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\u201cWe are in desperate need of a function room and additional dining space during busy times. If this application is approved, we will commit to the construction of a roof top deck at an estimated cost of $2 million.<\/p>\n
\u201cGeelong (including South Geelong) is experiencing massive growth with the establishment of new areas including Armstrong Creek. We believe by expanding our offering we will also be catering to demand for additional entertainment facilities in the area.\u201d<\/p>\n
Council deputy Mayor Trent Sullivan disagrees, stating that nearly 1,400 pokie machines across Greater Geelong and Queenscliff provide \u201cample opportunity for the community to take part in gambling if they wish, without the need to increase EGM numbers\u201d.<\/p>\n
\u201cCouncil\u2019s focused on providing a safe and healthy environment for our residents by preventing and reducing harm from gambling,\u201d Cr Sullivan said.<\/p>\n
A budget allocation of up to $30,000 for legal counsel to represent the city\u2019s case at the hearing is also being considered by council, dependent on the findings of the impact assessment that are due for submission to the VGCCC by Tuesday, February 22.<\/p>\n
Council has objected to the last four pokie machine applications by local businesses and clubs, in keeping with its Electronic Gaming Policy adopted in 2017, a key objective of which is to reduce the negative impacts of problem gambling resulting from Electronic Gaming Machines.<\/p>\n
More than $89 million was lost on pokies in the Greater Geelong region in 2019\/20, ranking the region as Victoria\u2019s fourth highest regional spend on EGMs, a \u201cstaggering\u201d amount said councillor Sarah Mansfield, chair of the Community Health and Aged Care portfolio.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere are members of our community whose health, relationships and finances are seriously impacted by problem pokies use and the ripple effects are devastating,\u201d Cr Mansfield said.<\/p>\n
The city is seeking public feedback on the application via <b>https:\/\/yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au\/valley-inn-EGM-Application<\/b>.<\/p>\n
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THE City of Geelong will oppose a bid by owners of the Valley Inn Hotel in South Geelong to increase the venue\u2019s number of pokie machines from 29 to 39, due to concerns about the impact on the community. Council has informed the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) of its position, which will […]<\/p>\n