Ever wonder where Australia’s casino craze really got its start? The answer’s nailed down in Hobart, Tasmania, with the iconic Wrest Point Casino. Since opening its doors in 1973, Wrest Point has been the jackpot playground that sparked the nation’s love affair with legal, high-stakes gambling. It wasn’t just another casino opening; it flipped the Tasmanian tourism scene on its head and set a blueprint for others to follow across Australia.
Wrest Point Casino: Australia’s First Legal Casino and Jackpot Pioneer
Back in the early ’70s, Tasmania was known more for rugged landscapes than flashy nightlife. That changed when Wrest Point swung open its doors on 10 February 1973. It wasn’t just any opening either — a national TV gala broadcast made sure everyone was watching. This wasn’t just about slot machines or pokie spins; it was about putting Tasmania on the tourism map and rewriting Australia’s gambling rules.
Why did this matter? Well, before Wrest Point, legal gambling in Australia was limited, scattered, and mostly underground. Tasmania’s referendum gave the green light to create a bona fide casino experience, and it set a precedent nationally, encouraging other regions to follow suit within the next decade. Suddenly, Tasmania was buzzing with visitors, airlines scheduled more flights, and the local economy got a hefty boost thanks to the influx of players chasing jackpots and big wins.
The Farrell family, through their Federal Group, took full advantage of this momentum. They didn’t just settle for a single casino; they built an empire in both hospitality and gambling. The Federal Group’s roots go back to the 19th century with hotels and coffee palaces, but Wrest Point marked their leap into modern casino operations. Today, they still own the site, keeping it fresh and relevant in a competitive gambling market.
What sets Wrest Point apart from the pack? It’s not just the fact it’s Tasmania’s tallest building with a revolving restaurant offering killer views of Mt Wellington and the Derwent Estuary. It’s also the vibe — a jackpot hotspot known for its blend of classic Aussie charm and cutting-edge gaming tech. Whether you’re after traditional table games, high-limit pokies, or something with a local twist like the legendary two-up table, Wrest Point remains the iconic destination for a genuine Aussie gamble.
From Humble Beginnings to Casino Giant: Wrest Point’s Evolution
The story didn’t start with flashing lights and jackpot bells. Wrest Point began centuries ago as a simple inn built in 1839 by William Chaffey, right where the casino stands today. Back then, it was a modest watering hole in a growing settlement, drawing miners, sailors, and locals who loved a punt or two after a hard day.
Fast-forward to the 1800s, and the site was tied into the Federal Coffee Palace Company — an era of temperance coffee houses that would later transition into the grand Hotel Federal. By the 1920s, this hotel was one of the tallest landmarks in Hobart, laying the foundation for what would become the Wrest Point Riviera Hotel.
Post-World War II, Tasmania’s tourism started to hum with new life, and Federal Group picked up the property in 1960. The push to get Australia’s first casino license was about capturing this momentum and tapping into the growing desire for legalised gaming. That 13-year campaign finally paid off with the 1973 referendum, marking a turning point for the site — shifting it from a regional hotel to a heavyweight casino complex.
Over the decades, the property has expanded and upgraded, evolving into a 17-storey tower, boasting Tasmania’s highest vantage point. Renovations modernised the gaming floors and hotel rooms, catering to a new generation of players while still holding on to its heritage. The Federal Group’s ongoing stewardship has been key: they’ve balanced growth with respect for the community and local culture, crafting a uniquely Tasmanian casino identity.
| Year / Event | Key Details |
|---|---|
| 1839 | William Chaffey builds original inn on the current site – early hub for locals and travellers alike. |
| 1924 | Inn evolves into Hotel Federal, becoming one of Hobart’s tallest buildings of the time. |
| 1960 | Federal Group buys Wrest Point Riviera Hotel amid Tasmania’s booming tourism post-WWII. |
| 1973 | Casino licence approved via referendum; Wrest Point opens as Australia’s first legal casino. |
| 1980s | Federal Group expands casino operations; other Australian regions follow suit. |
| 2000s | Multiple upgrades to gaming floors, accommodation, and facilities to stay competitive. |
Wrest Point’s Wild History: Gambling, Controversies, and Local Colour
If you think Wrest Point’s story is all shiny casinos and happy tourists, strap in for some behind-the-scenes yarns. This place has its share of wild tales — from the tussles over Tasmania’s gambling laws to stories of the locals who made the casino their stomping ground.
The casino’s early days weren’t without controversy. Getting the green light involved debates across Tasmania about gambling’s place in society. Political tussles over regulations simmered for years, with Federal Group often at the centre. Their tightly held family control sparked whispers about exclusivity and power plays in Tasmania’s gaming world.
Then there are the legendary tales that colour Wrest Point’s reputation. The pirate radio of the ’70s Tasmanian nightlife, the grand parties held before pokies were king, and the odd high-stakes story involving unexpected big wins and near misses. These narratives, passed down with a grin, shape the casino’s character — reflecting the gutsy, sometimes cheeky energy Tasmanians bring to the table.
Today, Wrest Point isn’t just a casino; it’s a Tasmanian institution. Its legacy carries a certain Aussie grit and a bit of luck that makes visiting feel like stepping into a story still being written. It’s a place where history and chance collide, and the vibe keeps players coming back for another spin.
The Classic Two-Up Table: Veterans’ Tradition Goes Legit
Ever wonder how a fringe digger game morphed from chilly backyard bets to official casino action? Two-up has roots anchored deep in Aussie war history, where soldiers would gather on battlefields during WWI and WWII throwing coins for a bit of luck and camaraderie. It’s no surprise it became a staple among veterans, symbolising mateship and the resilience of those tough times.
Wrest Point landed on a brilliant idea: preserve this raw, down-to-earth tradition by giving it a proper home inside their casino walls. The two-up table at Wrest Point isn’t just a game; it’s a tribute. Back in 1998, NSW officially made the game legal on Anzac Day, but Tasmania’s casino took the lead in turning those backyard shenanigans into polished, official gameplay. The table spotlights the “spinner” who launches the coins while the crowd huddles, making bets and celebrating every toss.
Veterans and players alike speak of a unique vibe beyond regular casinobuzz. Take John, a WWII vet, who still finds solace and joy reliving those moments with mates around the table decades later. For many, it’s the chance to reconnect with history and share stories, laughs, and the thrill of chance.
Today, two-up carries the hometown pride of Wrest Point and seeped into its identity. Tourists who want more than pokies flock here to experience this authentic slice of Aussie culture—a local tradition that’s gone official but kept its heart. The game adds a raw, historical pulse to the casino, making it not just another stop in Tasmania but a spot that honours the spirit of the island’s veterans while sparking curiosity and excitement.
Wrest Point’s Impact on Tasmania’s Tourism and Local Economy
Wonder how Tasmania went from a sleepy island to a flickering beacon on the Aussie tourism stage? Wrest Point played a massive part, opening its doors in 1973 as Australia’s first legal casino and putting Tassie firmly on the tourist map. Suddenly, this scenic spot went from “just another holiday” to a drawcard, inviting visitors to mix nature’s beauty with big jackpots and bright lights.
The casino pumps life into the local job market, with hundreds of roles from gaming floor staff to hospitality and management. It acts like a financial heartbeat for many families, especially since tourism jobs can be patchy in Tassie’s remote pockets. The Federal Group, which owns Wrest Point, keeps the money moving, making sure local suppliers and communities ride the wave.
Annual events and adrenaline-packed tournaments add heaps of buzz, filling the hotel rooms and buzzing the gaming floor with energy. The poker face-offs, bingo nights, and slot championships invite visitors from mainland Australia and beyond, turning routine weekends into packed calendars full of excitement and community spirit.
More than just profit, the Federal Group dives into sponsorships and community projects, supporting sports, arts, and social groups across Tasmania. It’s not just business—Wrest Point aims to be part of the island’s social fabric, making sure its success spills over to everyday locals who call Tassie home.
Games Galore: What Makes Wrest Point a Slots Fans’ Paradise
What’s the deal with Wrest Point’s slots floor that keeps laid-back gamblers and full-send bonus hunters glued? The casino mixes up classic pokies with fresh new-age machines featuring themes from Aussie wildlife to iconic Aussie icons. Whether you’re spinning on a retro three-reel or chasing those wilds on a multimillion-dollar progressive, the variety is major.
Here are a few insider nuggets from slot gurus and streamers dropping tips to help you ride your next wave:
- Watch the RTP: Higher return-to-player rates mean longer sessions and better chances.
- Hunt themed bonuses: Games that offer free spins, multipliers or buy-in bonuses stack your toolbox.
- Bankroll management: Set a daily spin limit before starting—prevents chasing losses.
- Slot volatility: Low volatility for frequent small wins; high volatility for rare huge payouts.
- Stay social: Chat with other players or streamers for fresh tips and fresh game finds.
But slots aren’t the only option under the Wrest Point roof. Table games like blackjack, poker, and roulette offer a classic casino buzz. Bingo nights pack the house with a slightly different crowd, blending fun and community vibes.
Behind the scenes, the gaming floor hums with stories—regulars chasing that elusive mega jackpot, visitors soaking in the fresh Tassie air from the windows, and dealers calling the cards with a cool, collected swagger. The atmosphere strikes a balance between chill weekend fun and intense, strategic play, making Wrest Point’s game floor a dynamic hangout where wins and losses spin alongside local banter and laughs.
