Gaming system not up to scratch: newsagents

A DAYLESFORD newsagent has handed back his Intralot machines in disgust.Newsagency owner Les Faulkhead gave up on the Greek gambling company only a few days after it was installed due to constant technical difficulties.Intralot has experienced a rocky start in Ballarat and district since it began a month ago, with other newsagents saying the system was "not living up to expectations".Recent reports show Intralot is running more than $4 million a week behind budget, with Gaming Minister Tony Robinson warning the company to lift its game.Intralot began operating at about 700 Victorian agencies in early July, with its products including scratchie tickets, Lucky Keno 70, Lucky Lines and bingo.However, only the scratchies are selling well, with punters steering clear of the new games.Mr Faulkhead said his Intralot system was installed on July 4 _ three days behind the scheduled July 1 starting date _ and instantly crashed for an hour.The next day, the system was off air for the entire day, with Intralot helplines unable to be of much assistance.Mr Faulkhead said the poor telecommunications coverage in and around Daylesford contributed to the problem."On the Tuesday, I sent it back. I didn't want to put up with it anymore. Now I'm just trying to get my money back," Mr Faulkhead said.Newsagents have paid nearly $10,000 for a five-year contract.Newsxpress Central Square owner Ian Neal said, while he only had minor issues with Intralot, he believed it hadn't lived up to expectations.A spokeswoman for Gaming Minister Tony Robinson said the minister was aware of some technical glitches with the system, and had met with Intralot to discuss his concerns.