A Singapore high roller took skipping payment to a whole new level last year, leaving The Gold Coast Star without paying a $43 million gambling debt.
Star Entertainment might not be interested in a second casino on the Gold Coast, but the gambling operator is one of three firms in the running for a proposed development in Cairns.
Tourism Minister Kate Jones has announced that the Queensland government is ready to press ahead with plans for a second casino on the Gold Coast.
Coles has sold off its hotels and poker machines but will continue to run bottle shops in Queensland as part of a joint venture with Australian Venue Co.
Although Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk refuses to commit to a total ban on pokies, she would like to see fewer gaming machines in clubs and pubs.
Despite significant local opposition, the Queensland government is pressing on with plans for a second casino on the Gold Coast.
Southport MP Rob Molhoek has warned that a new casino resort in Carey Park could further isolate Surfers Paradise from the rest of the Gold Coast.
According to local media, the Queensland government has identified Carey Park as the ideal location for a proposed casino resort in Southport.
Club officials say many of the QLD’s struggling gaming venues may be tempted to cash out the pokies trade if a second Gold Coast casino is approved.