Briefs

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Pandemic halts Pokies

COVID-19 restrictions closing pokies from March 23 to November 9 prevented $7.7 million of gambling losses in Geelong, according to Alliance for Gambling Reform.

The alliance’s chief advocate Tim Costello welcomed the COVID-19 silver lining, along with Geelong Cats selling their last remaining pokies venue this week.

Hospital support

Geelong Royal Children’s Hospital Auxiliary will run a pop-up shop from 10am to 4pm in the Belmont Arcade for two weeks beginning next Monday.

The auxiliary will also host a Christmas stall at Bellevue Avenue, Highton Village, beginning December 17 to raise money for the Royal Children’s Hospital.