The other-wise taboo game of heads or tails will send Wagga spinning on Anzac Day, with pub’s preparing for the popular Two-Up frenzy.
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It is a cheeky Aussie tradition, with the raging tournament a means of remembering the sacrifices of diggers, who used the game of chance to pass time in the trenches.
William Farrer Hotel manager David Barnhill said he was expecting a crowd of more than 1500 to fill the Peter Street pub again this year.
“It’s become a tradition in Wagga post-march,” Mr Barnhill said. “It’s a pretty special day and it’s about more than the game.”
Mr Barnhill said the hotel always maintained the integrity of the commemorative day.
“We want to be respectful and make sure that everyone who comes is respectful,” He said.
“It’s about remembering people who served or died in past wars or conflicts … Two-Up was something for returned soldiers after WWI … and it was played in the trenches.”
How to play:
A nominated “spinner” throws two coins (preferably pennies) in the air, above head height, from a wooden paddle known as a “kip”.
One coin is placed heads up, the other tails up.
Players then gamble on whether both coins will land heads-up or tails-up.
The coins must stay within a designated space – off limits to punters.
A “ringer” oversees the game and ensures fairness.
Winner takes all.
Under the Gambling (Two-up) Act 1998, the game can be legally played on Anzac Day, Victory in the Pacific Day and Remembrance Day (after noon).
William Farrer Hotel manager Michael Carroll said wagers would often stay below $50 until the end of the night.
