CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes has secured NSW Government funding to conduct a series of positive workshops and events to raise awareness of and tackle problem gambling as poker machine revenue is predicted to soar to $9 billion a year by 2029 in NSW.
These free events will be held in Dubbo, Broken Hill, Cobar and Bourke from Monday, September 23 to Friday, September 27 to support Responsible Gambling Week. The funding has been made available by the NSW Government Office of Responsible Gambling – an initiative to encourage local communities to learn more about responsible gambling and to start meaningful conversations with those around them.
According to statistics from Liquor and Gaming NSW, almost $38 million was lost on poker machines in the Dubbo Regional Council Area alone last year. This figure increasing from 2017 despite being less poker machines in the region. In Broken Hill gaming machines have generated $14 million in profit.
“We are facing a social disaster if these trends continue to grow as predicted and so CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes is hosting a series of community events to help people change focus, reengage in the community and with their families,” Financial Counselling and Capability Team Leader, Louise Cormie said.
“These workshops and community barbecue are all about families. We hope to raise awareness in a positive and empowering way to and help people open up to some healthier life choices, physically and financially,” Mrs Cormie added.
“We are encouraging everyone to #checkin on their own gambling or with friends and family to identify risks, safety tips and healthy alternatives.
We have some really exciting giveaways including a fitbit, monthly swim pass, phone accessories and butcher’s vouchers.
“We hope everyone can join us,” Mrs Cormie added.