NEWS

Articles / News

22nd of October

Record-Breaking APL Success at The Ville Resort Casino!

What a historic moment for poker in North Queensland! The Ville600 at The Ville Resort Casino has shattered records with an incredible Series Prize Pool of $1,224,995, featuring North Queensland's largest-ever Main Event, Centurion, and Jackstar fields. With beach shirts and bucket hats galore, players experienced first hand why The Ville truly embodies poker in paradise.



A Farewell to a Legend

This remarkable series marked the final chapter under the leadership of APL NQ Manager Anthony Turbill. Since taking the helm in 2022, Turbill has elevated both the NQ Classic and Ville 600 series to unprecedented heights. His warm personality and outstanding leadership have made every Townsville event special for staff and players alike. As Turbill moves on to his new role as Victorian State Manager, he leaves behind a lasting legacy, building upon the foundation laid by Allan McLauchlan. The entire poker community wishes him the very best in his new endeavors!

Main Event: History Repeats

In an extraordinary performance, Tim Bredl has achieved what many thought impossible – winning the Ville 600 Main Event for the second consecutive year. The tournament drew 527 entries, generating a massive $263,500 prize pool.

Despite maintaining the chip lead throughout Day 2 and at the final table, Bredl's path to victory wasn't easy. The heads-up battle against Anthony Russo lasted over four hours, showcasing the improved tournament structure and deep-stacked play. Perth-based Bredl, who considers North Queensland "a bit like home," celebrated his remarkable achievement with his Western Australian supporters at the iconic Miss Songs restaurant. His victory earned him $54,440, plus a $100K Invitational Seat and a $1,500 APL Million Main Event Seat.

Jackstar Super High Roller: Byron Bay Takes the Crown

James Searle from Byron Bay added another trophy to his collection by conquering the prestigious Jackstar Super High Roller. The IT professional navigated through a field of 160 entries to secure his largest live cash of $51,185, plus a $100K Invitational Seat.

What makes Searle's victory even more impressive is his never-say-die attitude throughout the tournament. Playing with a short stack of 10-20 big blinds for most of the day, he managed to turn the tables in the crucial final moments. After his win, an elated Searle gave special thanks to 'the Bangalow crew' and his coach Corey van Jaarsvedt from Implied Odds.

Absolutely Dental - Player of the Series (POTS)

Yet again, the Absolutely Dental Player of the Series title comes down to the wire. Mathew Ginn snatching back the lead from Sam Burns after claiming his third trophy late Saturday night meant Sam was going to need to put in a big day at the office on Sunday.

Sam proved that he was more than fit to the task with victory in the NLH Shot Clock Terminator alongside a runner-up finish in the Sunday NLH meant locks out the race and takes home and impressive $17,200.

Somewhat softening the blow will be the $9,555 that Matthew will collect for his 2nd place finish. A remarkable effort from both players scooping an incredible three trophies each.

Final Placings:

1st: Sam Burns - $17,200

2nd: Matthew Ginn - $9,55

3rd: Jesse Stanley - $5,735

4th: Nathanial Hutton $3,820

5th: Michael Blake $1,910

Behind the Scenes Heroes

The success of this series wouldn't have been possible without the exceptional APL staff and crew. Their dedication to maintaining the highest professional standards, while bringing fun and energy to the tournament floor, created an unforgettable atmosphere for all participants.

Looking Ahead

The poker action continues with the APLPT Queensland at Kedron Wavell Services Club, running from Tuesday, October 29th until Sunday, November 3rd. With 32 events, including 14 dealer-dealt tournaments and over $300,000 in event guarantees, topped by a $100K GTD prize pool, the next chapter of Australian poker excellence awaits. Are you ready to go all-in?