URGENT UPDATE: A North East community health service has intensified its opposition to a controversial proposal for poker machines at a Wodonga pub. Gateway Health has submitted a strong objection against Huon Hill Club Ltd’s revised application for 70 poker machines, which was refiled on July 9, 2023, after an earlier proposal for 75 machines was withdrawn.
This development is critical as the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) has restarted the community feedback process, prompting new public submissions. A VGCCC spokesperson confirmed, “The VGCCC is continuing to assess the details of the application. The date will be published on the VGCCC website once details have been confirmed.”
Gateway Health’s chief executive, Trent Dean, expressed his concern, stating that the withdrawal of the initial application was “a win for our community.” However, he acknowledged the new application poses ongoing risks. “Gateway Health does not support the Huon Hill Club’s application, whether it was 75 or 70 machines,” Dean emphasized. “Our objection is strong, and we see the impacts in our community because of gambling.”
Dean described poker machines as “a vampire in a cave feeding on the vulnerable,” arguing that they exploit those facing loneliness, financial struggles, or mental health challenges. “It’s not harmless entertainment. These machines are scientifically designed to be addictive,” he said, underlining the profound social costs associated with gambling.
Statistics reveal the severity of the issue: the 2022-23 Alliance for Gambling Reform report estimates that gambling harm has cost Victorians approximately $14.1 billion, a staggering increase from around $7 billion in 2014-15. In Wodonga, the density of gaming machines stands alarmingly high, with 14.7 machines per 1,000 adults, significantly above the Victorian average of 4.7.
Recent data from a 2023 Wodonga Council survey shows that 79% of respondents strongly oppose an increase in poker machines, and 57% support more family-friendly venues without them. Out of 40 submissions made to the council, 38 opposed the initial application, highlighting widespread community concern.
This pushback has also reached local governance. Wodonga Councillors voted on June 23 to submit an objection against the poker machine application. The vote was tightly contested at 3-3 but passed due to a casting vote from Deputy Mayor Michelle Cowan.
With the public hearing date yet to be confirmed, the community is urged to prepare for further engagement. Once the VGCCC finalizes details, residents will have the chance to submit their views directly.
Dean reiterated that there are more beneficial ways to enhance community welfare. “We can create jobs and social connections through sports, the arts, and hospitality—not through machines that drain the funds of the most vulnerable,” he said.
The stakes are high as this application could reshape the gambling landscape in Wodonga, making it essential for community voices to be heard now more than ever. As the situation develops, residents are encouraged to stay informed and involved in the upcoming discussions.
