They’re gambling with people’s lives

Clubs NSW, the peak body for the operators of about 95,000 poker machines across the state, pledges in its mission statement ‘‘to support the communities served by its 1200 member clubs’’. So it is reasonable to ask the lobby group to explain how Dee Why RSL, one of its larger members, was supporting its community in the lead-up to the suicide death of Gary Van Duinen last month.

Van Duinen, a builder and father, took his own life after losing hundreds of thousands of dollars and bingeing for one 13-hour stint playing poker machines at the Northern beaches venue. The club let Van Duinen keep betting despite desperate and repeated warnings from his wife that his gambling addiction was driving him into irretrievable debt. In fact, far from helping him manage his problem, Dee Why RSL signed him up for its ‘‘ambassador’s programme’’ where his gambling losses earnt him points that entitled him to perks.

The Herald believes that clubs must examine their consciences and ask how they can help prevent similar cases. While clubs should do more, the proliferation and lax regulation of poker machines is a key factor that exacerbates the risks of gambling addiction.

The Liberal Party is poised once again to sign a pre-election memo of understanding with Clubs NSW giving a unique promise of ‘‘no change’’ in policy if it is re-elected. The ALP will only applaud. Van Duinen’s tragic death should give them pause.