Gold Coast casino row: Mayor Tate says yes, Hot Tomato boss says no
A BIGSHOT businessman is rallying against a second Gold Coast casino, arguing one “strong, viable” operation beats two struggling ones.
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A BIGSHOT businessman is rallying against a second Gold Coast casino, arguing one “strong, viable” operation beats two struggling ones.
But Mayor Tom Tate is backing a new integrated resort as debate heats up about a second casino licence available to anchor such a project.
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Developer and 1029 Hot Tomato radio station owner Hans Torv said: “I don’t think we need a second casino, but if we are, I hope it doesn’t peel away profits from the existing.
“One strong, viable operation beats two that might struggle,” Mr Torv said.
Mr Torv, whose station partners with The Star on community, sporting and charity events, added: “Star is a standout operator, the investment they have made here over the years is impressive. Plus they commit quite heavily to the community.”
WHERE THE NEW CASINO WILL BE BUILT
State Government is courting resort proponents under its Global Tourism Hubs process, with Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones to soon visit Las Vegas operators such as global giant Caesars.
Asked for his view on a second casino, Cr Tate said: “I support a second Integrated Resort Development. It’s important to understand this is not purely about a casino.
STATE GOVERNMENT AND COUNCIL SUPPORT SECOND CASINO BID
“The worldwide trend is for IRDs to focus a lot on the entertainment, as well as the culinary experiences. The casino aspect is almost secondary.”
He urged State Government to lead a worldwide Expression of Interest for what it wanted and let the market bid.
“IRDs today include theatres large enough to stage music stars, restaurants, family shows, five-six star accommodation and links to world-class malls. That’s what I want.”
This week, Star CEO Matt Bekier vowed it would seek no more pokies on top of its existing 1651 for its proposed $2 billion future masterplan in Broadbeach which envisages seven towers total at the site.
STAR GOLD COAST SECOND CASINO VOW ‘NO MORE POKIES’
Ms Jones said Government had yet to decide on timing for a Gold Coast hub: “I’m mindful of the fact 200 additional poker machines were injected along with 25 tables in 2012.”
Labor extended Star gaming in exchange for site investment but a Star spokesman said that 2012 increase was not tied to its new $2 billion vision with five more towers proposed.
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