The Australian Gamble: Organized Crime Down Under

The Australian Gamble explores Jack Rooklyns role as a thread that connects some of the best-recognized characters, and most pivotal events, in Australian criminal history. It traces the origins of the Bally poker machine company, a scandal-prone business with a name that was fated to be forever linked with Rooklyns, from humble beginnings in Al Capones Chicago to becoming one of the biggest players in the gaming industry worldwide.

Format: Hardback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 15 July 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

The Australian Gamble delves into the captivating role of Jack Rooklyn as a pivotal thread that weaves together some of the most iconic figures and pivotal events in Australian criminal history. This tale unfolds from its humble beginnings overseas, with the origins of the Bally poker machine company—a scandal-prone enterprise with a name destined to be forever intertwined with Rooklyns. Starting from modest roots in Al Capones Chicago, Bally embarked on a remarkable journey, riding the wave of amusement game popularity to emerge as one of the dominant forces in the global gaming industry. Its ascendancy positioned it as a coveted target for acquisition by the Italian Mafia in the Americas, driven by their insatiable thirst for expansion in the desert paradise of Las Vegas and through clandestine operations to secure a foothold in a financially struggling Bally.

As the Cuban revolution brought about the exile of the 'Families, they sought new avenues to pursue their gaming aspirations, both in the glitzy Las Vegas and through covert operations to establish a foothold in Bally, which was struggling financially. The Australian Gamble offers a captivating exploration of Jack Rooklyns intricate involvement in these events, shedding light on his complex relationships, strategic maneuvers, and the enduring impact he had on the trajectory of Australian criminal history.

Weight: 476g
Dimension: 230 x 158 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538177082