i remember those machines. couldnt afford to play them though.
used to work in the postoffice in the eastern suburbs (sydney) saw a lot of guys lose their jobs over pokies.
one of their insidious methods of introduction of people to the machines was to target women as an "untapped gambling resource". same with many marketing techniques you know the chic smoker, the lollie alcohol drinks etc.
used to lunch at leagues clubs in those days for the cheap meals. couldnt get near a pokie for the ladies using them during the day time.
i know it is probably a bit rich a horse player condemning marketing techniques but the public needs protecting somewhere along the line. perhaps its too late.