Wrest Point Casino History
Posted : admin On 4/11/2022- Wrest Point Casino
Located on the Hobart waterfront in Tasmania the Wrest Point Casino has everything and anything you may want in a gaming complex. Table games, electronic gaming, and poker are all offered. Plus, there’s a fine range of choices regarding accommodations, restaurants, bars, and entertainment. For more than 40 years, Wrest Point has been providing quality gaming experiences to its visitors.
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Our History Wrest Point Tasmania has a proud place in the history of Tasmania’s tourism landscape. The Hobart casino has ties dating back to the dawn of Australia’s hotel industry with this family-owned company representing the country’s oldest continually operating hotel group.
- The Wrest Point Hotel Casino is located at 410 Sandy Bay Road in he Hobart suburb of Sandy Bay, Tasmania. Wrest Point became Australia's first legal casino when it opened on 10 February 1973. Wrest Point became Australia's first legal casino when it opened on 10 February 1973.
- History of Casino. The Wrest Point Hotel was long established by the time The Federal Group were applying for the country’s first casino license. In 1973, the new buildings residing on this beautiful piece of Tasmanian land were re-named Wrest Point Hotel Casino.
- Australia's first legal casino, Hobart's Wrest Point, has been listed on the Heritage Register by the Tasmanian Heritage Council. Opened in February 1973, Wrest Point was described by the council.
- TVT-6 (now WIN Television news story on the Opening of Wrest Point Hotel Casino in February 1973. Reporter is Trevor Sutten. Also featured is a story on the lowering of the legal drinking-age.
- Welcoming atmosphere
- Standard and unique table games
- Rapid Roulette a big favourite
- Slots start at 100 bets per dollar
- Progressive jackpots
- Poker from Wednesday through Saturday
- Point Revolving Restaurant- fine dining at 17 stories
- Fantastic Federal Rewards Club benefits
Operating since 1973, an obvious part of Hobart’s history, this casino at Wrest Point and has a wonderful boutique feel to it. While creating an almost intimate affair, there is excitement everywhere within the casino. Aside from the exceptionally comfortable gaming, you can enjoy a wonderful buffet or dinner with a view at their revolving restaurant.
Pulse-Racing Gambling
Starting every day from 2pm, up until very late hours of the day, players have the opportunity to enjoy various table games, pokies, and cash poker. Table games are hosted at any one of the 25 tables meant for traditional games including two of the biggest favourites, Roulette and Blackjack. For those unfamiliar with table gaming, an exceedingly helpful staff member can assist, if asked. Plus, you can try your hand at Federal Baccarat and the Money Wheel. Considered the most easy-going game at Wrest Point, Money Wheel requires a mere $2.50 minimum stake.
You can also try Federal Pontoon, a variation of conventional Blackjack which provides a better opportunity to pocket bonus payouts and win big. Rapid Roulette combines the excitement created by the infamous spinning wheel and dropped ball with the fast play of an electronic game. Each player uses their own gaming screen to place their bets and spin the wheel. Become a big winner instantly! Table game minimums at Wrest Point start at $10.00, although higher stakes are welcome at the VIP Gaming Room.
State-Of-the-Art Pokies
If you are into electronic gaming, then you won’t be disappointed by the collection and selection of pokies and other machines that you’ll find at Wrest Point. More than 800 high-tech gaming machines are setup in colourful rows upon rows. Minimums start at $1.00 per 100 bets (one-cent per wager). Fortunately, the casino provides two separate areas dedicated to pokies, so there’s always a seat available for your favourite title.
Included are various linked machines, offering progressive jackpots that can grow quickly and payout big. These jackpots have been known to reach up to tens of thousands in dollars. Being devoted to its regular customers, the casino continues to offer some superb promotions which are worth checking out. The Federal Rewards Club promises plenty of benefits, discounts and exclusive special offers.
King of Cards – Poker
Also on-hand, you’ll discover a busy poker room where Texas Hold’em reigns supreme. Prepare to play against some interesting competition, and put your best hand forward. At Wrest Point, poker is played on a commission basis where a 10% flat rate is charged for pots that are $20 or more. For any pots that are lower than $20, you will not be charged a commission. Luckily, they cap their commission at $10 per pot and players are not charged a time fee or charges for seating. There’s no reason to avoid such a great deal.
The poker room opens in the early evening with cash games available from Wednesday through Saturday. At select times throughout the year, tournaments are offered. Some of Wrest Point’s major tournaments have quite a following, such as the “Tasmanian 3 Diamond” events that partner with 888 Poker League and APL. Similarly, the “Wrest Point Poker Championship” is considered their signature event. All tournaments follow a comparable format that includes two elimination Flights held on Friday and Saturday and then the Finals, which are held on Sunday.
This casino at Wrest Point has a wonderful boutique feel to it. There’s excitement everywhere, as players have the opportunity to enjoy various table games, pokies, and cash poker.
Dining and Entertainment
Wrest Point Casino History Website
The Wrest Point Casino gives patrons a full range of dining options. The Point Revolving Restaurant, which is situated 17 stories above the River Derwent, offers patrons stunning panoramic views as well as quality cuisine made from some of the freshest and finest ingredients. The dress code is Smart Casual.
Other dining choices include Pier One Restaurant and Bar, providing visitors with a waterside dining experience; the Buffet and Coffee Shop, which gives patrons a wide range of choices; and the Lost Bistro, featuring cocktails, beer, and wine as well as quality snacks. Finally, if you’re on the go, then Riverview Snacks is the perfect quick-stop choice.
If you’re interested in entertainment, Wrest Point won’t disappoint. Upcoming concerts include various tribute shows focusing on Elvis, ABBA, Johnny Cash, and The Bee Gees. In addition, the Wrest Point stage welcomes rock legends, comedians, and orchestras, as well as other events and acts. There are also plenty of free concerts through the month.
Tasteful Accommodations
Whether you decide to stay at the Motor Inn or in the Tower Premier Suite, you’ll find that your hotel accommodations at Wrest Point are some of the best around.
All rooms include:
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Tasmanian timber furniture
- Double & Single beds
- Shower, hairdryer & bathroom amenities
- Tea & coffee
- Mini-bar
- Flatscreen TVs with Foxtel channels & in-house TV channels
- In-room safe
- Complimentary local morning newspaper
- Complimentary car parking
Plus, many rooms offer wonderful views of the water or Mount Wellington. You may want to book a room in the Tower with a harbour view or one right along the water’s edge. Both carry a special ambience as they connect you with the ever-thriving surrounding waterway.
You’ll also find the following features, amenities, or services available:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Union Pay Point
- Collectables Gift Shop
- Health Club
- Pool
- Mini Golf
- Tennis
- Body & Skin Care Centre - Soulful Infusions Hairdresser
- Accessible and Less-able rooms
- Loyalty Program and Promotions
- Room Service
- Valet Care Parking
Loyalty Program and Promotions
Anytime you spend money on a casino game, dine at one of Wrest Point Casino’s restaurants, or book a room at the hotel, you’ll be awarded loyalty points. Accumulate points at Wrest Point or at the sister casino, the Country Club Casino in Launceston, Tasmania, and you’ll be on your way to securing free dining, hotel rooms, or merchandize.
It costs nothing to become a member of the Federal Rewards Club and joining offers numerous benefits and rewards. As a member, you’ll qualify for free draws, enjoy complimentary entertainment or food, and be able to participate in exciting events. Special offers are listed on the casino’s Gold Centre. To join, simply go to the member’s desk with proof of your identity and age (you must be 18 years or older).
Contact Details
Wrest Point Casino
410 Sandy Bay Rd.
Sandy Bay
Tasmania 7005
Australia
Phone: 03 6221 1700
Website: wrestpoint.com.au
- Pokies, Poker, Keno and a VIP Gaming Area
- Federal Rewards Club
- Comprehensive Loyalty Programs
- Special Offers and Enticing Promotions
- Superior Customer Service
For over 40 years, excited players have been flocking to the popular Wrest Point Casino in Tasmania. The casino interior gives an unmistakeable impression of chic elegance. Gamblers can be seen huddled around their favourite table games and you can clearly make out the flick of crisp cards. Visit the Wrest Point Casino for everything ranging from excellent gaming facilities and a fantastic entertainment, to incredible food and an amazing view.
Final Word
The boutique casino at Wrest Point is extremely active, providing all bettors with premium gaming opportunities. The Wrest Point hotel rooms include a fine number of features and amenities, and room pricing is competitive. Every room is nicely outfitted with Wi-Fi, wide screen TVs, comfortable furniture, and tasteful artwork. With numerous restaurants from which to choose, various lucrative promotions, and a prime waterfront location, the Wrest Point Casino provides visitors with quality gaming and entertainment experiences.
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Related Pages
| Wrest Point Hotel Casino | |
|---|---|
| General information | |
| Location | Hobart, Tasmania, Australia |
| Coordinates | 42°54′7″S147°20′17″E / 42.90194°S 147.33806°ECoordinates: 42°54′7″S147°20′17″E / 42.90194°S 147.33806°E |
| Opening | 10 February 1973 |
| Management | Federal Hotels |
| Technical details | |
| Floor count | 17 |
| Other information | |
| Number of rooms | 269 |
| Number of restaurants | 5 + 6 bars |
| Website | |
| Official Site | |
The Wrest Point Hotel Casino was Australia's first legal casino, opening in the suburb of Sandy Bay in Hobart, Tasmania, on 10 February 1973.
Granting of the casino licence[edit]
The Wrest Point Riviera Hotel, designed by architect Keith Wildman and built by Arthur Drysdale and opened on 5 December 1939, was originally constructed on the site of the current Wrest Point Casino.[1] During World War II the hotel was 'booming' and the hotel was sold to Australia's oldest hotel group, Federal Hotels, in March 1956.
In the 1960s, The Federal Group attempted to secure Australia's first casino license. At the time, Tasmania's natural scenery and beauty were not widely known elsewhere, and as a result the state wasn't attracting many tourists. The marketing claim was that a casino could be the draw-card that would kick-start Tasmania's tourism industry.
John Haddad, one of the company's executives at the time, was assigned the role of getting a casino license. He met with then Tasmanian PremierEric Reece and other state officials.
A state referendum was held to determine the granting of a gambling licence. The polls were very tight, especially since the question in the referendum attempted to minimise the gambling aspect of the development.
Shortly before the referendum was to be held, the Labor party, sensing they had the numbers in the parliament pushed through the legislation to legalise the casino. They did not wait for the results of the vote. When the vote was taken the hotel redevelopment was narrowly passed. Questions have since been raised about how the legislation was passed, with one member of parliament, Kevin Lyons, suspected of accepting bribes over the licence.[2]
Development[edit]
The development of the casino included the construction of the 17-storey hotel tower, with a revolving restaurant, designed by Sir Roy Grounds, a landmark that is nationally identified with Hobart, and the 64-metre dodecagonal prism tower remains the city's tallest building.
After the centre's opening in 1973 (after which it was known as Wrest Point Hotel Casino) the casino provided a catalyst for the nation's casino industry, with 12 additional casinos opening across the country. This included a second Federal Group casino in Tasmania, the Country Club Casino, which opened in Launceston in 1982.
The building has been extended in recent years, including the conference centre which was opened in 1984, and the boardwalk in 1996. In 2015 a 70 million dollar investment was announced, bringing five new dining outlets and more bars, a private VIP gaming room and a complete new contemporary feel across the entire casino.[citation needed]
Wrest Point Casino History Map
Controversy[edit]
While initially the hotel was supposed to be an entertainment complex, the casino soon took over much of the hotel; and, while the poker machines were initially not permitted, by executing successful lobbying,[1] they now come to dominate the complex, with over 650 machines.[3]
The owners of the hotel and the poker machines, Federal Hotels, were fined on a number of occasions for poker machines that were not functioning as programmed, and were thus in breach of the law.[4]
Wrest Point Casino History Las Vegas
In 2017, the building was protected with a heritage listing.[1] While some saw this as significant, the decision 'angered local residents and puzzled some experts.'[5]
2018 Tasmanian election[edit]
In the 2018 election, the opposition leader, Rebecca White, promised to remove all pokies from pubs and clubs, leaving the two casinos as the only location for pokies in the state, citing the negative health and economic impacts of poker machines.[6] The Federal Group, who own both the casinos and the pokies licences have opposed the policy as have the Liberal government.[7]
Wrest Point Casino Owner
See also[edit]
References[edit]
- ^ abc'Hobart's giant 'hair roller' honoured with heritage listing'. ABC News. 25 August 2017. Retrieved 28 January 2018.
- ^patrickw@themonthly.com.au (1 March 2017). 'Tasmania got gamed'. The Monthly. Retrieved 28 January 2018.
- ^'Best pokies venues in Tasmania'. Online Casino Sites. Retrieved 28 January 2018.
- ^'Wrest Point Casino fined for allowing faulty poker machine to be played'. ABC News. 23 July 2015. Retrieved 28 January 2018.
- ^'Questions raised about heritage listing of Hobart's Wrest Point Casino'. Commercial Property & Real Estate News. 30 August 2017. Retrieved 28 January 2018.
- ^'Pokies out of Tasmanian pubs, clubs by 2023 under Labor promise'. ABC News. 13 December 2017. Retrieved 28 January 2018.
- ^Koziol, Michael (13 December 2017). 'Tasmania could become first state to blow up the pokies under Labor plan'. The Sydney Morning Herald. Retrieved 28 January 2018.
Wrest Point Casino History Wikipedia
External links[edit]
- Wrest Point Hotel Casino official site