LNP rules out new pokies on its watch

THE LNP has ruled out supporting new poker machines for a second Gold Coast casino, adding to a wave of opposition from residents and clubs to the global tourism hub (GTH).

The Star Entertainment Group yesterday demanded the State Government rule out any extra pokies and require a successful operator to source the machines from unactivated licences on the Glitter Strip.

Tourism Minister Kate Jones has declined to enter the debate as the government moves ahead, working on a plan of public consultation and going to the market for expressions of interest.

Tourism insiders suggest The Star, which wants to protect its Broadbeach attraction, intends to ramp up its campaign against Labor’s plan to explore a second licence. Residents living near Southport’s Carey Park, thought to be one

of the top three sites, are planning another rally.

Opposition leader Deb Frecklington yesterday backed her Coast MPs who have supported residents, calling on the government to reveal the 11 sites being considered.

“If elected, the LNP will rule out any new pokies on the Gold Coast,” Ms Frecklington told the Bulletin. “Labor need to start being upfront and immediately release the secret list of 11 sites that are being considered for their Gold Coast global tourism hub.”

Ms Frecklington accused Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk of “raffling off the Coast to the highest bidder without public consultation”.

“The Palaszczuk Labor Government’s refusal to consult the public about the secret list of casino sites is out of touch and unacceptable.”

Businessmen furious about the opposition to the GTH have attempted to allay fears by explaining that only 30 per cent of the integrated resort would be a gaming area.

Talks between potential proponents and bureaucrats have focused on the GTH developing a world-class entertainment precinct.

A Star Entertainment Group spokesman told the Bulletin: “We are concerned too about claims that the government, or its representatives, have been making private soundings to potential operators since June last year.

“This surely cannot be true because The Star has been told repeatedly that no process has started and the parameters for a process have not been announced.”

BULLETIN VIEW, P16