18/04/2008
Darwin Casino Celebrates 25th Anniversary on Mindil Beach
Darwin’s iconic casino celebrates its 25th anniversary on Mindil Beach this coming Monday, and SKYCITY is celebrating with a cake cutting ceremony and display of photographs and memorabilia showcasing the past 25 years.
Cutting the cake on 25 years
You are invited to join SKYCITY in celebrating the 25th Anniversary of Darwin Casino on Mindil Beach with a cake cutting ceremony and speech by Northern Territory Chief Minister Hon Paul Henderson. There will also be a multimedia display of images from the past 25 years, and a display of historic gaming chips and other memorabilia in the casino foyer.
• Location: SKYCITY Darwin, main entrance foyer
• Date & Time: Monday, April 21, 9.45am for a 10am start
• Please note: new casino dress code applies. See www.skycitydarwin.com.au for more details.
A Northern Territory icon
When the casino opened its doors on Mindil Beach in 1983 it was then called Mindil Beach Casino - the first casino in mainland Australia.
SKYCITY Darwin Assistant General Manager Emmanuel Cruz says: “This is one of the most unique casinos in the country. Its unusual shape - with its layered architecture - was influenced heavily by the devastating effects of Cyclone Tracy in 1974. The buildings were conceptualised not long after.”
It has undergone extensive renovations over the years, including a $30 million expansion currently being undertaken by SKYCITY. When completed, stage one of this redevelopment will include expansion and refurbishment of the main gaming floor, a new Italian restaurant, a new bar and new VIP gaming area all overlooking Mindil Beach. The casino now welcomes 1.5 million visitors each year.
World-class events
The casino’s small-scale events have grown over the years into renowned outdoor extravaganzas that draw visitors from all over the world.
Mr Cruz says: “The casino’s outdoor events are truly highlights of the Darwin social calendar. The prestigious Qantas Darwin Turf Club Gala Ball is now the biggest outdoor black tie event in the southern hemisphere. From fairly humble beginnings in 1987 when just 240 guests attended, last year’s event welcomed more than 2,800 visitors to a magical evening at SKYCITY. Our Sunset Jazz series attracts thousands of guests to the Gala Lawns each year.”
World-class staff
Three casino staff also have reason to celebrate. Inspector Indah Bibby, Wardrobe Department Supervisor Sue McArthur and Slot Attendant Tse Lung Liao have worked in the casino for its entire 25 years on Mindil Beach.
Mr Cruz says: “We are delighted to recognise the dedication and loyalty of Indah, Sue and Liao. Twenty-five years is an incredibly long time to work in one place and they can be proud of this milestone.”
Inspector Indah Bibby says: “I’ve enjoyed being around so many wonderful people, meeting people from all over the world and from all walks of life who tell me about the good times they have here. There have been big changes to the buildings themselves over the years - major renovations and upgrades.”
Community focus
Once SKYCITY took ownership of the casino in 2004, it began a programme of sponsorships and events with a strong community focus.
Mr Cruz says: “These days we are more than simply a casino - we are finding meaningful ways to support Darwin and the wider region. We are involved in a number of community and regional events, including our sponsorship of the V8 Supercar Triple Crown, Darwin Cup Carnival, the Arafura Games, AFL Northern Territory, NBL Perth Wildcats, local golf, tennis and numerous community groups.”
ENDS
For further information please contact:
Tanya Aylett
Marketing Manager, SKYCITY Darwin
Phone: +61 8 8943 8846
Fax: +61 8 8943 8834
Mobile: +61 401 451 778
E-mail: tanya.aylett@skycitydarwin.com.au
Kimberly Juergens
Communications Executive, SKYCITY Entertainment Group
Phone: +64 9 363 6017
Mobile: +64 21 665 253
E-mail: kimberly.juergens@skycity.co.nz
