More than $111 million was put into 751 pokies across the local government area between October and December last year, earning pubs and clubs close to $12,000 per machine.

The data also revealed Wagga’s pubs and clubs had more pokies than the state average, with about 70 machines in each club and 16 in each pub.

Gambling counsellor Julie McDermott said Wagga’s gambling problem was bigger than most people realised and she welcomed the release of the figures.

“This information can help promote discussions around the effect gambling has and reduce the stigma around getting help,” Ms McDermott said.

“Gambling’s not a problem in itself, it’s just like alcohol, food or even sex, they’re all things that when used appropriately don’t cause any harm but when they’re taken to extremes you get into trouble.

“What starts as a bit of fun can become addictive and hard to walk away from.”

The problem of gambling extended far beyond poker machines, according to Ms McDermott, who was also concerned with the increasing prevalence of betting ads in the media.

“Gambling ads always show you can achieve the life of your dreams no matter who are, that suddenly you become popular and happy when you win. 

“People see money as a solution to their problems, but it doesn’t buy happiness, just a better class of misery.”

NSW upper house MP Justin Field said the toll on individuals, families and communities was quite high.

“We’ve seen communities drastically impacted by gambling,” he said. “But what we’ve seen in other states when they release this information is that the community is much more likely to take action.”

Ms McDermott said she wanted people to know there was no shame in seeking help and that it was actually a sign of strength.

“I want to support people in learning to make different choices,” she said.

If you or someone you know has a problem with gambling, call Wagga Family Support on 6921 6104.