About Ricky
Last updated: 22 February 2026
G'day, I'm Ricky!
Your Trusted Pokies Guide
Connect on LinkedInAfter 20 years of playing pokies across Australia, I've seen it all - the good, the bad, and the downright dodgy. Now at 65, I spend my time helping fellow Aussies find the best and safest online casinos. No BS, just honest reviews from a bloke who's been around the block.
I grew up in Melbourne and had my first punt at the local RSL back in the 80s. Since then, I've watched the industry evolve from simple fruit machines to the incredible online pokies we have today.
When online casinos started popping up, I was skeptical at first. But after thoroughly testing hundreds of platforms over the years, I've developed a keen eye for what makes a casino worth your time and hard-earned dollars.
My reviews are based on real play, real deposits, and real withdrawals. I test everything myself - the games, the bonuses, the customer support, and most importantly, how fast they pay out your winnings.
My promise to you: I only recommend casinos I'd play at myself. If a site doesn't meet my standards for safety, fairness, and fast payouts, it won't make my list. Simple as that.
My Story
G'day! I'm Ricky, and I've been playing pokies for longer than some of these online casinos have existed. Born and raised in Melbourne, I had my first spin at the local RSL back in 1985 when I was just a young bloke of 25.
Over the years, I've watched the gambling industry transform completely. From the clunky fruit machines at the pub to the incredible online pokies we have today. I've seen casinos come and go, watched mates win big and lose bigger, and learned some hard lessons along the way.
Why I Started This Guide
About 10 years ago, a mate of mine got burned by a dodgy online casino. They took his deposit, let him win a bit, then made it nearly impossible to withdraw. He lost about $2,000 that day - money he couldn't afford to lose.
That's when I decided to put my experience to good use. I started testing online casinos systematically - depositing my own money, playing the games, and most importantly, testing the withdrawal process. If a casino couldn't pass my withdrawal test, they didn't make my list.
My Review Process
Sign Up & Verify
I create a real account and go through the full verification process, just like any regular punter would.
Deposit & Play
I deposit my own money (usually $100-500) and play for at least a week across different games.
Test Support
I contact customer support with questions to see how helpful and responsive they really are.
Withdraw & Time
The crucial test - I request a withdrawal and time exactly how long it takes to hit my account.
What I Won't Do
- Accept payment for reviews - My recommendations aren't for sale
- List casinos I haven't tested - If I haven't played there, I won't recommend it
- Ignore withdrawal issues - Slow or problematic payouts are an instant disqualification
- Recommend unsafe casinos - Your security is more important than any commission
Affiliate Disclosure
Let me be straight with you - yes, I earn a commission when you sign up through my links. That's how I keep this site running and fund my testing.
But here's the thing: I make the same commission regardless of which casino you choose from my list. So I have no incentive to push one over another. My only goal is to help you find a fair dinkum casino that'll treat you right.
A Word on Responsible Gambling
I've seen gambling addiction destroy lives. Good mates who lost their homes, their families, everything. It's not something I take lightly.
If you're gambling more than you can afford, chasing losses, or if it's affecting your relationships - please get help. There's no shame in it, and it doesn't make you weak. It makes you smart.
Gambling Help: 1800 858 858 | gamblinghelponline.org.au
Get in Touch
Got questions? Found a casino you think I should review? Or just want to have a yarn? Visit my contact page and drop me a line. I read every message personally.
Cheers,
Ricky