Tabcorp Defends 'Good Friday' Opening
19th March, 2009
Tabcorp, the Australian wagering, gaming and hospitality company hit back at critics yesterday who were outraged over its decision to open on Good Friday.
After announcing its intention to open on Good Friday, allowing punters to make wagers on NRL games and certain races in Singapore, Tabcorp was met with opposition from many anti-gambling and religious groups.
The company plans to allow customers to place bets at its TAB agencies and hotels across the country, and yesterday claimed that the controversial decision was made in response to changing attitudes amongst the community. In spite of this still the announcement was heavily criticized by some groups.
Tabcorp says it is expecting to make millions from bets placed on the Good Friday NRL matches, as well as horses races that are talking place in Singapore and South Africa. In addition to this, they hope that holiday makers will also bet on Sydney’s Doncaster Day horse racing event, which will be held on Easter Sunday.
Religious groups, charities and anti-gambling groups have all voiced their disapproval, saying, “The sacred holiday needs to be protected.”
By Rommon
