Chaney opposes gambling den (27 Jan 2024)

Curtin MP Kate Chaney says she is "deeply concerned" about plans to install self-service betting machines at Floreat Forum's new pub.

Sports pub chain The Sporting Globe has bought The Park Floreat pub, which was previously known as The Boulevard Hotel. The Sporting Globe's new franchisee, former Olympic hockey player Tim Deavin, has planned a renovation that would include two TAB terminals. Ms Chaney, an anti-gambling campaigner whose office is 150m from the pub, said she would lodge an objection with Cambridge council.

"Australians already have a gambling problem losing $7million a day to online gaming," she said. "This venue isn't a traditional pub. "It's located in a shopping centre precinct, with alfresco dining, a children's playground nearby, and a kids' selection on its menu. "This venue clearly wants to attract the whole family, so electronic betting machines would be inappropriate, further normalising sports betting for kids by making it part of a family dining experience."

The pub would be open from 6am to midnight Monday to Saturday, according to the application, and 10am to midnight on Sundays. The plans are being advertised for public feedback until this Wednesday, January 31. Cambridge council will rule on the renovation plans, but The Sporting Globe will also need a separate approval from the department of racing, gaming and liquor to operate the TAB machines.

Cambridge councillors and the department last year approved the installation of self-serve TAB machines at the Wembley Hotel's planned sports bar extension.

Source: Subiaco Post, 27 January 2024

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