Plans revealed for casino at Museum of Old and New Art

Dubbed Monaco, the on-site casino and hotel would dwarf the existing museum and feature boutique décor with an indoor garden, spectacular views and art throughout.

“I imagine it would appeal to a very small percentage of people who normally go to a casino, the high rollers, but a very small percentage is enough. The sort of stakes that Crown generates from their high rollers, I think I can perfectly well operate with 200 customers a year,” explained David Walsh, who opened the museum in early 2011.

Located on Berriedale peninsula in Tasmania, southeast Australia, the frequently updated indoor collection as well as special events at MONA, has attracted more than 1.65 million people since opening four years ago. In addition to the casino, the first project will be an extension to the gallery that will house a bar and restaurant, doubling as a function venue.

“When I made MONA I didn’t know that everyone was going to care. I was prepared to make that investment on spec. Before I opened, I said, if no one comes. I’ll turn off the air con, pull up an armchair and watch the art rot,” remarked Walsh.

The new hotel, to be called HOtelMOna, is in the advanced stages of design and will house a library, function centre, restaurant, bar, a theatre and retail, as well as 160 rooms, some of which will be designed by renowned artists. There are also plans for Venice-style boats, much the same as at The Venetian casinos, to transport hotel patrons.

Locals would be excluded from the casino, to adhere to rules imposed by the Federal Group, which has exclusive rights to slot machines in Tasmania and holds two casino licenses until 2023. Walsh now awaits an decision from the federal government about the future of the gambling duopoly held since 1968. In the meantime, work will commence on the expansion.