More pokies on the cards

BERWICK Zagame’s could soon be home to 10 more pokies machines.
Casey council recently undertook a community consultation on the Berwick Springs Hotel pokies proposal in which Zagame’s applied with the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation (VCGLR) for the installation of 10 more electronic gaming machines.
It’s understood the council now has until 20 April to lodge a formal objection to the proposal.
The VCGLR then has 60 days in which to make a decision on the application, although it has said that it would first conduct a public hearing at which the council would be able to appear and present its submission.
City of Casey manager of planning Duncan Turner said the application by Zagame’s states that the additional machines will allow the venue to meet the expected increase in patron numbers and the higher demand for gaming after extensive renovations.
He said Zagame’s has also indicated that the new machines will allow for additional cash donations per annum to local community groups while also providing additional employment opportunities.