Ten more poker machines could soon be coming to Hoppers Crossing under a Werribee Football Club plan to boost electronic gaming machine (EGM) numbers at The Tigers Clubhouse.
The club has lodged an application with the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation (VCGLR) to increase its number of poker machines at the Old Geelong Road venue from 75 to 85.
In his submission to the VCGLR, Werribee Tigers chief executive Mark Penaluna said based on the club’s current cash flow, its financial contribution to the Chirnside Park redevelopment and loss of alignment with the North Melbourne Football Club, revenue generated by the additional 10 poker machines would help to ensure the continued viability of the club.
A hearing date for the application is set for March 23. A spokeswoman for the VCGLR said one objection had been received to date.
Wyndham City Gambling Reference Advocacy Group chair Josh Gilligan said the council would submit a social and impact assessment with the VCGLR.
“We are still considering our position on this matter,” Cr Gilligan said.
“Council is supportive of sporting clubs who recognise that gambling can cause significant harm to our community members.
“We are supportive of any club that may want to transition away from EGMs and would welcome any club or hotel to speak to us about their intent so we can provide assistance where possible.”
Cr Gilligan said the council was developing an updated strategy for poker machines and other forms of gambling.
“The updated document recognises the harm that EGMs cause to individuals and to the people around them. This includes financial, emotional and social harms.
“Part of the focus of the strategy will be to support clubs and hotels to transition away from a reliance on pokies revenue.”
