Rye Hotel owner fined $80,000 after integrity breaches

The VGCCC has fined the owner of the Rye Hotel $80,000 after two integrity breaches.  

In the first incident, senior staff at the Rye Hotel falsified records to cover up an erroneous cash payment of $2,039 to a patron. Venues are required to pay any winnings over $2,000 by cheque or EFT. The attempted cover up of the breach constitutes serious integrity failings and misconduct.  

In the second incident, the venue issued a cheque to an ineligible person at the request of a winning patron who could not produce ID to collect their winnings. Venues are required to ensure they only process payments to the person playing the electronic gaming machine and ensure the appropriate identity checks are undertaken. 

In addition to the fine, the owner has offered to take all reasonable steps to sell the Rye Hotel. The owner will also be required to seek written consent from the VGCCC before becoming an associate of any gambling industry participant, and not obtain any new financial interest in, or be employed by, any gambling industry participant connected with Electronic Gaming Machines (EGMs), without first notifying the VGCCC.

In issuing the fine, VGCCC CEO Annette Kimmitt AM said this decision sends a clear message to the industry about compliance with integrity measures. “Venue operators and owners need to understand the full extent of consequences for falsifying records and concealing misconduct” Ms Kimmitt said.  

“We know that honest mistakes happen. However, venue operators that attempt to cover up breaches will be caught and face serious repercussions.” 

The VGCCC launched an investigation after receiving a complaint from a member of the public. If you see something of concern at a venue, let us know on 1300 599 759 or through the VGCCC complaints and tip-offs page.