Australian Sports Entertainment
Punters, sports nuts, insiders, outsiders, and everyone else. Think you have heard the last of sports betting scandals, fixes and all that stuff down under in Australia? Think again. Just when you though Aussie sports betting scandals in the NRL might have been history new evidence has come to light that appears to implement at least one Australian NRL player. Media Man and Gambling911 clothesline and crash tackle the situation with this special report...
An up and coming National Rugby League star player has been catch into rugby league's latest and very ugly betting scandal after being caught on closed circuit TV placing a suspicious wager on the dubious, some say, rather rigged, match this year between Canterbury Bulldogs and North Queensland Cowboys.
Front and centre...Brad Murray. The spotlight is on you son. The 20 year old played for the Bondi Beaches favorite sons, the Sydney Roosters last season, and then jumped ship to join the Parramatta Ells, committing for the next three years. He also had the prestige of being named (in a positive way) in the 2010 Toyota Cup under-20s team of the year.
Murray, talked about as a potential Eels first-grade halfback for next season, is currently the second league figure to be filmed on CCTV placing a "highly irregular" bet on the match. Another key figure in the betting investigation has also been caught on 'candid camera' placing at least 5 wagers on the Cowboys - Doggies match in a time duration of less than 5 hours. So readers, that's about 1 bet per hour, using a spread on bets and money (and clothing)... more on the clothing later.
The wagers are understood to have involved a bet being placed on a penalty goal being the game's 1st scoring option. This kind of specific occurrence bets are the ones that seem to most attract the dark side of betting - fixing, players doing the wrong thing, and so on.
Our sources indicated by all accounts that Murray placed his wager on the game at 1pm on the 19th August in a Flemington hotel on Parramatta Road, in Sydney's western region.
Then, on the following 2 days an unusual amount of similar type bets were placed with punters in line to win more than $250,000. Folks, the average yearly wage in Australia is about $60k, so that's not bad money, but it comes with risk, as folks are finding out the hard way.
"We didn't go into the specifics but, yes, I have spoken to Brad," said Parramatta chief executive Paul Osborne. "It is a difficult time for him and his family but I've encouraged him to fully co-operate with police."
Quizzed about would his club consider firing Murray's ass, Osborne replied "It's too early to say."
Murray is managed by the well known player agent, Sam Ayoub, also the 'go to' man for Doggy Ryan Tandy, who has denied any wrongdoing in the scandal despite infamously losing the ball from his grasp with his first hit-up of the match and then going on to concede a penalty in front of his side's goalposts. Folks, you're smart enough to join a few dots we think.
Ayoub has been silent on the matter thus far, but if he speaks on it we'll let you know.
The figure who placed the 5 wagers in 5 hours cannot be named for legal type reasons but is known to have strong links to the NRL and some current players.
Police have released images of a man (looks like a stocky footy player) who placed 1 of the first suspicious bets on the game.
Over the next two days a suspiciously high number of similar type bets were placed, with punters standing to win more than $250,000.
Doggie prop Ryan Tandy famously lost the ball with his first hit of the match and then gave a penalty away in front of the posts.
But the Cowboys rejected the opportunity for a penalty goal and instead scored a try as the first play of the match.
"As this was one of the earliest bets placed on the game we believe he may have information that can assist our investigation," said Detective Superintendent Arthur Katsogiannis, commander of the Firearms and Organised Crime Squad.
He advised more than 80 people had so far been interviewed! They include relevant players from the match, along with the mystery man identified in the CCTV footage one of the last unidentified people under investigation.
It's not a good look for Australia sport, and he give his thoughts on the situation.
"If true, the allegations go to the heart and the integrity of the game," Det. Supt. Katsogiannis said.
While he would not be drawn on if or when charges would be pressed, he said he was "very optimistic" about the chance of success.
Media Man and Gambling911 are hopeful that the NRL can be cleaned up.
"It doesn't mean some sort of insider information and hot tips has to disappear from the league, but we need to get rid of the ugly aspects of Australian sports betting", a Media Man rep said.
Read About Another Famous NRL Sports Betting Scandal...
'Australian Sports Betting Scandal: NRL Melbourne Storm'
http://www.gambling911.com/sports/australian-sports-betting-scandal-nrl-melbourne-storm-042310.html
Awards...
Last month was a big month for casino awards. Let's have a look...
PartyGaming's PartyCasino has also come back with seconds, picking up another Media Man 'Online Casino Of The Month Award' for November, and also the parent company, PartyGaming, picked up the prestigious EGR Slots Operator Of The Year Award ...Some other top picks of ours who picked up awards at the EGR night of nights were:
Virgin Games (Affiliate Programme)
Betfair (Innovation, Mobile Operator and UK Sports Betting Operator)
Bwin (European Sports Betting Operator
PKR (Poker Operator)
Oh, we almost forgot...Media Man and Casino News Media 'Casino Babe Of The Month': Jenny Woo, 'Poker Babe': Kara Scott, 'Gambling Babe Personality': Pamela Anderson.
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Wrap Up...
Readers... er, punters, how did you like our report? What else can be done to help stop the rot in Australian sports? 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. They cover a dozen industry sectors including gaming and offer political commentary and analysis. They also publish Australian Sports Entertainment http://www.australiansportsentertainment.com
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Saturday, December 4, 2010
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Australian Racecourse Super Sharks On And Off The Track, by Greg Tingle - 21st April 2010
It's said that the racecourse is a sunny place for shady characters.
We probe Australian racing down under and learn that shady happenings in racing are certainly not restricted to the race track. Racecorse workers superannuation savings have been left in the lurch. Media Man and Gambling911 crack the whip at Aussie racing which already had plenty of challenges before the latest black mark to hit their green and gold place in the sun...
Australian racing and media identity, Alan Jones, recently spoke of challenges, opportunities and the need for unity at the 33rd Asian Racing Conference in Sydney. Little did he know of a new challenge very much related to the employment and sustainably of Australian racing.
The superannuation earnings of hundreds of racecourse workers have been dragged into in a $123 million fraud that may become the biggest super theft in Australian history... the super fraud equivalent of the Fine Cotton Affair and Great Bookie Robbery. With the world's financial markets in the deep end, some being probed by the Australian and United States government, I guess we shouldn't be surprised. There's no 'Underbelly' hype here friends, just the unfortunate facts surrounding the further downward spiral of the racing and financial services industry.
Tabcorp's New South Wales racecourse casuals wagering workers say they have not been advised how much money they are down after their Astarra Superannuation Fund was frozen by financial regulators in October last year.
A staff member for 33 years, Rosemary Walker, 72, who works at Randwick Racecourse, asks how Tabcorp could have approved Astarra as a suitable company for her superannuation.
"I'm puzzled as to why we started off in a reputable fund when we were with (former employer) AWA and ultimately we finished up in Astarra," she said.
The losses are understood to be in the region of 10,000 superannuation investors after their investments were placed with Albury-based fund manager Trio Capital. Trio
managed more than $400 million in investments including the Astarra Superannuation.
Last Friday New South Wales Supreme Court justice, George Palmer, ruled that a separate offshore hedge fund managed by Trio Capital had all the signs of a "fraudulent scam" as he detailed "inherent vices" in Trio Capital's business model.
The hedge fund entitled Astarra Strategic moved some $123 million in "investments" through the British Virgin Islands using companies based in obscure Caribbean tax havens including Belize, Nevis, St Lucia and Anguilla.
Justice Palmer advised to wind up the scheme and wrote of the matter "If one wants to conduct financial operations dishonestly or illegally - then it is to these jurisdictions that one goes to incorporate puppet companies with puppet directors in order to operate fraudulent schemes and to move money around the world in secrecy.".
As of time of publication regulators have been unable to locate any funds, nor have charges been laid upon perpetrators.
Interestingly, Astarra Super is not the corporate superannuation fund used by official Tabcorp staff.
Tabcorp spokesman, Bruce Tobin, advised the company had written to all staff affected and was working with the union.
Justice Palmer said these sobering words of the matter "that there was a very high prospect that the funds would simply disappear into the ether - as has almost certainly happened in this case".
He said the use of the tax havens had not been disclosed in Trio Capital's statements to investors.
Superannuation losses from Astarra Strategic would represent the largest superannuation fraud or theft since current super laws were put in place 1993.
James Packer 50% owned Betfair will be glad this isn't a mark on their name. The matter may potentially assist seeing additional (quality) companies enter the Aussie racing and financial sector, be it PartyGaming or Virgin. Certainly the current mix is not quite right, based upon the latest scandal. Word of the street is its time for some "new blood" to shake things up and put the old guard and crooks on notice.
It's unfortunate the late 'Big' Tim Bristow and George Freeman of 'Underbelly' fame are not around to sort out these crooks who have attacked everyday Australians. Bristow aka 'Earthquake' would have likely seen them off at what he called 'The See You Later Club', understood to be have somewhere off the heads of Palm Beach on Sydney's northern beaches...something about concrete blocks at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean!
The crooks are not totally off the hook yet... the matter happening to the lifeblood of Australian horse racing is going to put some noses out of joint. Some of those effected are bound to have some very strong industry connections... both on the light side and the dark side. "Fixers" and "Can Do" types are part of the industry, and there's certainly motivation for the out of pocket racing staff to call upon extra powers of persuasion if needed. Add this to the 'Catch Me If You Can' file, already bursting at the seams with Aussie Daniel Tzvetkoff, Canadian Calvin Ayre, and Yankee Howard Lederer jockeying for position. All good fodder for an Australian and international themed version of 'Underbelly'. Ya wouldn't be dead for quids. Good hunting and happy punting.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company
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We probe Australian racing down under and learn that shady happenings in racing are certainly not restricted to the race track. Racecorse workers superannuation savings have been left in the lurch. Media Man and Gambling911 crack the whip at Aussie racing which already had plenty of challenges before the latest black mark to hit their green and gold place in the sun...
Australian racing and media identity, Alan Jones, recently spoke of challenges, opportunities and the need for unity at the 33rd Asian Racing Conference in Sydney. Little did he know of a new challenge very much related to the employment and sustainably of Australian racing.
The superannuation earnings of hundreds of racecourse workers have been dragged into in a $123 million fraud that may become the biggest super theft in Australian history... the super fraud equivalent of the Fine Cotton Affair and Great Bookie Robbery. With the world's financial markets in the deep end, some being probed by the Australian and United States government, I guess we shouldn't be surprised. There's no 'Underbelly' hype here friends, just the unfortunate facts surrounding the further downward spiral of the racing and financial services industry.
Tabcorp's New South Wales racecourse casuals wagering workers say they have not been advised how much money they are down after their Astarra Superannuation Fund was frozen by financial regulators in October last year.
A staff member for 33 years, Rosemary Walker, 72, who works at Randwick Racecourse, asks how Tabcorp could have approved Astarra as a suitable company for her superannuation.
"I'm puzzled as to why we started off in a reputable fund when we were with (former employer) AWA and ultimately we finished up in Astarra," she said.
The losses are understood to be in the region of 10,000 superannuation investors after their investments were placed with Albury-based fund manager Trio Capital. Trio
managed more than $400 million in investments including the Astarra Superannuation.
Last Friday New South Wales Supreme Court justice, George Palmer, ruled that a separate offshore hedge fund managed by Trio Capital had all the signs of a "fraudulent scam" as he detailed "inherent vices" in Trio Capital's business model.
The hedge fund entitled Astarra Strategic moved some $123 million in "investments" through the British Virgin Islands using companies based in obscure Caribbean tax havens including Belize, Nevis, St Lucia and Anguilla.
Justice Palmer advised to wind up the scheme and wrote of the matter "If one wants to conduct financial operations dishonestly or illegally - then it is to these jurisdictions that one goes to incorporate puppet companies with puppet directors in order to operate fraudulent schemes and to move money around the world in secrecy.".
As of time of publication regulators have been unable to locate any funds, nor have charges been laid upon perpetrators.
Interestingly, Astarra Super is not the corporate superannuation fund used by official Tabcorp staff.
Tabcorp spokesman, Bruce Tobin, advised the company had written to all staff affected and was working with the union.
Justice Palmer said these sobering words of the matter "that there was a very high prospect that the funds would simply disappear into the ether - as has almost certainly happened in this case".
He said the use of the tax havens had not been disclosed in Trio Capital's statements to investors.
Superannuation losses from Astarra Strategic would represent the largest superannuation fraud or theft since current super laws were put in place 1993.
James Packer 50% owned Betfair will be glad this isn't a mark on their name. The matter may potentially assist seeing additional (quality) companies enter the Aussie racing and financial sector, be it PartyGaming or Virgin. Certainly the current mix is not quite right, based upon the latest scandal. Word of the street is its time for some "new blood" to shake things up and put the old guard and crooks on notice.
It's unfortunate the late 'Big' Tim Bristow and George Freeman of 'Underbelly' fame are not around to sort out these crooks who have attacked everyday Australians. Bristow aka 'Earthquake' would have likely seen them off at what he called 'The See You Later Club', understood to be have somewhere off the heads of Palm Beach on Sydney's northern beaches...something about concrete blocks at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean!
The crooks are not totally off the hook yet... the matter happening to the lifeblood of Australian horse racing is going to put some noses out of joint. Some of those effected are bound to have some very strong industry connections... both on the light side and the dark side. "Fixers" and "Can Do" types are part of the industry, and there's certainly motivation for the out of pocket racing staff to call upon extra powers of persuasion if needed. Add this to the 'Catch Me If You Can' file, already bursting at the seams with Aussie Daniel Tzvetkoff, Canadian Calvin Ayre, and Yankee Howard Lederer jockeying for position. All good fodder for an Australian and international themed version of 'Underbelly'. Ya wouldn't be dead for quids. Good hunting and happy punting.
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company
Website Network
Media Man
Global Gaming Directory
Racing News Media
Casino News Media
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Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Asian Racing Conference In Sydney - The Great Debate, by Greg Tingle - 13th April 2010
The Australian - Asia Pacific gaming and racing industry developments maintain fever pitch.
Media Man and Gambling911 probe the situation down under...
The Australian horse racing industry is traditionally the bread and butter of Aussie betting, going back to the good old days when both illegal bookies like Eric Frazer Tingle (relation) and wheeler dealers like the late George Freeman (Underbelly fame) shared in a slice of the action with the once otherwise monopoly known as the TAB (Totalisator Agency Board). Our old mate "Big" Tim Bristow, who we understand gets referred to in books such as 'Not For Publication' and 'The Gambling Man' also played a role, which could be described as "unofficial" or as an "enforcer". In the old days folks often paid to avoid "bad luck" and of course "insurance" against risk.
Things have progressed since the 1950-80 golden like era, however politics, legals, big bucks and an 'Underbelly' still remain, albeit in different shades.
Today saw the 33rd Asian Racing Conference being held in Sydney.
The stellar event played host to a rivalry far more fierce than that between racing king Bart Cummings and queen Gai Waterhouse.
"The Great Debate", sees Racing NSW chief executive Peter V'landys go tooth and nail with Betfair co-founder Edward Wray, reports Fairfax Media.
Betfair, an internet-based betting exchange, half-owned by casino king James Packer (like half of Australia it seems at times), has launched a legal challenge against the racing authority's decision to charge it fees based on turnover rather than profit.
The arguments are complex, but there's millions, if not billions at stake.
Racing NSW has put $60 million bucks aside to return to corporate bookies should they lose, with the verdict due later this month.
Betfair is hoping Federal Court judge Nye Perram is more impartial than the gent in charge of today's debate, Australian Racing Board chief executive Andrew Harding, advise Fairfax Media. A bit of history... at a similar racing conference in 2004, Harding gave an impassioned presentation billed "Australia Against Betfair."
Punters, times are a changing, as Tycoon's such as James Packer are almost unstoppable at the moment, and Aussie's are open to betting alternatives.
Something tells us that both state and federal governments are going to be key factors, as will "legal eagles", and not to any surprise, Betfair can and do engage the best that money can buy.
The late news... Betfair is also aiming to provide an online poker and online casino service to Australians. Rivals such as PartyGaming and Centrebet continue to demonstrate that they enjoy a punt online, not just restricted to the four legged variety... the horses and the doggies, oh, or the occasional Pink Pigeon birdies (yet another Aussie fair dinkum betting event that our birdie friend tells us Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and Senator Stephen Conroy wouldn't mind seeing censored, or shutdown completely).
Rumor of the week... Illegal Australian gambling dens and betting rings to make a comeback "down under", as censorship threatens (and pisses off) punters. All good fodder for 'Underbelly' 5 and 6. Aussie Aussie Aussie, Oi Oi Oi, Aussie Oi Aussie Oi Aussie Aussie Aussie, Oi Oi Oi!
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They own and operate over 20 website portals including Racing News Media http://www.racingnewsmedia.com
*The writer participates in the Betfair affiliate program via agency DGM and is a shareholder in Crown Casino
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Media Man and Gambling911 probe the situation down under...
The Australian horse racing industry is traditionally the bread and butter of Aussie betting, going back to the good old days when both illegal bookies like Eric Frazer Tingle (relation) and wheeler dealers like the late George Freeman (Underbelly fame) shared in a slice of the action with the once otherwise monopoly known as the TAB (Totalisator Agency Board). Our old mate "Big" Tim Bristow, who we understand gets referred to in books such as 'Not For Publication' and 'The Gambling Man' also played a role, which could be described as "unofficial" or as an "enforcer". In the old days folks often paid to avoid "bad luck" and of course "insurance" against risk.
Things have progressed since the 1950-80 golden like era, however politics, legals, big bucks and an 'Underbelly' still remain, albeit in different shades.
Today saw the 33rd Asian Racing Conference being held in Sydney.
The stellar event played host to a rivalry far more fierce than that between racing king Bart Cummings and queen Gai Waterhouse.
"The Great Debate", sees Racing NSW chief executive Peter V'landys go tooth and nail with Betfair co-founder Edward Wray, reports Fairfax Media.
Betfair, an internet-based betting exchange, half-owned by casino king James Packer (like half of Australia it seems at times), has launched a legal challenge against the racing authority's decision to charge it fees based on turnover rather than profit.
The arguments are complex, but there's millions, if not billions at stake.
Racing NSW has put $60 million bucks aside to return to corporate bookies should they lose, with the verdict due later this month.
Betfair is hoping Federal Court judge Nye Perram is more impartial than the gent in charge of today's debate, Australian Racing Board chief executive Andrew Harding, advise Fairfax Media. A bit of history... at a similar racing conference in 2004, Harding gave an impassioned presentation billed "Australia Against Betfair."
Punters, times are a changing, as Tycoon's such as James Packer are almost unstoppable at the moment, and Aussie's are open to betting alternatives.
Something tells us that both state and federal governments are going to be key factors, as will "legal eagles", and not to any surprise, Betfair can and do engage the best that money can buy.
The late news... Betfair is also aiming to provide an online poker and online casino service to Australians. Rivals such as PartyGaming and Centrebet continue to demonstrate that they enjoy a punt online, not just restricted to the four legged variety... the horses and the doggies, oh, or the occasional Pink Pigeon birdies (yet another Aussie fair dinkum betting event that our birdie friend tells us Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and Senator Stephen Conroy wouldn't mind seeing censored, or shutdown completely).
Rumor of the week... Illegal Australian gambling dens and betting rings to make a comeback "down under", as censorship threatens (and pisses off) punters. All good fodder for 'Underbelly' 5 and 6. Aussie Aussie Aussie, Oi Oi Oi, Aussie Oi Aussie Oi Aussie Aussie Aussie, Oi Oi Oi!
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. They own and operate over 20 website portals including Racing News Media http://www.racingnewsmedia.com
*The writer participates in the Betfair affiliate program via agency DGM and is a shareholder in Crown Casino
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Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Casino Cash Rolls In To Australia Political Parties, by Greg Tingle - 8th April 2010
Australian political parties and land based casino operators remain under the spotlight as more revelations about substantial donations from casinos to politics goes public.
Media Man and Gambling911 investigate 'Casino Jack' style, as we explore a new patch of Australia's 'Underbelly'.
From the get go, let it be said that it is not illegal (yet anyway) to make donations to Aussie political parties. Cash and cheques hit their coffers from any number of business sectors, certainly not restricted to the casino, hotel, club and resort sector et al. It's almost part of Australia business culture to cough up dollars to the majority of the political parties.
However, just because something is legal, or illegal for that matter, doesn't mean it is just.
In recent months Labor and Liberal have been inundated with buckets of cash from corporate Australia, and it doesn't get much more corporate that Tabcorp's Star City Casino and Crown Limited's Crown Casino.
Numbers obtained by the NSW Election Funding Authority show state Labor accepted $2.5 million in donations and union affiliation fees between July and December, while the Liberals and Nationals took in $1.9 million. Ah, Jack Abramoff from 'Casino Jack' fame would be proud.
The massive donations are a sign that big business aims win favour and positive history with an incoming Coalition government, the Liberals and Nationals have raised $19.5 million since the 2007 election from the hotels (inc casinos), clubs (pokie heaven), finance, pharmaceutical, lobbyist and property (more casinos) sector.
We've learned that in the same window, Labor snatched $16.5 million to its coffers, some of which is used for television commercials promoting NSW Premier, Kristina Keneally. We alert readers to the fact that Australian TV stations have been extremely quite on the internet censorship debate, while newspapers and radio, and internet forums, have been very vocal, but more on that non - coincidence later, if we're not busy playing a spot of golf with the 'Minister Of Silly Lists' and Censorship... if he's not busy being summoned to a "Please Explain" meeting with Prime Minster Kevin Rudd... (if he's not busy getting an "ear bashing" from U.S President Barack Obama about censorship). Readers, are you following this trail?
The political donations are putting intense pressure on the Australian government to implement recommendations handed down by a parliamentary committee last week, including a cap on donations at just $2000 per political party, group or independent candidate each financial year.
It's no secret that Labor received $115,000 from Star City Casino in the second half of last year, around the same times as the laws regulating the casino were being loosened and its exclusive licence was extended in Parliament. In 2008 Star donated $110,000 just two months before it was granted approval for a $575 million redevelopment, and readers will recall that their budget has just been increased by $100 million or so, which helps build more entertainment rooms, and may even go towards learjets for high rolling VIP's, as they go to "war" with Packer's Crown.
A spokeswoman for Ms Keneally said any suggestion that political donations had influenced concessions that allowed gambling controls and surveillance to be watered down was not correct. "Donations have no impact on the timing of bills going through Parliament.".
Political donations are keenly watched as an indication of which companies and wealthy individuals may be lobbying government. The Australian and international gaming community is watching closely to see what moves PartyGaming and Betfair may make in this space.
PartyGaming famously came to financial terms with the United States Department Of Justice last year to the tune of $100 million or thereabouts. It wasn't a pure donation, however the U.S knew Party had the money, and it was an opportunity for PartyGaming to move forward. PartyGaming and its brands such as PartyCasino and PartyPoker are making strategic moves to return to the U.S market and regulation changes are afoot, just its World Poker Tour is making pro active steps to boost things along with a pending play in the North American - Canadian region, which may see much of the U.S change its stance on igaming, poker tournaments and the like. Last fortnight PartyGaming inked an impressive business deal with France horse racing operator PMU (Pari Mutuel Urbain). PartyGaming also enjoys b2b dealings with such mainstream brands as Marvel Entertainment, Paramount Pictures, Frank Sinatra Enterprises, StudioCanal, Blizard Entertainment, Infinity Ward, Edgar Rice Burroughs, Hasbro, MGM and FremantleMedia. PartyGaming are understood to be in the "good books" of internet giants Google, Yahoo! and Bing!... something that has also served Gambling911 and Media Man International well over the years. Google is currently developing its own advanced web hosting and ISP services in a move that has has generated massive interest from mainstream media, new media and gaming operators.
Back to the pure political news...Figures Gambling911 and Media Man sourced via Fairfax Media and News Limited state the following...
In the second half of last year the biggest donors included: Clubs NSW, which gave $59,000 to Labor and $101,555 to the Coalition; Manildra Group, $40,850 (Labor) and $19,050 (Coalition); property developer Memo Corporation, $36,850 (Labor) and $22,200 (Liberal); and the Independent Retailers Association, $77,820 (Labor) and $9000 (Liberal). The Liberals accepted $57,926 from the Australian Hotels Association and $49,750 from British American Tobacco.
The Opposition Leader, Barry O'Farrell, personally raised $174,650 at 10 fund-raisers held in his name and in his electorate, including raising some $108,100 at the Ku-ring-gai Business Breakfast last September.
Not to be outdone Labor collected in excess of $1 million in "affiliation fees" paid by unions between July and December.
In the coming weeks and months we will continue our probe into the relationships between Australian political parties and casinos, igaming operator, SP bookmakers and the like. Firms on our radar include but are not limited to Betfair, Centrebet, Full Tilt Poker (Easts Roosters NRL team connection), 888 (Warnie's the face of them for Australia), and a few others that will remain nameless for the moment.
Aussie's, anyone taking bets on what Australian land based casino operators are interested to enjoy a spot of golf with Senator Stephen Conroy (Minster of Communications, Censorship and "Silly Lists") Last time a casino exec played golf with our friend cash registers hit the jackpot. Ah, life is full of coincidences, just ask 'Casino Jack', coming soon to a movie theater near you if your an Aussie, Yankee or Kanok, but if your behind "The Great Internet Firewall" Of China, good luck, you will need it.
Tony "The Bruiser" Abbott, stay on Kevin "Bloody" Rudd, we sense Rudd's corner man Conroy is going down for the count as we approach the 12th round of action, broadcast from Sydney to Las Vegas, Macau, Florida and beyond via the internet channel (that no one owns, Australian government included). Special referee Jesse "The Body" Ventura and his 'Conspiracy Theory' actuality TV show remain pro actively interested in the connection between Australian casinos, political parties and proposed internet filter and blacklist initiatives.
Media Man and Gambling911 offer this public service announcement: Bet with your head, not over it, and keep it fun (and that messages is also applicable to Australian political parties).
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. The network attracts approximately 6 million hits per month and has portals in Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia and the United States
*The writer owns shares in Crown Casino
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Media Man and Gambling911 investigate 'Casino Jack' style, as we explore a new patch of Australia's 'Underbelly'.
From the get go, let it be said that it is not illegal (yet anyway) to make donations to Aussie political parties. Cash and cheques hit their coffers from any number of business sectors, certainly not restricted to the casino, hotel, club and resort sector et al. It's almost part of Australia business culture to cough up dollars to the majority of the political parties.
However, just because something is legal, or illegal for that matter, doesn't mean it is just.
In recent months Labor and Liberal have been inundated with buckets of cash from corporate Australia, and it doesn't get much more corporate that Tabcorp's Star City Casino and Crown Limited's Crown Casino.
Numbers obtained by the NSW Election Funding Authority show state Labor accepted $2.5 million in donations and union affiliation fees between July and December, while the Liberals and Nationals took in $1.9 million. Ah, Jack Abramoff from 'Casino Jack' fame would be proud.
The massive donations are a sign that big business aims win favour and positive history with an incoming Coalition government, the Liberals and Nationals have raised $19.5 million since the 2007 election from the hotels (inc casinos), clubs (pokie heaven), finance, pharmaceutical, lobbyist and property (more casinos) sector.
We've learned that in the same window, Labor snatched $16.5 million to its coffers, some of which is used for television commercials promoting NSW Premier, Kristina Keneally. We alert readers to the fact that Australian TV stations have been extremely quite on the internet censorship debate, while newspapers and radio, and internet forums, have been very vocal, but more on that non - coincidence later, if we're not busy playing a spot of golf with the 'Minister Of Silly Lists' and Censorship... if he's not busy being summoned to a "Please Explain" meeting with Prime Minster Kevin Rudd... (if he's not busy getting an "ear bashing" from U.S President Barack Obama about censorship). Readers, are you following this trail?
The political donations are putting intense pressure on the Australian government to implement recommendations handed down by a parliamentary committee last week, including a cap on donations at just $2000 per political party, group or independent candidate each financial year.
It's no secret that Labor received $115,000 from Star City Casino in the second half of last year, around the same times as the laws regulating the casino were being loosened and its exclusive licence was extended in Parliament. In 2008 Star donated $110,000 just two months before it was granted approval for a $575 million redevelopment, and readers will recall that their budget has just been increased by $100 million or so, which helps build more entertainment rooms, and may even go towards learjets for high rolling VIP's, as they go to "war" with Packer's Crown.
A spokeswoman for Ms Keneally said any suggestion that political donations had influenced concessions that allowed gambling controls and surveillance to be watered down was not correct. "Donations have no impact on the timing of bills going through Parliament.".
Political donations are keenly watched as an indication of which companies and wealthy individuals may be lobbying government. The Australian and international gaming community is watching closely to see what moves PartyGaming and Betfair may make in this space.
PartyGaming famously came to financial terms with the United States Department Of Justice last year to the tune of $100 million or thereabouts. It wasn't a pure donation, however the U.S knew Party had the money, and it was an opportunity for PartyGaming to move forward. PartyGaming and its brands such as PartyCasino and PartyPoker are making strategic moves to return to the U.S market and regulation changes are afoot, just its World Poker Tour is making pro active steps to boost things along with a pending play in the North American - Canadian region, which may see much of the U.S change its stance on igaming, poker tournaments and the like. Last fortnight PartyGaming inked an impressive business deal with France horse racing operator PMU (Pari Mutuel Urbain). PartyGaming also enjoys b2b dealings with such mainstream brands as Marvel Entertainment, Paramount Pictures, Frank Sinatra Enterprises, StudioCanal, Blizard Entertainment, Infinity Ward, Edgar Rice Burroughs, Hasbro, MGM and FremantleMedia. PartyGaming are understood to be in the "good books" of internet giants Google, Yahoo! and Bing!... something that has also served Gambling911 and Media Man International well over the years. Google is currently developing its own advanced web hosting and ISP services in a move that has has generated massive interest from mainstream media, new media and gaming operators.
Back to the pure political news...Figures Gambling911 and Media Man sourced via Fairfax Media and News Limited state the following...
In the second half of last year the biggest donors included: Clubs NSW, which gave $59,000 to Labor and $101,555 to the Coalition; Manildra Group, $40,850 (Labor) and $19,050 (Coalition); property developer Memo Corporation, $36,850 (Labor) and $22,200 (Liberal); and the Independent Retailers Association, $77,820 (Labor) and $9000 (Liberal). The Liberals accepted $57,926 from the Australian Hotels Association and $49,750 from British American Tobacco.
The Opposition Leader, Barry O'Farrell, personally raised $174,650 at 10 fund-raisers held in his name and in his electorate, including raising some $108,100 at the Ku-ring-gai Business Breakfast last September.
Not to be outdone Labor collected in excess of $1 million in "affiliation fees" paid by unions between July and December.
In the coming weeks and months we will continue our probe into the relationships between Australian political parties and casinos, igaming operator, SP bookmakers and the like. Firms on our radar include but are not limited to Betfair, Centrebet, Full Tilt Poker (Easts Roosters NRL team connection), 888 (Warnie's the face of them for Australia), and a few others that will remain nameless for the moment.
Aussie's, anyone taking bets on what Australian land based casino operators are interested to enjoy a spot of golf with Senator Stephen Conroy (Minster of Communications, Censorship and "Silly Lists") Last time a casino exec played golf with our friend cash registers hit the jackpot. Ah, life is full of coincidences, just ask 'Casino Jack', coming soon to a movie theater near you if your an Aussie, Yankee or Kanok, but if your behind "The Great Internet Firewall" Of China, good luck, you will need it.
Tony "The Bruiser" Abbott, stay on Kevin "Bloody" Rudd, we sense Rudd's corner man Conroy is going down for the count as we approach the 12th round of action, broadcast from Sydney to Las Vegas, Macau, Florida and beyond via the internet channel (that no one owns, Australian government included). Special referee Jesse "The Body" Ventura and his 'Conspiracy Theory' actuality TV show remain pro actively interested in the connection between Australian casinos, political parties and proposed internet filter and blacklist initiatives.
Media Man and Gambling911 offer this public service announcement: Bet with your head, not over it, and keep it fun (and that messages is also applicable to Australian political parties).
*Greg Tingle is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company. The network attracts approximately 6 million hits per month and has portals in Australia, Canada, Europe, Asia and the United States
*The writer owns shares in Crown Casino
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Friday, March 26, 2010
Australia's Underbelly 4 To Bring Back Gambling And Brothel Themes, by Greg Tingle - 27th March 2010
Australia's Network Nine announced on-air dates yesterday for its "big three" television programs for after Easter.
A little birdy told Media Man and Gambling911 that gambling and prostitution themes were popular with the audience and the sort of content that keeps punters... er viewers, coming back for more.
The much-anticipated third instalment in the Underbelly series – The Golden Mile – will premiere as a two-hour telemovie on Sunday, April 11, from 8.30pm.
Nine was the first of the three commercial networks to reveal its post-Easter schedule, usually a closely guarded secret by programmers.
Underbelly: The Golden Mile starring Emma Booth, Sigrid Thornton, Wil Traval and Natalie Bassingthwaighte, is set in Kings Cross in the late 1980s.
"We're all fascinated as to why people break the rules," executive producer Des Monaghan said.
"Underbelly differs greatly to the normal staple of television drama, because we are dealing with real life and real people, with all the chaos and unpredictability this entails.
"We operate outside the square, so our audience never knows what's going to happen from one week to the next."
The fourth Underbelly is expected to feature the Fitzgerald inquiry era of Brisbane's illegal gambling and brothel industry. Fortitude Valley aka "The Valley" is expected to be a one key location featured.
An industry source said it was still "in the research stage".
Media Man's been telling Melbourne's Crown Casino that they would do well to get an 'Underbelly' themed slot machine or two on the premises, and an online version of the game for their website, ditto for Sydney's Star City Casino, and Brisbane and the Gold Coast's Conrad Jupiters may as well take the same free advice.
A Media Man insider was overheard, "Mate, The Godfather, Sinatra and Dean Martin have nothing on our Underbelly. Us Aussies, we know how to party... Underbelly rules ok".
Viva Bris Vegas Baby, and as they say on Nine's Footy Show, Bring Back The Biff! Aussie Aussie Aussie Oi Oi Oi Aussie Oi Aussie Oi Aussie Aussie Aussie Oi Oi Oi.
* The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911
* Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company
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A little birdy told Media Man and Gambling911 that gambling and prostitution themes were popular with the audience and the sort of content that keeps punters... er viewers, coming back for more.
The much-anticipated third instalment in the Underbelly series – The Golden Mile – will premiere as a two-hour telemovie on Sunday, April 11, from 8.30pm.
Nine was the first of the three commercial networks to reveal its post-Easter schedule, usually a closely guarded secret by programmers.
Underbelly: The Golden Mile starring Emma Booth, Sigrid Thornton, Wil Traval and Natalie Bassingthwaighte, is set in Kings Cross in the late 1980s.
"We're all fascinated as to why people break the rules," executive producer Des Monaghan said.
"Underbelly differs greatly to the normal staple of television drama, because we are dealing with real life and real people, with all the chaos and unpredictability this entails.
"We operate outside the square, so our audience never knows what's going to happen from one week to the next."
The fourth Underbelly is expected to feature the Fitzgerald inquiry era of Brisbane's illegal gambling and brothel industry. Fortitude Valley aka "The Valley" is expected to be a one key location featured.
An industry source said it was still "in the research stage".
Media Man's been telling Melbourne's Crown Casino that they would do well to get an 'Underbelly' themed slot machine or two on the premises, and an online version of the game for their website, ditto for Sydney's Star City Casino, and Brisbane and the Gold Coast's Conrad Jupiters may as well take the same free advice.
A Media Man insider was overheard, "Mate, The Godfather, Sinatra and Dean Martin have nothing on our Underbelly. Us Aussies, we know how to party... Underbelly rules ok".
Viva Bris Vegas Baby, and as they say on Nine's Footy Show, Bring Back The Biff! Aussie Aussie Aussie Oi Oi Oi Aussie Oi Aussie Oi Aussie Aussie Aussie Oi Oi Oi.
* The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911
* Media Man http://www.mediamanint.com is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company
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Friday, March 19, 2010
UFC® 111: St-Pierre vs Hardy
Two world titles will be on the line for the first time in 2010 when the Ultimate Fighting Championship® returns to the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey for UFC® 111: St-Pierre vs Hardy. UFC® welterweight champion Georges St-Pierre has been unstoppable since regaining the title in 2008, and he aims on extending his reign and his six fight winning streak against British bomber Dan “The Outlaw” Hardy, who is unbeaten in the UFC and fresh off wins over Marcus Davis and Mike Swick.
Also, former two-time heavyweight champion Frank Mir will attempt to make history when he squares off against number one contender Shane Carwin in a clash of the titans that will leave the winner with the interim UFC heavyweight championship belt. UFC 111 – Saturday, March 27th, live on Pay-Per-View from Newark, New Jersey.
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Also, former two-time heavyweight champion Frank Mir will attempt to make history when he squares off against number one contender Shane Carwin in a clash of the titans that will leave the winner with the interim UFC heavyweight championship belt. UFC 111 – Saturday, March 27th, live on Pay-Per-View from Newark, New Jersey.
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Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Wrestling Observer Newsletter - Huge edition coming up; WWE WrestleMania and legends coverage
Media Man is a proud subscriber of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter. From time to time Media Man tips off Wrestling Observer and other wrestling news companies such as Pro Wrestling Torch, on information we become aware of pertaining to the pro wrestling and martial arts industry.
With WWE WrestleMania and Hall of Fame awards coming up, not to mention the WWE - TNA Wrestling "war" and Gorgeous George movie in the works, we bring to you an overview of what to expect in the upcoming Wrestling Observer (available online and in hardcopy).
On wrestling, thank you to all of those who paved the way to help create the pro wrestling aka sports entertainment industry, and a special thank you to the legends, and of course, the fans, who turn up at events and tune into TV, thus keeping the industry alive.
Big thank you to the Media Man - Hollywood connection - Ric Drasin, Hulk Hogan, Roddy Piper, Jimmy Snuka, Carole Snuka, Ric Flair, Peter Carrette, Colin Handley, Evan Ginzburg, Mickey Rourke, Tom Filsinger, Stan Lee and too many more to list!
Media Man has its own Wrestling media arm, Wrestling News Media, but its not a patch on the coverage from our friends at Wrestling Observer Newsletter and the Pro Wrestling Torch. Brace yourself for an awesome read, and if you like what you read, take out a sub to the Observer.
Spike has a ton of UFC on television tonight, including the GSP vs. B.J. Penn fight at 7 p.m., plus Unleashed at 8 p.m. (Matt Hughes vs. Joe Riggs), 9 p.m. (Randy Couture vs. Gabriel Gonzaga) as well as part two of St. Pierre vs. Hardy at 10 p.m. followed by the debut of the Countdown to Mir vs. Carwin at 10:30 p.m. The St. Pierre vs. Hardy episode one will also repeat tonight at midnight.
With the biggest weekend of the year coming, with WrestleMania and UFC 111, we look at that weekend including the future of Shawn Michaels, the match with Undertaker, as well as a look at business for both shows. We have some predictions on WrestleMania, as well as notes on last second buildup for both events, Canadian Superstar vs. Canadian Superstar in Canada, and right now what trending and interest patterns are showing for both events.
We have the most complete Monday rundown, including how every segment on both shows gained the lost viewers, and many questions asked as TNA's gets beaten by almost three full ratings points the second week one. We look at live vs. tape, as well as the future of this battle.
The issue is available on the web site today. For those wanting the print edition, there are details here on how to get it delivered to your door each week.
We also have a profile on Gorgeous George and his role in wrestling and life. We look at why he's being inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, including a change in philosophy of WWE films, the famous movie that was supposed to be done on his life in the past and what happened, as well as a second movie that at one time was going to be done and fell through. We look at George's heyday and how big wrestling was on television, George's only appearance in Madison Square Garden and how it hardly went as expected, where George stood as far as the most known and highest paid athletes, his role, as well as some of his most famous angles. We also look at the story that George inspired the interviews of Muhammad Ali.
We also have an update on Jim Ross and WWE as well as an interview where he talked about wanting to broadcast MMA as well as his thoughts on mistakes in MMA television broadcasts.
We also look at several Bret Hart interviews from Canada this past week, talking bout why he returned, how wrestling has changed, his relationship with Shawn Michaels and more.
We also look at a WWE Hall of Fame snafu, an update on Dwayne Johnson and Raw, Vince McMahon causes Linda McMahon's campaign some embarrassment, filings that show what the McMahons are worth, as well as WWE responds to media criticism from the McMahon campaign.
We also look at changes made in WWE rules for talent, as well as lots of items regarding WrestleMania plans. We also have an updated look at how many people watch Raw live vs. on tape, a lot of notes on WWE developmental including newcomers, a new stable, lots of second generation wrestlers and a former college football player and a former Gladiator both starting out, as well as a main eventer in a territorial system and first cousin of two current WWE wrestlers who was just signed.
We also look at Tommy Dreamer talking about why he left WWE, as well as WWE signing Gladiator and notes from all the weekend WWE house shows.
We also have a ton of history this week, including a trip back to the 1940s looking at Henry Wittenberg, who passed away this past week, the man George Hackenschmidt called the greatest wrestler who ever lived. We look at someone who was America's best wrestler of the era, and one of the greatest ever, and why he was the most unlikely wrestling legend this country ever produced given his background. We look at his gold medal win, his pro offers, and why promoters thought he could have been one of the biggest stars ever.
We also look at the life and wrestling career of Sandy Scott, including a look at the Flying Scott Brothers and their headline feuds in the 50s and 60s all over the world, but in particular being the top babyface attractions in Western Canada and the Carolinas. We follow their career path, including their breakup in real life, Sandy Scott's role in the heyday of Jim Crockett Promotions, the different tag teams they faced all over the world, the glory era of Stampede Wrestling and more.
We also look at the man of a million names, John Hill, including the many territories he was top heel, his two world title reigns in the biggest promotion in the world at the time and his feud with Bruno Sammartino, how he got his different names including The Destroyer, Guy Mitchell and Jerry Valiant. It's a look back at several territories including the glory days of Australian wrestling, British Columbia, Detroit, Toronto and Indianapolis with the stars and programs such as the heyday of The Sheik, The Bruiser, the beginning of the career of Bobby Heenan and more.
We've also got coverage of AAA's first major show of the year, the Rey de Reyes show, which featured the beginning of the L.A. Park vs. La Parka feud, as well as Mr. Anderson and Hernandez from TNA appearing.
We also have our usual weekly features such as the results of the biggest matches of the week and rundown of the major television shows.
The Wrestling Observer ranges from 25,000 to 40,000 words covering pro wrestling and MMA all over the world.
Each issue has coverage and analysis of all the major news, plus every issue breaks major news stories before the Internet sites and has the most complete look at the business as a whole anywhere.
The Observer is now in its 28th year of being the leading insider pro wrestling publication in the world. The biggest and most influential names in the pro wrestling industry as well as the MMA industry, from bookers, to promoters to Hall of Fame wrestlers and fighters to the biggest current names, both on camera, and behind the scenes, along with thousands of readers in all 50 states and 30 countries subscribe. Many have subscribed as long as 20 years or more straight. They get the most detailed and inside coverage of what is going on all over the world and an accuracy from having the most inside sources that can't be found on the web. Everyone from Wall Street to the major offices to the TV networks in U.S. and Japan turn to the Observer for what is going on in the business. If you are a new subscriber ordering 24 or more issues, you can get one free classic issue of your choice sent to you today. With a
40 issue subscription, you can get two free classic issues sent to you
today. (Credit: Wrestling Observer Newsletter)
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With WWE WrestleMania and Hall of Fame awards coming up, not to mention the WWE - TNA Wrestling "war" and Gorgeous George movie in the works, we bring to you an overview of what to expect in the upcoming Wrestling Observer (available online and in hardcopy).
On wrestling, thank you to all of those who paved the way to help create the pro wrestling aka sports entertainment industry, and a special thank you to the legends, and of course, the fans, who turn up at events and tune into TV, thus keeping the industry alive.
Big thank you to the Media Man - Hollywood connection - Ric Drasin, Hulk Hogan, Roddy Piper, Jimmy Snuka, Carole Snuka, Ric Flair, Peter Carrette, Colin Handley, Evan Ginzburg, Mickey Rourke, Tom Filsinger, Stan Lee and too many more to list!
Media Man has its own Wrestling media arm, Wrestling News Media, but its not a patch on the coverage from our friends at Wrestling Observer Newsletter and the Pro Wrestling Torch. Brace yourself for an awesome read, and if you like what you read, take out a sub to the Observer.
Spike has a ton of UFC on television tonight, including the GSP vs. B.J. Penn fight at 7 p.m., plus Unleashed at 8 p.m. (Matt Hughes vs. Joe Riggs), 9 p.m. (Randy Couture vs. Gabriel Gonzaga) as well as part two of St. Pierre vs. Hardy at 10 p.m. followed by the debut of the Countdown to Mir vs. Carwin at 10:30 p.m. The St. Pierre vs. Hardy episode one will also repeat tonight at midnight.
With the biggest weekend of the year coming, with WrestleMania and UFC 111, we look at that weekend including the future of Shawn Michaels, the match with Undertaker, as well as a look at business for both shows. We have some predictions on WrestleMania, as well as notes on last second buildup for both events, Canadian Superstar vs. Canadian Superstar in Canada, and right now what trending and interest patterns are showing for both events.
We have the most complete Monday rundown, including how every segment on both shows gained the lost viewers, and many questions asked as TNA's gets beaten by almost three full ratings points the second week one. We look at live vs. tape, as well as the future of this battle.
The issue is available on the web site today. For those wanting the print edition, there are details here on how to get it delivered to your door each week.
We also have a profile on Gorgeous George and his role in wrestling and life. We look at why he's being inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame, including a change in philosophy of WWE films, the famous movie that was supposed to be done on his life in the past and what happened, as well as a second movie that at one time was going to be done and fell through. We look at George's heyday and how big wrestling was on television, George's only appearance in Madison Square Garden and how it hardly went as expected, where George stood as far as the most known and highest paid athletes, his role, as well as some of his most famous angles. We also look at the story that George inspired the interviews of Muhammad Ali.
We also have an update on Jim Ross and WWE as well as an interview where he talked about wanting to broadcast MMA as well as his thoughts on mistakes in MMA television broadcasts.
We also look at several Bret Hart interviews from Canada this past week, talking bout why he returned, how wrestling has changed, his relationship with Shawn Michaels and more.
We also look at a WWE Hall of Fame snafu, an update on Dwayne Johnson and Raw, Vince McMahon causes Linda McMahon's campaign some embarrassment, filings that show what the McMahons are worth, as well as WWE responds to media criticism from the McMahon campaign.
We also look at changes made in WWE rules for talent, as well as lots of items regarding WrestleMania plans. We also have an updated look at how many people watch Raw live vs. on tape, a lot of notes on WWE developmental including newcomers, a new stable, lots of second generation wrestlers and a former college football player and a former Gladiator both starting out, as well as a main eventer in a territorial system and first cousin of two current WWE wrestlers who was just signed.
We also look at Tommy Dreamer talking about why he left WWE, as well as WWE signing Gladiator and notes from all the weekend WWE house shows.
We also have a ton of history this week, including a trip back to the 1940s looking at Henry Wittenberg, who passed away this past week, the man George Hackenschmidt called the greatest wrestler who ever lived. We look at someone who was America's best wrestler of the era, and one of the greatest ever, and why he was the most unlikely wrestling legend this country ever produced given his background. We look at his gold medal win, his pro offers, and why promoters thought he could have been one of the biggest stars ever.
We also look at the life and wrestling career of Sandy Scott, including a look at the Flying Scott Brothers and their headline feuds in the 50s and 60s all over the world, but in particular being the top babyface attractions in Western Canada and the Carolinas. We follow their career path, including their breakup in real life, Sandy Scott's role in the heyday of Jim Crockett Promotions, the different tag teams they faced all over the world, the glory era of Stampede Wrestling and more.
We also look at the man of a million names, John Hill, including the many territories he was top heel, his two world title reigns in the biggest promotion in the world at the time and his feud with Bruno Sammartino, how he got his different names including The Destroyer, Guy Mitchell and Jerry Valiant. It's a look back at several territories including the glory days of Australian wrestling, British Columbia, Detroit, Toronto and Indianapolis with the stars and programs such as the heyday of The Sheik, The Bruiser, the beginning of the career of Bobby Heenan and more.
We've also got coverage of AAA's first major show of the year, the Rey de Reyes show, which featured the beginning of the L.A. Park vs. La Parka feud, as well as Mr. Anderson and Hernandez from TNA appearing.
We also have our usual weekly features such as the results of the biggest matches of the week and rundown of the major television shows.
The Wrestling Observer ranges from 25,000 to 40,000 words covering pro wrestling and MMA all over the world.
Each issue has coverage and analysis of all the major news, plus every issue breaks major news stories before the Internet sites and has the most complete look at the business as a whole anywhere.
The Observer is now in its 28th year of being the leading insider pro wrestling publication in the world. The biggest and most influential names in the pro wrestling industry as well as the MMA industry, from bookers, to promoters to Hall of Fame wrestlers and fighters to the biggest current names, both on camera, and behind the scenes, along with thousands of readers in all 50 states and 30 countries subscribe. Many have subscribed as long as 20 years or more straight. They get the most detailed and inside coverage of what is going on all over the world and an accuracy from having the most inside sources that can't be found on the web. Everyone from Wall Street to the major offices to the TV networks in U.S. and Japan turn to the Observer for what is going on in the business. If you are a new subscriber ordering 24 or more issues, you can get one free classic issue of your choice sent to you today. With a
40 issue subscription, you can get two free classic issues sent to you
today. (Credit: Wrestling Observer Newsletter)
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Thursday, March 4, 2010
Wrestling News Media - 5th March 2010
Rob Van Dam signs with TNA Wrestling; Hulk Hogan hints on Jim Kerr & The Rock 'N' Roll Morning Show Q104.3 YouTube.com
Angelo Poffo, father of Randy "Macho Man" Savage and Lanny Poffo, dies at 84 - 4th March - Lanno Poffo official website
TNA Wrestling To Go Head To Head With WWE Raw this Monday night
Fox and Friends feature TNA - Wrestling Observer Newsletter links to footage website
The Miz does Sydney and Melbourne Australia to promote upcoming WWE tour; Appears on Habbo.com.au
Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat official WWE release on the way says JR's blog
WWE WrestleMania - Glendale/Phoenix, 28th March 2010 website
WWE Hall of Fame 2010 - Ted DiBiase, Antonio Inoki, Wendi Richter, Maurice "Mad Dog" Vachon
WWE Corporate news website
Edge VS Chris Jericho could produce match of the year and feud of the year
Mick Foley does extreme comedy in Las Vegas to mixed response - KLAS report YouTube.com
NXT may be one of the best things to happen to WWE for a decade says fans and insiders
Wrestlers Rescue continues to do great work for wrestlers in need
Tom Filsinger's Wrestling Legends goes online - website
Ric Drasin continues unique interviews and features - website YouTube.com
Roddy Piper on TV and more movies likely - IMDB website
Australia set to see more U.S stars and Aussies - International Assault - World Series Wrestling - Sydney, 8th May 2010 - website
Wrestling Observer Newsletter VS Pro Wrestling Torch continues decade plus battle for readers and subs; Media Man continues to promote and champion both
WrestlingNewsMedia.com YouTube updated
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Sports Entertainment News
Wrestling News Media
Angelo Poffo, father of Randy "Macho Man" Savage and Lanny Poffo, dies at 84 - 4th March - Lanno Poffo official website
TNA Wrestling To Go Head To Head With WWE Raw this Monday night
Fox and Friends feature TNA - Wrestling Observer Newsletter links to footage website
The Miz does Sydney and Melbourne Australia to promote upcoming WWE tour; Appears on Habbo.com.au
Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat official WWE release on the way says JR's blog
WWE WrestleMania - Glendale/Phoenix, 28th March 2010 website
WWE Hall of Fame 2010 - Ted DiBiase, Antonio Inoki, Wendi Richter, Maurice "Mad Dog" Vachon
WWE Corporate news website
Edge VS Chris Jericho could produce match of the year and feud of the year
Mick Foley does extreme comedy in Las Vegas to mixed response - KLAS report YouTube.com
NXT may be one of the best things to happen to WWE for a decade says fans and insiders
Wrestlers Rescue continues to do great work for wrestlers in need
Tom Filsinger's Wrestling Legends goes online - website
Ric Drasin continues unique interviews and features - website YouTube.com
Roddy Piper on TV and more movies likely - IMDB website
Australia set to see more U.S stars and Aussies - International Assault - World Series Wrestling - Sydney, 8th May 2010 - website
Wrestling Observer Newsletter VS Pro Wrestling Torch continues decade plus battle for readers and subs; Media Man continues to promote and champion both
WrestlingNewsMedia.com YouTube updated
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Monday, March 1, 2010
Australian and International Gambling News, by Greg Tingle - 1st March 2010
G'day punters, and other interested parties (like casino tycoons and Australian political parties).
What a massive week for casino news just passed, and judging upon earlier indicators, this week out to give it a run for its money.
Having said that, Media Man is still waiting for the Australian Productivity Gambling Report... Prime Minster Rudd and Senator Stephen Conroy, it looks like you're late again! Our readership and that of our publishing and broadcasting friends and associates want to know the facts. Aren't we important enough to make the VIP list.
On the 26th of last month the Australian Productivity Commission apparently handed in its final report, yet it could be as late as June before it is made public! The government does not have to release the report for 25 sitting days. If the commission sticks to its draft recommendations, and the News Limited understands it is likely to hold close to them, Clubs Australia predicts the measures would result in a conservative 30 per cent drop in revenue. That would mean $2 billion and 11,500 jobs gone in NSW alone, clubs say.
The Aussie government had another bad PR week. Rudd was forced to demote Peter "Burning The Midnight Oil" Garrett over an environmental stuff up, and this has appeared to take a lot of heat and attention away from Senator Conroy and the proposed internet filter, at least for the time being.
Politics and iGaming Politics
Australians encouraged to fight online fraud
The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, today encouraged Australians to fight online fraud during National Consumer Fraud Week. The Australasian Consumer Fraud Taskforce's Online Offensive - Fighting Fraud Online - will run throughout the week to increase awareness of online consumer fraud. Don't supposed this may be directed at punters checking out igaming websites!
On that subject, clean bill of health by the way to Virgin Games, PartyCasino, Noble Casino, BetUS and Captain Cooks. Party now has the ECOGRA approved label for what its worth. If you blinked and missed it, Virgin Casino - Virgin Games is not available for Australian or U.S players at the moment, however Virgin are interested in expanding their gaming and igaming services to a number of counties that their CEO considers currently in the "grey area". As covered in detail by Gambling911 and eGaming Review, Virgin also plans to expand its virtual world project in conjunction with Game Domain International - AWOMO (A World Of My Own). Virgin's big cheese says they are aiming to become a "total gaming destination". Last month PartyCasino won the Casino News Media Online Casino Of The Month award and Virgin Casino scored second place.
Kevin "Bloody" Rudd VS Tony "The Bruiser" Abbott; Punters tipping Julie Gillard to replace Rudd within 6 months and that Senator Stephen Conroy won't last in his position. Centrebet is offering $4 on Julia Gillard replacing Kev in the hot seat by the next election.
Prime Minister Kevin Rudd is rattled over his government's failings and his own political mortality, federal Opposition Leader Tony Abbott says.
Mr Rudd made an on-air apology during a television interview yesterday for the government's home insulation scheme and for his own delay over an election promise to reform the public hospital system.
The most recent poll of NSW voters in The Sun-Herald indicates that, on a two-party preferred basis, both sides of politics have 50 per cent of the vote - a drop of almost three percentage points on Labor's election-winning 52.7 per cent in 2007.
Mr Rudd said the government took a "whacking" in the polls and expects Labor to take "an even bigger whacking" with voters in the future.
Mr Abbott today accused the Mr Rudd of "getting a headline" with his "I'm sorry routine" but noted that the government's failings had affected Mr Rudd.
"I think he looked just rattled," Mr Abbott told reporters in Sydney.
"I think the problem is that the Prime Minister is rattled by intimations of political mortality.
"I think he's shocked by the scale of his government's own ineptitude. I think that's what got him rattled."
The Idiots Guide to iGaming politics and What It Means To Punters In Practical Terms
Numerous gaming and igaming laws are confusing and often controdict each other. Even the USDOJ (United States Department of Justice) and the EU (European Union) can't agree on many aspects.
United States - some states of the U.S are more igaming and gaming friendly than others. There's been numerous poker and online poker cases in the courts over the years and often the judge throws the case out of court or the online poker players win. The Poker Players Alliance, Poker News Daily and iGaming Business - CAP have been doing a very solid job of covering the weekly saga of politics mixed with gambling, as have our friends at Gambling911.
Australians can play casino games and poker at PartyCasino, Noble Casino, PKR, PokerStars, BetUS. Aussies can't current play at Virgin Casino, nor can Americans.
Special "anti filter devices" are predicted to hit the American and Australian blackmarket (pubs and hotels et al) within months, and insiders say the Aussie "blacklist" and proposed internet filter was the undisputed catalyst for the development. "Demand is sky high and people will pay considerably for the convenience and benefits", said a reliable source who has chosen not to be identified.
Punters and gaming entrepreneurs, we recommend you get up to speed with the financial ins, outs and all round offerings from a bush tucker bag of online casinos, credit cards and the like. Little birdie tell us that VISA, American Express and many others will soon not touch anything online gambling related with 10 foot barge pole. Next thing online casino owners will have to hand deliver bags full of cash to their hard working affiliate partners!
Betfair Tax Breaks
The Tasmanian Government has offered tax breaks to keep the gambling agency Betfair in the state.
Labor has revealed that before it went into caretaker mode, it made an agreement with the company half-owned by James Packer.
The deal would see Betfair keep its call centre and 130 jobs in Hobart for the next 10 years.
The Premier, David Bartlett says the agreement will cost taxpayers about $2 million over the next two years, but he says the deal will save jobs, and quickly pay for itself.
"In the short-term, yes there will be a revenue decrease," he says.
"But that revenue decrease will be more than offset by 130 jobs on site, and increased transaction rates, over the life of the next five to 10 years."
The agreement will not be formally approved until parliament returns after the March 20 state election.
Australian Horse Racing
Racing Victoria chief steward Terry Bailey has dropped the bombshell that all 10 rides of Danny Nikolic remain under investigation.
While many thought the far-reaching investigation solely revolved around the charges brought on Friday, Bailey said stewards had not concluded their probe.
Bailey said stewards would this week focus on the charges against Nikolic and former bookmaker Neville Clements, which centre on their refusal to provide certain items to the investigation.
"We'll cross one bridge at a time," Bailey said.
"The investigation (into the 10 rides) is ongoing. Until such time as we get all the evidence ... then we will hand down some decisions."
As the investigation intensified, the fallout saw:
AUSTRALIAN Jockeys' Association reaffirm its opposition to betting exchanges.
NIKOLIC'S elder brother, John, relinquish his trainer's licence in Queensland.
VICTORIA'S first integrity commissioner, Sal Perna, who starts in his new job today, likely to be asked to inquire into several aspects of the investigation.
BAILEY decline to comment on any correlation between phone records and horses being laid to lose on Betfair.
AJA chairman Ross Inglis said the innuendo surrounding Nikolic and New South Wales jockey John Keating only strengthened the association's view that betting exchanges had no place in racing.
Inglis said even when a jockey was 100 per cent innocent, the implication of someone laying a horse the jockey rode remained.
"We were opposed from day one and we remain opposed," Inglis said.
He said the AJA was "very annoyed" that innuendo hovered over Nikolic concerning the 10-rides, given the exhaustive nature of the investigation.
John Nikolic , embroiled in a Queensland Racing inquiry, said attempts to link his brother to his probe had forced him to get out of the industry.
John Nikolic and Keating are involved in an inquiry into the run of beaten favourite Baby Bonus at Sunshine Coast in January.
"I'm pretty much over this crap," Nikolic said.
"I sold my stables the other day and I'll be sending a letter to Queensland Racing on Monday to let them know I'll be relinquishing my licence.
"I was just training as a hobby, racing a few horses with friends.
"When it's no longer enjoyable and I'm getting negative publicity and it's impacting on my family, it's time to get out."
It is believed Perna will be asked to look at all aspects of the Nikolic case, particularly how it found its way into the media.
Bailey said the investigation into Nikolic's rides would continue once Thursday's inquiry - which will be open to the media - concluded.
He said stewards were obliged to ask questions, regardless of who was involved, until they were satisfied they had all the answers.
Bailey declined to comment on whether any trainer was unhappy with any of the 10 Nikolic rides in question.
Nikolic faces a charge of refusing to give stewards his mobile phone and also leaving the area of the jockeys' room at Flemington to phone Clements on New Year's Day.
Clements, who is not a licensed person, must answer a charge of not providing stewards his " complete and original phone records" for a five-month period.
Magic Millions - Media, advertising and racing tycoon John Singleton has been in discussions with long time friend and associate, Gerry Harvey, as to whether Magic Millions should remain on the Gold Coast or to send the annual main even further south to Melbourne.
Problem Gamblers - Women More Than Men Become Problems
University of Queensland researcher Dr Timothy Lee says women now make up 64 per cent of the nation's poker machine users.
He says strategies to combat problem gambling should be tailored to include the habits of female gamblers.
"They tend to prefer some simple type of gambling and they are easily addicted," he said.
"They also have some tendency to hide their gambling activities and behaviour."
Erica Baxter in line for ARIA award
Casino King James Packer's wife Erica Baxter, along with actor Toni Collette and the late Belinda Emmett, are all in the running for an ARIA award nomination this year.
The three are among those eligible for nomination in the Best Female category. All three artists had full-length albums that were released in Australia in the past 12 months. Comon' Erica, go for the jackpot! John Singleton's most vocally talented daughter, Sally Bell has written a ripper song about race horses and her SONY BMG agreement is understood to be going fantastic. The Singleton's have been spotted at Sydney's Piano Bar on more than one occasion.
New South Wales Deaf Poker Championship
No, its not a bad joke. Poker has become extremely popular with the deaf.
Sokong Kim, founding member of Deaf Poker Australia, organised the first Australian Deaf Poker Championship in August, 2009, and he said the response was overwhelming.
“We attracted 88 players from across Australia in the first ever championship,” Mr Kim said.
“The atmosphere was excellent and the Australian Poker League was impressed.”
Mr Kim hopes for a similar response at the state championship. Players must have some form of hearing loss and understand Australian Sign Language (Auslan) to compete.
“We also welcome interpreters, workers, and all people with deaf family members,” Mr Kim said.
“The idea is to make it a charity event and gather together a range of people who make up the deaf community through poker.”
Players who progress to the final table will win a seat in the monthly regional Australian Poker League tournament.
The overall winner receives a seat at the Australian Poker League Pro Open and elects a deaf organisation to receive the proceeds.
For more information contact Burwood RSL or Deaf Poker Australia.
Media Man "Art Of War" Tactics And Wrestling - UFC - Casino connection
As discussion heats up in Australia and the U.S about further regulating the igaming and gaming industry, virtual land grabs (domain name purchases) and land development (website development) remains the order of the day. This week sees the Media Man group re launch Poker News Media, Virtual Worlds Media and Wrestling News Media. Wrestling you say? Yes, Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair both have major gaming and igaming deals, and Kevin Nash (once known as Vinnie Vegas) also has gaming on his official website. Flair's still pushing for his NC Education deal to be expanded across America... Wooooo! Historically its been proved that there is considerable cross over audience between wrestling and casinos. Pity fans can't bet on matches (since the "winner" is predetermined... some might argue the odd horse race and boxing match is also). Over a decade ago World Wrestling Entertainment actually purchased a casino in Vegas, but went on later sell it for a profit (cop that Donald Trump). UFC also enjoys a strong association in the casino sector with Frank and Lorenzo Fertitta owning the Station Casinos operation, based in Summerlin, Nevada. In addition, the UFC is one of the most popular sports in the world for taking sports bets. Closer to home, North Sydney's NextGen Gaming is rumored to be working on an Andre The Giant online slot game. If anyone can topple Party's and Virgin's King Kong slot it would be Andre.
Financial Markets
CWN - CROWN LIMITED $8.0200
TAH - TABCORP HOLDINGS LIMITED $6.8300
CIL - CENTREBET INTERNATIONAL LIMITED $1.4600
Australians Remain In World's Top Ten Gambling Nations
Australians spend about $18 billion a year on gambling, and almost a third of that flows to state revenue. The United States is understood to be the current leading spenders on gambling and in recent years China via the Macau connection have been raking it in. No doubt Australia's James Packer wouldn't mind to make the Guinness World Records List for most profitable casino group with his Crown-Melco City Of Dreams Macau.
The late news... City Of Dreams is not interested in selling to Harrah's Entertainment (or anyone else) for the foreseeable future.
Till next time, keep it fun, stay legal, and bet with your head, not over it. Still time to decide it you want your coffee and internet filtered or non-filtered. Make your vote count! Aussie Election possible within 6 months. Aussie Aussie Aussie, Oi Oi, Oi.
*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company
*The writer owns shares in Crown Casino
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Casino News Media
Casino News Media.net
Global Gaming Directory
Global Gaming Directory.net
What a massive week for casino news just passed, and judging upon earlier indicators, this week out to give it a run for its money.
Having said that, Media Man is still waiting for the Australian Productivity Gambling Report... Prime Minster Rudd and Senator Stephen Conroy, it looks like you're late again! Our readership and that of our publishing and broadcasting friends and associates want to know the facts. Aren't we important enough to make the VIP list.
On the 26th of last month the Australian Productivity Commission apparently handed in its final report, yet it could be as late as June before it is made public! The government does not have to release the report for 25 sitting days. If the commission sticks to its draft recommendations, and the News Limited understands it is likely to hold close to them, Clubs Australia predicts the measures would result in a conservative 30 per cent drop in revenue. That would mean $2 billion and 11,500 jobs gone in NSW alone, clubs say.
The Aussie government had another bad PR week. Rudd was forced to demote Peter "Burning The Midnight Oil" Garrett over an environmental stuff up, and this has appeared to take a lot of heat and attention away from Senator Conroy and the proposed internet filter, at least for the time being.
Politics and iGaming Politics
Australians encouraged to fight online fraud
The Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy, Senator Stephen Conroy, today encouraged Australians to fight online fraud during National Consumer Fraud Week. The Australasian Consumer Fraud Taskforce's Online Offensive - Fighting Fraud Online - will run throughout the week to increase awareness of online consumer fraud. Don't supposed this may be directed at punters checking out igaming websites!
On that subject, clean bill of health by the way to Virgin Games, PartyCasino, Noble Casino, BetUS and Captain Cooks. Party now has the ECOGRA approved label for what its worth. If you blinked and missed it, Virgin Casino - Virgin Games is not available for Australian or U.S players at the moment, however Virgin are interested in expanding their gaming and igaming services to a number of counties that their CEO considers currently in the "grey area". As covered in detail by Gambling911 and eGaming Review, Virgin also plans to expand its virtual world project in conjunction with Game Domain International - AWOMO (A World Of My Own). Virgin's big cheese says they are aiming to become a "total gaming destination". Last month PartyCasino won the Casino News Media Online Casino Of The Month award and Virgin Casino scored second place.
Kevin "Bloody" Rudd VS Tony "The Bruiser" Abbott; Punters tipping Julie Gillard to replace Rudd within 6 months and that Senator Stephen Conroy won't last in his position. Centrebet is offering $4 on Julia Gillard replacing Kev in the hot seat by the next election.
Prime Minister Kevin Rudd is rattled over his government's failings and his own political mortality, federal Opposition Leader Tony Abbott says.
Mr Rudd made an on-air apology during a television interview yesterday for the government's home insulation scheme and for his own delay over an election promise to reform the public hospital system.
The most recent poll of NSW voters in The Sun-Herald indicates that, on a two-party preferred basis, both sides of politics have 50 per cent of the vote - a drop of almost three percentage points on Labor's election-winning 52.7 per cent in 2007.
Mr Rudd said the government took a "whacking" in the polls and expects Labor to take "an even bigger whacking" with voters in the future.
Mr Abbott today accused the Mr Rudd of "getting a headline" with his "I'm sorry routine" but noted that the government's failings had affected Mr Rudd.
"I think he looked just rattled," Mr Abbott told reporters in Sydney.
"I think the problem is that the Prime Minister is rattled by intimations of political mortality.
"I think he's shocked by the scale of his government's own ineptitude. I think that's what got him rattled."
The Idiots Guide to iGaming politics and What It Means To Punters In Practical Terms
Numerous gaming and igaming laws are confusing and often controdict each other. Even the USDOJ (United States Department of Justice) and the EU (European Union) can't agree on many aspects.
United States - some states of the U.S are more igaming and gaming friendly than others. There's been numerous poker and online poker cases in the courts over the years and often the judge throws the case out of court or the online poker players win. The Poker Players Alliance, Poker News Daily and iGaming Business - CAP have been doing a very solid job of covering the weekly saga of politics mixed with gambling, as have our friends at Gambling911.
Australians can play casino games and poker at PartyCasino, Noble Casino, PKR, PokerStars, BetUS. Aussies can't current play at Virgin Casino, nor can Americans.
Special "anti filter devices" are predicted to hit the American and Australian blackmarket (pubs and hotels et al) within months, and insiders say the Aussie "blacklist" and proposed internet filter was the undisputed catalyst for the development. "Demand is sky high and people will pay considerably for the convenience and benefits", said a reliable source who has chosen not to be identified.
Punters and gaming entrepreneurs, we recommend you get up to speed with the financial ins, outs and all round offerings from a bush tucker bag of online casinos, credit cards and the like. Little birdie tell us that VISA, American Express and many others will soon not touch anything online gambling related with 10 foot barge pole. Next thing online casino owners will have to hand deliver bags full of cash to their hard working affiliate partners!
Betfair Tax Breaks
The Tasmanian Government has offered tax breaks to keep the gambling agency Betfair in the state.
Labor has revealed that before it went into caretaker mode, it made an agreement with the company half-owned by James Packer.
The deal would see Betfair keep its call centre and 130 jobs in Hobart for the next 10 years.
The Premier, David Bartlett says the agreement will cost taxpayers about $2 million over the next two years, but he says the deal will save jobs, and quickly pay for itself.
"In the short-term, yes there will be a revenue decrease," he says.
"But that revenue decrease will be more than offset by 130 jobs on site, and increased transaction rates, over the life of the next five to 10 years."
The agreement will not be formally approved until parliament returns after the March 20 state election.
Australian Horse Racing
Racing Victoria chief steward Terry Bailey has dropped the bombshell that all 10 rides of Danny Nikolic remain under investigation.
While many thought the far-reaching investigation solely revolved around the charges brought on Friday, Bailey said stewards had not concluded their probe.
Bailey said stewards would this week focus on the charges against Nikolic and former bookmaker Neville Clements, which centre on their refusal to provide certain items to the investigation.
"We'll cross one bridge at a time," Bailey said.
"The investigation (into the 10 rides) is ongoing. Until such time as we get all the evidence ... then we will hand down some decisions."
As the investigation intensified, the fallout saw:
AUSTRALIAN Jockeys' Association reaffirm its opposition to betting exchanges.
NIKOLIC'S elder brother, John, relinquish his trainer's licence in Queensland.
VICTORIA'S first integrity commissioner, Sal Perna, who starts in his new job today, likely to be asked to inquire into several aspects of the investigation.
BAILEY decline to comment on any correlation between phone records and horses being laid to lose on Betfair.
AJA chairman Ross Inglis said the innuendo surrounding Nikolic and New South Wales jockey John Keating only strengthened the association's view that betting exchanges had no place in racing.
Inglis said even when a jockey was 100 per cent innocent, the implication of someone laying a horse the jockey rode remained.
"We were opposed from day one and we remain opposed," Inglis said.
He said the AJA was "very annoyed" that innuendo hovered over Nikolic concerning the 10-rides, given the exhaustive nature of the investigation.
John Nikolic , embroiled in a Queensland Racing inquiry, said attempts to link his brother to his probe had forced him to get out of the industry.
John Nikolic and Keating are involved in an inquiry into the run of beaten favourite Baby Bonus at Sunshine Coast in January.
"I'm pretty much over this crap," Nikolic said.
"I sold my stables the other day and I'll be sending a letter to Queensland Racing on Monday to let them know I'll be relinquishing my licence.
"I was just training as a hobby, racing a few horses with friends.
"When it's no longer enjoyable and I'm getting negative publicity and it's impacting on my family, it's time to get out."
It is believed Perna will be asked to look at all aspects of the Nikolic case, particularly how it found its way into the media.
Bailey said the investigation into Nikolic's rides would continue once Thursday's inquiry - which will be open to the media - concluded.
He said stewards were obliged to ask questions, regardless of who was involved, until they were satisfied they had all the answers.
Bailey declined to comment on whether any trainer was unhappy with any of the 10 Nikolic rides in question.
Nikolic faces a charge of refusing to give stewards his mobile phone and also leaving the area of the jockeys' room at Flemington to phone Clements on New Year's Day.
Clements, who is not a licensed person, must answer a charge of not providing stewards his " complete and original phone records" for a five-month period.
Magic Millions - Media, advertising and racing tycoon John Singleton has been in discussions with long time friend and associate, Gerry Harvey, as to whether Magic Millions should remain on the Gold Coast or to send the annual main even further south to Melbourne.
Problem Gamblers - Women More Than Men Become Problems
University of Queensland researcher Dr Timothy Lee says women now make up 64 per cent of the nation's poker machine users.
He says strategies to combat problem gambling should be tailored to include the habits of female gamblers.
"They tend to prefer some simple type of gambling and they are easily addicted," he said.
"They also have some tendency to hide their gambling activities and behaviour."
Erica Baxter in line for ARIA award
Casino King James Packer's wife Erica Baxter, along with actor Toni Collette and the late Belinda Emmett, are all in the running for an ARIA award nomination this year.
The three are among those eligible for nomination in the Best Female category. All three artists had full-length albums that were released in Australia in the past 12 months. Comon' Erica, go for the jackpot! John Singleton's most vocally talented daughter, Sally Bell has written a ripper song about race horses and her SONY BMG agreement is understood to be going fantastic. The Singleton's have been spotted at Sydney's Piano Bar on more than one occasion.
New South Wales Deaf Poker Championship
No, its not a bad joke. Poker has become extremely popular with the deaf.
Sokong Kim, founding member of Deaf Poker Australia, organised the first Australian Deaf Poker Championship in August, 2009, and he said the response was overwhelming.
“We attracted 88 players from across Australia in the first ever championship,” Mr Kim said.
“The atmosphere was excellent and the Australian Poker League was impressed.”
Mr Kim hopes for a similar response at the state championship. Players must have some form of hearing loss and understand Australian Sign Language (Auslan) to compete.
“We also welcome interpreters, workers, and all people with deaf family members,” Mr Kim said.
“The idea is to make it a charity event and gather together a range of people who make up the deaf community through poker.”
Players who progress to the final table will win a seat in the monthly regional Australian Poker League tournament.
The overall winner receives a seat at the Australian Poker League Pro Open and elects a deaf organisation to receive the proceeds.
For more information contact Burwood RSL or Deaf Poker Australia.
Media Man "Art Of War" Tactics And Wrestling - UFC - Casino connection
As discussion heats up in Australia and the U.S about further regulating the igaming and gaming industry, virtual land grabs (domain name purchases) and land development (website development) remains the order of the day. This week sees the Media Man group re launch Poker News Media, Virtual Worlds Media and Wrestling News Media. Wrestling you say? Yes, Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair both have major gaming and igaming deals, and Kevin Nash (once known as Vinnie Vegas) also has gaming on his official website. Flair's still pushing for his NC Education deal to be expanded across America... Wooooo! Historically its been proved that there is considerable cross over audience between wrestling and casinos. Pity fans can't bet on matches (since the "winner" is predetermined... some might argue the odd horse race and boxing match is also). Over a decade ago World Wrestling Entertainment actually purchased a casino in Vegas, but went on later sell it for a profit (cop that Donald Trump). UFC also enjoys a strong association in the casino sector with Frank and Lorenzo Fertitta owning the Station Casinos operation, based in Summerlin, Nevada. In addition, the UFC is one of the most popular sports in the world for taking sports bets. Closer to home, North Sydney's NextGen Gaming is rumored to be working on an Andre The Giant online slot game. If anyone can topple Party's and Virgin's King Kong slot it would be Andre.
Financial Markets
CWN - CROWN LIMITED $8.0200
TAH - TABCORP HOLDINGS LIMITED $6.8300
CIL - CENTREBET INTERNATIONAL LIMITED $1.4600
Australians Remain In World's Top Ten Gambling Nations
Australians spend about $18 billion a year on gambling, and almost a third of that flows to state revenue. The United States is understood to be the current leading spenders on gambling and in recent years China via the Macau connection have been raking it in. No doubt Australia's James Packer wouldn't mind to make the Guinness World Records List for most profitable casino group with his Crown-Melco City Of Dreams Macau.
The late news... City Of Dreams is not interested in selling to Harrah's Entertainment (or anyone else) for the foreseeable future.
Till next time, keep it fun, stay legal, and bet with your head, not over it. Still time to decide it you want your coffee and internet filtered or non-filtered. Make your vote count! Aussie Election possible within 6 months. Aussie Aussie Aussie, Oi Oi, Oi.
*The writer is a special contributor for Gambling911
*Media Man is primarily a media, publicity and internet portal development company
*The writer owns shares in Crown Casino
Website Network
Media Man International
Media Man
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Casino News Media
Casino News Media.net
Global Gaming Directory
Global Gaming Directory.net
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
WWE's "The Undertaker" Gets Burned by Pyrotechnics, by Greg Tingle
WWE's "The Undertaker" Gets Burned by Pyrotechnics; Bad timing for WWE, by Greg Tingle
St. Louis, MO - According to the Associated Press, a pyrotechnics mishap is to blame for burning professional wrestler The Undertaker during a Sunday performance in St. Louis.
Officials say pro wrestler Mark William Calaway only suffered minor burns to his chest and escaped serious injury. Fire officials in St. Louis continue to investigate the incident.
According to World Wrestling Entertainment spokesman Robert Zimmerman, The Undertaker continued to wrestle Sunday night and still appeared during a Monday performance of WWE's Raw.
Calaway usually enters the wrestling ring as fireballs explode, but a timing mistake caused the wrestler's jacket to catch fire. The Undertaker threw down the jacket and title belt before he was treated by a ringside physician.
Doctors say that the wrestler's chest was red and appeared to be about as serious as a sunburn. According to WWE officials, the pyrotechnics overseen by a third party that is contracted with the wrestling group.
The majority of wrestling insiders, fans and media analysts believe that this latest WWE incident it likely to have some negative impact on former WWE CEO Linda McMahon's political campaign.
Media Man hopes this is a further wake up call for the WWE and the professional wresting industry in general. Minds go back to when Owen Hart died at a WWE PPV whilst performing a stunt on the way to the ring, rather than a basic professional wrestling move. As pro wrestling living legends such as Bret "Hitman" Hart and Mick "Cactus Jack" Foley has gone on record with, "Pro wrestling is more real than you think". That may be so, however does the WWE need so many "highspots" like pyro if it adds what could be seen as unacceptable risk to the performers, and potentially, fans? Roddy Piper, who currently appears for the WWE from time to time, along with Hulk Hogan (TNA Wrestling) have been campaigning for extra health benefits for professional wrestlers.
Perhaps something good may come from the latest WWE (real life) accident to The Undertaker.
The Undertaker is widely regarded as a living legend of the professional wrestling industry and has been contemplating retirement in recent years. He has been scripted into WWE WrestleMania storylines in recent weeks and it is unknown as this time if today's incident will effect the WrestleMania line up or angles.
Rest in peace, although we're not certain all WWE top brass will tonight.
*The writer has a b2b agreement (website b2b) with World Wrestling Entertainment, as they do with dozens of companies in the media, new media and entertainment sector.
Website Network
Media Man
Media Man International
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Sports Entertainment News
Australian Sports Entertainment
Wrestling News Media
St. Louis, MO - According to the Associated Press, a pyrotechnics mishap is to blame for burning professional wrestler The Undertaker during a Sunday performance in St. Louis.
Officials say pro wrestler Mark William Calaway only suffered minor burns to his chest and escaped serious injury. Fire officials in St. Louis continue to investigate the incident.
According to World Wrestling Entertainment spokesman Robert Zimmerman, The Undertaker continued to wrestle Sunday night and still appeared during a Monday performance of WWE's Raw.
Calaway usually enters the wrestling ring as fireballs explode, but a timing mistake caused the wrestler's jacket to catch fire. The Undertaker threw down the jacket and title belt before he was treated by a ringside physician.
Doctors say that the wrestler's chest was red and appeared to be about as serious as a sunburn. According to WWE officials, the pyrotechnics overseen by a third party that is contracted with the wrestling group.
The majority of wrestling insiders, fans and media analysts believe that this latest WWE incident it likely to have some negative impact on former WWE CEO Linda McMahon's political campaign.
Media Man hopes this is a further wake up call for the WWE and the professional wresting industry in general. Minds go back to when Owen Hart died at a WWE PPV whilst performing a stunt on the way to the ring, rather than a basic professional wrestling move. As pro wrestling living legends such as Bret "Hitman" Hart and Mick "Cactus Jack" Foley has gone on record with, "Pro wrestling is more real than you think". That may be so, however does the WWE need so many "highspots" like pyro if it adds what could be seen as unacceptable risk to the performers, and potentially, fans? Roddy Piper, who currently appears for the WWE from time to time, along with Hulk Hogan (TNA Wrestling) have been campaigning for extra health benefits for professional wrestlers.
Perhaps something good may come from the latest WWE (real life) accident to The Undertaker.
The Undertaker is widely regarded as a living legend of the professional wrestling industry and has been contemplating retirement in recent years. He has been scripted into WWE WrestleMania storylines in recent weeks and it is unknown as this time if today's incident will effect the WrestleMania line up or angles.
Rest in peace, although we're not certain all WWE top brass will tonight.
*The writer has a b2b agreement (website b2b) with World Wrestling Entertainment, as they do with dozens of companies in the media, new media and entertainment sector.
Website Network
Media Man
Media Man International
Media Man Australia
Media Man Asia
Sports Entertainment News
Australian Sports Entertainment
Wrestling News Media
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Monday, February 15, 2010
Australian Sports Entertainment
Australian Sports Entertainment is a website portal offering Australian and international sports, entertainment, games and more.
Australian Sports Entertainment is part of the Media Man group of companies.
The Australian Sports Entertainments network of websites includes:
Australian Sports Entertainment
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