A Father, A Grandfather, A Voice for Change

Gambling is everywhere, marketed as harmless entertainment. But the reality is far darker. Australians lose $25 billion to gambling each year, $1,500 per person and growing. The average age of first gambling is just eight years old, 75% of problem gamblers experience depression, and one in five people who attempt suicide is a gambler. For every person with a gambling problem, on average seven more people are impacted.

For Terry, these statistics are personal.

A Childhood Shaped by Gambling

Terry's story begins in childhood, where his father's gambling cast a long shadow, the first sign of a generational harm he would spend years trying to escape. On Caulfield Cup Day in 1985, his father placed a bet on his behalf, and Terry's share was enough to buy a car and a stereo. For a kid who grew up with very little, it felt like a fortune. That win lit something in him that would take decades to extinguish.

His earliest wins felt life-changing, but by university the addiction had taken hold. Despite attempts to stop, the pull was overwhelming and Terry was caught on 6/5/1989, eventually costing him his studies, his stability, and at times, his home.

The Wake-Up Call

Years later, on a cruise ship, Terry was offered a free drink and a blackjack lesson. He won $13,000 in play money. The dopamine hit was overwhelming, and it scared him. It became the catalyst for change, leading him to counselling and non-profit work, where he is now a trained facilitator supporting others in their own recovery.

Breaking the Cycle

Today, Terry is a proud father, grandfather and a voice for the Alliance for Gambling Reform. He has spent 37 years of recovery supporting others, helping create understanding though sharing his story.

"Gambling is a lose-lose situation," he says. "That knowledge has given me so much time to spend with family and loved ones." It is a future he is determined to protect. "My past will never be my son's or grandson's future. 

For me, that's what it's all about." As a Parent For Gambling Reform, his message is clear: it's time to protect our kids.

If you or someone you know is struggling, look for the signs: secrecy around money, chasing losses, neglecting responsibilities. Start an honest, non-judgemental conversation. Help is available.

"Please don't wait until it is too late. Let every one of us start a conversation on the road to saving many more lives." — Terry

If you are interested in becoming a parent for gambling reform. Send us an email to info@agr.org.au with the subject “Parents for Gambling Reform”.