By VANESSA CHIRCOP
MORE than $35 million has been gambled in Hobsons Bay since July last year – a rise of almost $1 million from the previous financial year.
In February alone, punters dropped $4.08 million in Hobsons Bay’s poker machines, more than $300,000 than in February last year.
While Electronic Gaming Machines (EGM) are not as big a concern in Hobsons Bay than in other larger municipalities, like Brimbank – the figures are on the rise.
Brimbank saw more than $97 million lost in their gaming machines in just seven months.
The average adult resident in Hobsons Bay spent $747 on pokies machines in the 2010-2011 financial year.
Hobsons Bay has 579 electronic gaming machines across 10 venues, with the most popular venue being the Millers Inn Hotel in Altona North.
The venue, which houses 70 pokies machines, has already raked more than $7.4 million between July and December last year.
Altona Sports Club in Seaholme is home to the highest number of EGM in the municipality.
Between July and December last year, the 83 machines earned the club more than $2 million in revenue.
If you or someone you know has a gambling has a problem with gambling you can call Gamblers Help 1800 858 858.
