More than $100 million has been gambled on the pokies in Logan so far this year, according to the latest government data.
The statistics have influenced the launch of an awareness campaign to help residents break their gambling habit, with the help of Queensland Cricket.
The new campaign to raise awareness about the risks of gambling kicked off at Fitzy’s Loganholme last week, with Brisbane Heat players there to help spread the message.
Approximately 70 per cent of adult Queenslander’s gamble and last year almost $6 billion was spent on the pokies, keno and lottery, casinos and online wagering.
Data shows almost $20 million was spent in Logan last December on gaming machines alone.
In June this year, over $18 million was spent on pokies in Logan across 2000 machines.
The new campaign will aim to raise awareness of the risks associated with gambling, specifically betting amongst young people and families, and the free support available to them.
During the campaign, Brisbane Heat players will send out the reminder that “a bet is not necessary to enjoy a game”.
The team will encourage parents to speak with their kids about the dangers of sports betting and wagering.
Local MP Shannon Fentiman, who was present at the campaign launch, said she was excited to help with the initiative.
“We know young people look up to their sporting heroes and perhaps if they hear from some of Queensland’s top cricketers about the harms of what seems like a harmless bet, then that could go a long way,” Ms Fentiman said.
“There is no doubt that gambling is a complex social issue that not only impacts the gambler themselves, but their family, workplace and the wider community too.
“… events like today’s have never been so important for sending the message that we don’t need to place a bet to enjoy the game.”
Government data suggests Australians aged 18-34 were most often increasing their bets in response to advertising on TV or online.
Queensland Cricket’s general manager of sales and partnerships, and former Australian cricketer Adam Dale, said Brisbane Heat was looking “forward to spreading the message about responsible sports betting”.
“With so many families making Heat matches an integral part of their summer, we believe this partnership can enhance the conversation around gambling,” Mr Dale said.
“It is important that we utilise the club’s profile to assist with educating fans about making sensible decisions around sports betting, when they attend Heat games at the Gabba, Allan Border Field and Great Barrier Reef Arena this summer.”
