MP and clubs in pokies fight

JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
PROPOSED spending limits on pokies players will cost the community hundreds of thousands of dollars in support, according to local not-for-profit sports clubs.
Buckley’s chief executive officer Michael Tonks said the proposed laws would “crucify” his club and its $300,000 return to sport leagues.
Clubs Australia this week distributed to residents in the federal seat of Corangamite a four-page leaflet opposing the proposed limits on gamblers’ spending, drawing an immediate response from Labor MP Darren Cheeseman.
“This is a totally disgraceful and deceitful campaign coming from big gambling operators who every day grow wealthier off the misery of problem gamblers and their families,” he said.
“In fact, our region has been the most successful region right across Australia in winning funding for sporting clubs.”
Mr Tonks said Buckley’s recently distributed 38 life-saving defibrillator machines worth $100,000 to sports clubs across the region.
“Almost all our profits go back into the community and they could be halved or more depending on the reduction in revenue if these laws come in.
Mr Tonks said Buckley’s had 14,800 members across the state.
“I’ve never met Mr Cheeseman but I’d be happy to explain to him what our club is all about,” he said.
“We don’t want to make money out of problem gamblers. It needs to be addressed but mandatory pre-commitment is not it.”
Leopold Sportsman’s Club manager Ray McPhee said his venue “heavily supported” sport clubs and schools.
“We do an audited report every year showing what activities and support has been provided to the community. Our community benefit statement shows that we provide more than $10,000 to the community.”
Mr McPhee said he supported Clubs Australia position.
Mr Cheeseman said 10 new or upgraded sports facilities had opened in the past four years, with none closing or threatened with closure.
“My record speaks for itself, as does that of the big gambling companies who have been dragged kicking and screaming to every gambling reform.