In 1982 a Canadian company became proficient in the art of setting up two and three day charity casinos. They would arrange locations, train charity dealers and sort out the security. They became so good at their job, operating in an environment with few clear procedures or regulations and developing a good working relationship with the authorities, that they assisted with the formation of the British Columbia Gaming Commission in 1987.

With the regulatory body in place permanent casinos became legal in the province. Now employing over 1400 people, Great Canadian Casinos (GCC) operates six casinos in British Columbia, a seventh in the interior of the province, and four in Washington State as the Great American Gaming Corporation. Their newest operation, the River Rock Casino, is in Richmond on the banks of the Fraser River.

Opened earlier this year River Rock has 70,000 sq ft of gaming floor with 1000 slot machines and 70 tables. Billed as Western Canada’s largest, brightest, most exciting casino, the venue also has live entertainment, food court and a 5-star hotel due to be finished in 2005 along with a resort theatre. In due course there will be a marina complex and waterfront pub.

In a recent report the company has declared a 46% increase in quarterly profits over the same period last year, and a 29% increase in the first nine months. Ross McLeod, Chairman and CEO of the Great Canadian Gaming Corporation stated, “River Rock has changed the face of casino gaming in the province and positively impacted the financial results of the company.”

From small beginnings as a mobile casino operator for charity events, the company has grown to be a multi-jurisdictional gaming and entertainment operator with restaurants, a racetrack and marina. They are currently looking at further expansion, both within British Columbia and further afield.

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