The Anticipated Comeback of the Aussie Millions Poker Festival
For poker enthusiasts around the globe, the Aussie Millions has long stood out as one of the most iconic and eagerly anticipated festivals in the game. After a prolonged absence from the calendar, whispers suggest that this beloved tournament series may soon be making a triumphant return to Crown Melbourne in April 2025. If true, the comeback of the Aussie Millions would mark a significant moment for the poker community, filling a much-discussed gap in the live poker landscape.
"No Longer a Rumor"
The latest updates regarding the Aussie Millions were revealed by Troy Mclean on the Poker Pulse Podcast, a show helmed by Craig Abernethy, founder of the Australian Poker Schedule. Mclean confirmed that the event’s return had been verified, injecting much-needed excitement into the poker realm.
“There has been talk on the grapevine about the event returning next year,” Mclean said. “But it’s been confirmed now. It’s very exciting stuff. After the Australian Poker Open [APO], I’ve heard there may be a shift in the Main Event buy-in from A$10,000 to A$8,000, but that’s still a rumor.”
Mclean’s insights were met with enthusiasm by his podcast co-host, Catherine Young, who expressed trust in his inside knowledge. While discussions around the buy-in continue to unfold, Mclean indicated that plans for satellite tournaments—which are crucial for developing a participant base—are already in motion. “They’re starting to run satellites; I’ve heard they plan to offer 6-7 seats a week,” he added.
The Majestic History of the Aussie Millions
The Aussie Millions, officially known as the Crown Australian Poker Championship, first graced the poker scene in 1998. Starting as a modest gathering with primarily local players from the South Pacific, it didn’t take long before the festival gained international acclaim.
One of the attractions of the Aussie Millions was its high-stakes tournaments. Notably, the $100,000 Challenge debuted in 2006, followed by the inaugural $250,000 Challenge in 2011, which quickly became synonymous with poker titan Phil Ivey. With three victories in this event (2012, 2014, 2015) and total cashes exceeding A$8 million, Ivey solidified the tournament’s status among high rollers.
The Main Event drew record crowds, with supportive local satellite programs contributing to massive prize pots. A standout example is the 2020 Main Event, which attracted 820 entrants and was won by Vincent Wan, further cementing the festival’s reputation.
The Impact of COVID-19
The vibrant atmosphere of the Aussie Millions came to a sudden halt in 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic swept the world. The series was part of a broader suspension of live poker events globally, and Australia faced its unique challenges, including stringent lockdowns and travel restrictions that made congregation impossible.
As live poker events gradually began to re-establish themselves within Australia, the absence of the Aussie Millions was deeply felt. For many players, it had evolved into a staple of the poker year, not only drawing local talent but also welcoming players from international shores eager to enjoy both the game and Australia’s summer charm.
Poker’s revival in Australia, however, is gaining momentum. The World Poker Tour (WPT) has successfully hosted events in Australia for the last three years, showcasing the resilience and enthusiasm of the local poker community. James Obst recently took the WPT Australia Championship title, demonstrating that the hunger for live poker remains strong.
Additionally, the launch of the Australian Poker Open in 2024, won by Hasan "Huss" Onay, indicates the excitement that continues to surround poker in Australia. The revival of Aussie Millions would complement these growing efforts and further boost the Australian poker scene.
The Road Ahead
The return of the Aussie Millions in April 2025 represents more than just a date on the poker calendar; it symbolizes the poker community’s resilience and passion for live tournaments. It will mark a significant notch in Australia’s poker legacy, with the potential to draw thousands of players and fans from around the world.
As we await further details and official announcements, the possibility of seeing this hallmark event reignite sparks excitement among players eager to once again experience one of poker’s most storied festivals. For many, the Aussie Millions is not just about competition, but about community, camaraderie, and the shared love of the game.
Aussie Millions Main Event Winners (1998-2020)
Here’s a brief look at the winners of the Aussie Millions Main Event from 1998 to 2020, showcasing the talent that has graced this prestigious tournament:
| Year | Entries | Prize Pool | Winner | Country | First Prize |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1998 | 74 | A$74,000 | Alex Horowitz | Australia | A$25,900 |
| 1999 | 109 | A$109,000 | Milo Nadalin | Australia | A$38,150 |
| 2000 | 109 | A$173,500 | Leo Boxell | Australia | A$65,225 |
| 2001 | 101 | A$151,500 | Sam Korman | Australia | A$53,025 |
| 2002 | 66 | A$330,000 | John Maver | Australia | A$150,000 |
| 2003 | 122 | A$1,220,000 | Peter Costa | United Kingdom | A$394,870 |
| 2004 | 133 | A$1,330,000 | Tony Bloom | United Kingdom | A$426,500 |
| 2005 | 263 | A$2,630,000 | Jamil Dia | New Zealand | A$1,000,000 |
| 2006 | 418 | A$4,180,000 | Lee Nelson | New Zealand | A$1,295,800 |
| 2007 | 747 | A$7,470,000 | Gus Hansen | Denmark | A$1,500,000 |
| 2008 | 780 | A$7,758,500 | Alexander Kostritsyn | Russia | A$1,650,000 |
| 2009 | 681 | A$6,810,000 | Stewart Scott | Australia | A$2,000,000 |
| 2010 | 746 | A$7,460,000 | Tyron Krost | Australia | A$2,000,000 |
| 2011 | 721 | A$7,210,000 | David Gorr | Australia | A$2,000,000 |
| 2012 | 659 | A$6,590,000 | Oliver Speidel | Australia | A$1,600,000 |
| 2013 | 629 | A$6,290,000 | Mervin Chan | Malaysia | A$1,600,000 |
| 2014 | 668 | A$6,680,000 | Ami Barer | Canada | A$1,600,000 |
| 2015 | 648 | A$6,480,000 | Manny Stavropoulos | Australia | A$1,385,500 |
| 2016 | 732 | A$7,320,000 | Ari Engel | Canada | A$1,600,000 |
| 2017 | 725 | A$7,250,000 | Shurane Vijayaram | Australia | A$1,600,000 |
| 2018 | 800 | A$8,000,000 | Toby Lewis | United Kingdom | A$1,458,198 |
| 2019 | 822 | A$8,220,000 | Bryn Kenney | United States | A$1,272,598 |
| 2020 | 820 | A$8,200,000 | Vincent Wan | Australia | A$1,318,000 |
As excitement builds for the potential revival, it is undeniable that the Aussie Millions has an ingrained legacy and holds a special place in the hearts of poker players worldwide. The poker community eagerly awaits to see this cherished event return to its revered status.
Author’s Note
Will Shillibier is a reputable presence in the poker journalism sphere, serving as the Managing Editor of PokerNews. With a wealth of experience and a passion for the game, he offers deep insights into the evolving world of poker.
1
20
20
