[Interview] Martin Coughlan Of The Star Gold Coast On Upcoming WPT Australia Championship

The World Poker Tour’s next stop in the Asia Pacific region is just around the corner with the WPT Australia Championship scheduled from September 12 to 25, 2024, at The Star Gold Coast. This will be the third consecutive WPT Main Tour in the land down under and expectations are high for another blockbuster event.

Somuchpoker caught up with The Star Group Strategy Manager, Martin Coughlan, to learn more about the growing popularity of this event in Gold Coast.

SMP: Poker events in Gold Coast are becoming more and more popular as evidenced by the increasing numbers at WPT events. Can you give us a few reasons for this surge?

Coughlan: WPT events in Australia are known for their high level of organization and professionalism. From the efficient handling of logistics to the seamless execution of tournament schedules, these events provide smooth and enjoyable experience for players and spectators alike. Then you add in what the WPT brand brings including the prestige of the Mike Sexton Trophy and the industry icons including Danny McDonagh, Lynn Gilmartin and Ange Hael that are in attendance to support the event. Add in Star TDs Jen McIlroy, Jason Whimp, Rick Adamson and Star Poker Media Manager Brett Carter and you have a winning hand.

The poker room at the Gold Coast offers a fantastic playing environment. With well-maintained tables, excellent staff, and state-of-the-art facilities, players can focus on their game in comfort and style. The commitment to maintaining the highest standards of security and game integrity ensures a fair playing field. This focus on transparency and trust helps attract both serious players and recreational enthusiasts.

Beyond the poker tables, the Gold Coast offers a vibrant lifestyle with numerous dining, entertainment, and recreational options. This lifestyle appeal makes it an ideal location for both players and their supporters. The Gold Coast has gained international recognition as a premier poker destination, which helps attract players from around the world. Its reputation as a top-tier location contributes to the growing number of attendees.

SMP: How much has the international turnout grown? And are the numbers expected to increase this upcoming WPT Championship?

Coughlan: The growth in international turnout for WPT Australia, particularly since the festival’s inception in 2019, has been significant. Since the first WPT Australia event in 2019, where the festival saw around 2,400 participants, the numbers have surged impressively.

Last year’s entries had more than doubled to approximately 7,000 participants, reflecting a substantial increase in both local and international interest. The proportion of international players has also grown notably with 20% of the 2023 field composed of international players from various regions, highlighting the festival’s expanding global appeal.

SMP: What makes the atmosphere in Gold Coast during live poker events so special?

Coughlan: Australian poker players are known for their enthusiasm and energy. The participants at these events are often lively and engaged, creating an electric atmosphere that adds to the excitement of the games. Events like the WPT Australia at Gold Coast attract top-notch players and industry professionals. This high level of competition and skill elevates the prestige of the tournament, making it a thrilling experience for players and onlooker.

Outside of the felt, the Gold Coast is renowned for its stunning beaches, warm weather, and modern resorts. The location of the poker room itself at The Star Gold Coast contributes to a relaxed yet high-energy vibe, as players and fans can enjoy both the poker action and the beautiful surroundings. Australia’s laid-back, friendly culture adds a unique flavor to the event. The Australian way of blending casual friendliness with serious competition creates a distinct and enjoyable atmosphere.

SMP: Will The Star be introducing something new for players this year?

Coughlan: The Star’s introduction of a diverse and expanded festival schedule, including new event formats, promises to offer an engaging and memorable experience for poker enthusiasts. With 23 events scheduled, players will have a broader range of options to participate in, catering to various preferences and playing styles. This expansion allows for a richer tournament experience. Must-play events include:

• Mystery Bounty: This popular format adds an element of surprise and excitement.
• Outback Survivor Bounty: Incorporating an Australian theme, this event combines traditional bounty elements with a unique twist related to the Australian experience.
• Championship Event: A prestigious highlight of the festival, offering top players a chance to compete in a high-profile tournament and have their name etched on the Mike Sexton Trophy.
• Single-Day Turbo Events: These fast-paced tournaments are perfect for players looking for quick action and intense gameplay. The inclusion of single-day events adds variety and flexibility to the schedule and we have increased the number of PLO events to six.
• Ladies Championship: The Ladies Championship is a standout event with the winner receiving Entry to the WPT World Championship Ladies Event in Vegas: This provides an exciting opportunity for the winner to compete on an international stage and for The Star to support women in poker.

SMP: Can you tell us more about the Shane Warne Memorial charity event, its background, history, and what you expect for the upcoming event?

Coughlan: The Shane Warne Legacy charity event is a significant tribute to one of Australia’s most beloved sports icons and a passionate supporter of poker. Beyond his cricketing achievements, Shane’s support for poker, particularly World Poker Tour (WPT) events on the Gold Coast, highlighted his passion for the game and his connection to the poker community. The Shane Warne Legacy event was established to honor Shane’s contribution to the poker world and to celebrate his memory. It serves as both a tribute to his impact and an opportunity to give back to the community. The event is designed to reflect Warne’s enthusiasm for poker and his commitment to charitable causes.

SMP: What is the estimated WPT Championship prize pool this year and how do you account for that?

Coughlan: Last year, the total festival prize pool was $12.5 million, with the Championship alone accounting for $4.5 million of that total. With 23 events scheduled this year, up from last year’s lineup, the forecast for this year’s festival prize pool is to exceed $13 million, with the Championship prize pool expected to approach $5 million from what is expected to be 700+ entries.

SMP: Has The Star been running any satellites for the upcoming WPT Championship throughout the year for local players? 

Coughlan: The Star has been actively running satellites for the upcoming Championship for the past month, offering local players multiple opportunities to qualify for the Championship Event with Step 1 satellites and Direct Qualifiers being run at The Gold Coast and Star SYD Poker Rooms.

Given the success and popularity of satellites in previous years, and the increasing interest in the Championship, the number of entries is expected to rise as the festival approaches. Overall, The Star’s comprehensive satellite program provides valuable opportunities for local players to qualify for the Championship, and the ongoing satellites during the festival are likely to enhance participation levels to a record number.

SMP: Is The Star Gold Coast offering any packages to players? 

Coughlan: The Star Gold Coast is offering 9 WPT World Championship packages to players during this year’s festival, thanks to a collaboration with WPT. The inclusion of these packages adds significant value to the festival, providing players with extraordinary incentives and enhancing the festival’s prestige. The chance to compete in high-profile WPT World Championship events, combined with travel support, makes these packages a major highlight and a key reason for increased player engagement.

Packages will be for Prime Championship and Ladies Championship at the WPT World Championship in December and can be won by playing, Championship Event, Opening Event, Mystery Bounty x 2, Outback Survivor Bounty, Ladies Championship, Super High Roller, Mini Championship Event, $10K World Championship Warm Up, and WPT World Championship Road to Vegas.

SMP: What was your favorite moment in a WPT series at Gold Coast so far?

Coughlan: The first WPT event at Gold Coast was indeed historic, marking the WPT brand’s debut in Australia after 20 years. It set the stage for future festivals and established the Gold Coast as a prominent destination in the global poker circuit.

One of the standout moments at a WPT festival at Gold Coast must be the presentation of a special award to Danny McDonagh for his iconic poker fashion. Danny McDonagh is a highly respected figure in the poker world, known for his contributions to the industry and his distinctive style. Awarding him for the most worn poker fashion tie was a unique and fitting tribute to his influence and personality, and he continues to wear it to this day.

2024 WPT Australia Championship – Schedule