12:00a.m. 3rd November 2008

| By Rae Wilson

Sunshine Coast punters have been warned to tread carefully tomorrow as people defy the economic doom and gloom to wage millions of dollars on the Melbourne Cup.

Queenslanders parted with about $23 million on last year’s big race, and the TAB is expecting even more to be wagered this year.

At the peak of the betting frenzy tomorrow afternoon, its computer will process about 30,000 bets every minute.

Relationships Australia Sunshine Coast manager Sue Miller said that while gambling was part of Australian way of life, there was a serious side to keep in mind.

“For most people, the Melbourne Cup is a bit of fun. It’s the opportunity to socialise, to dress up and do lunch, to have a flutter, to enter a sweep,” she said.

“However, for some this is not the case.

“Amid all the hype, glitz and glamour that come with this event, there are those who are experiencing problems with how much they are punting.

“To a large degree, they are suffering in silence, telling themselves that if they just bet on the right horse that it will come through for them, and all will be okay.

“They are seeking to avoid being exposed, by chasing back the cash already lost.

“However, like fishing for the one that got away, the reality is that chasing their losses only digs them into a deeper financial hole.”

Ms Miller said problem gambling was often shrouded in secrecy, but most people felt relieved when they no longer led the double life that came with the habit.

“The energy involved in not revealing that gambling is out of control can lead to enormous stress and impact negatively on relationships, work and health,” she said.

“However, people who have decided to reveal their problem gambling, or who have been caught out, and decided to seek help have frequently told counsellors that on reflection, it was the best thing that could have happened.”

The Gambling Help Service offers confidential, free counselling and support to people affected by problem gambling and to their families, across the Sunshine Coast.

Phone counselling can be arranged for people in outlying areas.

Appointments can be made by phoning 1300364277.