


Church Bible Bashers Lodge Petition Against Gaming Licences...

A church has lodged a petition with the Mildura Rural City Council opposing any more gaming licences in the municipality.

The Anglican Church's Bendigo Diocese says the 400 signatures on the petition were gathered in only 48 hours.

The petition comes as debate continues over proposals for the Jewel Casino in Mildura.


Aussie - Vietnamese Women Gambling Crime Link?...

Viet women are considerably overrepresented in Victoria's female prison population after moving into crime to repay gambling debts, says community leader of sorts Cam Nguyen.

Nguyen, founder and chief of the Australian Vietnamese Women's Association, said the women were overwhelmingly convicted of drug-related offences or crimes such as receiving stolen goods or fraud.

But she said the motivation for resorting to crime was usually to pay debts from gambling.

She said there was a pattern of women with poor English skills who were socially isolated, being drawn to the casino by its glamour. Hotel poker machines did not have the same appeal.

Mrs Nguyen said that earning up to $30,000 grand acting as a drug "mule" importing illicit drugs could be attractive to women deep in debt. She also advised many Vietnamese women who had not learned English were socially isolated. Gambling was one of their few recreational outlets.

Crown Casino has a number of effective safeguards in place to help prevent punters getting in over their head.

Australian TV - Mr Sin: The Abe Saffron Story on ABC-TV - This Thursday Punters...

Want a business model for organised crime? Look up "Mr Sin", if you haven't already.

Writer-director Hugh Piper has done with the story on the man who satisified the vices, lust, desires of many otherwise law abiding Aussies.

Setting the stadard for the Australian underworld, he amassed a multimillion-dollar fortune in cash, property, goods... you name it. Other crims tryied but useually failed in matching his success.

All the cliches come to mind...power, greed, sex and corruption. Insiders reckon Underbelly fans and anti fans will enjoy this true yarn.

Piper interviewed all sorts in his 'Mr Sin' voyage of discovery. Writers, politicians, ex-police and corrupt investigators...the lot.

His profile was larger than life, and with that came pros and cons... "named by three separate Royal Commissions as the number one Mr Big of Australian crime".

From information Media Man was able to obtain... "Abe used lawyers and accountants to set up businesses that fronted his illegal gambling, sex and liquor empire. He turned the profits from his nefarious activities into real estate which allowed him to reign as the boss of Kings Cross while maintaining the veneer of respectability".

To protect his empire Saffron corrupted or blackmailed anyone he needed. Former NSW Premier Sir Robert Askin, judges, and the like all stand out like dogs "alls. "The police commissioner is a standout", a Media Man crewman was overheard.

'Mr Sin' is understood to have got a lot of his ideas and business formual from Las Vegas... why, of course.


The late Frank "Lefty" Rosenthal would be proud (or at least be tuned in for this Thursday)!

Website

http://www.abc.net.au/tv/guide/netw/201006/programs/DO0842H001D2010-06-24T212500.htm

Profiles

Abe Saffron

Tim Bristow

Underbelly


Punters Interested To Bet On Former WWE Superstars Success In UFC And MMA World...

With news that more professional wrestlers aka "sports entertainers" (term thanks to WWE owner Vince McMahon) are set to enter the mixed martial arts world, seems sports betting fans and wrestling fans will have more more to get excited about. Enter Dave Batista, whose next?

Brock Lensar may have been the first former WWE superstar to make his considerable mark on the MMA world (via UFC) but he won't be the last. Enter Dave Batista, fresh off a scripted loss to WWE's who Media Man spys say is heading to StrikeForce...competitor of sorts to the UFC.

Gambling911 and Media Man have been scouring the planet to see who may take odds - bets on Batista's upcoming Strikeforce debut, before year end we understand. Comon' PartyGaming - PartyBets, Gamebookers, BetUS, Betfair, Centrebet, Paddy Power and SBG Global.

Public Challenge To Sports Betting Companies!...

We issue a public challenge to offer betting options on Batista and other pro wrestlers going to the mixed martial arts world!

Wrestling Legend Ric Flair Speaks On UFC (MMA) And WWE Fans...

"MMA doesn’t affect wrestling at all. I’m not saying wrestling fans don’t watch MMA, but it is two different audiences. My take on MMA is that those guys are phenomenal athletes and extraordinarily tough and committed but the people that are crazy about them got nothing going on themselves. I actually think most of the male public that is crazy for that are living vicariously for something they can never be. Wrestling is more entertainment-based. MMA is what it is, those guys are out there trying to kill each other. And the guys that are sitting at home going "Wow" could never find that within themselves on the first day of their life. When Lesnar fights, I like watching Brock… and I recognize a lot of names … you’ve got to have so much respect for what those guys put themselves through but it is a limited time frame [they've got]. It’s hard to develop a star in that business that’s going to have any longevity. In wrestling a guy that develops a name for himself can do it fifteen years."

Gambling911 fans or anti fans. Does Flair's quote piss you off, or do you like his tell it like it is attitude? Tell us in the forum, and we can't wait for Hollywood's crazed comedian nutter Tony Clifton, to offer his 2 cents worth again. Shame about what happened to the late Andy Kaufman (former inter gender pro wrestling champion of the world!!!). Trust us, Andy was not the UFC type... ask Jerry 'The King' Lawler.

'The Nature Boy' has enjoyed previous Gambling911 coverage thanks to his gambling and gaming entrepreneur exploits... namely being former NC Education Lottery front man, and the current man of the moment for the South Carolina Lottery. Woooooo! as Flair would say.

Wrap Up...

As you can see, another big week. Readers, please not, we do not intend to glamorise crime, with or without gambling and gaming. Gambling has been a part of live in most counties for hundreds of years, and in many parts, is a significant part of the culture... look no further than Australia, Las Vegas and Macau. We urge punters...er... readers to bet responsible, and to be aware of the differences between fantasy (not that type mates) and reality. Please obey laws in your state or territory, and bet responsibly and keep it fun.

Entertainment based website portals Media Man and Gambling911 are proud to have brought you this report (internet filter free... as far as we know!).

*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 bakers dozen of sectors they cover. *Media Man is currently ramping up its ambush marketing arm, both online and offline! The company motto is "Putting Your Name Out There!"

*The writer owns shares in Crown Limited.

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Tuesday, June 22, 2010

WWE Superstar Batista To Enter MMA World; Want A Bet? by Greg Tingle - 22nd June 2010

With news that more professional wrestlers aka "sports entertainers" (term thanks to WWE owner Vince McMahon) are set to enter the mixed martial arts world, seems sports betting fans and wrestling fans will have more more to get excited about. Enter Dave Batista, whose next? Media Man and Gambling911 with this body slamming, clothes liner, no taping report...

Brock Lensar may have been the first former WWE superstar to make his considerable mark on the MMA world (via UFC) but he won't be the last. Enter Dave Batista, fresh off a scripted loss to WWE's who Media Man spys say is heading to StrikeForce...competitor of sorts to the UFC.

Gambling911 and Media Man have been scouring the planet to see who may take odds - bets on Batista's upcoming Strikeforce debut, before year end we understand. Comon' PartyGaming - PartyBets, Gamebookers, BetUS, Betfair, Centrebet, Paddy Power and SBG Global.

Public Challenge To Sports Betting Companies!...

We issue a public challenge to offer betting options on Batista and other pro wrestlers going to the mixed martial arts world!

Wrestling Legend Ric Flair Speaks On UFC (MMA) And WWE Fans...

"MMA doesn’t affect wrestling at all. I’m not saying wrestling fans don’t watch MMA, but it is two different audiences. My take on MMA is that those guys are phenomenal athletes and extraordinarily tough and committed but the people that are crazy about them got nothing going on themselves. I actually think most of the male public that is crazy for that are living vicariously for something they can never be. Wrestling is more entertainment-based. MMA is what it is, those guys are out there trying to kill each other. And the guys that are sitting at home going "Wow" could never find that within themselves on the first day of their life. When Lesnar fights, I like watching Brock… and I recognize a lot of names … you’ve got to have so much respect for what those guys put themselves through but it is a limited time frame [they've got]. It’s hard to develop a star in that business that’s going to have any longevity. In wrestling a guy that develops a name for himself can do it fifteen years."

Gambling911 fans or anti fans. Does Flair's quote piss you off, or do you like his tell it like it is attitude? Tell us in the forum, and we can't wait for Hollywood's crazed comedian nutter Tony Clifton, to offer his 2 cents worth again. Shame about what happened to the late Andy Kaufman (former inter gender pro wrestling champion of the world!!!). Trust us, Andy was not the UFC type... ask Jerry 'The King' Lawler.

'The Nature Boy' has enjoyed previous Gambling911 coverage thanks to his gambling and gaming entrepreneur exploits... namely being former NC Education Lottery front man, and the current man of the moment for the South Carolina Lottery. Woooooo! as Flair would say.

Media Man Profiles

Dave Batista

Brock Lesnar

Ric Flair (front man for lotteries in the Carolina's region)

Roddy Piper

Kevin Nash (once upon a time known as Vinnie Vegas)

Hulk Hogan (face of The Hulk A Mania slot machine)

Other Pro Wrestling Stars Predicted By Media Man To Be Able To Cut It In The MMA World...

Bill Goldberg, mainly known only as Goldberg. Bill is also a motorsport enthusiast, enjoying BullRun, monster trucks and Harley-Davidson bikes.

Antonia Inoki (but just for 1 or 2 matches, due to his age). Details full credit Wikipedia

On June 26, 1976 Antonio Inoki had a scheduled match in Tokyo with Muhammad Ali. Inoki initially promised Ali a worked match to get him to fight in Japan, but when the deal materialized Ali's camp feared that Inoki would turn the fight into a shoot, which many believe was Inoki's intention. Ali visited a professional wrestling match involving Inoki and witnessed Inoki's grappling ability. The rules of the match were announced several months in advance. Two days before the match, however, several new rules were added which severely limited the moves that each man could perform. A rule change that had a major outcome on this match was that Inoki could only throw a kick if one of his knees was on the ground. In the match, Ali landed a total of six punches to Inoki, and Inoki kept to his back in a defensive position almost the full duration of the match of 15 rounds, hitting Ali with a low kick repeatedly. The bout ended in a draw, 3-3. Ali left without a press conference and suffered damage to his legs as a result of Inoki's repeated leg kicks.

Bob Backlund (as above)

'Judo' Gene LeBell, actually, better to pass... Gene is 77 years of age.

John Layfield aka Bradshaw (a low level match, as Bradshaw is a brawler and had a gorgeous and intelligent wife who likely wouldn't risk anything else)

Pro Wrestlers Who Won't Be Going To MMA This Lifetime...

John Cena, Dwayne Johnson (The Rock), Rey Mysterio Jr, Bret Hart...

Hornswoggle (Dylan Postl aka Little Bastard is a midget wrestler and character. Say so more).

Vince McMahon (too old and busy running WWE), Hulk Hogan (who Flair has gone on record with... "Hogan is in constant pain").

Steve Austin aka 'Stone Cold' (Austin has had many injuries and the closest you will see him in MMA is in action movie 'Damage', in a cage match!

Family Of Wrestling Stars In MMA...

Colton Toombs (son of legendary wrestler and pop icon, "Rowdy" Roddy Piper). As a teenager Roddy won a Golden Gloves boxing championship and was also awarded a karate black belt by Gene LeBell.

Former Pro Wrestlers Who Were Once Successful In UFC...

Dan "The Beast' Severn and Ken Shamrock

Too Old Or Dead...

Terry Funk, legit legend and tough guy brawler, still with us, bless the lord

Jerry "The King" Lawler, as above

Bruiser Brody - Frank Donald Goodish - dead - a fight - self defense or murdered in the locker room of a Bayamón - San Juan, Puerto Rico locker room at the hands of Jose Huertas Gonzalez, AKA Invader I. Brody reminds fans of David 'Tank' Abbott, the fighter who achieved fame in the UFC early years.

Karl Gotch - Karl Istaz (August 3, 1924 - July 28, 2007) was a professional wrestler and trainer born in Hamburg, Germany, best known by his ring name Karl Gotch. The German suplex is named after Gotch. Gotch had a behind-the-scenes feud with "Nature Boy" Buddy Rogers, starting when Gotch asked for a shot at the NWA World Heavyweight Championship. Rogers wanted to avoid getting into the ring with a wrestler he feared would 'shoot' on him and legitimately "steal" his championship. This led to a locker room fist fight between the two, ending when Gotch broke Rogers' hand; incapacitating Rogers for several weeks. These events only served to alienate Gotch from the American promoters, who already felt there was no place for his style in the world of American pro wrestling!

PS: WWE NXT former Superstar Bryan Danielson's chances of competing in UFC? "Slim and none, or about 1 million to one", whispered a Media Man insider.

PS: Vince McMahon, no, hardly any of your guys will leave WWE for MMA as they just don't have the skills or the desire to fight in a no holds barred environment, so no need to worry. Pro wrestling ain't MMA, and god knows many MMA fighters would boar pro wrestling audiences to death. If WWE can ever get Lesnar back, even for 1 match or as a special ref or something, they would do well. Shane McMahon met with UFC top brass Dana White last year, but what's his status now? Punters, tell us what you know in the forum.

UFC President Dana White On Potentially Signing Bobby Lashley (December 2008)...

"I don't know how many people can cross over and do what Lesnar has done. I don't think there's very many out there."

Current Status Of Bobby Lashley: In Strikeforce

What Is Strikeforce?

Strikeforce is a U.S.-based mixed martial arts (MMA) and kickboxing organization based in San Jose, California. It is headed by CEO Scott Coker and owned by Silicon Valley Sports and Entertainment, operators of the HP Pavilion and the San Jose Sharks. Its live events and fights are currently shown on Showtime in the US and on Super Channel in Canada. The promotion debuted on CBS on November 7, 2009 with Strikeforce: Fedor vs. Rogers.

UFC Update Etc...

Brock Lesnar VS Frank Mir expected to break a number of records including ticketing, PPV media buys and sports betting. The upcoming fight is expected to to the the stuff of legend. Tune in to UFC 116 on July 3, 2010. The match up is to be held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States.

Shane Carwin, who won the interim heavyweight championship by defeating Frank Mir at UFC 111, will face current heavyweight champion Brock Lesnar. The two were originally set to face each other at UFC 106, before Shane Carwin won the interim heavyweight championship, but Brock Lesnar pulled out of the fight due to an illness that kept him from training.

UFC Prez Dana White went on record that the promotion plans to make a down under Australia tour and annual occurrence, due to the massive success of UFC 110 in Sydney.

Media Man thinks that either James Packer 50% owned Betfair or competitor, Centrebet, would do well to become an official sponsor of UFC, even if only for the Australian - Asia Pacific region.

Wrap Up...

We keenly await a reply from sports betting companies on odds re pro wrestlers entering the mixed martial arts world, be it UFC, Strikeforce or other.

Loyal readers, don't hold back in the world famous Gambling911 forums

*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911

*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They also publish Australian Sports Entertainment and

*Media Man is the former manager and agent for Australian MMA fighter Mick Cutajar

Disclaimer:

Media Man has online b2b agreements with the WWE Shop and UFC Shop. Media Man has nothing but respect for the awesome athletes in the WWE, UFC and other martial arts companies. The above article is a tongue in cheek number, intended to both educate and entertain. The disclaimers are there for the haters in the forum, and for those who hate a. WWE b. UFC and other MMA c. The writer!

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