Today sees the start of Responsible Gambling Awareness Week (RGAW) in Queensland, an event established to raise awareness of the importance of gambling responsibly.
With the many opportunities readily available to gamble in today’s society, it is becoming much more important to know how to gamble responsibly and know that support is available if needed.
The Relationship Australia Queensland (RAQ) Gambling Help Service (GHS) assists people to respond to problems associated with gambling. This service can assist if:
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you are concerned about your own gambling;
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you are affected by the gambling of a family member or friend;
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you are a health and community support worker, worker with people affected by problem gambling; or
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you are a community member interested in understanding more about responsible and problem gambling.
Problems associated with gambling can be wide ranging and include: financial issues, emotional issues, relationship issues, employment and employability issues, legal issues and physical and mental health issues.
Here are just some of the activities (green themed) that are happening around the state to support Responsible Gambling Awareness Week.
BRISBANE
Industry Launch: The official RGAW Launch will be opened at the Kedron-Wavell Leagues Club by Queensland Attorney-General, the Hon Yvette D’Ath MP, followed by guest speaker Dr Nerilee Hing, PhD. Research Professor, Gambling Studies Central Queensland University.
Light up the City: Victoria Bridge, which connects South Bank to Brisbane CBD, and the Story Bridge, will be lit up green throughout the week to support RGAW.
Community BBQ: RAQ Spring Hill is hosting a community BBQ on Thursday 28 July to raise awareness of responsible gambling.
GOLD COAST
Gold Coast Titans vs Parramatta Eels Game – Mermaid Beach Gambling Help staff will be set up at the entrance of Round 20 Titans v Eels game on Saturday 23 July & Round 21 Titans v Sharks game on Monday 1 August. There will also be a short RGAW clip played on the big screen during the game.
IPSWICH
Riverlink Shopping Centre Display: Ipswich GHS will have a stall all week set up out the front of Kmart at Riverlink Shopping Centre giving out free treats for the children and promotional giveaways.
Promotional and Information Packs: Promotional materials have been distributed throughout Ipswich, including the local library, Coles, medical centres and local universities.
GLADSTONE
Screening of No More Bets, Please!: Gambling Help staff in Gladstone will be hosting a screening of the film No More Bets, Please! at the Gladstone RAQ Venue on Friday 29 July from 1pm – 2pm.
MACKAY & WHITSUNDAYS
Library & Community Displays: Four Libraries in the Mackay Region have Gambling Awareness display tables set up for the week as well as Bowen Library in the Whitsundays region. The Sarina Neighbourhood Centre and Moranbah District Support Service will also be decorating their administration area with the promotional material and going green for the week.
Gaming Packs: 41 gaming venues have come together in the Mackay and Whitsunday Region and will be handing out information packs to any patron that wins over a certain cash amount during this week. We have collaborated with Uniting Care Communities and put together 300 packs in total. These packs include gambling help information, financial counselling information, pens, and water bottles from Mackay City Council and promotional material from a few local gaming venues (e.g. hats and drink coolers promoting their club or football team).
Other RAQ Venues
Green Staff Meetings and Morning Teas: A number of RAQ venues will be going green for RGAW week and will be holding green themed staff meetings and or morning teas.
To make an appointment to talk with a councellor or educator, please call the Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858. This service is available 24 hours, 7 days a week and can assist you to find services in your local area.
If you require crisis assistance, call Lifeline 13 11 14 or if you are in immediate danger contact 000.
