Jannali’s Next Big Gamble: Casino Precinct to Replace Whatever’s Left in Jannali's Masterplan

Finn Seabrook | Local Correspondent | Sutherland Shire Gazette

3 February 20225

Jannali, once a thriving hub of fruit, newspapers, and well-repaired shoes, has seen a dramatic transformation in recent years—trading its essential local businesses for an impressive array of tobacco shops. Now, in what urban planners are calling a “natural progression”, the suburb is set to become Sydney’s newest casino and entertainment precinct under the ambitious “Jannali: Living The Dream” masterplan.

Developers are so excited they’re reviving the legendary “Jannali – Living The Dream” bumper stickers and hats, last popular in the early 2000s when the biggest thrill in town was a discounted schnitty at the pub. “We’re bringing back the dream,” said Jannali Progress Society spokesperson Glen. “And if that dream happens to involve blackjack tables and premium vape lounges, so be it.”

The multi-million-dollar proposal includes a 24-hour casino, rooftop cocktail bars, and a high-end nightclub replacing the local bakery (tentatively renamed “Gluten & Glory”). The Jannali train station overpass will be converted into a ‘High Roller Walkway’, where commuters can place bets on which platform their train will actually show up on.

Naturally, locals are divided. “A casino? In Jannali? We used to have fresh produce,” scoffed long-time resident Margaret Thorne, 67. “Now the closest thing to fruit is mango-flavoured vape liquid.” Others were more pragmatic. “Look, the town’s already full of blokes standing outside shops doing nothing,” said Darren, 43. “Might as well give them something to bet on.”

Proponents of the plan point to Jannali’s star-studded history to justify its new “high-roller” status. “Ray Martin, Grant Denyer, Clive James, Adam Hills, Tanya Plibersek—they all lived here at some point,” said one local spokesperson. “Who’s to say they wouldn’t have enjoyed a sneaky flutter at ‘The Southern Star Casino & Keno Lounge’?”

Construction is rumoured to commence as soon as authorities figure out how to rehouse the possums currently squatting in what will become The VIP Poker Den.