The sound of coins clinking into the collection tray of gaming machines will become a thing of the past at the Devonport RSL.
The last RSL sub-branch in Tasmania to host pokies will switch them off permanently on Friday.
The Devonport RSL is moving to promoting live music in its place, and appropriately, former Whitlams lead singer Tim Freedman will be part of the first live show.
The Whitlams recorded their hit song Blow up the Pokies in 2000, with Freedman’s rendition of the song 23 years later sure to be a highlight of Friday night’s performance.
Freedman says he’s thrilled to be returning to Devonport after a 10-year absence and has congratulated RSL Tasmania for removing gaming machines.
The singer says it will be a special moment to sing Blow up the Pokies in Devonport.
RSL Tasmania CEO John Hardy says since the announcement Devonport was removing pokies, the organisation has received overwhelming support from not only the veteran community, but the Tasmanian community as a whole.
He says RSL clubs like Devonport were providing amazing spaces for live music, providing another valuable tool to keep branches afloat, but also embracing and engaging with the local community.
