It is interesting to think back to that time several decades ago when New South Wales was the only Australian state that permitted poker machines.
Border cities like Albury/Wodonga experienced convoys of buses bringing Victiorians for a " flutter " on the machines. In Sydney, St Georges Leagues club was the place locals took visitors to be amazed at the splendour.
The club era at it's height provided luxury that was beyond imagination for those from other states. Meals were heavily subsidized and the level of entertainment rivalled the great cities of the world - and all for a few dollars and often for no charge at all.
This was funded by the profits from poker machines. The churches and the anti-gambling establishnment railed and protested, but squandering a few dollars in the hope of a big win made people happy, and the clubs returned that money by sponsoring sporting teams - and importantly - bank rolling much of the social infrastructure that was the glue holding society together.
Then government greed began to destroy that source of profit. Poker machine taxes became confiscatory under the Bob Carr regime, followed by anti-smoking legislation that further reduced patronage.
Now the results are evident. The plethora of " little clubs " that used to be part of the suburban landscape - bowling clubs and social clubs - is withering and fast dieing. Some are making desperate efforts to keep their heads above water by merging, but the numbers are dwindling - and few can report even a break-even balance sheet.
The days of the big clubs are shortening. The mighty St Geoges Leagues club in Sydney is a mere shadow of it's former glory - and here in Wollongong Fraternity club looks to be close to closing it's doors.
The latest bad news is that Corrimal Leagues club is now in administration.
A few may survive, but because of government greed - and the recession fast changing the landscape - the days of a great meal at a very cheap price - followed by world class entertainment - is over !
Many will remember this past era as " the good old days ". Could it's passing have something to do with the vicious street fighting and gang brawling that is emerging as the new form of entertainment ?
That is a question future historians will ponder !
I have waited a long time to hear that this social evil is coming to an end. Think about all the family's that have had to endure financial stress (grandmothers, grandfathers, mothers and fathers, children and babies). The poker machine tax was needed to pay for humanitarian services to the affected people. A baby can not fight an adult's addiction. Addicted people need help to quit the cycle. Social clubs that have spent their profits on monuments of grandeur is way out of balance with most families that just want to live in happy healthy communities. One wonders how much money has gone to the community, the proof of this is in the club houses and what they offer inside.
ReplyDeleteOveruse of alcohol, gambling and smoking are not healthy. Whilst the majority of people enjoy these pursuits responsibly, Clubs still exploit the not so healthy for their monuments.