One of Australia’s favourite ways to have a good time is by playing games, especially for the money. If there’s the chance to make some dough while having fun, Aussies are down.
Around 80% of the population of Australia like to pay and play. It’s a popular pastime for almost every age group, from 20 years old upwards.
The most popular games in Australia are:
- Pokies (slots)
- Poker
- Blackjack
It’s also had a positive impact on the economy in Australia. Income from pokies has been used to fund local sports initiatives.
A culture of gaming
Famous celebrities are often just like normal people, except they have stacks more cash. This makes it easy for them to enjoy letting off steam in ways that we like to.
They can play for longer and can even stand to lose a few dollars.
Some have been known to play slot games (pokies) at Rainbow Riches Casino, while others prefer land-based casinos. A few stars in particular have been spotted enjoying some games on nights out.
Many luxury hotels have casinos attached, especially in:
- Melbourne
- Sydney
- Brisbane
- Cairns
Some Aussie stars have also been spotted playing in gaming havens such as Macau and Las Vegas. So which stars like to test their luck? The following big names have been known to take a punt.
Shane Warne
The late, great cricketer may no longer be with us, but all the stories remain. Warnie was well known for his love of the felt and loved to play poker.
He played in the World Series of Poker many times and was signed to a huge poker company in 2008. Back on home soil, the sports star was the ambassador for Club 23 at Crown Casino Melbourne.
He also hosted charity poker events that drew big name stars. From time to time, he posted about private games on his own Insta account.
Also Read: Know all about Shane Warne and what is he doing now after his retirement.
Cate Blanchett
The award-winning actress has spoken about playing a lot of poker with Sandra Bullock. It started out as playing for Ocean’s 8, but she seems to have developed a love of the game.
It’s even rumored that she’s played against Ben Affleck, and she wants to be as good as him. Given that Affleck is actually world-class, she must be pretty good.
Mel Gibson
Braveheart actor Gibson enjoys a game of Blackjack. He was spotted at Sydney’s Star Casino in December 2015.
Although one might expect the actor to put down large sums on the table, he was quite modest. He only played for half an hour and lost $200.
Others there claimed he was happy to chat and mingle with fellow players. Sadly, he didn’t hit 21 though.
Brendan Fevola
Ex-Carlton and Brisbane player, Brendan Fevola is mostly known for his exploits as a full forward. However, wherever he goes, he attracts attention.
He used to be a regular at the Melbourne Crown Casino. The former football star hit some hard times in life and admitted to blowing a lot of dough at the tables.
He was also seen at a Tasmanian casino in 2011. Now, Fevola says he’s giving up playing, and is happier presenting.
Also Read: Know all about Brendan Fevola’s wife Alex Fevola, are they still together?
Rebel Wilson
Although she’s not been spotted at the tables, Rebel Wilson revealed that she likes to play to win.
In January 2021, she appeared on the US version of ‘Who Wants to be a Millionaire’. When asked the $250,000 question, she offered to donate $93,000 to a Tanzanian school if she lost.
Luckily, she won, but it shows she’s not afraid to put her money where her mouth is.
Russell Crowe
Although Crowe wasn’t born in Australia, the Gladiator star is still classified as a star from Down Under. He has stated that he likes to take risks in life.
Through his rugby club, South Sydney, he is linked with casino giant, Star City. The club has a multi-million dollar contract with the casino.
What games does he like? He’d never tell but admitted that he doesn’t love pokies.
He seems like more of a card player!
Karl Stefanovic
The man who used to be the face of the Today show, Stefanovic is a familiar face to many. He was once a regular on the pages of tabloids, and not always for good reasons.
He had some wild nights in his time and held his 40th birthday at the Crown Casino. He’s also been seen at the pokies, but no one knows how much he has won or lost.
Maybe he’s moved to playing pokies online in a bid to get less attention!
Liam Hemsworth
Although Liam isn’t seen out and about much, he has been seen playing poker with Russell Crowe. This is likely to be part of the action for their upcoming release, Poker Face.
Better odds online
It’s good fun to hit the casino on a night out, but for celebrities it means being noticed. For those who have a love of casino games, it might be more relaxing to play at home.
Whether you’re a Hollywood A-lister or an ordinary Joe soap, the thrill of playing is the same. And who knows, a big Aussie star may be playing Rainbow Riches at the same time as you!
