Geelong Cats kick off partnership to promote responsible gambling

The Geelong Cats will sign a new partnership deal to highlight responsible gambling as an opener to Responsible Gambling Awareness Week.

The partnership deal with the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation will be officially announced before the Geelong Cats game against Collingwood at the MCG on Saturday 18 May 2013.

Geelong Cats Premiership player and Responsible Gambling Awareness Week ambassador Harry Taylor says sports people can have a positive influence on fans and can help raise awareness about the risks of gambling.

"Gambling responsibly means being aware of the risks, staying in control and looking out for your mates," said Mr Taylor.

Minister for Liquor and Gaming Regulation Edward O'Donohue will officially launch the partnership, strengthening the government's support for community education about responsible gambling.

"Responsible Gambling Awareness Week raises awareness about important issues facing the community, particularly around sports betting advertising and the increasing accessibility of online gambling and the effects these have on young people," said Mr O'Donohue.

Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation chief executive officer Serge Sardo says the Geelong partnership will help raise awareness about responsible gambling among the Cats fan base.

Currently on top of the AFL ladder, the Geelong Cats have an extensive following with more than 488,000 supporters nationally, 40,500 members and are rated as the second most watched club in the league.

"Our partnership with the Geelong Cats helps raise awareness about responsible gambling to football fans of all ages, and in particular men aged 18-35 years who may at risk of developing a problem with gambling," said Mr Sardo.

This is the second year the club has supported Responsible Gambling Awareness Week, building on the partnership with the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation and demonstrating commitment to the welfare of the Geelong Cats community.

Geelong Cats President Colin Carter says their commitment to responsible gambling includes a responsible gambling policy and the promotion of Gambler's Help services.

"We remain committed to the welfare of our community and are proud to partner with the Foundation to promote responsible gambling and Gambler's Help services," said Mr Carter.

Supported by government, industry, community and sporting organisations, Responsible Gambling Awareness Week aims to inform the community about taking a responsible approach to gambling.

Responsible Gambling Awareness Week events will be held throughout Victoria from 20-26 May 2013.