Hervey Bay Boat Club Incorporated has developed the Responsible Gambling Policy, in consultation with management, employees and members, to minimise harm associated with problem gambling.
In developing the Policy, Hervey Bay Boat Club Inc. has realistically taken into account:
- Local community concerns on potential harm associated with gambling;
- The role of the Club in providing a responsible gambling environment, including duty of care for members and patrons who may have a problem with gambling; and
- The rights and responsibilities of members and patrons who may have a gambling related problem.
A self-regulatory and voluntary instrument, the Responsible Gambling Policy demonstrates The Hervey Bay Boat Club’s commitment to minimising harm associated with gambling on its employees, members and patrons and the local community.
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Hervey Bay Boat Club Gaming Harm Minimisation Policy
Introduction
The Hervey Bay Boat Club is committed to providing a safe and responsible gambling environment for our members and visitors. This policy outlines our approach to minimizing gambling-related harm across our gaming facilities, including gaming (Pokie) machines, TAB, and Keno.
Responsible Gambling Practices
Gaming Machine Operations
1. We maintain strict compliance with Queensland's regulatory framework for gaming machines.
2. Our staff conduct regular 'walk-throughs' of the gaming area to observe player behaviour and identify potential signs of problem gambling.
3. We utilize automated risk monitoring systems to alert staff to extended play or excessive expenditure.
TAB and Keno
1. We apply the same principles of harm minimization to our TAB and Keno facilities as we do to our gaming machines.
2. Staff are trained to identify signs of problem gambling across all forms of betting.
Self-Exclusion Program
We offer a comprehensive self-exclusion program for both members and visitors:
1. Patrons can request self-exclusion from specific areas (gaming machines, TAB, Keno) or the entire venue.
2. Self-exclusion requests are processed immediately and remain in effect for up to five years.
3. We maintain a confidential register of excluded persons, accessible only to relevant staff.
Self-Exclusion Process
1. Patrons can request self-exclusion directly at our venue or remotely through a Gambling Help service.
2. Our Customer Liaison Officer assists with completing the Self-exclusion notice (Form 3A) and Self-exclusion order (Form 3B).
3. We provide contact details for local Gambling Help Queensland services to all self-excluding patrons.
Staff Training and Awareness
1. All gaming staff undergo regular responsible gambling training.
2. Our responsible service of gambling policy outlines clear procedures for identifying and interacting with patrons showing signs of problem gambling.
Community Engagement
1. We actively participate in the local Liquor and Gaming Accord, attending regular meetings to discuss and implement best practices in harm minimization.
2. We collaborate with local Gambling Help services to ensure a coordinated approach to supporting those experiencing gambling-related harm.
Ongoing Commitment
We are dedicated to continually improving our harm minimization strategies:
1. We regularly review and update this policy in line with the Gambling harm minimisation plan for Queensland 2021-25.
2. We actively seek feedback from patrons, staff, and community stakeholders to enhance our responsible gambling practices.
Additional Harm Minimization Communication Strategy
The Hervey Bay Boat Club is committed to proactively communicating gambling support resources through comprehensive visual messaging and strategic placement of support information. Gambling Help posters are strategically displayed in multiple high-visibility locations, including:
- All gaming machine areas
- TAB and Keno betting zones
- Public toilet facilities
- Near bar and dining areas
- Entry and exit points of gaming rooms
These prominently displayed posters provide:
- Local and state-wide Gambling Help telephone numbers
- QR codes linking to online support services
- Website addresses for confidential counselling
Contact details for:
- Gambling Help Queensland
- Uniting Care
- Lifeline
- Problem Gambling Support Services
- Local counselling resources
Furthermore, our external advertising and social media communications will incorporate responsible gambling minimization slogans such as:
- "Know Your Limits"
- "Gambling Should Be Fun, Not a Financial Strategy"
- "Play Responsibly - Your Wellbeing Matters"
- "Take a Break - Gambling Isn't Everything"
These messages reinforce our commitment to promoting safe and responsible gambling practices across all club communications and platforms.
By implementing this comprehensive harm minimization policy, the Hervey Bay Boat Club aims to create a safe and enjoyable environment for all patrons while prioritizing the well-being of our community.
