There are nearly 300 pokies machines in the Mid-Western local government area that combined have raked in more than $36,000 a week in net profits.
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The latest data by Liquor and Gaming NSW has shown $8.9 million was put into Mid-Western electronic gaming machines from June to December 2020.
Gaming machine profits reached $13.3 million in 2020, which was a slight decrease from 2019 when they hit $13.8 million.
The Mid-Western LGA bucked the trend experienced by other LGA's where gaming machine profits soared during the COVID-19 pandemic.
People in the region saved $2.6 million while poker machines were turned off for ten weeks from March 23 to June 1 due to COVID-19.
However, there was an increase in gaming machine revenue in the LGA between June and November, which a ClubsNSW spokesperson said was common across regional areas of NSW.
"A modest increase in gaming machine revenue in the Mid-Western LGA between June and November last year is not unexpected given the 10-week industry shutdown that preceded this period and the subsequent pent-up demand," they said.
"Many of the LGAs that saw an increase in gaming profits were located in regional areas of NSW, which have benefited from an influx of local tourists off the back of international and interstate travel restrictions."
The number of poker machines in the Mid-Western LGA dropped from 310 to 297 at the end of 2020.
79 of the region's machines are located at the Mudgee Soldiers Club. The RSL is ranked 89th in NSW for net profit per gaming machine.
The Woolpack Hotel has 21 gaming machines, the highest number of machines in a Mid-Western region hotel.
The ClubsNSW spokesperson said the problem gambling prevalence rate in NSW is just one per cent of the adult population, a number which is "low by international standards".
For those people who have a gambling problem, ClubsNSW have a scheme available which allows people to voluntarily exclude themselves from every club and pub in their local area if they choose.
Natalie Wright, Director, Office of Responsible Gambling said if people recognised the signs of problem gambling they should seek help.
"There is no shame in recognising that you, or someone you love, may be gambling excessively and need help. It shows strength," Ms Wright said.
"Gambling harm doesn't just affect the individual, it also impacts their loved ones."
If you were affected by this story call Gambling Help Online 1800 858 858 for free, confidential help.
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