Gambling service sees 15 a week

The Australian Council of Social Services estimate about one in eight people is affected adversely by problem gambling, and residents of the Peninsula are no exception.
The Central Coast Problem Gambling Service, set up last year at the Peninsula Community Centre, is being contacted by those seeking help at an average rate of 15 a week.
Gambling counsellor, Gerri Koleman, provides free counselling for the service.
"The last five years has seen an enormous expansion of gambling opportunities for Australians," she said.
"You can gamble at your local pub, club, on-course, through a TAB outlet, by Internet and at your local newsagency.
"You can gamble on every sport across the world, 24 hours per day.
"The service is here to assist those who struggle with problem gambling and the families affected and to promote the help that is available."
Ms Koleman’s service is funded primarily by the Casino Community Benefit Fund, which Sydney’s Star City funds with two percent of its gaming revenue ($10 million).
Further funding is also received through The Registered Clubs of NSW, which contributes $8 million annually to defined community development and support projects.
Ms Koleman said 88 percent of her clients cited poker machines as their primary form of gambling.
She said those with gambling problems covered all socio-economic classes with an equal number of female and male problem gamblers.
Almost half those using the service had lost more than $50,000, she said.
"Up to 10 people could be affected for every one problem gambler: spouses, relatives, friends, employers and businesses.
"Many problem gamblers have considered suicide," said Ms Koleman.
The service provides free counselling on a one-to-one basis, and operates at the Peninsula Community Centre three days per week.
Telephone 4341 9333 for an appointment.