Here we are, dancing into the twilight of another incredible year. As 2023 twirls to a close, with just a couple of games left to play, I’m eager to share this reflection with you before the final whistle blows.
2023 was nothing short of extraordinary! It was a year brimming with memorable moments and remarkable events. Let’s dive into some of these highlights that made the year truly special!
Over the past 12 months, we’ve had the incredible opportunity to spread amazing cash prize pools, with a huge thanks to our supportive venues.
“We’re thrilled to announce that we’ve given away a staggering $128,750 in total cash and prizes!”
It’s been a journey filled with smiles, surprises, and life-changing moments for many.
2023 has been a year of amazing transformations and new beginnings! Here are some of the standout changes that made this year unforgettable:
- We developed some of the most incredible software to manage our poker events. This technological leap has revolutionized the way we host and enjoy our games, making every event smoother and more enjoyable.
- We branched into the Harrington area, bringing the thrill of our events to the Harrington Hotel and Shoreline Tavern. It's been exhilarating to meet new faces and create unforgettable experiences in these fantastic new venues.
- Taree welcomed us back with open arms! We restarted our beloved events at the Taree Leagues Sports Club, reigniting old passions and creating new memories in a place that feels just like home.
- The Bellevue Hotel, one of our longest-standing venues, tragically went up in flames. But, like a phoenix, we've risen from this challenge. After a six-month wait, filled with anticipation and support, we triumphantly returned to Bellevue, more enthusiastic and united than ever.
- Among the many highlights of the year, one stands out with a charming quirkiness: Francis the Goose waddled her way into our poker team! This feathery member has brought a whole new level of joy and amusement to our events.
- The creation of a new poker tipping side-bet system. This groundbreaking feature adds an extra layer of fun and strategy to our games, offering players a unique twist and a fresh way to engage with the game.
This year wasn’t just about events and venues; it was also a year of welcoming new talents to our incredible team. We can’t forget the two fantastic additions who have made this year even more remarkable: Travis Boote and Stephen Best.
Travis joined us with a spark of enthusiasm and a knack for innovation, bringing fresh ideas and energy that have been nothing short of inspirational. Stephen, with his incredible wit and a keen eye for detail, has uplifted the quality of our events to new heights. Whilst Stephens’s place on the team was only short-lived, he will return end of January 2024.
Together, they’ve become integral parts of our family, contributing not just their skills but also their passion and dedication. Their arrival marks a new chapter in our journey, filled with promise and excitement for the future…. which is actually delicious.
Of course, every journey has its bumps, and 2023 was no exception. We encountered a few challenges, but these moments have only strengthened our resolve to make things better. Here’s how we turned these situations around:
- We realized our policies for dealing with intoxicated and abusive players weren't quite where they needed to be. This was a wake-up call for us. We've since revamped our policies, ensuring a safer, more respectful environment for everyone. We're committed to maintaining a space where fun and fairness go hand in hand.
- In a surprising turn of events, one of our tables broke during a game. It was an unforeseen incident that taught us a lot about preparedness. We've taken this experience to heart, ensuring all our equipment is top-notch and ready for action. Safety and reliability are now more than ever at the forefront of our operations.
Rulebook Changes!
Well, we have a revised Rulebook (found here)
which I do recommend everyone take the time and go over it, to ensure you’re familiar with it.
Some of the new/revised rules are as follows
- 44: Oversized Chip Betting (Single Chip Rule)
- If facing a bet or blind, pushing out a single oversized chip (including your last chip) is a call if raise isn’t first declared. To raise with an overchip you must declare raise, and the raise amount before the chip hits the table surface. If raise is declared but no amount is stated, the raise is the current minimum bet. If not facing a bet, pushing out an overchip silently (no declaration) is a bet of the current minimum bet.
- 67: No Disclosure. One Player to a Hand
- Players must protect other players in the tournament at all times. Therefore players, whether in the hand or not, must not: Discuss contents of live or mucked hands, Advise or criticize play at any time, Read a hand that hasn't been tabled. One-player-to-a-hand is in effect. Among other things, this rule prohibits showing a hand to or discussing strategy with another player, advisor, or spectator.
- 73: Swearing and Abuse
- In the interest of maintaining a respectful and sportsmanlike environment, all participants are required to adhere to the highest standards of conduct. Any use of profane language or disrespectful behaviour towards the Tournament Director (TD) or fellow players will not be tolerated. An initial violation of this policy will result in a verbal warning. Should a participant commit a second offense, they will be immediately disqualified from the current game without refund, irrespective of its stage. Furthermore, the individual will face a suspension from participating in any games for a period of 4 weeks. This rule is strictly enforced to ensure a fair and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Now prepare for the 2023 winners photo gallery!
