News archive

News items that were displayed on the Smartgambler front page during 2008, with the latest material appearing at the top.

Proceed to 2009 and onwards news archive

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May 2008

PortlandBet Back in Business

Australian online bookmaker PortlandBet which ceased trading in December 2007, has risen from the ashes after a successful takeover by Queensland based Vanderlay Industries Pty Ltd. The reinvigorated company is offering attractive new-account and reload bonuses and competitive prices in a bid to regain and expand its client base.

CEO Mike Miller told Smartgambler that the new look outfit would concentrate initially on meeting the needs of the Australian sports and race betting marketplace before casting an eye offshore for sustainable growth, with an expanded product range.

"Currently, we're offering a basic but very well priced selection of sports events on which to bet, but as we settle in we will add many more sports and betting options for our clients. On the racing side, we're offering Australian thoroughbred racing 7 days a week for now, but expect to expand into trotting and greyhounds, as well as some selected overseas racing, in the future. The unique PB price on Australian racing, eliminating the need to shop around among TAB's, bookmakers and exchanges, will be of interest to punters seeking consistent value."

Based on the success to date of the business re-launch, which commenced on March 1st 2008, Miller predicted strong growth in the months ahead. More than 35% of the former client base has returned and new client sign-ups are trending upwards. Miller hopes to continue grabbing market share over 2008, concentrating on price sensitive, arbitrage and recreational punters.

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March 2008

Landmark High Court ruling favours Betfair

The High Court has delivered a shake up of the national wagering market in a ruling that upheld Betfair's contention that Western Australian laws prohibiting them from operating in that state were invalid, due to a conflict with section 92 of the Constitution, requiring freedom of interstate trade and commerce. The ruling may have far reaching repercussions, ultimately affecting state government revenues from some gambling sources.

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