But the William Farrer was practically heaving on Anzac Day as hundreds flocked to the outside tent for the rare spectacle of pennies being tossed in the air in memory of the famous Anzac gambling pastime.

“It’s such an incredible atmosphere,” visiting Irishman Alan O’Hara said. 

“I’ve never seen anything like it.”

Groans of loss and shouts of jubilation mingled with the thick scent of lager as thirsty punters tried their luck on the spinner, some to no avail.

Others, like Bec Drayton had more success on the pennies.

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.