By Triana O'Keefe, editor Australian Hotelier
In a bid to 'clean up' up the image of Kings Cross, the team at World Bar Sydney has removed all 15 poker machines from the venue.
Marketing manager Clint O'Hanlon told TheShout the move has had a positive influence on the focus of the venue and its patrons.
"Most regulars have supported the removal and the intentions behind it, with only a couple of patrons deciding to move on," he said.
O'Hanlon explained tthat several factors had influenced the decision.
"We have always been at the forefront of innovation in the live music scene and we believe our venue should reflects this," he said.
"We just had this [gaming] room off to the side that didn't really gel with anything and was ultimately at the detriment of our core demographic.
"It was outside of our main focus and it was holding us back from our goal of being innovation leaders."
The World Bar has committed to be a positive influence in the Kings Cross community and has worked with various charities such as Gorman House and Youth Off the Streets.
The one remaining poker machine is an antique lever-action model that has been gutted and turned into a permanent donation box for the Wayside Chapel. Every dollar contributed is matched by The World Bar and donated to the charity who provide support, counselling and a safe space for those in need.
Great move. Excellent to see them donating to charities as well. Great image that is well deserved.