Over the course of the past few months, Crown Casino and Echo Entertainment have been competing fiercely over a license to operate a high-roller casino in Brisbane. The two companies have recently submitted their bids, and they are eagerly awaiting a decision from the state government. While both companies are fighting hard to have their own proposal approved, Echo Entertainment has announced that it has a ‘plan b’.

According to a report on Yahoo News, Echo Entertainment will still be confident with its presence in Brisbane’s gambling market even if Crown Casino wins the bid. Echo currently operates Jupiters Gold Coast Casino, which will remain in Brisbane regardless of which casino project moves forward.

"The control of this site and the proximity to Jupiters Gold Coast also means we have a credible long-term presence in Brisbane should the competing bid be selected," says Echo Entertainment Chief Executive Matt Bekier. As it stands, it seems that Echo Entertainment is the front-runner for the casino licence. Industry analysts are confident that Echo has the more compelling plan for Brisbane.

Although Crown Casino beat out Echo Entertainment for monopoly of Sydney’s gambling market earlier this year, Echo’s plans for Brisbane seem to be more attractive to investors. Mr Bekier is also very confident. “Let me assure you that we have put forward a responsible offer that delivers a truly iconic precinct," he says.

"And we have done so in partnership with two large and diverse Asian based companies who bring not only balance sheet strength, but also a truly compelling set of complementary capabilities to our bid." At the moment, there are no details available about either project. Both Crown Casino and Echo Entertainment were ordered by Brisbane’s government to keep their plans under wraps.

So, it is unlikely that we will know what each casino operator has planned until the government makes a decision on which proposal will move forward.

About the Author

George Anderson
Author George, has over 25+ years’ experience in the Pokies and Casinos industry throughout Australia and New Zealand. Loves to research new Pokies games on the block and follows announcements from top industry providers about their upcoming releases. As soon as a new interesting pokie game appears on his radar, George is there to check it out and give you the scoop before anyone else and tell you about all casino sites where can play the latest game. Before this gig, George worked as Pokie game tester, making him an ideal candidate for this genre of work. He is also an animal lover and a proud owner of three dogs.