The article reflects on the author's childhood experiences at a local TAB (Total Australian Betting) in Cessnock, NSW, where gambling was a central part of community life.

It contrasts the traditional, physical TAB outlets with the modern shift to online betting, highlighting how the convenience of digital platforms has transformed the gambling landscape.The piece describes the once-vibrant TAB as a social hub for older men, now replaced by the anonymity of online gambling.It also touches on the broader implications of this shift, including the decline of physical TABs and the rise of gambling in pubs and clubs.The author notes the cultural nostalgia for the old TABs, which are now seen as relics of a simpler time.The article critiques the normalization of gambling and its societal impacts, particularly on vulnerable individuals.It underscores the need for regulation and awareness, as the gambling industry continues to evolve with technological advancements.The piece serves as both a personal memoir and a commentary on the changing nature of gambling in Australia.